Brewers Bay Beach - Image 1
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Brewers Bay Beach

4.6
·546 reviews·Charlotte Amalie West, U.S. Virgin Islands

A local favorite beach on St. Thomas, known for abundant sea turtles, plane spotting, and a relaxed, uncrowded atmosphere.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the crowds & see turtles

CrowdLow
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Brewers Bay Beach - Image 1

Brewers Bay Beach

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the crowds & see turtles

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A local favorite beach on St. Thomas, known for abundant sea turtles, plane spotting, and a relaxed, uncrowded atmosphere.

4.6
(546 reviews)

"Absolutely loved Brewers Bay Beach! Crystal-clear water, soft sand, and a calm, relaxed vibe without the crowds."

Vertical photo
TIP

🤿 Bring Your Snorkel Gear

Essential for spotting sea turtles and rays! Rentals are available, but bringing your own is best.

🚗 Easy Street Parking

Plenty of free street parking available, especially if you arrive early.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sea Turtle Encounters

Sea Turtle Encounters

Shallow waters

Swim alongside gentle sea turtles in their natural habitat. A truly magical experience for snorkelers of all levels.

Plane Spotting Views

Plane Spotting Views

Beachfront

Enjoy the unique spectacle of planes landing and taking off from the nearby airport, a thrilling backdrop to your beach day.

Local Pate Delights

Local Pate Delights

Across the street

Savor delicious salted fish and beef pates from the food trucks, a highly recommended local culinary treat.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Vibe

Brewers Bay Beach is a local favorite, offering a more relaxed experience than some of the busier tourist spots. Arrive early to snag good parking and enjoy the tranquility before the day heats up. It's a fantastic spot for snorkeling and spotting marine life.

Snorkel Gear & Snacks

Bring your own snorkel gear to make the most of the abundant sea turtles and rays. While there are food options across the street, having snacks and drinks on hand is always a good idea for a full day of sun and sea.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Beat the crowds & see turtles
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer locals, more space
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Reply to @brionna330 We got you, Brionna. 😉 Here are 5 things to do in St. Thomas! 🌴 #travelextra #stthomas #usvi #thingstodoinstthomas #fyp #traveltok #traveltiktok
@extraholidays
17.6K likes • 730.8K views

🤿 Bring Your Snorkel Gear

Essential for spotting sea turtles and rays! Rentals are available, but bringing your own is best. InstagramReddit

🚗 Easy Street Parking

Plenty of free street parking available, especially if you arrive early. Reddit

Give thanks for life🎶🎶🎶🎶🙏🏾❤️🙏🏾 #Myday #Queen #Brewersbaybeach Stthomas #stthomasvirginislands #USVI 🇻🇮❤️🇻🇮
empresspenya
201 likes • 3.3K views
Brewers Bay Beach is more of a locals beach but if looking to see turtles and sting rays it’s a great stop on St. Thomas. Being right next to the airport gives beach goers views of the planes ✈️ coming and going. #stthomas #usvirginislands #travel #travelblogger #travelblog #beach
next.trekking.adventure
11 likes • 334 views

🐢 Turtle Spotting Hotspot

Many visitors report seeing numerous turtles close to shore. InstagramReddit

✈️ Plane Spotting Fun

Enjoy the unique view of planes approaching the airport right from the beach. Instagram

🌴✨ Get Grounded with ElevateWI! ✨🌴 Join us for a special beach day at Brewers Bay on March 2nd at 12pm! 🌊☀️ Grounded is all about stepping out of the hustle, reconnecting with self, and calming our nervous systems. We created this space to help you make sense of the noise in your mind and remind you to prioritize self-care—no matter what life throws your way. Bring your own beverages, snacks...
elevatewi.vi
46 likes • 989 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🤿 Bring Your Snorkel Gear

Essential for spotting sea turtles and rays! Rentals are available, but bringing your own is best. InstagramReddit

🚗 Easy Street Parking

Plenty of free street parking available, especially if you arrive early. Reddit

🐢 Turtle Spotting Hotspot

Many visitors report seeing numerous turtles close to shore. InstagramReddit

✈️ Plane Spotting Fun

Enjoy the unique view of planes approaching the airport right from the beach. Instagram

🥟 Delicious Local Pates

Don't miss the highly recommended beef and salted fish pates from the food trucks across the street. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(546 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Brewers Bay Beach for its serene, local atmosphere, abundant sea turtle sightings, and convenient amenities like free parking and restrooms. While some note seagrass and occasional cloudy water, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, especially for snorkeling and enjoying a relaxed beach day.

