Protestant Cay Beach Christiansted
A picturesque island beach accessible by ferry, offering clear waters for swimming and relaxation, with chair rentals available.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Protestant Cay Beach Christiansted
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque island beach accessible by ferry, offering clear waters for swimming and relaxation, with chair rentals available.
"This is totally a must see if you are ever on St Croix!"
Ferry to the Cay
Take the short ferry from Christiansted for easy access to this beautiful beach. :ferry:
No Outside Coolers
Remember, bringing your own cooler is not allowed. Plan accordingly for drinks and snacks. :water_wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pristine Swimming Waters
Protestant Cay Beach
Crystal-clear waters perfect for a refreshing dip and a relaxing beach day. Ideal for swimming and soaking up the Caribbean sun.
Beachfront Relaxation
Protestant Cay Beach
Rent chairs and umbrellas for ultimate comfort while enjoying the beautiful sandy shores. A great spot to spread out and unwind.
Scenic Ferry Ride
Ferry terminal to Protestant Cay
A short, scenic ferry journey offers lovely views of Christiansted and the surrounding turquoise waters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ferry Access & Island Vibes
Beach Day Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Ferry to the Cay
Take the short ferry from Christiansted for easy access to this beautiful beach. :ferry:
No Outside Coolers
Remember, bringing your own cooler is not allowed. Plan accordingly for drinks and snacks. :water_wave:
St. Croix Review
Rentals Available
Chairs and umbrellas can be rented for a comfortable beach experience. :beach_umbrella:
Holiday Crowds
Be prepared for increased noise and crowds during holiday periods. :loud_sound:
Tips
from all over the internet
Ferry to the Cay
Take the short ferry from Christiansted for easy access to this beautiful beach. :ferry:
No Outside Coolers
Remember, bringing your own cooler is not allowed. Plan accordingly for drinks and snacks. :water_wave:
Rentals Available
Chairs and umbrellas can be rented for a comfortable beach experience. :beach_umbrella:
Holiday Crowds
Be prepared for increased noise and crowds during holiday periods. :loud_sound:
Hotel Condition
The hotel on the cay may need renovations; focus on the beach experience. :construction:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Protestant Cay Beach is praised for its beautiful, clear waters ideal for swimming and its convenient ferry access from Christiansted. Visitors appreciate the option to rent chairs and umbrellas for comfort. However, the associated hotel is noted for being in disrepair, and the beach can become crowded and noisy during holidays.
"Loved my stay but wish I was aware of the pool available at King Christian. Every singe person was lovely"
Nancy Conklin
"Beach Hotel on the Cay is a fantastic spot! It has a small restaurant, and you can rent chairs and umbrellas for a comfortable day. We loved the beach and had an amazing time there. Just keep in mind, bringing your own cooler isn’t allowed. A great place to relax and enjoy the sun!
On the other hand, Hotel on the Cay is not as advertised online. The property is in serious need of renovations, the pool is out of service, and there is no on-site restaurant. Disappointing compared to expectations."
Mayra Lily Cerró Sánchez
"This place is amazing. This is totally a must see if you are ever on St Croix"
Bryan Splane
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access Protestant Cay Beach via a short ferry ride from Christiansted. The ferry departs regularly and offers scenic views.
Ferry hours can vary, it's best to check locally for the most up-to-date schedule before your visit.
Parking is available in Christiansted, though it can be limited during peak times. Consider arriving early.
No, Protestant Cay is an island, so a ferry is the only way to access the beach.
Ferry prices are generally affordable, but it's advisable to confirm the current fare with the ferry operator.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no direct entrance fee for the beach itself, but you will need to pay for the ferry to get there.
Outside coolers are not permitted on Protestant Cay Beach. Food and drinks are available for purchase.
Yes, you can rent beach chairs and umbrellas on-site for a comfortable day.
The beach is generally accessible during daylight hours, coinciding with ferry operations.
Advance booking for the ferry is usually not required, but it's a good idea to check during busy seasons.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
Yes, the waters are known for being clear and excellent for swimming.
Amenities include chair and umbrella rentals, and a small restaurant. Restrooms are also available.
It can get crowded, especially during holidays when loud music and groups can be present. Weekdays are generally quieter.
Reviews suggest the hotel is in need of significant renovations and may not be a desirable place to stay.
While not as famous for snorkeling as other USVI spots, the clear waters offer some visibility for observing marine life.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a small restaurant on the cay, though some reviews mention it being basic or in need of an update.
Information on the specific cuisine is limited, but it's described as a 'tiny dive' by some visitors.
You'll find numerous dining options in Christiansted before or after your ferry trip.
No, outside coolers are not permitted, so a picnic from home is not an option.
Dining hours are typically aligned with beach access and ferry schedules. It's best to check on arrival.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the clear turquoise waters, the sandy shoreline, and the scenic ferry ride for beautiful shots.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light, while mornings provide clearer skies and fewer people.
Absolutely! The ferry ride provides excellent vantage points for capturing Christiansted and the coastline.
Generally, no specific restrictions apply to personal photography on the public beach areas.
A waterproof camera or phone case is recommended if you plan on getting close to the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there's a small on-site food option, families might want to pack snacks, keeping in mind the no-cooler rule. The short ferry ride is also an adventure in itself for kids. However, be mindful of potential crowds and noise during holidays, which might be less ideal for very young children seeking quiet.
💰 Budget Travelers
Avoid the hotel if budget is a concern, as it's described as needing significant updates. Prioritize enjoying the natural beauty of the beach, which is free to access once you've paid for the ferry. Weekday visits will also likely offer a more relaxed and potentially less expensive experience overall.
couples
Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the holiday crowds and enjoy a more intimate atmosphere. The scenic ferry ride also adds a touch of romance to the outing. While the hotel might not be the most luxurious, the natural beauty of the cay provides a lovely backdrop for a romantic escape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Protestant Cay
While the ferry is the primary mode of transport, it's worth noting that parking in Christiansted can be a challenge, especially during peak tourist seasons. Arriving early or considering alternative transport to the ferry terminal is a good strategy. The ferry itself is generally affordable and runs frequently, but checking the latest schedule upon arrival is always recommended to ensure a smooth transition to the island.
Once you disembark on Protestant Cay, the beach is immediately accessible. The ease of access from the ferry makes it a popular choice for a quick beach escape without a long journey. This accessibility is a key factor in its appeal for day-trippers and those looking for a convenient beach destination.
Beach Day Comforts and Considerations
However, there's a key restriction to be aware of: outside coolers are not permitted. This means you'll need to plan your refreshments accordingly, either by purchasing them on-site or from the small restaurant available. While the restaurant offers convenience, reviews suggest it's quite basic, so managing expectations is wise.
The beach's popularity means it can get quite lively, particularly during holidays. Visitors have noted that it can become noisy with loud music and large groups, detracting from a tranquil experience. For those seeking a more peaceful visit, weekdays and off-peak times are highly recommended.
The Hotel on the Cay: A Mixed Bag
This state of disrepair has led to disappointment for those who might have expected a more polished resort experience. Some reviews explicitly state they would not consider staying at the hotel due to its appearance and upkeep. It's important for travelers to distinguish between the appeal of the beach and the current state of the hotel facilities.
Despite the hotel's shortcomings, the beach remains a highlight. The clear waters and sandy shores continue to attract visitors looking for a beautiful spot to swim and relax. The advice from many is to focus on the beach experience and view the hotel as a secondary element, or perhaps not at all, when planning a visit.
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