Best known for shopping, dining and nightlife, this US Virgin Island 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 beach goer 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. Magens Bay Beach from above is the one of the most beautiful and popular beaches in the Caribbean. Photo: Christian Wheatley/iStock
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. 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. Photo: Christian Wheatley/iStock
Magens Bay Beach

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. Fortunately, there’s room for all, plus a full range of conveniences such as lifeguards, restrooms, showers and picnic tables. Photo: Christian Wheatley/iStock
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. It’s a popular spot for vendors, so cold drinks and meat patties are within easy reach. Photo: Christian Wheatley/iStock
Sapphire Beach

This east-end beach is within walking distance of a number of hotels and condos. Though perfect for simply relaxing, it also a favorite for all types of water sports. There’s great snorkeling right offshore, kayak and paddle board excursions 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. Photo: Christian Wheatley/iStock
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 prefect 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. Photo: Christian Wheatley/iStock

50 Shades of Blue: St. Thomas Beaches
Published on: 8/08/15 By Debbie Snow

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