Rating a beach in the Caribbean can be difficult. I have been to so many great beaches each with different people in different stages of my life and I can't think of ever leaving any beach thinking to myself "Wow, I wish I hadn't done that" and so it goes with Magens Bay.
With warm, clear Caribbean water, white sandy beach and magnificent views, Magens Bay really is a great beach to visit and considered one of the worlds "TOP TEN" beaches.
Magens Bay really does provide something for everybody unless you are looking to be alone. The beach is long and crescent shaped, enclosed on both sides by large tree filled hills making one of the islands most protected bays. Because of this the water is calm and often the idyllic Caribbean Aqua/ Clear water.
The beach itself is has a gradual slope into the water, slowly getting deeper the further you go out. There are no large rocks or corals to speak of which makes wading nice, but snorkeling rather dull. The beach is covered with fine white sand that is soft to the touch, massaging your feet as you walk to and from the water or the little bar/restaurant. The sand is warm to lay on or cool to lay in. It's perfect and deep for digging a moat or building a sand castle. The beach is lined with the occasional tree providing some, but little shade.
Magens Bay is a public beach (as are all beaches on St Thomas), but it is one of two beaches that charge access on the island. As such there are a few scattered lifeguard towers providing an extra eye on your children or friend that may have had a drink too many (of course you'll want to keep an eye on them too). There are other facilities as well including; Men's and Women's restrooms. A small gift shop, a bar/ Restaurant offering drinks, regular bar foods and pizza. You can also lease chairs, toys, or umbrellas for the afternoon. Because it's a pay for use beach you won't find many of the merchants walking the beach you might in other locations.
Depending on the time of day the beach can get fairly busy, usually busier in the mornings. I have found that the afternoons are a little bit cooler and less crowded. You can also move to either end of the beach where you will find fewer people as the parking lot and all the facilities are located near the center of the beach... thus most of the people are too.
Enjoy the sun and a pain killer or Corona for me! read more