Getting confused about beaches

[bucky0926]

In one post I read there were no amenities at Sapphire beach and in another I read there was. We want chairs, umbrellas if no shade, real bathrooms, runners for food and drink, great snorkeling. Coki or Sapphire look good and do both offer chairs and umbrellas (I can't do towel on the sand).

 

If it makes a difference we will be the only ship in port and we will be there the end of August. If the winds are high would we be better off at Coki? Thanks

[HarpHarp]

Sapphire was my favorite beach when I lived in St Thomas. There are chair rentals, food & drinks at the grill & I understand the condo restaurant. Plenty of natural shade & snorkeling is good on the right side of the beach. I saw some indication that they were re-doing the beach bathrooms at the beginning of this year, & that may be the reason for the conflicting reports. I talked to a resident there this weekend, & he mentioned the road construction between the ports & the beaches, including Sapphire.

 

Here's a live web cam

http://www.sapphireinthesun.com/

[blue_water]

Sapphire has abundant natural shade and the restrooms are fine, actually great for beach restrooms. Plenty of room to spread out, you can take your lounges anywhere, you're not required to stay in one spot.

The dive center rents lounges, floaties, snorkel gear, kayaks, etc and sells beer and rum punches.

The beach grill - Banana Cabana - serves an excellent mahi mahi sandwich for $14 (but so worth it) and drinks, and the Sapphire Village which is located on the hill behind the marina also serves food and drinks. Both places have runners taking orders on the beach. Off The Grid is a food truck near the entrance that also has great food and specials.

Great snorkeling in the reef and separate seagrass area. Condo owners are happy to give advice on the best spots to hit.

Regarding weather, Sapphire is generally quite calm. We've rented there several times and only saw rougher water once. You can snorkel close to shore or move out further. Coki is also a popular snorkel spot but even with 1 ship it will be a little busy. If you want a livelier vibe head for Coki. For a nice, shaded spot with great views and snorkeling it's Sapphire for us.

Edited July 27, 2015 by blue_water

[barbaraanne]

If you are looking mainly for a sandy bottomed beach, rather than snorkeling, would Sapphire not be a good choice?