
Magens Bay St Thomas USVI
Magens Bay: A world-renowned, mile-long crescent of powder-white sand and calm turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Magens Bay St Thomas USVI
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Magens Bay: A world-renowned, mile-long crescent of powder-white sand and calm turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports.
"Most beautiful place ever. So clean. Great parking. Great food. So relaxing. You can rent just about any water activity."

Taxi Fare
Expect to pay around $15 per person each way for a taxi from the cruise port. :taxi:
Entrance & Parking Fees
Non-residents pay an entrance fee ($7 pp) and parking fees. :moneywithwings:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pristine White Sands
The main stretch of the beach
Miles of powder-white sand meet calm, turquoise waters, creating a postcard-perfect tropical paradise.

Abundant Marine Life
Rocky coastlines at either end of the bay
Snorkelers can spot sea turtles, stingrays, and colorful fish in the clear, calm waters.

Water Sports & Rentals
Near the main concessions
Rent paddleboards, kayaks, chairs, and snorkeling gear to fully enjoy the bay's offerings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Costs
Getting There & Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Taxi Fare
Expect to pay around $15 per person each way for a taxi from the cruise port. :taxi:
Entrance & Parking Fees
Non-residents pay an entrance fee ($7 pp) and parking fees. :moneywithwings:
Snorkeling Hotspots
Walk to the northern end and swim along the rocky coast for the best marine life sightings. :fish:
Rentals Available
Chairs, umbrellas, paddleboards, and snorkel gear can be rented on-site. :beachwithumbrella:
Tips
from all over the internet
Taxi Fare
Expect to pay around $15 per person each way for a taxi from the cruise port. :taxi:
Entrance & Parking Fees
Non-residents pay an entrance fee ($7 pp) and parking fees. :moneywithwings:
Snorkeling Hotspots
Walk to the northern end and swim along the rocky coast for the best marine life sightings. :fish:
Rentals Available
Chairs, umbrellas, paddleboards, and snorkel gear can be rented on-site. :beachwithumbrella:
Food & Drinks
Concessions offer food and drinks, though some find them a bit pricey. :tropical_drink:
Calm Waters
The bay's sheltered nature makes for calm waters, ideal for swimming and families. :ocean:
Clean Facilities
Restrooms and changing facilities are available and generally well-maintained. :shower:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Magens Bay is widely praised as a breathtakingly beautiful beach, often described as 'heaven on earth' with its pristine white sand and calm, clear waters. Visitors love the abundant marine life for snorkeling and the variety of water sports available. However, some find the entrance and food prices a bit steep, and it can get crowded, especially when cruise ships are in port.
"Heaven on earth. Most beautiful place ever. So clean. Great parking. Great food. So relaxing. You can rent just about any water activity. Paddle boarding, chairs, snorkeling. Seen so many turtles, stingray, so many colorful fish and sharks. Seriously heaven on earth. With sand sent from a higher power for sure."
rebecca Besseck
"Beautiful beads, clean ,water is calm, not too deep. Changing Rooms clean bars,you can rent chairs but the food is a little pricey entrance fee is also pricey $7 per person for none residence and you’re not allowed to leave and returned same day, you have to pay every time you return."
out of many We are one
"Water was cool and clear and teaming with fish and other water animals.
Beach was beautiful and well maintained with fine white sand.
There is a bar and food options on the beach.
Also you can rent all kinds of beach equipment including chairs, masks, water floats, etc.
It also has a place to rinse off and change before leaving the beach.
It was a little crowded with 3 cruise ships in port but that wasn't that bad as the beach is very long.
Highly recommended for a dip for a few hours."
Patrick Theobald
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Taxis are readily available at the cruise port and are the most common way to reach Magens Bay. The ride is about 15 minutes and typically costs around $15 per person each way. Renting a car is also an option if you prefer to explore at your own pace and stop at scenic viewpoints.
While taxis are the primary mode of transport, some local bus routes may pass near Magens Bay, though this is less common for tourists. Taxis offer the most direct and convenient access.
No, Magens Bay is located on the north side of St. Thomas and is too far to walk from Charlotte Amalie. A taxi or rental car is necessary.
The drive from the cruise port or Charlotte Amalie is scenic, taking you through lush hills. You can make stops at lookout points for photos.
While not always advertised, some tour operators or taxi cooperatives might offer shuttle-like services, especially on cruise ship days. It's best to inquire upon arrival at the port.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, non-residents typically pay an entrance fee, which is around $7 per person. Residents may have different rates.
Parking is available and usually comes with a fee. For a group of 4, expect to pay around $30-$40 for entry and parking combined.
According to some reviews, you may need to pay the entrance fee again if you leave and wish to return on the same day.
