Best Beaches to Visit in the US Virgin Islands

The US Virgin Islands are blessed with several exceptional beaches, all of which are open to the public. Please note that in St John many of the top beaches are located within the national park, so there are no vacation homes or hotels next to them. All of these beaches are easily accessed by car, and have public parking. Most offer exciting snorkeling right offshore, and it's quite common to spot sea turtles.

1. Trunk Bay Beach, (St. John): Trunk Bay Beach is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, powdery white sand, and an underwater snorkeling trail, making it a favorite destination for beachgoers and snorkeling enthusiasts alike. (Parking Available)
2. Magens Bay Beach, (St. Thomas): Magens Bay Beach boasts a mile-long stretch of soft sand, gentle waves perfect for swimming, and lush tropical surroundings, offering visitors a serene and picturesque escape. (Parking Available, NearestRestaurant: Magens Bay Beach Bar)
3. Cinnamon Bay Beach, (St. John): Cinnamon Bay Beach offers a pristine shoreline framed by swaying palm trees, with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and hiking in the nearby Virgin Islands National Park, attracting nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. (Limited Parking, No Restaurant)
4. Lindquist Beach, (St. Thomas): Lindquist Beach, also known as Smith Bay Beach, offers calm, clear waters ideal for swimming and sunbathing, with its secluded location providing a tranquil retreat for visitors seeking relaxation and natural beauty. (Parking Available, No Restaurant)
5. Hawksnest Beach, (St. John): Hawksnest Beach features soft white sand, calm turquoise waters, and excellent snorkeling opportunities along the coral reefs close to shore, making it a popular spot for families and snorkelers alike. (Limited Parking, No Restaurant)
6. Secret Harbour Beach, (St. Thomas): Secret Harbour Beach offers a picturesque crescent-shaped bay with calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, along with beachside amenities including a restaurant (Sunset Grille) and water sports rentals. (Parking Available)
7. Maho Bay Beach, (St. John): Maho Bay Beach is known for its shallow, calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling, as well as its frequent sightings of sea turtles and colorful marine life, providing a memorable experience for nature lovers. (Limited Parking, No Restaurant)
8. Sapphire Beach, (St. Thomas): Sapphire Beach boasts soft white sand, clear turquoise waters, and excellent snorkeling opportunities around nearby coral reefs, making it a popular destination for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. (Parking Available, NearestRestaurant: Sapphire Beach Bar)
9. Honeymoon Beach, (St. John): Honeymoon Beach offers a secluded and romantic atmosphere with calm, crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, accessible only by hiking trail or water taxi, attracting couples seeking a peaceful getaway. (Limited Parking, No Restaurant)
10. Lindbergh Bay Beach, (St. Thomas): Lindbergh Bay Beach, also known as Emerald Beach, features a wide stretch of golden sand, gentle waves, and amenities such as beach bars and restaurants, making it a convenient and enjoyable destination for visitors staying nearby. (Parking Available, Nearest Restaurant: Beachside Cafe)

Best Beaches to Visit in the British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands, commonly referred to as the BVI, are home to several exceptional beaches. All are open to the public. Many have lively beach bars and restaurants nearby which provide a shady place to cool off and refuel. Most of them have excellent snorkeling right offshore, and it is common to see sea turtles.

1. The Baths, (Virgin Gorda): The Baths is renowned for its unique granite boulder formations, pristine white sand beaches, and crystal-clear turquoise waters, offering visitors an unforgettable swimming and snorkeling experience amidst stunning natural beauty. (Limited Public Parking, Restaurant: Top of the Baths)
2. Spring Bay Beach, (Virgin Gorda): Spring Bay Beach is famous for its tranquil atmosphere, gentle waves perfect for swimming, and picturesque surroundings dotted with swaying palm trees, making it a favorite spot for relaxation and family outings. (Limited Public Parking)
3. Savannah Bay Beach, (Virgin Gorda): Savannah Bay Beach boasts a long stretch of soft sand, calm azure waters ideal for swimming, and excellent snorkeling opportunities along the vibrant coral reefs just offshore, attracting beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts alike. (Limited Public Parking)
4. Long Bay Beach, (Tortola): Long Bay Beach offers a scenic crescent-shaped shoreline, powdery white sand, and gentle waves suitable for swimming and water sports, making it a popular destination for sunbathing and beach picnics. (Limited Public Parking, Restaurant: The Sugar Mill)
5. Smuggler's Cove, (Tortola): Smuggler's Cove is known for its secluded and pristine beauty, with clear turquoise waters, soft golden sand, and lush greenery, providing a serene and peaceful escape for visitors seeking tranquility. (Limited Public Parking. Restaurant: Nigel's Boom Boom Beach Bar and Grill )
6. Cane Garden Bay, (Tortola): Cane Garden Bay is a vibrant and lively beach destination, offering a bustling atmosphere with palm-fringed shores, water sports rentals, beach bars, and live music, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists to enjoy sun, sea, and socializing. (Limited Public Parking, Restaurants along the beach include Rhymers, Elm beach bar, Cane Garden beach bar and the Paradise Club)
7. Brewer's Bay Beach, (Tortola): Brewer's Bay Beach is known for its unspoiled natural beauty, with calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling, and a tranquil ambiance perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. (Limited Public Parking). Restaurant: Nicole’s beach bar
8. Josiah's Bay Beach, (Tortola): Josiah's Bay Beach is a favorite among surfers for its consistent waves, offering excellent opportunities for surfing and boogie boarding, while its expansive sandy shores and scenic surroundings also make it ideal for beach picnics and leisurely strolls. (Limited Public Parking, Restaurant: Momzell’s beach bar)
9. Lambert Beach, (Tortola): Lambert Beach is prized for its serene and secluded atmosphere, with soft golden sand, clear blue waters, and swaying palm trees, providing a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking tranquility away from the crowds. (Limited Public Parking, Restaurant: Sebastian's on the Beach)
10. Apple Bay Beach, (Tortola): Apple Bay Beach is renowned as a premier surfing destination in the British Virgin Islands, with consistent reef breaks attracting surfers from around the world, while its laid-back vibe and stunning sunsets also make it a popular spot for beachgoers and spectators. (Limited Public Parking,  Restaurants nearby include D’Coal Pot, Nardis and Sugar Mill)

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