Scenic Drive to Magens Bay Beach — St. Thomas Day Trip from Cruise Port

THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel

Read the full experience

The bus eases up a green coastal ridge and the bay opens like a pool of turquoise — Magens Bay stretched below, rimmed with soft white sand and low, green hills. On an open-air safari bus the island breathes in close: trade winds lift salt from the sea, roadside villas flash color, and drivers point out small coves and sugar-white rooftops as you pass.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

3 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for all fitness levels; involves short walking on sand and boardwalks

Frequently asked questions

Is admission to Magens Bay included?

Yes — this tour includes the Magens Bay admission fee, so you pay nothing extra to enter the park.

How long will I have at the beach?

The itinerary allocates approximately two hours at Magens Bay for swimming, sunbathing, and short walks.

Can I be dropped off downtown instead of returned to the ship?

Yes — there’s an option for a downtown drop-off to explore Charlotte Amalie; confirm your preferred drop-off when booking.

Are facilities available at Magens Bay?

Magens Bay has restrooms, showers, lifeguards on duty, and a concession stand; chair and umbrella rentals are sometimes available seasonally.

Local insights

Wildlife

Brown pelicans
Tropical reef fish near the shallow edges

History

Magens Bay has long been a favored public beach for islanders; the bay and surrounding land were acquired and preserved for public use in the mid-20th century.

Conservation

The bay is managed as a public park with measures to protect the shoreline and marine life; visitors are encouraged to avoid disturbing reefs and to use reef-safe products.

About Black & White Tours & Transportation

Black & White Tours & Transportation operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.

Base locationCharlotte Amalie, U.S. Virgin Islands

Tours offered4+

Specialtyland-adventures

StewardshipLeave No Trace

Adventure tips

Bring reef-safe sunscreenMagens Bay is a protected marine area; use reef-safe sunscreen and reapply often in the sun and after swimming.

Arrive early off the shipIf you’re on a cruise schedule, board early to maximize your beach time and avoid the midday crowds.

Pack light and secure valuablesThe safari bus has limited storage—use a small daypack and keep valuables on you or use the park’s lockers if available.

Hydrate and shade upTwo hours on white sand can be deceptively dehydrating; bring water (complimentary bottled water provided) and a wide-brim hat or umbrella.

Recommended gear

Reef-safe sunscreen: Protects skin and the nearshore marine environment during swimming and snorkeling.
Lightweight daypack or dry bag: Keeps valuables dry and secure on the open-air bus and at the beach.
Snorkel mask or set: Useful for exploring calm nearshore water and small coral outcrops at the bay’s edge.
Water shoes: Protects feet on rocky approaches and shaded paths to the beach.