Sapphire beach 2
1 / 10

Sapphire Beach St Thomas USVI

4.6
·381 reviews·, U.S. Virgin Islands

A stunning Caribbean beach known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and beachfront dining. Perfect for snorkeling and relaxa...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, better turtle sightings

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Sapphire beach 2

Sapphire Beach St Thomas USVI

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, better turtle sightings

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning Caribbean beach known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and beachfront dining. Perfect for snorkeling and relaxation.

4.6
(381 reviews)

"One of the best beaches in the world! The water is warm, calm, and beautiful."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Pointers

Public parking can be tricky to find; arrive early or ask locals for guidance.

🤿 Snorkel Gear

Bring your own snorkel gear to explore the reefs, or rent it on-site.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crystal Clear Waters

Crystal Clear Waters

Sapphire Beach

Experience the iconic turquoise and sapphire hues of the Caribbean Sea, perfect for swimming and photos.

Instagram
Snorkeling Adventures

Snorkeling Adventures

Coral reefs on either side of the cove

Discover vibrant coral gardens and abundant marine life, including sea turtles.

TikTokReddit
Beachfront Dining

Beachfront Dining

Sapphire Beach Bar

Enjoy delicious pizza, tacos, and refreshing drinks with your toes in the sand.

TikTokReddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Sargassum

Sapphire Beach can get busy, especially on cruise ship days. Arrive early to snag good spots and enjoy calmer waters. Be aware of potential sargassum seaweed, which can wash ashore seasonally. Check local conditions before you go! TikTok

Resort Stays & Amenities

While Sapphire Beach is a public beach, several resorts like Sapphire Beach Resort, Sapphire Village, and Crystal Cove offer accommodations. These resorts provide amenities like pools, restaurants, and chair rentals, making it a convenient base for your St. Thomas vacation. TikTokInstagram+1

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better turtle sightings
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Less busy than weekends
Crowd
Medium
When
Afternoons (post-cruise ship departure)
Why
Cruise crowds thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Steal my ST Thomas USVI itinerary. No passport required! Going to do these more often 😊 Stay tuned for Europe next month! #stthomas #usvirginislands #stjohns #carolworld #trunkbay #cokibeach #stthomaswedding #usviwedding #stthomasusvi #stthomasvirginislands
@balanced.therapist
12.9K likes • 210.4K views

🚗 Parking Pointers

Public parking can be tricky to find; arrive early or ask locals for guidance. Reddit

🤿 Snorkel Gear

Bring your own snorkel gear to explore the reefs, or rent it on-site. TikTok

Wondering which St. Thomas beach is your vibe? In this video, we go over Lindquist Beach, Magens Bay, Coki Beach, Secret Harbor, Cowpet Beach, Hull Bay, and Sapphire Beach. Which one is your favorite? #stthomas #stthomasusvi #bluesaltvi #usvirginislands #stthomasbeaches #sapphirebeach #hullbay #magensbay #cokibeach #summer2025🌴☀️ #travelbucketlist
@bluesaltvi
6.9K likes • 170.6K views
Sapphire Beach on St. Thomas, USVI has everything you need for an epic vacation. You could stay at Sapphire for your whole vacation if you wanted to. The three resorts are Sapphire Beach resort, Sapphire, Village, and Crystal Cove. They are all individually owned by owners and a lot are short term rented out. The three restaurants are Sapphire Beach Bar, Paradise Pie, and Sea Salt. There is eve...
bluesaltpropertiesvi
8 likes • 511 views

🪑 Chair Rentals

Lounge chairs and cabanas are available for rent, offering shade and comfort. Reddit

🐢 Turtle Spotting

Visit in the morning on the left side of the beach for the best chance to see sea turtles feeding. TikTokReddit

It’s not called Sapphire Beach for nothing! The ocean surrounding St. Thomas gets its trademark gorgeous color due to a combination of white sand; clean, shallow water and the absence of plankton. Come down and experience it for yourself! . . . . . . #islandluxury #islandluxuryvi #stthomas #usvi #virginislands #travel #vacation #usvirginislands #caribbean #luxurylifestyle #luxurytravel #luxurytra...
islandluxuryvi
146 likes • 5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Pointers

Public parking can be tricky to find; arrive early or ask locals for guidance. Reddit

🤿 Snorkel Gear

Bring your own snorkel gear to explore the reefs, or rent it on-site. TikTok

🪑 Chair Rentals

Lounge chairs and cabanas are available for rent, offering shade and comfort. Reddit

🐢 Turtle Spotting

Visit in the morning on the left side of the beach for the best chance to see sea turtles feeding. TikTokReddit

👟 Watch Your Step

Be mindful of rocks in the sand and be careful when walking on coral. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(381 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Sapphire Beach is celebrated for its breathtakingly clear, sapphire-hued waters and excellent snorkeling opportunities, with many visitors praising the vibrant marine life and the convenience of beachfront dining. While some note it can get crowded and mention occasional sargassum seaweed, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many calling it a must-visit St. Thomas destination.

