When most people think of cruise destinations, they often envision the Caribbean. The Caribbean Sea contains some of the best vacation destinations imaginable, with over 700 different islands to explore.
It would take a lifetime to explore each of them, making people keep coming back for more. We highlight the best St. Croix beaches for your next cruise trip.
Choosing the best island for your trip may be overwhelming due to the numerous options available. If you envision a picturesque, serene Caribbean island with a plethora of stunning beaches and fun activities, you may want to consider St. Croix.
There may be some attractions that are still closed or those that require reservations in advance, but there are still plenty of activities available. Guests can expect modifications to certain restaurants’ times and availability, along with others offering only pickup.
In This Article…
What to Expect: The Beauty of St. Croix
St. Croix beaches come in many sizes, shapes, and forms. Visitors can find locations with large open areas of sand for playing games or enjoying a simple outdoor picnic. You can also find romantic, secluded spots for two on this secluded island.
St. Croix is an area known for relaxation and fun. It holds appeal both for those who want to chill and for those seeking thrills. Beaches are admired for their beauty, and St. Croix offers some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling in the entire area. Choosing the best beach in this area is quite challenging as there is so much diversity.
The Best St. Croix Beaches
These beaches offer breathtaking views of the island. With bright, aqua seas and gorgeous sandy beaches, this area is easy to fall in love with. There is always something to do in each of these areas. We highlight some well-known areas and some hidden gems.
1. Turtle Beach
If you close your eyes and envision the Caribbean, Turtle Beach will bring this picture to life. The beach itself isn’t on the island of St. Croix but on the smaller Buck Island off the coast. Guests will need to rent a kayak or ride on a private boat to reach this destination.
The effort is worth it as this beach has plenty of soft, white sand and incredible waters. Snorkeling is a popular activity. Visitors can view colorful fish accompanied by other forms of marine life just waiting for your discovery. You can easily admire the marine life beneath the crystal clear waves.
Buck Island Reef is a national monument in the area. Marine life in this area is protected. This beach remains an untouched paradise.
2. Shoys Beach
Known as the prettiest and largest beach in St. Croix, Shoys Beach stretches along the coast and offers a wide-open space. Visitors never experience overcrowding or excessive noise, even on busy days.
During the middle of the week, guests often report they have the beach to themselves as few people are going to the beach at this time.
The views are amazing, and the crescent of the surrounding bay provides a wonderful swimming location. It is great for kids since the waves are exceptionally gentle and small. Children can easily swim in this area.
3. Jack’s Bay
This beach is lesser-known but no less spectacular than the more popular destinations. Locals in this area tend to flock to Jack’s Bay. Part of the location is a protected area that includes the neighboring Isaac’s Bay; however, Jack’s Bay is more private and pristine in St. Croix. Jack’s Bay is one of St. Croix’s secret treasures.
The beach itself is amazing with breathtaking scenery. One notable thing about the area is that there are no restaurants, hotels, or other amenities. Guests will have to prepare for the day before voyaging out to this beach.
Reaching the bay requires nominal effort as the only way to get there is by taking a hiking trail. While many shy away from the journey, locals say the destination is well worth the initial effort to get there.
Guests can park on the side road close to Point Udall. Then, walk down the dirt road on the right. Isaac’s Bay Beach is the first you see. If you continue walking over a tiny peninsula, you will reach Jack’s Bay Beach. Guided tours are also available.
4. Rainbow Beach
Rainbow Beach is not just a popular spot; it is the most famous. Situated at the western end of St. Croix, it is close to Frederiksted. Frederiksted was established in 1751. Initially protected by Fort Frederik dating back to the 1700s, it now houses a museum.
Known as the “Freedom City”, Frederiksted is where Governor General Peter Van Scholten originally read a proclamation that abolished slavery in 1848.
The sands at Rainbow Beach are powdery and wonderfully soft. Guests can relax in the warm, soothing waters, making them ideal for swimming or just wading in the water. The best part is that everyone in the family will enjoy this beach, including those with young children.
Local bars offer live entertainment, creating a weekend party environment, while weekdays present a quieter, calmer atmosphere. Snorkeling is a favorite at this beach, as are other activities.
5. Buccaneer Beach
Buccaneer Beach is the most popular beach in St. Croix. The spectacular views of surrounding landscapes make this a highly desirable location to admire the scenery. The beach is family-friendly, offering warm waters and soft sands. It also has facilities and excellent amenities for any age group.
Packed with exceptional restaurants and bars, guests will never have to go far for good food. The beach is part of The Buccaneer St. Croix Beach & Golf Resort by Wyndham.
6. Cane Bay Beach
Cane Bay Beach is a family beach. While it isn’t as impressive as the others, there are many fun activities to do here. Calm water makes it the perfect destination for young children or novice swimmers, and it is also an ideal place to visit if you are interested in snorkeling or scuba diving.
Guests can dive off the beach along the infamous “The Wall” located 500 yards offshore, where the water level drops sharply to 13,000 feet.
The Cane Bay Dive Shop is across the street. Local restaurants include Off the Wall, or for a higher-end culinary delight, visit The Waves at Cane Bay or Rowdy Joes for fish tacos.
7. Sandy Point Beach
Looking to go for a long romantic walk? Found on the West End of St. Croix, Sandy Point Beach is visually stunning. Ranked as one of the top five beaches in the US Virgin Islands, it contains clear blue waters accompanied by a three-mile stretch of sandy beach.
It is not particularly overcrowded, but there are no facilities like beach umbrellas or beach chairs. It is only available on weekends and while cruise ships are in port. The only exception to availability is from April to August, with a temporary closure due to the turtle nesting season.
8. Carambola Beach Resort
Looking for a resort holiday? Carambola Beach is ideal for skimboarding and riding large waves. Also called Davis Beach, this area is by the Renaissance St. Croix Carambola Beach Resort and Spa, one of St. Croix’s many resorts.
Lounge chairs and umbrella rentals are available in this area, as are impressive restaurants and other amenities. Since all beaches are publicly accessible, parking in an upper parking lot then walking down steps is more advisable. The beach lies to the left of the resort.
9. Grapetree Bay
If you want a gorgeous, secluded spot for two, arrive early to enjoy the sunrise from this breathtaking spot in St. Croix. Since it is secluded, there aren’t any amenities readily available. Be sure to bring beach mats, water, or anything else you need for entertainment and comfort.
The swimming is exceptional, and there is beautiful snorkeling. This beach is a great spot for relaxing in isolation.
10. Ha’Penny Beach
Another area for romance, Ha’Penny Beach has large stretches where you and your partner can take in the stunning scenery. Again, there are no amenities available in this secluded spot, so you need to pack for the day.
When swimming, enter the water at a sandy location to avoid sea urchins found in the rocks. Sea urchins are harmless unless stepped on. Also watch for nesting turtles, and do not disturb their habitat. For a secluded experience, visit on a weekday as locals flock to this favorite area on the weekend.
Final Thoughts
St. Croix beaches are perfect for everyone. There are options for romance, families, and activities. We have included a variety of options so that you can choose the perfect beach for when your cruise ship docks in St. Croix for the day.
Read Also: Best St. Thomas Beaches for Cruise Visitors
Whether you’re seeking romance, activities, or fun with the family, we’re confident you’ll find a beach you love. They all offer stunning scenery and beautiful white, sandy beaches, and some have shallow locations for young children. No matter what you choose, there is a memorable experience in store for you.
