Top 3 Secluded Beaches in the U.S. Virgin Islands
Strap yourselves in as we zoom through the best beaches the U.S. Virgin Islands have to offer, accessible only by boat. Instead of just naming the top advertised beaches, we’re including hidden gems reachable solely by boat. After traveling all over the world and visiting beaches in Thailand, Mexico, Chile, and more, we can confidently say that the U.S. Virgin Islands, specifically St. Thomas and St. John, boast some of the most pristine white sands and turquoise waters we’ve ever encountered.
Join us, One Love Charters, as we explore our top three secluded beaches in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Table of Contents:
- Our Top Three Secluded Beaches in the U.S. Virgin Islands
- Top 3 Beaches to Visit by Boat
- Little Magens – St. Thomas Beaches
- Maho Bay – St. John Beaches
- Little Cinnamon – St. John Beaches
- How to Reach These Beaches
- Plan Your Perfect Beach Day
- Book Your Adventure with One Love Charters
Top 3 Beaches to Visit by Boat in the U.S. Virgin Islands
Little Magens – St. Thomas Beaches
This hidden gem, located just a few hundred yards away from the world-famous Magens Bay, is accessible only by water. If you’re seeking a slice of paradise away from the crowds, this beach offers exactly that. Here, you can enjoy pristine white sand and tranquil seclusion, making it a perfect spot to unwind and soak in the natural beauty.
The beach is a haven of untouched white sand, free from the bustling crowds. You can stretch out and relax, knowing you have the space all to yourself. The serene surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for a day of sunbathing and leisurely strolls along the shore. This beach is all about privacy.
We love this beach for its exceptional privacy, beautiful sand, and the gentle, calming waves that leap onto the shore. The combination of natural beauty and tranquility creates a perfectly relaxed state of mind, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of more crowded beaches.
With One Love Charters, you can experience this secluded paradise and many other hidden gems in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Maho Bay – St. John Beaches
Maho Bay holds a special place in our hearts, as we spent one of our first date weekends there five years ago. We loved it so much, we named our dog “Maho!” This beach is accessible by car but also has mooring balls for boats about 50 feet from shore.
Maho Bay is one of the best locations to swim with sea turtles in their natural habitat. You can put on a snorkel mask and fins, hop off the boat, and explore the amazing underwater beauty. The sand and seagrass lining the ocean floor provide food for the sea turtles, so if you look closely, you’ll find families of turtles feeding. Witnessing these fascinating creatures in their natural environment is truly a magical experience.
The St. John National Park surrounds this beautiful beach, making you feel like you’ve found a true island paradise. The natural surroundings enhance the serene and pristine atmosphere, offering a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Let us guide you to the hidden treasures of the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Little Cinnamon – St. John Beaches
Little Cinnamon is a hidden gem, accessible only by boat, ensuring complete privacy. Whether the boat drops you off right at the sand or you choose to make a short swim, this beach promises an unforgettable experience.
Little Cinnamon boasts calm turquoise waters that gently lap onto the secluded strip of sand. The moment you step foot on its pristine shore, you’ll feel relaxation wash over you. The beach offers breathtaking views of Jost Van Dyke, Whistling Cay, and Peter Bay, making it a visual delight as well.
This spot is perfect for a family picnic, a midday nap, or a swim and floating session. The serene and picturesque setting makes it an ideal location to unwind and enjoy quality time with loved ones.
Our family frequently visits Little Cinnamon on our days off, and we all agree that it’s one of the best beach spots the U.S. Virgin Islands has to offer.
How to Reach These Beaches in the U.S. Virgin Islands
Accessing Secret Cove Near Magens Bay
To reach the Secret Cove near Magens Bay, you’ll need a boat as this secluded beach is only accessible by water. You can rent a boat with One Love Charters. Once you’re on the water, we’ll head towards Magens Bay and navigate to a small, quiet inlet a few hundred yards away. We’ll anchor the boat in the clear, shallow waters, and you can either swim to the shore or take a small dinghy.
Accessing Maho Bay
Maho Bay is accessible both by car and by boat. If you’re arriving by boat, you’ll find mooring balls located about 50 feet from the shore, providing a convenient and safe spot to tie up. These mooring balls are managed by the Virgin Islands National Park, and a small fee is required to use them. After securing our boat, you can easily swim or take a small dinghy to the beach. Enjoy the calm waters and keep an eye out for sea turtles as you make your way to the shore.
