St. Croix Beaches

All beaches in the Virgin Islands are open to the public. There are a wide variety of beaches for swimming and snorkeling along the many miles of shoreline. Weather conditions cause sea conditions to vary significantly. South shore winds bring in big rolling waves while the north shore remains calm, and vice versa. On stormy days, stay close to shore and watch for a slight rip current that occurs when you see waves breaking over the reefs. If you feel like exploring at length, bring a flotation device and use the buddy system.

There are deserted beaches all around the island, but they are difficult to get to, and they are generally not recommended unless you are with someone who knows the area.

Recommended Beaches

Cormorant Beach

With its long stretch of white sand and palm trees, and Sandy Point, both offer ideal swimming conditions.  

Carambola Beach Resort

Located on the Northwest side of the island at the Carambola Beach Resort, the swimming is good, and is a good spot for light body surfing, there are some rocky bottom areas so be careful, but the sand is smooth and beautiful, and there are facilities located here, so food and beverage are available. There is also shade available for those not wanting to get too much sun.

Hotel on the Cay

This East End beach is located on Protestant Cay and is the best choice for a beach in Christiansted. The ferry runs daily from 7a.m. to midnight . This is a nice place to spend the day. The beach area has good swimming. A water sports equipment rental center is located here, where you can rent anything from beach chairs to snorkeling equipment.

Shoys Beach

Located on the East End, this quiet sandy beach is perfect for swimming as the waters are very calm, which makes this a great family spot, make sure you bring your camera as the views of  Buck Island are terrific. The water has a fine sandy bottom, so this is great for kids who like playing in the water.

Sandy Point Beach

Located on the Southwest end, the Sandy Point peninsula is a protected reserve for turtles, and comes with some restriction, especially during nesting season, which is April through August. Sandy Point Beach is the largest beach in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and also is the softest sand beach on the island. This is a sun worshippers beach as there are few trees near the water line and you can not use umbrellas due to the turtle nests, so you will get tanned here, and the water is quite calm here so it is a wonderful spot for sunning and swimming. If you are a beach lover, make this your #1 stop on your vacation.

St. Croix Guide

About St. Croix

The largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Croix is a picturesque escape, with rolling hills, charming Old World towns, and a dense, 15-acre tropical forest. more

Island Views