One of the benefits of being a Caribbean island is being surrounded by gorgeous beaches! Our St Croix Beaches Guide details the best beaches on the island for you to plan ahead. Hint: Scroll down and click on a beach for more details & directions!
Best part about St Croix beaches?
All of the beaches throughout the US Virgin Islands are public and accessible to everyone – so you can enjoy some of the more maintained beaches at island resorts even if you aren’t staying there (some charge a fee for using chairs, umbrellas, etc). Perfect if that’s what you are looking for.
Generally at US Virgin Islands beaches, there are no lifeguards on duty, so swim with caution and be mindful when there are surf advisories { View the current NOAA Surf Zone Forecast }. Sundays are a popular family day throughout the island and you’ll find many St Croix beaches full of activity. On cruise ship days you’ll also find the West End and Cane Bay beaches fairly busy – but always beautiful. And don’t forget to bring only Reef Safe Sunscreen (it’s the law)
Important: It is illegal to take shells and sand from St Croix beaches off of the island. They will be confiscated at US Customs upon departure. Remember to take only pictures and leave only footprints. And please, help us keep our beaches clean by removing any trash you bring in with you (bonus points if you take any you find too) and properly dispose of it when you leave.
Use the Key below for quick reference:
🍹Beach Bar | 🏖️Amenities (Rentals) | 🚻Restrooms | 🚫No Facilities, Just Beach | 🤿Good Snorkeling
West End Beaches
The most popular St Croix beaches are found on the West End of the island. The shores here are typically the white sandy type you dream about because they are more open to the ocean with more shallow coral reefs. These beaches are busier on cruise ship days, holidays, and weekends, but still enjoyable. Many offer chair and umbrella rentals or bring your own.
Northshore Beaches
The Northshore of St Croix has some of the most breathtaking views on St Croix with beautiful beaches framed by green mountains. The coast of the Northshore is situated along a dramatic drop known as “The Wall” and is popular with scuba divers for the incredible shore diving just a short kick out. You’ll find excellent snorkeling and lots to explore.
Christiansted Beaches
Christiansted Harbor is a popular boating destination with many of the Buck Island charters departing from the Boardwalk. You can also take the water taxi over to Protestant Cay and enjoy the beach right in the heart of downtown.
East End Beaches
Most of the beaches on St Croix’s East End are protected by fringing coral reef offshore which makes them less susceptible to pounding surf and a little rockier though you’ll still find sandy spots to enjoy. You’ll also enjoy excellent snorkeling as most are also protected as part of the East End Marine Park Sanctuary.
Southshore Beaches
You’ll find fewer beaches for swimming and lounging on St Croix’s Southshore. Most are more popular with local residents and watersports enthusiasts like kite surfers.
Find St Croix Beaches & Get Directions
Pro-tip: For any of the quieter more remote beach locations, its advisable to go with a friend and avoid leaving valuables in your car. Even better, leave it unlocked with the windows down. And remember that St Croix's beaches don't have lifeguards, so swim and explore at your own risk.