Accessing Little Cinnamon Beach
Little Cinnamon Beach is a true hidden gem, accessible only by boat. This ensures complete privacy and a unique experience. To get there, charter a boat from One Love Charters. Your captain can navigate you to this secluded spot, located off the north shore of St. John.
Tips for Boat Charters and Mooring in the U.S. Virgin Islands
- When you hire a local charter service like One Love Charters, you enhance your experience with the expertise of knowledgeable captains. We know the best spots, understand safe anchoring practices, and can provide all the necessary equipment for snorkeling and exploring.
- Always use designated mooring balls where available to protect coral reefs and marine habitats.
Plan Your Perfect Beach Day in the U.S. Virgin Islands
Enjoy snorkeling to see sea turtles and colorful fish around coral reefs and sunken ship remnants. Swim in the calm, turquoise waters, perfect for all levels. Pack a picnic to enjoy a meal on the beach with stunning views. Beachcombing is great for finding unique shells and sea glass. Don’t forget to capture the beautiful scenery and moments with your camera.
What to Bring
Bring snorkel gear, including masks and fins. Use a high SPF, reef-safe sunscreen for protection. Stay hydrated with plenty of water and bring snacks. Pack towels and blankets for lounging, extra swimwear and cover-ups, and a hat and sunglasses for sun protection. A waterproof bag will keep your belongings dry, and a camera is essential for capturing memories.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Plan ahead and book your charter in advance. Arrive early to enjoy the peace and avoid crowds. Respect nature by following local guidelines, avoiding disturbing marine life, and leaving no trace. Relax, disconnect, and enjoy the natural beauty. Stay safe by checking weather conditions, swimming with a buddy, and keeping an eye on your belongings.
Book Your Adventure with One Love Charters in the U.S. Virgin Islands
With One Love Charters, it’s more about the journey than the destination! Owners Joe and Amanda Trattner, self-proclaimed travelers, moved from the mainland seeking adventure and new opportunities. They immersed themselves in the local way of life and discovered the amazing destinations the British and U.S. Virgin Islands have to offer. Now, they would love to share their expertise with you during your travels. Joe and Amanda are truly passionate about their little chain of islands and want to ensure that by the end of your day with them, you’ll have memories to last a lifetime.
So there you have it—our top three beaches in the U.S. Virgin Islands! If you’re booking a charter with us and would like to visit any of these spots, we would be more than happy to make it happen.
Cheers, and until our next blog entry, we wish you safe travels and happy boating!
Why Our Clients Choose One Love Charters
I couldn’t have asked for a better experience and day on the water! Captain Val, Amanda, and the whole One Love crew are amazing! They were so accommodating and helpful from beginning to end, recommending spots for us to see and places to eat and drink. I’ve booked other charters in the VI for past trips, but I will only be booking with them going forward! Can’t wait to come back and do it again!
Author: Joe Trattner
Hi Joe and Amanda its Mack thanks for a great time on the boat last week. All the family had a great time. All of us wish we were still there. Thanks again Mack
If you’re on St. John, you should really experience being on the water. Whatever your vehicle of choice, from snorkel to sailboat, the crystal clear blue waters of the Caribbean make the ultimate playground. When it comes to chartering a paddled, sailed or motored vessel, there are several convenient and popular options to choose from right here in Coral Bay.
If you’re on St. John, you should really experience being on the water. Whatever your vehicle of choice, from snorkel to sailboat, the crystal clear blue waters of the Caribbean make the ultimate playground. When it comes to chartering a paddled, sailed or motored vessel, there are several convenient and popular options to choose from right here in Coral Bay.
My wife and I just took one of your full day charters. I was advised to “make sure you take a snorkeling charter” by a friend back home. Luckily, the week before our vacation I found One Love Charters while searching google. It appeared to be exactly what I was looking for, I called in to get more information and Amanda answered the phone. After a 20 minute conversation I was completely sold, and more excited than ever! Amanda is an amazing gal, she gave plenty of advise, and answered every question I could think of.
Joe was our captain the day of our trip. He is an awesome host. He gave us plenty of options before we made way, and wasted no time on our adventure. We had the best time of our vacation on that boat (thanks Joe and Amanda). For first time travelers to the V.I. I can’t think of a better way to explore. To say that I highly recommend them is an understatement. They are just plain great people. Now I just have to figure out how to get back there and do it again…