While the primary fee is for non-residents, it's always a good idea to check with the park authority for any resident discounts or special passes.
Magens Bay is generally open daily from morning until late afternoon. Specific hours can vary, so it's best to check closer to your visit.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
You can swim, sunbathe, snorkel, paddleboard, kayak, and rent chairs and umbrellas. The calm waters are great for all skill levels.
Yes, especially along the rocky coastlines at either end of the bay. You can see turtles, stingrays, and various fish. Visibility can vary, but the marine life is abundant.
Yes, Magens Bay provides public restrooms and changing rooms, which are generally clean and well-maintained.
Absolutely! Beach equipment, including chairs, umbrellas, masks, and water floats, are available for rent.
It can get crowded, especially when cruise ships are in port. Visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours can offer a more peaceful experience.
Yes, the calm, shallow waters make it very family-friendly. Children can safely play and swim.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a bar and food concessions on-site offering various options.
Reviews are mixed, with some finding the food good and others noting it can be a bit pricey.
While not explicitly stated in all sources, it's generally advisable to check park regulations regarding outside food and beverages.
You can find typical beach bar offerings, including tropical drinks.
Yes, picnic tables are available, making it a great spot for a relaxed meal.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire beach offers stunning backdrops with its white sand and clear water. The rocky ends also provide unique perspectives.
Yes, Magens Bay is a popular location for flying dress photoshoots, with photographers capturing couples near the water and in palm groves.
The drive to Magens Bay often includes scenic lookout points that offer panoramic views of the bay and surrounding islands.
Early morning or late afternoon generally offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography. Sunsets can also be spectacular.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with local authorities or the Magens Bay Authority for current rules before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing or renting snorkel gear to introduce your kids to the underwater world. While food can be a bit pricey, packing some snacks or utilizing the picnic areas can help manage costs. The sheer size of the beach means you can usually find a spot that's not too crowded, even on busier days.
💰 Budget Travelers
Focus on enjoying the natural beauty of the beach – swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the shoreline are free activities. Visiting on a weekday when crowds are thinner might also lead to a more relaxed and potentially less rushed experience, allowing you to savor the atmosphere without feeling pressured by time or crowds.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
For the best light, aim for early morning or late afternoon sessions. The scenic drive to the beach also presents opportunities for panoramic shots from various lookout points. Remember to check drone regulations if you plan to capture aerial footage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Magens Bay: From Cruise Ship to Shore
Magens Bay is known for its expansive shoreline, which helps to distribute crowds even when multiple cruise ships are docked. However, for a more tranquil experience, consider visiting on a weekday or during the shoulder seasons when visitor numbers are lower. The beach offers a range of amenities, including restrooms, changing facilities, and a gift shop, ensuring a comfortable day out.
When planning your visit, remember that the bay is sheltered, resulting in calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and water activities. This makes it an excellent choice for families and those who prefer a relaxed beach environment.
Experiencing Magens Bay's Underwater World
While the sandy central areas might not offer the best visibility, venturing towards the rocky outcrops significantly enhances your chances of encountering aquatic life. Snorkel gear, along with other water sports equipment like paddleboards and kayaks, can be rented on-site, making it easy to explore the bay's underwater treasures. The shallow, sandy entry points are also a plus, meaning you don't necessarily need water shoes for wading.
For those looking for a more active water adventure, consider paddleboarding or kayaking. These activities allow you to cover more ground and discover different parts of the bay at your own pace.
Beyond the Beach: Amenities and Activities
For those who want to be active, a variety of water sports equipment is available for rent. This includes paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling gear, chairs, and umbrellas. This makes it easy to tailor your beach day to your preferences, whether you want to relax under an umbrella or explore the bay's waters.
Food and drink options are also available at the beach concessions. While some visitors note that prices can be a bit high, the convenience of having food and beverages readily accessible is a significant plus. Picnic tables are also scattered around, offering a more casual dining experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit