The island of St. Croix, the most extensive in the US Virgin Islands ensemble, is an embodiment of the Caribbean dream.
In 2023, with the shimmering sun kissing its coasts and the crystal-clear Caribbean waters dancing to the tunes of nature, St. Croix stands as a symphony of exotic escapades and serene retreats.
Before plunging into the 12 most captivating beaches this island offers, let’s acquaint ourselves with the allure of St. Croix.
St. Croix at a Glance
A rich tapestry of history, culture, and unparalleled natural beauty, St. Croix prides itself on its harmonious blend of African, European, and Caribbean influences. With remnants of old Dutch architectures and vibrant cultural festivals, there’s a tale woven in every corner. Beyond the allure of its beaches, St. Croix boasts lush rainforests, a bustling boardwalk in Christiansted, and the intriguing historical ruins at the Estate Whim Plantation Museum.
Best Beaches of St. Croix in 2023
1. Cane Bay Beach
Cane Bay Beach stands out not just for its soft powdery sands or the horizon’s clear azure but mainly for the Cane Bay Wall. This submerged vertical marvel is a magnet for divers.
Lay your beach towel, bask in the Caribbean sun, or indulge in water sports. Fancy horseback riding by the coast? Several nearby stables offer such heartwarming experiences. And when hunger calls, treat yourself to Caribbean delicacies at local eateries lining the beach.
| Feature | Detail | |
|---|---|---|
| Parking | YES – Large area for parking with easy access to the beach. | ✅ |
| Lifeguards | YES – On duty during peak hours. | ✅ |
| Bathroom Facility | YES – Clean and well-maintained units near the main entrance. | ✅ |
| Food Concessions | YES – Several eateries offer local dishes and drinks. | ✅ |
| Recreation | YES – Diving and snorkeling are top choices. | ✅ |
| Crowd Meter | HIGH – Loved by both locals and tourists. | ✅ |
Google Maps | 🛎️ Where to Stay Nearby: Cane Bay Cottages
2. Buck Island’s Turtle Beach: Best for Snorkelling
A protected U.S. National Monument, Turtle Beach at Buck Island is more than just a stretch of sand—it’s a sanctuary.
Glimpses of green turtles are common, making snorkeling feel like a treasure hunt. Explore the renowned underwater trail or set sail in glass-bottom boats. And if you’re yearning for a panoramic view of St. Croix, embark on the island’s hiking trails that promise awe-striking vistas.
| Feature | Detail | |
|---|---|---|
| Parking | NO – Most visitors come by boat tours. | ❌ |
| Lifeguards | NO – But the area is designated for snorkeling. | ❌ |
| Bathroom Facility | YES – At the island’s main gathering spot. | ✅ |
| Food Concessions | NO – Bring your own provisions, as it’s a protected area. | ❌ |
| Recreation | YES – Snorkelling with sea turtles is the highlight. | ✅ |
| Crowd Meter | MODERATE – Controlled by the number of boat tours. | ✅ |
Google Maps | 🛎️ Where to Stay Nearby: The Buccaneer
3. Sandy Point Beach
Ever wondered where Hollywood captures those pristine Caribbean shores?
Welcome to Sandy Point, a regular in cinematic tales like “The Shawshank Redemption.”
This protected haven, primarily a nesting site for leatherback turtles, promises the Caribbean’s untouched beauty. Open primarily on weekends, it’s a delicate balance of conservation and recreation. Post-beach relaxation, consider a trip to the nearby Mt. Eagle for a bird’s-eye view of this iconic beach.
Beach Information:
| Feature | Detail | |
|---|---|---|
| Parking | YES – Several spots with clear beach markings. | ✅ |
| Lifeguards | NO – The expansive area is not guarded throughout. | ❌ |
| Bathroom Facility | NO – Prepare in advance, especially if you plan a long visit. | ❌ |
| Food Concessions | YES – Only during the peak season, from local vendors. | ✅ |
| Recreation | YES – Perfect for long beach walks and sunbathing. | ✅ |
| Crowd Meter | LOW – Its vastness ensures it never feels too crowded. | ✅ |
Google Maps | 🛎️ Where to Stay Nearby: Sand Castle on the Beach Hotel
4. Shoys Beach: Hidden Gem
Shoys Beach whispers tales of tranquility and seclusion. It’s the Caribbean’s best-kept secret – a stretch where the lush greens playfully meet the serene blues.
Google Maps | 🅿️ Parking: Limited spots near the entrance | 🛎️ Where to Stay Nearby: The Buccaneer Resort
Sheltered from large crowds, it offers a pure, untainted experience of St. Croix. Nearby coconut groves add an extra layer of tropical charm. If you’re looking for a romantic evening or a serene morning yoga session, this is your go-to place.
5. Davis Bay: Nature’s Dramatic Display
Davis Bay, nestled below the illustrious Carambola Hill, is nature’s amphitheater. With its dramatic landscapes and roaring waves, it’s a spectacle for both beach loungers and adventure seekers.
While the bay’s waves make it a bit challenging for swimming, it’s an angler’s dream. The beachfront restaurant adds flavors to your visit. And for those eager to capture the best sunset shots, Davis Bay is a golden hour paradise.
| Feature | Detail | |
|---|---|---|
| Parking | YES – Close to the nature trail entrance. | ✅ |
| Lifeguards | NO – Swimming in marked areas is safest. | ❌ |
| Bathroom Facility | YES – Near the picnic spots. | ✅ |
| Food Concessions | NO – A good picnic spot, so bring your own. | ❌ |
| Recreation | YES – Nature trails and bird watching are attractions alongside beach activities. | ✅ |
| Crowd Meter | MODERATE – Especially during migratory bird seasons. | ✅ |
Google Maps | 🅿️ Parking: Available within the Carambola Beach Resort | 🛎️ Where to Stay Nearby: Carambola Beach Resort
6. Chenay Bay Beach
Chenay Bay is a burst of energy and activities. Its vast coastline offers ample space for everyone – whether you’re a sunbather or a jet-ski enthusiast.
