Sapphire Beach Is So Overrated — this Secluded St. Thomas Gem Is The Fresh Escape Travelers Need In 2026

While the second-largest of the United States Virgin Islands, St. Thomas is a relatively small Caribbean island at only 32 square miles. But don't let the island's size fool you. It's jam-packed with beaches — over 40, to be exact — and perhaps one of the nicest is Brewers Bay. 

The beach was included in Lonely Planet's "9 of the best beaches on St Thomas, the U.S. Virgin Islands," partly because it's a great choice if you're on a budget. With rising global prices continuing to impact travel in 2026, that affordability could appeal to many vacationers. Now, if you're wondering why not just go to Sapphire Beach instead, well, sure. You can pay the fees for beach chairs or cabanas, join the throngs of tourists, and contend with a sometimes noisy beach bar at the more popular locale, but then you'd miss out on the free, sun-soaked, secluded gem that is Brewers Bay.

The white sand beach lies on the southwestern side of the island, facing the Caribbean Sea. Coral, shells, and sea glass sprinkle the beach's wide swath of sand, and calm, azure water covers a gentle slope into the sea. A line of green hills and leafy trees border the pretty scene, and even better, visitors regularly attest to the beach being sparsely populated. While there are few amenities at Brewers Bay, that's a small price to pay for enjoying this quiet escape.

If you're driving to Brewers Bay, you can park on the side of Brewers Bay Road. Otherwise, it may be worth getting there on a local bus. Taking public transportation is one of several great ways to lower the cost of your Caribbean getaway, and that's especially true in St. Thomas, as taxis charge per person. The bus drops you at the Harvey Student Center stop, and from there, it's about a 10-minute walk. The bus schedule isn't regular, so it is best to check the departure and arrival times before heading out.

While not the only serene Virgin Islands escape with turquoise waters, beachgoers appreciate the relaxing atmosphere at Brewers Bay, and the rules aim to ensure that. Jet skis and alcohol are prohibited, and loud music is banned after 6 p.m. The beach is about 2 miles from the main airport, so planes may fly overhead. There are no loungers to rent at the beach, so feel free to bring a towel or foldable beach chair and soak up the sun's rays. A canopy of trees provides a cool reprieve at the beach's upper edge, but perhaps the best part is taking a dip in the sparklingly clear water. The sandy bottom makes wading in especially pleasant and provides a jumping-off point to snorkel and view the marine life that lives below.

If you've never snorkeled before, you may want to avoid making these five first-timer snorkeling mistakes. It's recommended to head to the left side of Brewers Bay Beach if you want to spot sea turtles. Seagrass grows there, so the turtles will likely be there having a snack. While the adorable reptiles are generally peaceful, it is best not to interact with them, as touching or chasing them can interrupt their natural behavior. Eagle rays and stingrays have also been seen swimming along. If you're hungry after all the swimming and snorkeling, head to one of the food trucks parked above the beach, where you can order savory Caribbean staples such as pates and johnny cakes.