In the last post, I showcased one of the best beaches in the world, Magen’s Bay. This beach is one of the most well-known places on the islands. Tourists come from all over the world to soak up the sun and swim in its turquoise waters. The environment is vibrant, the people are chill, and the amenities are all there.
However, for some people who may be tired of this scene (the locals), there is another strip of beach just a tiny trek down the road. This beach is just large enough to hold a comfortable number of 10-15 people. Very few people know about this beach, so I hope I don’t get in trouble with the locals for showing it off to the rest of the world!
This was the very first beach in which I was introduced to by other locals. I think of it as sort of my initiation into the super laid-back St. Thomas lifestyle. There is no restaurant or bar. There are no bathrooms, no tents, and no rental stations. But you soon discover, that after the nearly 100 steps that lead you down, there is nothing else that is needed. There is only YOU and the BEACH. Just like your own private beach, that’s all you need.
Platform Beach
Platform Beach is a beach that is loved by many locals. Many, many times, I have heard, “This is my favorite beach on the island.” As I stated above, there isn’t much to it, but sometimes that is best. Getting away from the crowds, setting up a blanket or towel, and laying out for the afternoon is the perfect thing to do on this tiny, secluded strip of sand and rock. As well, dogs are allowed, and are usually welcomed by other guests. Feel free to bring your dog, but be courteous and respectful so as to not disturb the other guests.
JUST A QUICK TIP: It is best to go earlier than later. I have noted, that at around 3:00pm, the tide starts to come up a little too close, so there is very little space to layout and enjoy the sand.
How to Get to Platform Beach
Getting to Platform Beach can be a fairly difficult task. If you have trouble walking up and down steps, then this would not be the place for you. Take the Peterborg Road, which is located about a half mile east from Magen’s Bay Beach on Magen’s Bay Rd. Take Peterborg Rd. along the water for about 1 mile until you get to a fork with a private drive with the sign “Via Dominica.” (See the below photo and map for more instructions)
Parking is allowed on the side of this street, but is limited. Sometimes, people park below on the private drive. This is not advisable (I do not advise this), but I have known several people who have parked here without any issues. Once you’re parked and have your bags/cooler in hand, you will need to do a short walk down some fairly steep wooden steps.
The short walk down is well worth it…
Head over with a significant other, or a small group of friends. Pack a cooler with your beverage of choice, some sandwiches, chips, etc. and enjoy the afternoon sun.
Take a dip in the beautiful calm waters of Magen’s Bay. Chase away the afternoon sun, limin’ away with no worries in the sand.
Take a break and sit on the rocks that border both sides of the beach. Pretend the giant white mansion overlooking the bay is your new home.
Enjoy the sunset behind the anchored sailboat. This place really feels like your own private beach.
