Best known for shopping, dining, and nightlife, St. Thomas sometimes gets passed up as a beach destination. But with 40 stretches of sand, quiet coves, and harbors dotting the island coastlines, even the most passionate beachgoer will be satisfied. And, after a day on the sun-drenched shores, there’s still plenty of time for an afternoon of shopping before happy hour.
Beach lover and local Virgin Island resident and photographer Christian Wheatley has been seeking, enjoying and documenting the sands of these islands since 2007. The following are just a few of the photos that he has captured over the years.
Lindquist Beach
Tucked unobtrusively between Sapphire Beach Resort and Sugar Bay Beach Club, this undeveloped bit of coastline, which also goes by the name of Smith Bay Beach, is seldom frequented by out-of-towners. The beach is part of the protected 21-acre area called Smith Bay Park. Silky white sand lines the shoreline, perfect for a stroll or a day of relaxing with a view of St. John on the horizon. The water is crystal clear and calm making it a popular spot for swimming. Locals know how to find this pristine stretch of white sand, where sea grapes and palms line the shore, and there’s never a crowd. Ask around, and you too can locate the single dirt road leading to the water.
Magens Bay Beach
Considered the most beautiful beach on St. Thomas and the most recognizable, Magens Bay has appeared in commercials and movie scenes. Tucked between long sheltering headlands, the calm waters of Magens Bay turn sapphire blue under the tropical sun. The mile-long stretch of white sand at the head of the cay is one of the most photographed beaches in the Caribbean and one of the island’s most popular destinations. The serene waters are ideal for swimming and wading or just floating. On cruise ship days, the beach area can get busy. Fortunately, there’s room for all, plus a full range of conveniences such as lifeguards, restrooms, showers, and picnic tables.
Coki Beach
Most visitors come for Coral World, a 4.5-acre marine park that sits next to the beach and is built over a living coral reef. The beach is free, while admission to the park gives access to their facilities and a chance to enjoy lunch in the shade. The beach itself is a nice stretch of white sand and the snorkeling here is some of the best on the island. Translucent and calm waters reveal the hard and soft corals and sea fans where blue tangs, sergeant majors, and the occasional sea turtle swim by. Favored by locals on the weekends, the spot also receives its share of cruise passengers. It’s a popular spot for vendors, so cold drinks and meat patties are within easy reach.
Sapphire Beach
This east-end beach is within walking distance of a number of hotels and condos. Sapphire Beach Resort and Marina dominates here and provides an option for overnight stays where the sea is just a few steps away. Though perfect for simply relaxing, it is also a favorite for all types of water sports. There’s great snorkeling right offshore, with easy access into the shallow waters and rocky reefs. Kayak and paddle board excursions are on the agenda for calm weather days and windsurfing when the breezes kick in. If you don’t have your own gear, you can rent it from a beachside concession.
Honeymoon Beach, Water Island
This secluded stretch of sand is off the radar for most, as it is located on Water Island, the smallest of the four US Virgin Islands. You can reach it by boat, or via a ten-minute water taxi ride and a ten-minute walk. Far from the crowds, with palm-lined shores and calm water, it’s a perfect island getaway. Turtles and birds often outnumber humans, as the island is home to only a few residents, the abandoned remains of an unfinished fort, and one bar. You can pack a lunch or meet up with one of the roving food vendors who walk the beach.
