Although St Thomas is known as one of the best shopping destinations in the Caribbean and an easy destination for American travellers, the island also offers some of the best beaches in the world and a wide range of recreational opportunities KAYAKING IN ST. THOMAS.
Excellent beaches can be found on all corners of the island, but the stretch of beach that is regularly named one of the best beaches in the Caribbean is on the picturesque north coast of St Thomas. Magens Bay is an idyllic destination, a mile-long white sand beach lined with palm trees.
Since this incredible beach is still largely undeveloped, there is plenty of room to relax on the sand or play in the calm blue waters offshore. All year round, Magens Bay offers great opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, picnicking and a variety of other activities.
Although Magens Bay is located on the windy and dramatic north coast of St. Thomas, its unique geographical location has made it one of the best family-friendly beaches on the island. Unlike most beaches on the north end of the island, Magens Bay is protected by two offshore peninsulas that prevent the constant Caribbean surf from entering the bay.
This keeps the waters offshore calm, warm and safe for family activities all year round. Activities such as swimming and wading are very popular in Magens Bay, as the pebble-free sand extends far into the Caribbean, making the warm tropical waters even more enjoyable.
Magens Bay is also one of the most successful public beach projects on the island LAND TOURS IN ST. THOMAS, as the low entrance fees have enabled St Thomas to carry out regular maintenance, staff the beach with lifeguards and build unsurpassed toilet and shower facilities. In recent years, a number of takeaways have sprung up along the beach, while several charming restaurants and bars are within walking distance of the beach.
Magens Bay is also a great destination for water sports such as snorkelling, kayaking and sailing, with local rental shops offering affordable equipment and tours. Interesting underwater sights can be found throughout the area, but the secluded western end of the bay has become one of the most popular snorkelling spots on the north coast.
The quiet cove at the western end of the beach is home to a variety of tropical fish species and is one of the most fascinating, yet family-friendly snorkelling spots on St Thomas. Families can also enjoy the calm waters in kayaks, paddle boats and other unique watercraft, or take part in sailing trips offshore, where the steady trade winds provide excellent year-round recreational opportunities.
Those who want to admire Magens Bay beach and the Caribbean Sea from above should visit the neighbouring Drake’s Seat attraction. Perched on a majestic cliff at Magens Bay, Drake’s Seat is said to have served as a lookout for Sir Francis Drake, the famous colonial captain and explorer of the 16th century. After taking command of St Thomas, Drake is said to have watched his own ships and attacking vessels from this now popular excursion destination.
At the highest point of the cliff is a bench overlooking Magens Bay and the Caribbean Sea. This has led to Drake’s Seat becoming one of the most popular photo opportunities on the island, especially in the late afternoon and early evening hours when the setting sun highlights the exotic scenery.
This popular destination is visited by most guided tours on St. Thomas, but travellers with rental cars or motorhomes can also reach the place easily. Drake’s Seat is located directly on Route 40, the main road that runs along the north coast of SAILING IN ST. THOMAS.