Kayaking, windsurfing, paddleboarding – name your watersport, and Chenay Bay delivers. But it’s not all adrenaline. The beachfront bars with their Caribbean beats ensure that relaxation is just a cocktail away.
Beach Information:
| Feature | Detail | |
|---|---|---|
| Parking | YES – Adjacent to the water sports rental area. | ✅ |
| Lifeguards | YES – During the day, especially weekends. | ✅ |
| Bathroom Facility | YES – Available for beach goers. | ✅ |
| Food Concessions | YES – Refreshments available at nearby stalls. | ✅ |
| Recreation | YES – Kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing are among the top choices. | ✅ |
| Crowd Meter | HIGH – Watersport enthusiasts frequently visit. | ✅ |
Google Maps | 🛎️ Where to Stay Nearby: Chenay Bay Beach Resort
7. Tamarind Reef Beach: The Coral Majesty
Tamarind Reef Beach brings you face to face with St. Croix’s underwater kingdom. The shallow waters here house vibrant corals, making it a snorkeler’s delight.
Google Maps | 🅿️ Parking: Available within Tamarind Reef Resort | 🛎️ Where to Stay Nearby: Tamarind Reef Resort
After your underwater exploration, bask in the gentle Caribbean sun, or pamper yourself in the nearby spa. As evening descends, savor a gourmet dinner with the sound of the waves playing in the background.
8. Jack’s and Isaac’s Bay: Twin Marvels
Protected by the Nature Conservancy, these adjoining bays are untouched marvels. Their isolation ensures they remain pristine, but it also means amenities are scarce.
Google Maps | 🅿️ Parking: Unpaved path from Point Udall | 🛎️ Where to Stay Nearby: Divi Carina Bay Beach Resort
Carry your essentials, because once you set foot here, you wouldn’t want to leave. The hike to get here might be a tad challenging, but the reward? Golden sands, crystal clear waters, and a horizon that seems to stretch forever.
9. Coakley Bay Beach: The Secluded Serenade
Rarely visited due to its secluded location, Coakley Bay Beach is perfect for those seeking solitude. Its length guarantees you’ll always find your private spot.
Google Maps | 🅿️ Parking: Limited spots available off the main road | 🛎️ Where to Stay Nearby: The Palms at Pelican Cove
With no restaurants or bars around, pack a picnic. Let the sea’s soothing sounds serenade you as the cool Caribbean breeze whisks away all your worries.
10. Dorsch Beach: Best for Sunset
Dorsch Beach is a canvas painted with the most mesmerizing sunsets you’ll ever witness. With each evening, the sky is set aflame, turning the horizon into a riot of colors.
While the daytime allure lies in its pristine sandy stretches, it’s the evening that captures hearts. Lay down your beach towel, open a bottle of wine, and simply soak in nature’s dramatic display. The occasional beach parties, complete with calypso rhythms, elevate the fun quotient.
| Feature | Detail | |
|---|---|---|
| Parking | YES – Close to the beach entrance. No designated spots for bikes or mopeds. | ✅ |
| Lifeguards | NO – Swim at your own risk. | ❌ |
| Bathroom Facility | YES – Small facility near the entrance. | ✅ |
| Food Concessions | YES – Local stalls providing refreshments. | ✅ |
| Recreation | YES – Popular for evening picnics and watching sunsets. Some visitors indulge in beach sports. | ✅ |
| Crowd Meter | MODERATE – Less crowded in evenings but attracts crowds during sunset. | ✅ |
Google Maps | 🅿️ Parking: Available close to the beach entrance | 🛎️ Where to Stay Nearby: Sand Castle on the Beach Hotel
11. Sprat Hall Beach: The Family Getaway
Nestled near the sleepy town of Frederiksted, Sprat Hall Beach is where families unite and childhood memories are crafted.
Google Maps | 🅿️ Parking: Spacious area near the beach | 🛎️ Where to Stay Nearby: Cottages by the Sea
The calm waters are perfect for kids to splash around. The shaded picnic spots, complete with BBQ grills, promise delightful family feasts. A local snack shack caters to those untimely hunger pangs. Whether it’s building sandcastles, beach volleyball, or simply lazing under a palm, there’s something for every family member.
12. Rhythms at Rainbow Beach: The Party Pulse
The name says it all. Rhythms at Rainbow Beach is where St. Croix’s heartbeat is most palpable.
Google Maps | 🅿️ Parking: Adjacent to the Rhythms beach bar | 🛎️ Where to Stay Nearby: Renaissance St. Croix Carambola Beach Resort & Spa
This is the beach for the young and the young-at-heart. Live music, sun-loungers, tropical drinks, jet-ski rentals – it’s a vibrant mosaic of activities. Rub shoulders with locals and tourists alike and get a real feel of the island’s pulsating vibe.
St. Croix Beyond the Beaches: An Island Waiting to be Explored
St. Croix is so much more than just its incredible beaches. The island’s rich history resonates through its centuries-old forts, sugar plantations, and colonial buildings. Dive into local culture by attending the vibrant festivals or exploring the bustling marketplaces of Christiansted and Frederiksted.
Dine at seafront restaurants, tasting the fusion of Caribbean flavors. Experience the island’s nightlife, where the rhythms of reggae and calypso set the tone. From its azure waters to its emerald landscapes, St. Croix offers an experience unlike any other Caribbean island. Dive deep, explore more, and let St. Croix etch memories in your heart.