"I visited Sapphire Beach for the first time in May 2025 and it has gorgeous views of the ocean and mountains, clear water, and is located near restaurants that serve really good food, drinks, and has a calming atmosphere!! The music they play was great to me as well. You can bring your own towels or chairs, or you can rent lounge chairs and cabanas. This beach does have rocks in the sand so be careful, but have fun! I will definitely come back here when I'm in St. Thomas!"

Bree W

"One of our favorite beaches!! We got married here in 2020, and continue to come back every year. Crystal blue water, beautiful white sand, and excellent snorkeling over the corals. The beach bar also has great burgers and tacos. Sapphire beach is must when visiting St. Thomas."

Brooke Logan

"One of the best Beach in the world!
The water is warm, calm sand
There is a bathroom and restaurant and bars
Chairs rental is $15 per each, but is a threes with shade"

Maria Jose Gomez

What People Like

Stunning clear blue water
Excellent snorkeling
Beautiful beach bar

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Occasional sargassum

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Sapphire Beach is located on the east end of St. Thomas. You can reach it by taxi, rental car, or as part of a guided tour. If driving, look for signs for Sapphire Beach Resort. Parking can be limited, so arriving early is recommended. TikTokReddit

While direct public bus routes might be limited, taxis are readily available throughout St. Thomas and can take you directly to Sapphire Beach. TikTok

Taxis are the most convenient option for hopping between beaches and attractions like Mountain Top or Charlotte Amalie. Rental cars offer more flexibility if you plan to explore extensively. Instagram+1

Sapphire Beach is not a primary cruise port stop, making it generally less crowded than beaches directly accessible from the cruise terminals. Instagram

No, Sapphire Beach is located in the U.S. Virgin Islands, which is a U.S. territory. U.S. citizens do not need a passport to travel there. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Sapphire Beach is a public beach, so there is no general entrance fee. However, parking may have a fee, and chair and umbrella rentals are available for a charge. Reddit

Sapphire Beach is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. The beach bars and restaurants have their own operating hours, typically from late morning to early evening. TikTok

Yes, you can rent lounge chairs and cabanas at Sapphire Beach. Rentals typically cost around $15 per chair, with options for shaded setups. Reddit

Yes, restrooms are available at Sapphire Beach, which is convenient for a day of sunbathing and swimming. Reddit

While Sapphire Beach itself is a public beach, there are resorts like Sapphire Beach Resort, Sapphire Village, and Crystal Cove located on or adjacent to the beach that offer short-term rentals and accommodations. TikTokInstagram+1

🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience

Sapphire Beach offers excellent snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing. You can also enjoy beachfront dining and drinks, or simply relax under a palm tree. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! Sapphire Beach is renowned for its snorkeling, especially to the left and right of the cove where you can find coral gardens and abundant fish. Keep an eye out for sea turtles in the morning. TikTokReddit

Yes, Sapphire Beach is one of the best places on St. Thomas to see sea turtles, particularly in the morning on the left side of the beach where they feed. TikTokReddit

The sand at Sapphire Beach is generally soft and white, but there can be some rocks mixed in, so it's advisable to wear water shoes or be mindful of your footing. Reddit

Sapphire Beach can get crowded, especially when cruise ships are in port. Visiting on weekdays or arriving early in the morning can help you avoid the largest crowds. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Sapphire Beach has a popular beach bar that serves delicious pizza, burgers, and tacos, along with a variety of drinks. TikTokReddit

The Sapphire Beach Bar offers casual beach fare, including popular items like pizza, burgers, and tacos, perfect for a relaxed meal by the sea. TikTokReddit

While there are food and drink options available for purchase, bringing your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages is generally permitted for personal consumption. TikTok

The dress code at the Sapphire Beach Bar is very casual, typical for a beachside establishment. Swimwear and cover-ups are perfectly acceptable. TikTok

