Overview
Sapphire Beach is a beautiful and serene beach located on the eastern end of St. Thomas, known for its clear turquoise waters and white sandy shores. It's a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing under the sun.
One of the most popular and picturesque beaches in St. Thomas, offering a variety of water sports and activities.
Location
Address
Smith Bay, St. Thomas
Neighborhood: East End
Coordinates
18.343400, -64.967100
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, September-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
calmer waters and fewer crowds
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
warm and pleasant
- • calm waters
- • colorful fish for snorkeling
summer
hot and humid
- • water sports rentals
- • beach bars open
autumn
warm to cool
- • calmer waters
- • fewer crowds
winter
cooler, occasional rain
- • holiday decorations
- • special events
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Bring your own towels
- Rent snorkel gear on-site
- Check tide schedules for best swimming times
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: low
- • strong currents can occur
- • always swim with a buddy
Medical facilities: first aid available at the beach resort
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
beachwear, comfortable swimwear and cover-ups, water shoes or flip-flops, inappropriate clothing
Booking Tips
- • not typically required, but rentals can be booked ahead
- • on-site or through the resort
- • varies by rental/activity
- • not applicable
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Sapphire Beach App
Size: 30 MB
Features: Beach map, Activity bookings, Tide schedules
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Beach resort area, Beach bars
Charging Stations: Beach resort lobby
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Cyril E. King Airport (STT)
Distance: 20 km
Travel Time: 30 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 10 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Beautiful and peaceful, with great water activities
Historical Significance: A long-time favorite spot for both locals and tourists
Insider Tips
- Best snorkeling spots are near the reefs
- Early morning brings the calmest waters
Local Recommendations
- • Try the local seafood at the beach bars
- • Ask about local snorkeling spots from the rental shop
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Overwater hammock
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide angle for scenic shots
Result: Beautiful beach panorama
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Coki Beach
Distance: 2km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Beach
Drakes Seat
Distance: 5km
Walking: 1 hour
Type: Scenic viewpoint
Magens Bay
Distance: 10km
Walking: not walkable
Type: Beach
Reviews
Based on 500 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Arrive early for the best spots"
- "Rent snorkel gear on-site"
- "Try the local seafood at the beach bars"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
19
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
500
Adult Entry
$0 (free entry)