Duck underneath the tangled trees and make your way through the leafy tunnel to reach one of the Caribbean’s best beaches.
This gem of a beach is called Shoys Beach, and it’s located on the Caribbean island of St. Croix. Secluded from the view of passersby, Shoys Beach can only be reached by means of this short, tree-covered path. The criss-crossed branches hang so low that those of taller height find the need to stoop as they make their way through.
Once you’ve ventured out the other end, a spectacular sight will meet your eyes. Shoys Beach is a breathtaking stretch of sparkling golden sand and calm, clear waters.
One of the most secluded beaches in the Caribbean
Unlike many beaches in the Caribbean, few visitors find this secret beach, so you may even have it all to yourself. The low tunnel is easy to miss if you’re not looking for it.
The water is calm year round, making it perfect for swimming. In addition, the bottom is mostly sandy and grassy. However, there are a few rocky areas–but even these have their perks. Lobster, eels, and plenty of colorful tropical fish hide in and around these rocks.
In addition, if you’re looking for more undersea creatures, Shoy Beach offers some great snorkeling opportunities. Head to the small coral reef on the eastern side to see tropical fish, conch, and rays.
Beach amenities
Unfortunately, Shoys beach does not offer any amenities. However, this is part of its charm. Rarely can you find beaches in the Caribbean that aren’t overcrowded with restaurants, beach umbrellas, and peddlers hawking their wares. So perhaps it’s a wonderful thing that Shoys beach has been left untouched and unspoiled.
Nevertheless, if you’re worried about shade, there are plenty of seagrape trees to solve your problem. The beach has no shortage of foliage to shield you from the hot Caribbean sun.
Because there are no restaurants around, you’ll need to bring your own food and water. However, be sure to follow beach rules– take everything you bring in out with you. In addition, note that Shoy beach is closed from dusk to dawn. This rule is in place in part due to the fact that it is a turtle nesting beach. It is protected by local and federal laws. In addition, you cannot take horses, dogs, or vehicles with you on the beach, or build fires.
How to get to Shoy Beach
Shoys beach is arguably one of the most secretive beaches in the Caribbean. The fact that you have to go through a private neighborhood to reach it makes it even more secluded! Here’s how to get there:
Travel to the east end of St. Croix to Christiansted. Then take East End Road and turn left to enter The Buccaneer Hotel. Take the gate to the right to enter Estate Shoy. The guards will let you through if you give them your name and tell them you wish to go to Shoys Beach. After going through, you’ll see a large parking lot. You can park there and then walk through the gorgeous tree tunnel to reach the beach.
Main image credit: Dave McWhorter
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