Magens Bay Beach, St. Thomas – Everything You Need To Know

Magens Bay Beach is arguably the most famous beach on St. Thomas. What’s not to like. It has soft white sand, beautiful palm trees and calm blue Caribbean waters. You’ll see that in the video and photos below.

That being said, it can get busy, especially if there are multiple cruise ships in port. The best times to go are in the morning and during the late afternoon early evening hours. It will be quiet, peaceful and everything you dreamed it would be.

The video below was shot in the morning and it was just me (Ryan) and a handful of others taking it all in. I watched the birds dive into the water for their breakfast as the waves calmly rolled ashore. It was one of those moments.

Magens Bay Beach, St. Thomas

Magens Bay Beach is about one mile long and located on the north shore of St. Thomas. It’s just over the mountain from the downtown area of Charlotte Amalie. Here’s a map to show you exactly where the beach is for your trip planning.

Magens Bay Beach Location

Magens Bay is one of two St. Thomas beaches that has an entry fee. It’s $5 for non-residents ($2 for residents) and there’s a $2 parking fee if you came in a car. The fees are used to maintain the beaches facilities and keep the beach looking pristine. There are nice bathrooms and picnic tables as well.

Because the bay is protected by hills, the water is usually very calm. Making it great for floating and swimming for people of all ages.

There is decent snorkeling along the rocky edges of the bay, but Magens Bay is not really known for good snorkeling.

You will find water sport options such as paddle boats, kayaks and small sunfish sailboats. And don’t worry about bringing your own chairs, the concession shack has beach chairs, floats and snorkel gear available for rent.

Life guards are on duty everyday at Magens Bay Beach.

Magens Bay Food Options

The Magens Bay concession is comprised of the bar, snack bar and boutique. Can’t visit this stunning beach with out a cold rum punch in hand right?!

The beach bar here is a lively place where you’ll find a wide selection of drinks and snacks. The snack options include pizza, hot dogs, burgers, ice cream and a variety of other items.

Magens Bay Shopping

There is a small boutique store at Magens Bay which offers a nice selections of swimwear, sunscreen, sun glasses, t-shirts and other souvenirs. So if you came to the beach from the cruise ship or just weren’t prepared for a nice long relaxing beach day, the store has everything you need.

When To Visit Magens Bay Beach

Being the beach is one of the most popular spots on St. Thomas, it’s a stop on nearly all tour itineraries, hotel guests, and cruise ship passengers. So it can get busy, especially if there are a few cruise ships in port.

The best times to go if you aren’t into crowds are in the morning and later afternoon. If those times to mesh with your schedule, then once you arrive, walk down to either end of the beach. Most beach visitors congregate in the area around the restaurant, so typically if you walk down the beach a bit you’ll find fewer people.

Most residents of St. Thomas visit the beach on weekday afternoons. They are there to exercise and take in the beauty of their island home. Sundays are typically beach day for locals throughout the Caribbean. So on Sundays you’ll see residents there with groups in the picnic areas having a great time, cooking and listening to music.

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US Virgin Islands Best Beaches

Magens Bay Beach is definitely a must see beach on St. Thomas. If you want to find out what the best beaches in the rest of the US Virgin Islands are, we have you covered. Below are links to our Best St. John Beaches, and Best St. Croix Beaches.

• Best St. Thomas Beaches
• Best St. John Beaches
• Best St. Croix Beaches

Best St. Thomas Hotels & Villa Recommendations

If you are looking for a place to stay on St. Thomas there are plenty of options. From mountain side villas to to luxury resorts, there is something for every budget. Here is a list of a few hotels and villas that we recommend.

• Bolongo Bay Resort
• The Mafolie Hotel
• Secret Harbour Resort
• Chateau Nightwind
• Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove
• Limetree Beach Resort
• Villa Nautilus
• Sapphire Beach Resort

Is Magens Bay one of your favorite beaches in the USVI? Then you might love this canvas print of beautiful Magens Bay to hang up in your home.

And finally, I am a big fan of guide books. It helps me never miss a MUST SEE spot. If that’s you as well, then here is a great locals guide book on St. Thomas. It has some great info in it to get away from the touristy spots and see the local spots on St. Thomas.

Cheers Castaways and remember, stop wishing and #JustGo!

Cheers!

RumShopRyan