Paradise Beach
Written by: combined reports from local St Croix residents and travel researchers. Last updated: November 2025.
Paradise Beach on St Croix’s west end sits next to the historic Frederiksted Pier, making it the closest beach for visiting cruise passengers. Calm turquoise water, gentle entry, and views of moored ships give it a relaxed island-town feel. Locals also call it Fort Frederik Beach because it borders the 18th-century fort of the same name. The sand is light-gold with some coral patches, ideal for casual swimming or snorkeling.
Visitors can rent loungers, find shade under sea-grape trees, and walk to cafés and beach bars like Polly’s at the Pier or Flyer’s. Because the beach sits right in town, no day pass or taxi is required – you can step off the ship and stroll there in minutes. For a livelier scene or water-sports rentals, Rainbow Beach is a short 1½-mile walk north. Paradise Beach remains one of St Croix’s easiest and most accessible spots to enjoy Caribbean sun and sea for a few hours ashore. For other beaches, check out the Full St Croix Beach Guide.
Find current weather conditions at National Weather Service.
Providers of water sports equipment at Paradise Beach like paddle boards etc. come and go unfortunately so it’s a bit of a crap shoot. Many cruise ship passengers either hike or taxi up 1.5 miles to Rainbow Beach, which has a greater selection of equipment, activities and a great beach restaurant & bar called Rythms at Rainbow beach. Both beaches can get crowded when cruise ships are in port.
If you’ve only got a few hours in St. Croix and looking for the best things to do, here is a great guide to 7 Things to Do in Frederiksted.
Videos of Paradise Beach in St. Croix
Places to eat nearby Paradise Beach
- Rhythms at Rainbow Beach
- Polly’s at the Pier
- Flyers — check 2025 menu & prices here: Flyer’s Bar and Grill menu St Croix
- Cibone — check 2025 menu & prices here: Cibone St. Croix menu
Nearby things to do
- Horseback riding — Cruzan Cowgirls
- Off-road ATV tours — Gecko’s Island Adventures
- Jet skiing
Paradise Beach St Croix – Frequently Asked Questions
Is Paradise Beach open to the public?
Yes. Paradise Beach is a public beach with no entry fee, open daily from morning until sunset.
How far is Paradise Beach from the Frederiksted cruise pier?
It’s about a five-minute walk south along the waterfront from the Frederiksted Pier, beside Fort Frederik.
Are there restrooms and food nearby?
Yes. Restrooms, beach bars, and small cafés are available within a few hundred feet of the main swimming area.
Is Paradise Beach good for snorkeling?
Yes. Calm water and small reefs near shore make it a good beginner snorkeling spot.
Photos of St. Croix Paradise Beach
Nearby related content: Best Places to Stay in St Croix | Frederiksted Town
Come visit Paradise Beach soon!
photo credits: Vinow.com
Follow us on social media:
