From Eve
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Sapphire Beach.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
Sapphire Beach: A Caribbean Gem in St. Thomas
Discover Sapphire Beach in St. Thomas: Pristine sands, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life await in this Caribbean paradise.
Sapphire Beach, located on the eastern end of St. Thomas, is known for its white sand, clear turquoise waters, and stunning views of St. John and other neighboring islands. It's a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling, and various water sports, with amenities and natural beauty that make it a must-visit.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Sapphire Beach
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Smith Bay, Smith Bay, St Thomas, VI
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Sapphire Beach beckons with its idyllic Caribbean charm, offering a blend of relaxation and recreation. The beach features soft, white sand and clear, warm waters ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Snorkeling enthusiasts will appreciate the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life just offshore, including colorful fish and sea turtles.
Beyond its natural beauty, Sapphire Beach offers a range of activities. Visitors can rent kayaks, windsurfing equipment, and jet skis, or embark on a parasailing adventure. The adjacent Sapphire Beach Marina provides opportunities for boat charters and excursions to nearby islands. For those seeking relaxation, beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent, and food and drink vendors offer refreshments.
The beach is easily accessible and offers free parking, making it a convenient destination for tourists. While it can get crowded, its large size ensures enough space to relax. Sapphire Beach is surrounded by the Sapphire Beach Resort and Marina, which contributes to the area's appeal with restaurants and shops. Keep an eye out for the iguanas and ducks that reside near the man-made pond, adding to the beach's unique character.
Sapphire Beach has evolved from the Sapphire Beach Resort and Marina that was established in the early 1980s. Though the initial commercially owned resort faced financial difficulties, the property was divided and sold as individual vacation condos. Today, Sapphire Beach stands as a testament to the enduring allure of St. Thomas, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and Caribbean charm.
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Getting There
Taxi
From Charlotte Amalie or the cruise ports (Havensight or Crown Bay), taxis are readily available to Sapphire Beach. The taxi ride is approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around $15 per person for two or more passengers, or $21 for a single passenger from Havensight Dock. Confirm the rate with the driver before starting your journey. Taxis accept cash only.
Car
If driving from Charlotte Amalie, take Route 30 east towards Red Hook. Continue past Red Hook, and you'll find Sapphire Beach on your left. Free parking is available at the beach. Be aware that driving is on the left side of the road in St. Thomas. A rental car provides the flexibility to explore other parts of the island.
Safari Bus
The 'Safari Bus' (local public transportation) is an economical option. Look for the bus stop outside the resort entrance. The fare to Red Hook is around $1. From Red Hook, you can catch another taxi or bus to Sapphire Beach. Keep in mind that the Safari Bus may not be as frequent as taxis, especially during evenings.
A brief summary to Sapphire Beach
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