I had a lot of fun planning my trip to St Croix to cover these beaches near Christiansted. I was definitely spoiled for choice. In fact, this article (and my trip) ended up twice as long as I originally planned. I only included beaches that are 10 minutes or less from Christiansted. Let's dive in (pun intended).
Best Beaches near Christiansted, St Croix:
1. Best for the whole family: Buccaneer Beach
Rating: ★★★★★
Location: St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
Recommended For: Families
What I Love: ♥ “The beach is one of the most popular on the island. There's a lot of fun to be had here.”
- Enjoy the scenery: If you are like me, you will get here early for a peaceful morning.
- Family-friendly: The shoreline is wide and the waters are calm which is great for kids.
- Soft sand: Walk barefoot on silky-soft sand (in the morning, before it gets too hot from the sun).
- Dining options nearby: A variety of restaurants and beach bars are close by.
- Instagram-worthy moments: Take stunning vacation photos with the whole family.
Cost: Free with optional. Lounge and umbrella rentals are available for a fee. During the holidays, get there early or they run out.
Best time to visit: December through April for dry weather and clear skies
Local tips: Explore the historic Buccaneer Resort grounds nearby (or stay here a few nights).
Distance: Around 10 minutes by car from Christiansted
How to Get to Buccaneer Beach: Drive from Christiansted along East End Road; the beach is near the Buccaneer Hotel
Where to Stay: Stay at the Buccaneer Hotel. There is a selection of ,vacation rentals in Christiansted
Map: Buccaneer Beach Map
2. Large and Secluded: Shoys Beach - 10 minutes from Christiansted
If you get bored at Buccaneer Beach, Shoys Beach is close by. You can see both beaches on the same afternoon.
Location: North coast of St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
Recommended For: Families, swimmers
What I Love: ♥ “The view is so beautiful it feels unreal.”
- It's peaceful: There’s always plenty of space to spread out at Shoys Beach because the beach is so large.
- Great for quiet escapes: Since I was there on a weekday, I found a spot that was completely my own.
- It's safe for swimming: The natural bay is protected with calm waters so I was able to go out with my mask and snorkel.
Cost: Free
Best time to visit: Mid-week mornings for the most peaceful experience and best light for photos
Local tips: Pack a picnic and don't forget to bring sun protection
Distance: Approximately 10 minutes by car from Christiansted
How to Get to Shoys Beach: Park near the Buccaneer Resort gate, then walk on the marked beach access path. The beach is tucked behind private residences.
Where to Stay: The Buccaneer Resort is just steps away and offers easy access to the beach
Map: Shoys Beach Map
3. Protestant Cay - 2-minute ferry ride from Christiansted
Location: Protestant Cay, a small island in Christiansted Harbor, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
Recommended For: Families, casual swimmers
What I Love: ♥ “Swaying palms, and a bar on the beach.”
- Accessible by a 2-minute ferry ride from downtown Christiansted. Protestant Cay Beach sits on a small islet.
- Palm trees offer natural shade if you want to spend the day.
- Enjoy the amenities: Rent a lounger and umbrella. I found the restaurant and beach bar convenient so I could stay longer.
- There were many families because the water is pretty calm.
- Snorkeling potential: I didn't get a chance to snorkel here but locals told me that the north end of the cay is best. Pack your gear just in case.
Cost: Free to use the beach. The ferry ride requires a small fee
Best time to visit: Mornings to rent a lounger
Local tips: Bring your own snorkel gear. You also need cash for the ferry fare AND to purchase refreshments at the beach bar.
Distance: Just offshore from Christiansted; 2-minute ferry ride from the boardwalk
How to Get to Protestant Cay Beach: Take the short ferry from the Christiansted waterfront near the boardwalk area
Map: Protestant Cay Map
4. Pelican Cove Beach - 10-minute drive west
If you don't want to stay in Christiansted the entire time, book a room for a night at The Palms resort and enjoy plenty of incredible snorkeling at this beach! I plan to do that next time I'm there.
Location: North Shore, near Christiansted, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
Recommended For: Snorkelers
What I Love: ♥ “Pelican Cove is for snorkeling enthusiasts.”
- Alternate name alert: Pelican Cove Beach is also known as Cormorant Beach by locals.
- Lots of palm trees: I took a refreshing nap in the shade after snorkeling.
- Snorkel at your level: There is a small protected reef just off the beach. If you go into deeper waters, stay safe and go with a partner.
- Food: Eat at the bar or restaurant at The Palms.
Cost: Free beach access
Best time to visit: Early mornings for calm seas and great snorkeling
Local tips: Pack your snorkel gear.
Distance: About a 10-minute drive west from Christiansted
How to Get to Pelican Cove Beach: Head west from Christiansted on Northside Road (Route 75). Then turn toward The Palms at Pelican Cove near Five Corners. There are signs so it's easy to find the beach.
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