Great Cruz Bay Beach, St. John USVI
If you get a chance to take a breather from the shopping on Cruz Bay, you should take yourself to Great Cruz Bay and get in a bit of sun and swimming. Though the water isn’t as clear as some of the other bays, the beach is still gorgeous and the water is incredibly calm. If you’re interested in getting in a bit of a swim or maybe some windsurfing, you’ll delight in the convenience of Great Cruz Bay and its pristine beach.
Before the Westin hotel came in and landscaped a great deal of the beach, it used to be nothing more than shallow bay surrounded by mangrove wet lands --with nothing to greet you but a bottom swell of mud. Once the potential to have a great deal of visitors to the beach was realized, the bay was dredged and sand was brought in. Now the depth of the waters increases gradually, giving anyone who wants to the chance to get in a quick nip in the Caribbean waters. Those who do want to explore the waters will be pleased to know that there’s no threat of sea urchins or fragile reef nipping at your ankles or feet.
The bay is a relaxing port of call for those just coming in to St. John or those who are staying at the hotel that resides behind the beach. The beach is perfect for day visitors who just want to enjoy the sand and calm waters of the Caribbean; however, many of the facilities are for those who are staying at the Westin (such as the lounge chairs and beach equipment). That being said, there are still plenty of facilities open for those who are just coming for a day visit. If you want to get in some water sports, there are rental shops. There are also local shops around the area ready to sell you their merchandise. There are restaurants and a bar by the pool of the Westin which are open to the public.
Great Cruz Bay is perfect for those who just want to enjoy the rustic, raw beauty of St. John away from the large crowds on the main bay --Cruz Bay. It also provides visitors with the perfect balance between isolated luxury and commerce --being relatively close to anything that you may need while you’re spending your day on the beach. It’s incredibly convenient to reach --a pleasant two mile walk from the town will get you there without any problems. The beach is incredibly picturesque, providing visitors the opportunity to drink in the warm Caribbean sun and the cooling breeze coming off of the sea. You’ll be able to enjoy a romantic sunset viewing from the sand with a loved one, or you could view the sailboats that roll in on the gorgeous sea.
If you’re interested in a relaxing day of swimming, snorkeling, or sunbathing, Great Cruz Bay provides you all you need and much, much more.