Yes, the resorts located at Sapphire Beach, such as Sapphire Beach Resort, often have their own dining facilities, and there are other restaurants in the vicinity of Smith Bay. TikTok+1

📸 📸 Photography

Sapphire Beach offers stunning views of the turquoise water, white sand, and lush palm trees. The vibrant colors make it ideal for landscape and portrait photography. Instagram+1

Yes, drone photography can capture breathtaking aerial views of Sapphire Beach's coastline and clear waters. Always check local regulations regarding drone usage. Instagram+1

Yes, professional photographers specializing in beach and family portraits are available in the USVI, and often capture moments at popular spots like Sapphire Beach. Instagram

The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. Mid-day provides bright, clear light showcasing the water's vibrant colors. Instagram

You can take photos of the resort exteriors and public areas, but always be respectful of guests' privacy and any resort policies regarding photography. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sapphire Beach is a fantastic choice for families. The calm, clear waters are generally safe for children to swim and play in. Instagram The beach offers plenty of space for kids to build sandcastles, and the snorkeling opportunities can be a thrilling adventure for older children eager to discover marine life. TikTokReddit The beach bar provides easy access to kid-friendly food options like pizza and burgers. TikTok Consider renting chairs and an umbrella for a comfortable base where little ones can rest in the shade. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Sapphire Beach offers a more budget-friendly experience compared to some of the more exclusive resorts. While there's no entrance fee, parking might incur a small charge. Reddit Bringing your own towels, snacks, and drinks can significantly cut down on daily expenses. TikTok For accommodation, look into short-term rentals at Sapphire Village or Crystal Cove, which can be more affordable than traditional hotel rooms. TikTokInstagram+1 The excellent free snorkeling directly from the beach is a major cost-saving activity. TikTokReddit

💍 Couples & Honeymooners

Sapphire Beach provides a romantic backdrop for couples. The stunning turquoise waters and pristine white sand create a picturesque setting for relaxation and connection. Instagram Enjoy a leisurely snorkel together, followed by cocktails at the beach bar as the sun begins to set. TikTok For a truly special experience, consider a professional photoshoot on the beach to capture your memories. Instagram Many couples have even chosen Sapphire Beach as their wedding venue, drawn by its natural beauty and serene atmosphere. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Sapphire Beach's Resorts and Residences

Sapphire Beach is more than just a stretch of sand; it's home to several resorts and residential complexes, including Sapphire Beach Resort, Sapphire Village, and Crystal Cove. These properties are individually owned, with many units available for short-term rentals. TikTokInstagram+1 This setup means you can experience the beauty of Sapphire Beach while enjoying amenities like pools and on-site dining, making it a convenient base for your entire vacation. Many visitors find these resorts offer a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the bustling cruise port areas. Instagram

For those considering a longer stay or investment, condos for sale at Sapphire Beach are an option, offering a chance to own a piece of this Caribbean paradise. The proximity to the beach and the stunning ocean views are major draws for both vacationers and potential residents. TikTok

Marine Life Encounters at Sapphire Beach

Sapphire Beach is a hotspot for marine life, making it a dream destination for snorkelers and nature lovers. The coral reefs located on either side of the cove teem with colorful fish, creating an underwater spectacle. Reddit Visitors frequently report seeing a variety of marine species, from vibrant reef fish to graceful sea turtles. TikTokReddit

To maximize your chances of spotting sea turtles, it's recommended to visit in the early morning, particularly on the left side of the beach where they are known to feed. TikTokReddit Beyond turtles, keep an eye out for other fascinating creatures like Spotted Eagle Rays. Reddit The water visibility is generally good, allowing for clear views of this underwater world, though it's important to snorkel responsibly and avoid touching the coral to protect this delicate ecosystem. Reddit

Dining and Drinks with a View

The Sapphire Beach Bar is a beloved spot for visitors, offering a casual and enjoyable dining experience right on the sand. TikTokReddit It's the perfect place to refuel after a swim or snorkel session, serving up crowd-pleasing options like delicious pizza, juicy burgers, and flavorful tacos. TikTok Complement your meal with a refreshing cocktail or a cold beer while soaking in the stunning ocean vistas. TikTok

The atmosphere at the beach bar is relaxed and friendly, with music often playing to enhance the island vibe. Reddit While it’s the primary dining option directly on the beach, the surrounding resorts also offer their own eateries, providing variety for longer stays. TikTok+1 The convenience of having good food and drinks just steps from the water makes the Sapphire Beach Bar a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

You may also like