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SAPPHIRE BEACH, ST. THOMAS: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

When it comes to the best beaches in St. Thomas, few spots combine beauty and convenience quite like Sapphire Beach. With its bright turquoise waters, offshore reefs, and lively beachside bar, Sapphire is a favorite for both tourists and locals. It’s the kind of beach where you can snorkel in the morning, grab a cocktail in the afternoon, and watch the boats sail past as the sun goes down.

Whether you’re visiting for the day from a cruise ship or staying nearby on the east end, here’s everything you need to know before spending the day at Sapphire Beach.

Where Is Sapphire Beach?

Sapphire Beach is located on the east end of St. Thomas, just a few minutes from the Red Hook ferry terminal. It’s one of the easiest beaches to access, with direct taxi service and plenty of nearby accommodations.

  • From Charlotte Amalie (downtown/cruise ships): About 25 minutes by taxi. 
  • From Red Hook: Just 5 minutes away. 
  • Parking: A large parking lot is available for those driving – there is a security gate for access. 

Entrance Fee/Security Gate

Unlike some other beaches on St. Thomas, Sapphire Beach is FREE to enter, making it one of the most budget-friendly options for families and couples alike. When you drive down to the beach, you will hit a security gate. You simply let the security attendant know you are going to the beach and they can direct you where to park.

Amenities at Sapphire Beach

Sapphire Beach is one of the best-equipped beaches on St. Thomas, offering all the essentials for a full day by the water.

  • Restrooms & Showers – Public restrooms and outdoor showers are available.
  • Beach Chair, Cabana & Snorkel Rentals– Available daily for a small fee. You can rent them from Naia Boutique located by the Beach Bar!
  • Shade: Natural shade is limited — but you can rent a cabana from the boutique!

Food & Drinks at Sapphire Beach

Food and drinks are part of the experience at Sapphire Beach. You can get breakfast, lunch, dinner, happy hour, coffee, and more at Sapphire Beach!

  • Sapphire Beach Bar: A popular beachside bar and grill serving burgers, wraps, seafood, and cocktails. Perfect for lunch or an afternoon rum punch.
  • Beach Buzz:A casual café at the entrance to the beach area offering fresh smoothies, espresso drinks, breakfast sandwiches and more. Ideal for a quick breakfast or a mid-day pick-me-up before hitting the water.
  • Paradise Pizza: :A lively pizza spot beachfront known for its hand-tossed pies, cold beer, and friendly island vibe. Great for dinner after a beach day or for takeout back to your villa. If you’re lucky, you’ll get bartender Andy or Yaya! Tell them you found them from this blog 🙂 
  • Sea Salt:  Great spot overlooking the beach and the ocean for a fine dining experience with a Caribbean feel, this is a great spot for a celebration of a special occasion or your just celebrating vacation! Sea Salt’s motto is “SAVE WATER, DRINK CHAMPAGNE”

What to Do at Sapphire Beach

Sapphire Beach is more than just a pretty shoreline, it’s also one of the most activity-packed beaches in St. Thomas.

  • Parasailing: Enjoy Parasailing departing right from the Marina at Sapphire Beach, click here to book!
  • Snorkeling: Clear water and offshore reefs make for excellent snorkeling, especially on the right-hand side of the beach. Expect to see tropical fish, rays, and even the occasional sea turtle.
  • Swimming: The water is calm, shallow near the shore, and ideal for families.
  • Shopping: Naia Boutique is located right between Sapphire Beach Bar & Seasalt. Tell Leilani you found the boutique here!
  • Sunset Sailing: Enjoy this Sunset Sail directly from Sapphire Beach Marina! Open bar and a beautiful sunset at an amazing price. Click here to book!
  • Snorkel Charter: Enjoy this Snorkel Charter to St. John from Sapphire Beach! At less than $200/person you’re sure to have an incredible time. It departs from both Sapphire Beach & Margaritaville. Click here to book!

Insider Tips for Visiting Sapphire Beach

  • Arrive Early: Chairs and cabanas rent out quickly.
  • Snorkel to the Right: The best snorkeling is near the reefs on the eastern side of the beach.
  • Cruise Ship Days: Check the cruise schedule. Sapphire can get very busy when multiple ships are in port.
  • Stay for Sunset: The views over Pillsbury Sound and St. John are unforgettable.

Why Sapphire Beach Is Worth Visiting

Sapphire Beach combines everything you’d want in a Caribbean beach day: stunning scenery, calm waters, on-site rentals, and a great bar. Whether you’re coming for the snorkeling, the swimming, or just the laid-back vibe, it’s one of the most versatile beaches in St. Thomas.

If you’re looking for a beach that has it all! Beauty, activities, food, and easy access. Sapphire Beach is the perfect choice. It’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular spots on the island.

✨ Want your day at Sapphire Beach to be seamless? At Caribbean Concierge, we’ll arrange your transfers, reserve your beach chairs, and even plan your post-beach dinner in Red Hook. Contact us today to plan your St. Thomas getaway. If you want to STAY on Sapphire Beach, we can even arrange your accommodations!

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