Looking to visit Tamarind Reef Beach St. Croix with kids? Tamarind Reef Beach, located on the east end of St. Croix near Christiansted, is a great choice for families looking for calm waters, reliable amenities, and some of the island’s best shore snorkeling. The beach sits adjacent to Tamarind Reef Resort and offers a comfortable, low-stress beach day for parents traveling with kids.
With easy parking, shaded spots, on-site dining, and snorkel access just steps from shore, this beach balances convenience with adventure—perfect for a full day outside with the family.
Family-Friendly Beach Setup
The beach is sandy with some rocky patches, so kids can play and build sandcastles in most areas while parents should keep water shoes on hand for exploring near the shoreline. Tall palms and beach cabanas provide natural and rental shade, and lounge chairs and hammocks are available for guests and non-guests alike (ask the beach shack about rental options).
The vibe is low-key and resort-friendly, but still accessible to families not staying on the property.
Snorkeling at Tamarind Reef Beach
One of the biggest draws here for families is the Tamarind Reef Snorkel Trail, located on the east end of the beach. The calm, shallow water makes it manageable for older kids and confident swimmers, and parents can join in or watch from the shore.
For the best snorkeling, swim toward the breakwater on the western end of the beach, where you’ll find a vibrant reef with soft and hard corals and plenty of marine life. Keep an eye out for parrotfish, butterflyfish, trumpetfish, blue tangs, and more. Some say this reef is just as impressive as the Buck Island underwater trail—without needing to book a boat.
Important note for parents: While the water is generally calm, supervision is important as conditions can vary slightly depending on wind. The reef starts close to shore, but snorkel vests are recommended for younger or less experienced swimmers.
Extra Adventures: Kayak to Green Cay
For more active families, kayak rentals are available from the beach shack. You can paddle out to Green Cay, a small offshore islet with more shallow reef and clear water. It’s a fun, guided or self-paced adventure that adds variety to your beach day.
Amenities at Tamarind Reef Beach
This beach has many of the features parents want when spending a day out with kids:
- Restrooms and rinse stations
- Restaurant and beach bar (great for lunch or drinks)
- On-site beach shack for rentals and activity bookings
- Cabanas and beach chairs (rentals available for non-guests)
- Volleyball court
- Free parking along the water
There are also spa and resort services on the property, though these are more geared toward adult guests.
What to Bring
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Snorkel gear and vests
- Water shoes
- Towels and change of clothes
- Cash or card for food and rentals
Please note that pets and coolers are not allowed on the beach.
Directions and Parking
Drive east from Christiansted along East End Road. Look for signs for Tamarind Reef Resort and Green Cay Marina. Turn left up the hill at the unmanned guard shack and continue following the signs. Once on property, take the first left for beach access; parking is on the right, along the waterfront.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Tamarind Reef Beach St. Croix with Kids
Tamarind Reef Beach is a great all-in-one option for families visiting the east side of St. Croix. Whether you’re coming for the snorkeling, the hammocks, or just an easy day out near Christiansted, this beach offers the right mix of comfort, safety, and activities to keep kids entertained and parents relaxed.