"Absolutely loved Brewers Bay Beach! Crystal-clear water, soft sand, and a calm, relaxed vibe without the crowds. It feels like a hidden gem that mostly locals know about. Perfect spot to swim, snorkel, and just enjoy the beauty of St. Thomas."

Kamil Nigmatullin

"A nice beach, but the beach itself is nothing special. Sand quality is ok, but lots of vegetation and shells/coral. Water was nice and calm and shallow, good spot for kids. Snorkelling was great if you want sea turtles. We went out twice and saw 4-6 turtles both times! Otherwise it's mediocre for fish and coral. Free and easy and parking though."

Andrew Pursifull

"Street parking. Lots of seagrasses in the water. There's a mix of warm and cold current. Unfortunately we were not able to see any sea turtles during our visit. It's nice to have a clean restroom and outdoor shower area. Lots of trees for shade and hanging your hammock.
Across the street, we were able to try salted fish and beef pates. The chicken pate was sold out, it was highly recommended by another guest. We liked the pates here compared to the one we tried in Red hook."

adi mart

What People Like

Abundant sea turtles
Local, uncrowded vibe
Free parking and restrooms

What People Dislike

Occasional seagrass
Water can be cloudy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Brewers Bay Beach is conveniently located about 10 minutes from the cruise port in Charlotte Amalie. Taxis are readily available and typically cost around $8 USD per person one-way. Reddit

Yes, there is ample street parking available at Brewers Bay Beach. Visitors often find it easy to secure a spot, especially if arriving earlier in the day. Reddit

Brewers Bay Beach is situated on the western side of St. Thomas, near the Cyril E. King Airport. It's a well-known spot among locals and can be easily navigated with GPS or by asking for directions. Instagram

Taxis are the most common and convenient way to get around St. Thomas for beach hopping. Renting a car is also an option if you prefer more flexibility, but be prepared for island driving conditions. TikTok

While taxis are the primary mode of transport for tourists, some local bus routes may pass near Brewers Bay Beach. However, for ease and direct access, taxis are generally recommended. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Brewers Bay Beach does not have an entrance fee. It's a public beach, making it an accessible and budget-friendly option for visitors. Reddit

Brewers Bay Beach is open to the public from sunrise to sunset. There are no official closing times, allowing visitors to enjoy the beach at their leisure. Instagram

While some reviews mention the possibility of renting snorkeling gear, it's not guaranteed. It's highly recommended to bring your own snorkel and mask to ensure you can explore the underwater world. Reddit

Yes, Brewers Bay Beach offers clean restroom facilities and outdoor showers, which are very convenient for rinsing off after a day in the ocean. Reddit

Absolutely! Bringing your own food and drinks is encouraged, especially if you plan to spend a full day. There are also food trucks across the street for local treats. Reddit

🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience

The best time for snorkeling is generally in the morning when the water is calmer and visibility is often better. Early arrival also increases your chances of seeing sea turtles. InstagramReddit

Brewers Bay Beach is renowned for its sea turtles. You can also spot stingrays, leopard rays, guitarfish, and a variety of colorful reef fish. InstagramReddit

Yes, the water at Brewers Bay Beach is generally calm and clear, making it excellent for swimming. There are some shelf and rocks, so be mindful of your footing. Reddit

Yes, there are plenty of trees along the beach that provide natural shade, perfect for relaxing without direct sun exposure. You can also hang a hammock. Reddit

Families can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, building sandcastles, and simply relaxing on the sand. The calm waters are suitable for children, and the plane spotting adds an element of excitement. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there are no restaurants directly on the beach, there are popular food trucks located across the street. These are known for serving delicious local pates. Reddit

The beef pate and salted fish pate are highly recommended by visitors. The chicken pate is also popular but can sell out quickly. Reddit

Some reviews indicate that it's possible to purchase drinks at Brewers Bay Beach, but it's always a good idea to bring your own to ensure you stay hydrated. Reddit

For a wider variety of dining options, you would need to travel back towards Charlotte Amalie or explore other areas of St. Thomas. The food trucks offer a convenient and tasty local experience. TikTok

Yes, Brewers Bay Beach is an ideal spot for a picnic. You can bring your own food and enjoy it under the shade of the trees or on the sand. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the crystal-clear turquoise waters, the diverse marine life while snorkeling, and the unique perspective of planes flying overhead. The sunsets can also be beautiful. Instagram+1

