Though the Caribbean is home to scores of wonderful resorts, stores and restaurants, the beaches set the region apart as an excellent family destination. Likewise, St. Thomas is known for its accommodations and duty-free shopping, but visitors are often surprised at the wealth of excellent beaches. From the spacious, activity-filled beaches near Charlotte Amalie to the rocky coastline of the northern shore, St. Thomas has the perfect stretch of sand for every type of traveler. If you are in search of a friendly Caribbean island with plenty of sun, sand and fun, look no further than St. Thomas.

As many of St. Thomas' best resorts are located near the harbor of Charlotte Amalie, it should come as no surprise that some of the island's most well-known beaches are also nearby. However, rather than being busy and crowded, the beaches near Charlotte Amalie offer plenty of space to relax in the sun and calm waters for family-friendly activities.

One of the best choices for sandy relaxation in St. Thomas is Morningstar Bay, a peaceful stretch of shoreline perfect for swimming or reclining beneath an umbrella. Throughout the year, Morningstar's turquoise waters sparkle beneath the Caribbean sun. As the beach offers extensive water sports rentals and features exceptional food and drink options, Morningstar can be enjoyed by visiting families and couples alike. Nearby, the beach at Lindberg Bay - also known as Emerald Beach - offers many of the same relaxing amenities and plenty of sandy real estate.

Visitors staying near Charlotte Amalie may also want to visit the beaches at Bolongo Bay and Brewers Bay. Bolongo Bay features a slightly rockier, but incredibly picturesque, coastline and has recently become known as a great location for novices and families to try snorkeling. The onsite rental shops at Bolongo Bay also offer water sports equipment such as water bikes and kayaks to complete a relaxing day in the water. Brewer's Bay is the beach of choice for St. Thomas' residents. The beach at Brewers Bay is clean and wide; the water calm and clear; the atmosphere casual with a flourish of Caribbean hospitality. On weekends, it is common for food vendors to set up shop along this undeveloped stretch of sand, enticing both locals and visitors with some of St. Thomas' most unique recipes.

The east end of St. Thomas is home to the greatest collection of beaches, many of which feature calm surf and extensive water sport activities. The most popular beach along the eastern shore is Coki Point, a favorite amongst locals and tourists for snorkeling and picnicking in the sun. Though Coki Point is often busy on the weekends, the vibrant Caribbean atmosphere - usually featuring numerous vendors and musicians - makes this beach a can't-miss destination. Tourists in search of the large, luxurious beaches that made the Caribbean famous should also visit Sapphire Beach - a roomy white-sand beach known for snorkeling, windsurfing and numerous refreshment options - and Lindquist Beach - a spacious, undeveloped beach with a truly tropical atmosphere.

Those looking for quiet beaches with clean sand and calm breezes on the eastern shore of St. Thomas will enjoy Turtle Cove and Bluebeard's Beach. Connected by a small walkway, both of these pleasant beaches offer ample room to stretch out and enjoy the Caribbean weather. If you are feeling adventurous, windsurfing and kiteboarding are popular activities in the rolling waves offshore.

The eastern shore of St. Thomas is also home to a trio of small beaches known for unmatched natural beauty and sightseeing opportunities. Secret Harbor is named for the rock walls that form a protective bay. As a result, the beach has a distinctively tropical feel, while the water is known to be calm and warm year-round. Limetree Beach rests along a natural cove and is frequented by those in search of a quiet piece of paradise for tanning, reading or picnicking. Lastly, Sugar Bay is a small, picturesque beach similar to Secret Harbor and Limetree Beach, but more water sport activities are typically available making this stretch of sand a good option for families in search of both adventure and relaxation.

The northern shore of St. Thomas is home to the island's most famous beach, Magens Bay. Selected as one of the world's most beautiful beaches by publications such as National Geographic and Condé Nast Traveler, Magens Bay is a mile-long public park known for impeccable sand and crystal-clear water. The beach is a great place for families with children to spend an afternoon, as the shallow water and lifeguards ensure safe swimming and water sports, while all types of refreshments are just a sandy walk away. Though Magens Bay charges a small entry fee for adults, all the funds are dedicated to the maintenance of this incredible Caribbean destination.

In addition to Magens Bay, the northern shore is also home to a number of smaller beaches that offer a glimpse into traditional island culture of St. Thomas. Hull Bay, Stumpy Bay, Mandahl Bay are three such quiet beaches with a relaxed, old world atmosphere. Local fishermen frequent many of these small beaches on the northern shore, so it is common to see small vessels bobbing in the waves or anchored near the sand.

Yet, while the northern shore has plenty of beaches with calm conditions perfect for swimming and other water sports, there is one windswept beach that perfectly captures the exotic, windswept side of St. Thomas. The beach at Dorothea Bay rests against a rocky coastline and is known for crashing waves and a steady Caribbean breeze. As a result, Dorothea Bay is the perfect destination for an afternoon of photography or simple contemplation.

Whether you want to swim and snorkel or just relax in the sun, St. Thomas has more than enough beaches to make your Caribbean dream a reality.