Like so many other spots in the Virgin Islands, Magen's Bay has the charm and beauty of nature as it's biggest asset. Sunset on the bay is as beautiful as it can be, but it is the lush white power sand is what really makes the beach and the bay so enjoyable for all of the visitors. I enjoy just wandering up and down the nearly one mile long beach watching all of the different sights that keep popping up in front of me. With it's soft white sands, palm trees and crystal clear water, this is considered one of the best beaches in the Virgin Islands.
People playing in the sand and water, all seeming to be having a great time, just like I am as I wander by taking my pictures. The beautiful water and the almost non existing surf makes this the perfect beach to stand waist deep in the warm water and enjoy a cocktail, just like in the movie "10" from years ago. The bay has a marked off swimming area that protects us from the boats and jet ski's, but outside the area there are many boats anchored.
Legend has it the Sir Francis Drake used Magen's Bay as an anchorage from which he could hide while waiting for ships to plunder. His exploits in the area were legendary, making him a hero to the English and a "Pirate" to the Spaniards to whom he was known as "Draque".
This is a park that was donated to the people of the Virgin Islands by Arthur Fairchild in 1943. The far western portion of the park was donated by Fairchild's nephew's widow, Christine Wheaton in 2002.
I have to say that I did really enjoy my afternoon on Magen's Bay and the laid back time in the sand sipping on a few of my favorite rum cocktails.
If you get to St. Thomas, take the time to hop a safari or a taxi, but get out to the beaches and spend an afternoon basking in the Caribbean sunshine and swimming in the crystal clear waters of Magen's Bay. ;o)
