LOCATION: EAST OF TOWN ON BOLONGO ROAD

The name of this locale can be a bit confusing because many islanders know the place better as Limetree. Due to a change in ownership, it is now officially known as Bluebeard’s. This picture-perfect beach runs along a natural cove. It’s a pretty stretch framed by blooming bougainvillea and other tropical foliage where iguanas play hide-and-seek with visitors.

LOCATION: EAST OF TOWN ON BOLONGO ROAD

The sand is a touch coarse here but the visuals are grand. A barrier reef at the inlet provides continual surf to watch and listen too and slows the surf entering the bay. The hotel has a water sports hut offering all types of water toys or relax on beach chairs on a palm lined beach. Iggies Beach Bar features frosty drinks and a tasty menu of burgers, wraps and salads and a regulation size Volleyball court.

LOCATION: ON THE WEST END, ACCROSS FROM THE ENTRANCE TO THE REICHOLD CENTER FOR THE ARTS.

Near the campus of the University of the Virgin Islands, this peaceful spot livens up on the weekend and often has tasty local food available from vendors. During the week while locals are at work, it's a great place to relax and swim in tranquil seas.

LOCATION: NORTHEAST SIDE OF THE ISLAND ADJACENT TO THE ENTRANCE OF CORAL WORLD

With Thatch Key just across the Leeward Passage, Coki Beach offers some of the prettiest panoramas on the island. This funky little beach is known for its excellent scuba and snorkeling sites. Brightly painted stalls, beach bars and food stands add local color to this stretch, as does the fact that Coki Beach is among the locals' favorites. 

LOCATION:  ON THE EAST END AT ROUTE 322 BRANCHING OFF ROUTE 30 IN RED HOOK

At the Elysian Beach Resort sits this gem of a water sports destination.  Head out in a sunfish and go exploring or relax under a palm tree on this snow-white beach.  Perhaps the only drawback is a bit of a rocky bottom at the water's edge.  Bonnie's by the Sea is adjacent to the beacdh and welcomes beachgoers to enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, appetizers and refreshments in a casual atmosphere seven days a week.

LOCATION: SMITH BAY ROAD - NORTH EAST SHORE

Formerly the Renaissance Resort Beach, this seaside complex's beach offers a dramatic view of St. John.  The locale is notably breezy-if not downright windy- with appropriate water sports facilities to take advantage of the wind and surf.  New owners of this vacation destination have been concentrating on promoting the venue as "all inclusive" and exclusive for paying guests but Virgin Islands beaches are, by law, open to the public.

LOCATION: ON THE NORTH SHORE AT THE END OF HULL BAY ROAD JUST WEST OF MAGENS BAY.

A relatively quiet beach (except during fishing tournaments) this northern shore bas serves as a local anchoage.  The rougher waters at the bay's western tip attract surfers.  Along the shaded beach the water is usually placid and pleasant.  You can usually find parking near the water's edge-except on weekends in season.

LOCATION: AIRPORT ROAD

Closest to the airport, yet a world away, this delightful oasis offers the added convenience of several adjacent hotels including the Island Beachcomber, Emerald Beach and Carib Beach. Bear in mind your reverie will be regularly challenged by the sounds of commercial and private planes taking off and landing at nearby Cyril E. King airport.

LOCATION: At the end of tree-shaded Route 35 on St. Thomas' north shore.

Deeded to the island as a public park, this beach has made many of the world's "most beautiful" lists. It's as breathtaking when seen from the perspective of the road above, as from the shore or from the warm and clear waters. You may see couples getting married at the shoreline as well as family picnickers around a table. Restrooms, showers and dressing areas add to the overall comfort and convenience of the public park.

One inside tip for those seeking seclusion is to make your way to the western end of the beach. It is less crowded and offers some of the better snorkeling opportunities at Magens Bay. Of course, to take in the full beauty of this place, step back and watch how the perfect waters are framed by green mountainous peaks on the east and west horizons.

LOCATION: Marriott Frenchman's Reef Beach Resort.

Morningstar provides everything you need for beach fun and comfort. Hire a lounge chair and umbrella for the day and sit back with a cool drink from one of the bars. If you are more adventurous, rent snorkeling gear and explore the reefs at either end of the beach. For a little more action, you can sharpen your skills on a Sunfish or learn to windsurf from a certified instructor.

LOCATION: Sapphire Beach Resort & Marina, on the East End of the island.

Those seeking a festive beach experience will find Sapphire Beach to be very appealing.
This glorious locale offers a stunning view of St. John and the British Virgin Islands. It is a good spot for windsurfing, and three reef areas just off the shore are great for snorkeling. Amenities include a marina, restaurants and a beachside dive shop, offering rental equipment. 

LOCATION: On the East End at Route 322 which branches off from Route 30 in Red Hook.

What a breathtaking spot  made all the more enjoyable by a terraced restaurant, bar and water sports rentals.  The hotel will charge for the use of a lounge chair but it is well worth it.  Snorkeling is best near the rock formations on either end of the beach.