Beaches in St Croix

Here the beaches in St Croix that you want to know about, by area on island.

Best Overall Beach

Turtle Beach (Buck Island) – The crown jewel of St. Croix and one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Accessible only by boat, Turtle Beach dazzles visitors with powder-white sand, crystal-clear turquoise water, and world-renowned snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs.

North Shore
(Snorkeling, Diving & Scenic Beauty)

Cane Bay Beach – The heart of St. Croix’s North Shore, Cane Bay is famous for crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and the legendary Cane Bay Wall. Beach bars, island restaurants, and spectacular sunsets make it one of the island’s most beloved beach destinations.

Carambola Beach – Framed by lush green hills and swaying palms, Carambola offers a picture-perfect Caribbean setting with calm waters and an upscale, tranquil atmosphere ideal for relaxation.

Pelican Cove Beach – A peaceful stretch of shoreline known for gentle sea breezes, snorkeling opportunities, and long walks along the water. Less crowded than Cane Bay, it’s perfect for visitors seeking a quieter escape.

Salt River Beach – Where natural beauty meets island history. This serene bay offers calm Caribbean waters, mangrove-lined shores, and access to one of St. Croix’s most significant ecological and historical sites.

Little Princess Beach – A hidden North Shore gem featuring reef-protected waters, easy swimming, and scenic coastal views just minutes from Christiansted.

Sprat Hall Beach – A secluded and unspoiled beach where visitors can enjoy the quiet side of St. Croix surrounded by natural Caribbean beauty.

Christiansted Area
(Convenience & Family-Friendly)

Hotel on the Cay Beach – Just a short ferry ride from downtown Christiansted, this charming island beach offers calm waters, soft sand, and beautiful harbor views in a uniquely tropical setting.

Protestant Cay Beach – Located steps from Christiansted Harbor, this picturesque beach combines turquoise waters, easy access, and postcard-worthy scenery perfect for a relaxing beach day.

Shoys Beach – A favorite among locals, Shoys offers clear water, smaller crowds, and a peaceful atmosphere that feels worlds away despite being just minutes from town.

Mermaid Beach – Nestled within the Buccaneer Resort grounds, Mermaid Beach offers swaying palms, calm swimming conditions, and classic Caribbean elegance.

East End
(Adventure, Seclusion & Nature)

Jack Bay – Reached by a scenic coastal hike, Jack Bay rewards adventurous travelers with crystal-clear waters, excellent snorkeling, and frequent sea turtle sightings.

Isaac Bay – Wild and untouched, Isaac Bay is one of St. Croix’s most breathtaking natural treasures. Its remote location, turquoise waters, and pristine shoreline create a true castaway experience.

Chenay Bay Beach – A calm and family-friendly beach with excellent swimming, snorkeling, and beautiful views of nearby Green Cay Wildlife Refuge.

Coakley Bay Beach – A peaceful East End retreat offering quiet surroundings, scenic coastal views, and a relaxing atmosphere away from the island’s busier beaches.

West End & Frederiksted
(Sunsets & Beach Bars)

Rainbow Beach – St. Croix’s social beach scene comes alive at Rainbow Beach, where calm waters, beach bars, watersports, and unforgettable sunsets create the perfect Caribbean beach day.

Dorsch Beach – A beautiful stretch of soft sand south of Frederiksted known for calm waters, excellent swimming, snorkeling, and stunning sunset views over the Caribbean Sea.

South Shore
(Solitude & Natural Beauty)

Ha’Penny Beach – A hidden treasure along the South Shore, featuring a long ribbon of white sand, gentle waves, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for escaping the crowds.

Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge – One of the most spectacular beaches in the Caribbean, Sandy Point offers miles of untouched white sand and breathtaking natural beauty. This protected refuge is also one of the most important nesting grounds for endangered sea turtles.

Quick Guide for Visitors

  • Best snorkeling: Cane Bay, Turtle Beach, Jack Bay, Isaac Bay
  • Best sunsets: Rainbow Beach, Dorsch Beach, Cane Bay
  • Best family beaches: Hotel on the Cay, Chenay Bay, Mermaid Beach
  • Best secluded beaches: Isaac Bay, Jack Bay, Ha’Penny Beach, Sandy Point
  • Best beach bars: Rainbow Beach and Cane Bay
  • Most beautiful overall: Turtle Beach on Buck Island, Sandy Point, and Carambola Beach