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: St. Thomas's Sparkling Gem
Experience St. Thomas's idyllic Sapphire Beach: crystal-clear waters, soft sands, and stunning views await for a perfect Caribbean escape.
Sapphire Beach, located on the eastern end of St. Thomas, is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft, white sandy shore. With gentle waves, it's an ideal spot for families, snorkelers, and those seeking a relaxing beach day.
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
Discover more about Sapphire Beach
Sapphire Beach is a jewel on St. Thomas, offering a classic Caribbean beach experience with stunning views of St. John and other neighboring islands. The beach's name reflects the mesmerizing sapphire hue of the water, inviting visitors to swim, snorkel, and unwind.
The right side of the beach features a shallow, rocky ledge and reefs, making it a prime location for snorkeling. Here, you can spot a variety of colorful fish and marine life. For those who prefer to relax, the beach offers plenty of space to sunbathe or relax in the shade of the sea grape trees. Iguanas and ducks can often be seen on the western end, near a man-made pond, adding to the natural charm.
Sapphire Beach is also well-equipped with amenities, including restrooms, restaurants, and water sports rentals. You can rent chairs, kayaks, windsurfing gear, and snorkeling equipment directly on the beach. For the more adventurous, jet skis and parasailing are available at the nearby marina. Several dining options are available, from casual beach bars to restaurants.
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Getting There
Taxi
From Cyril E. King Airport (STT), taxis are readily available. Inform the taxi dispatcher that you are going to Sapphire Beach. The ride is approximately 20-25 minutes. Expect to pay around $14 per person, plus $2 per bag. A taxi from the cruise port (Havensight or Crown Bay) to Sapphire Beach is about 7 miles and takes approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic. Rates are around $15 per person for two or more passengers.
Public Transport
The local 'safari bus' (public transportation) is an option. The bus stop is located right outside the Sapphire Beach Resort entrance. This is a more economical option, but it may take longer due to multiple stops. The fare is typically a few dollars, but confirm the exact amount with the driver. Note that the safari bus only accepts cash.
A brief summary to Sapphire Beach
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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