While drone photography can offer incredible aerial views, be mindful of any local regulations regarding drone usage, especially near the airport. Always fly responsibly. Instagram

Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty. Late afternoon can provide beautiful golden hour light for dramatic shots. Instagram

Yes, you can take photos of the sea turtles, but always maintain a respectful distance and avoid touching or disturbing them. Focus on capturing their natural behavior. Instagram

The main 'landmarks' are the natural beauty of the beach, the marine life, and the planes. The food trucks across the street also offer a colorful backdrop for local flavor photos. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Brewers Bay Beach is a fantastic choice for families. The calm, clear waters are generally safe for children to swim and play in. The opportunity to see sea turtles and other marine life while snorkeling provides an educational and exciting experience for kids. InstagramReddit

With plenty of space to spread out and natural shade from the trees, families can comfortably spend a whole day here. The convenience of restrooms and showers is also a big plus. Don't forget to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and consider bringing sand toys for extra fun on the shore. The plane spotting adds an extra layer of excitement that kids often love. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

Brewers Bay Beach is a budget traveler's dream. There's no entrance fee, and street parking is free, making it an incredibly accessible destination. Reddit

Bring your own snorkel gear and snacks to keep costs down. The food trucks across the street offer affordable and delicious local eats, a great alternative to more expensive restaurant meals. It's a perfect spot to enjoy the beauty of St. Thomas without breaking the bank. Reddit

🐢 Snorkel Enthusiasts

For those passionate about snorkeling, Brewers Bay Beach is a must-visit. The consistent sightings of sea turtles, along with rays and various fish, make it a prime location for underwater exploration. InstagramReddit

Arrive early to experience the best visibility and calmest waters. While rentals might be available, investing in your own snorkel mask and fins will ensure you don't miss a moment of the incredible marine life. The accessibility of these creatures so close to shore is a major highlight. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Snorkeling Paradise: Discovering Brewers Bay's Underwater World

Brewers Bay Beach is a top-tier destination for snorkelers, largely due to its abundant and easily accessible marine life. The shallow, clear waters are teeming with sea turtles, which are frequently spotted close to shore. Visitors often describe the experience as magical, with multiple turtles seen during a single visit. InstagramReddit

Beyond the turtles, snorkelers can also encounter a variety of other fascinating creatures. Keep an eye out for graceful stingrays gliding along the sandy bottom, and unique fish like leopard rays and guitarfish. The presence of seagrass beds further contributes to the rich biodiversity, providing a natural habitat for these marine animals. Reddit

While the beach has a mix of sand and some rocky areas, the snorkeling is generally excellent. Bringing your own snorkel gear is highly recommended to maximize your exploration time and ensure comfort. The calm conditions make it suitable for both novice and experienced snorkelers looking to immerse themselves in the vibrant underwater ecosystem of St. Thomas. InstagramReddit

The Local's Choice: Experiencing Brewers Bay Beach Authenticity

Unlike some of the more commercialized beaches on St. Thomas, Brewers Bay Beach is cherished by locals for its laid-back atmosphere and authentic island charm. This translates to a more relaxed and less crowded experience, allowing visitors to truly unwind and soak in the natural beauty. Instagram+1

This local appeal means you'll often find a more genuine slice of St. Thomas life here. It's a place where residents come to enjoy the sun, sea, and community. The beach offers ample space to spread out, whether you prefer sunbathing or relaxing in the shade provided by the numerous trees. Reddit

Adding to the local flavor is the popular food truck scene across the street. These vendors serve up delicious and authentic island fare, with pates being a particular highlight. Trying these local delicacies is an integral part of the Brewers Bay Beach experience, offering a taste of the island's culinary heritage. Reddit

Unique Views: Plane Spotting at Brewers Bay Beach

One of the most distinctive features of Brewers Bay Beach is its proximity to the Cyril E. King Airport. This unique location offers visitors the thrilling spectacle of planes taking off and landing, creating an unusual yet captivating backdrop to a day at the beach. Instagram

For aviation enthusiasts or those looking for a novel beach experience, this is a major draw. The sight and sound of aircraft overhead add an energetic element to the otherwise tranquil setting. It's a conversation starter and a memorable aspect of visiting Brewers Bay. Instagram

While the planes are a highlight, it's important to note that the beach itself remains a beautiful and relaxing destination. The combination of stunning coastal scenery and the dynamic aerial activity makes Brewers Bay Beach a truly one-of-a-kind spot on St. Thomas. Instagram

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