Many Caribbean islands only have rocky beaches or beaches made of black volcanic sand (which heats up fast in the noonday sun), but those in the Virgin Islands are known for their fine white sand. Best of all, every beach in the Virgin Islands is free (except for Magens Bay in St. Thomas) and open to the public, although in some cases you'll have to walk across the grounds of a resort (or arrive by private boat) to reach them.
Magens Bay Beach (St. Thomas): This half-mile loop of pebble-free sand, boasting remarkably calm waters, is by far the most popular and picturesque beach in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Two peninsulas protect the shore from erosion and strong waves, making Magens an ideal spot for swimming. Expect a lively crowd in the high season.
Sapphire Beach (St. Thomas): This is one of the finest beaches on St. Thomas, and a favorite with windsurfers. Come here for some of St. Thomas's best shore snorkeling and diving (off Pettyklip Point). And don't worry about equipment -- watersports concessions abound here. Take a moment to enjoy the panoramic view of St. John and other islands.
Trunk Bay (St. John): This beach, which is protected by the U.S. National Park Service, is a favorite with cruise-ship passengers. It's famous for its underwater snorkeling trail and is consistently ranked in magazine polls as one of the top 10 Caribbean beaches.
Caneel Bay (St. John): Site of a famous resort, Caneel Bay is a string of seven beaches stretching around Durloe Point to Hawksnest Caneel. Rosewood Hotels, which operates Caneel Bay Resort, admits day guests.
Sandy Point (St. Croix): The biggest beach in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Sandy Point lies in the southwestern part of St. Croix, directly to the west of Alexander Hamilton Airport. Its waters are shallow and calm. Because the beach is a protected reserve and a nesting spot for endangered sea turtles, it's only open to the public on weekends from 9am to 5pm.
Cane Garden Bay (Tortola): The most popular beach in the British Virgin Islands, and a close rival to Magens Bay on St. Thomas for scenic beauty, is Cane Garden Bay. Its translucent waters and sugar-white sands are reason enough to visit Tortola. Happily, it's the closest beach to Road Town, the capital.
