Vacationers will find there are plenty of rewards to visiting a beach that isn't lined with high rise hotels, like not having to struggle through a crowd every time you want to take a dip and Rainbow Beach offers just those rewards.

White sands and perfect waters for swimming and snorkeling make Rainbow Beach a great family hangout area. Just north of Frederiksted on St. Croix, this beach is also a favorite for scuba divers because of the spectacular dive sites nearby.

Those searching to find a secluded spot in the Virgin Islands may find that Rainbow Beach is just the right spot. Cities aren't far away, but you won't be too far from the beaten path, it is an excellent middle ground.

Vacationers ought to remember that, although Rainbow Beach is by no means secluded, it is also one of the Virgin Islands' beaches furthest from the crowds. It's the perfect choice for families and groups of friends where a bit of beach activity is the preference - but hope to stay away from the most populated spots.

Location is important, and your spot on a sunny beach can be prime real estate. You'll find plenty of beaches in the Virgin Islands, like Rainbow Beach. So, if you're looking for an out of the way spot, or a more active getaway, you'll be sure to find it, but this particular beach might not be the perfect fit.

Location

This beach is on the Virgin Islands' western coast, 1.3 miles from Fort Frederik. Rainbow Beach is near Frederiksted, so walking the town is a definite option.

Nearby Hotels

The number of other guests enjoying the beach can vary widely -- it depends on when you visit. The beach is not located next door to any large hotels but you may meet vacationers from smaller hotels in the area. If you're looking for a place to stay near here you should be able to find what you are looking for.

A list of nearby hotels is included in the following table.

Amenities and Ambience

Extremely popular with families, this beach has a beach volleyball court and a beach bar for guests. The shore's rocky bottom is still good for swimming and snorkeling, and there are also prime dive sites offshore. On busy days, a rental stand leases out beach chairs, snorkeling equipment, and more to guests.

How crowded the beach is depends on a few things, including the time of year and day of the week. Some of the Virgin Islands' beaches may rarely be crowded, while others are often crowded particularly when tourism season is as its peak. One of the key things one should keep in mind when considering a day at the beach may be the size of the crowd you'll be joining, which is important to some vacationers. While some prefer a crowded beach filled with people and activity, other beach bums like a quieter oceanfront setting.

Like many other aspects of the Virgin Islands this beach has a distinctive quality which will be more appealing to some than to others. The special qualities of this beach are somewhat different from most other locations in the Virgin Islands. Rainbow Beach is the hangout spot for locals, especially families on the weekends, while tourists also add to the congested atmosphere.

Attractions

Seeing more of the island is easy when you take a side trip to see its natural attractions as a part of a day at the beach. You'll also find Sandy Point Wildlife Refuge, which is located 4.0 miles to the south of Rainbow Beach.

Historical attractions like Government House provide a nice complement to the shores of Rainbow Beach giving visitors the opportunity to learn more about the Virgin Islands without straying to far from the beach.

If you're looking for plenty of activities for your vacation, the following table will show you the beach's closest options.

Food

If you're feeling hungry for a midday meal, you have some dining options without sending you far from these sands.

The following table provides a list of restaurants closest to this beach.

Vacationers will find plenty of great restaurants in the Virgin Islands, but some meals are best enjoyed out of doors. Some visitors enjoy eating a meal right at the beach. Your hotel may be happy to pack a picnic lunch for you, or you can find picnic supplies en route to the beach.

Other Beaches

Vacationers will find plenty of beaches in the Virgin Islands, so you can choose Rainbow Beach or one of the others. You might also enjoy Isaac Bay Beach; it's situated 21.1 miles to the northeast. Guests must hike through the island's natural foilage in order to reach the extremely secluded Isaac Bay Beach on the east side of St. Croix, whose tropical barrier reef is great for snorkeling.

But, if you're interested in a more active beach, you might find that West End Beaches is just right. It's found 0.4 miles to the northwest.

Another beach to consider is La Grange, located 0.4 miles from Rainbow Beach. La Grange beach, off of St. Croix, is a good beach where swimmers and snorkelers enjoy the sparkling blue waters, and beach loungers love the soft sands and complemetary chairs.

There are plenty of activities to choose from in the Virgin Islands, no matter which of the beaches, even Rainbow Beach, you choose to visit.