Spectacular Sunset Spots

ST. CROIX

While the Frederiksted Pier is a scenic destination any time of day, visiting around sunset is highly recommended. Located in the heart of Frederiksted, the pier was built in the early 1900s and underwent an extensive renovation in the early 2000s. Together, Frederiksted Pier and its neighboring waterfront park are a favorite strolling spot. Come at sunset and walk along the pier, where you’ll be rewarded with an awesome, unobstructed view. The colorful nightly show playing out in the sky and on the water is sure to impress.

Perhaps you’d like some frozen, fruity cocktails and blackened mahi bites to go along with your sunset viewing. Rhythms at Rainbow Beach provides all that and more. This laid-back bar and restaurant could easily just rely on its prime location on Rainbow Beach in Frederiksted to attract visitors. But it goes above and beyond, offering an extensive variety of island-themed cocktails and tasty dishes. Add in terrific sunset views and it’s no wonder Rhythms has been a favorite for more than 30 years.

At Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge, you can combine beautiful sunset views with sightings of endangered wildlife. Located on the far west side of the island, Sandy Point features a spectacular beach with soft sand and clear water that’s also a nesting and hatching spot for leatherback and hawksbill sea turtles. If you’re visiting in October, join in National Wildlife Refuge Week activities that include a one-mile-long sunset nature walk.

Situated on the easternmost point of the United States, Point Udall — named for former U.S. Secretary of the Interior Stuart Udall, a supporter of USVI’s economy — features a historic monument with your stunning sunset show. Epic sea views are your incentive to navigate the winding road that leads here. On your drive, you’ll spot a variety of cacti and a desert-like landscape, which offer a startling contrast to the turquoise Caribbean Ocean. You’ll know you’ve arrived when you see the sundial-like Millennium Monument, which was erected in 2000 to commemorate the new millennium beginning in the first place where the sun rises in the United States. To make the most of your sunset experience, pack a picnic to enjoy as you soak up the views of Goat Hill to the south, Buck Island to the north and the ocean all around.

ST. JOHN

Sure, a visit to Peace Hill Windmill does require a little bit of effort. But the short, easy hike is well worth it. Formerly a plantation called Dennis Bay that was established in 1718 — the ruins of which, including a windmill, can still be seen — Peace Hill is now renowned for its breathtaking sunsets amidst a peaceful setting. On Sundays, the tranquility is complemented with meditation. Organized by Unity of St. John, Virgin Islands, the free gatherings take place every Sunday from 5:45 p.m.–7 p.m., and are focused on meditation, contemplation and silent prayers for peace.

Whether you grab a seat indoors at the triangle-shaped bar full of friendly regulars or at a beachside table with your toes in the sand, The Beach Bar offers some of the best unobstructed views as the sun dramatically sets over Cruz Bay. The Beach Bar is as well-known for its selection of tropical cocktails, fresh seafood and hefty burgers as it is for its epic sunset views (complete with a smattering of sailboats in the distance). The Beach Bar ups the ante with live music a few nights a week with the spotlight on local artists.

For those seeking a sunset view in a sophisticated setting, the west-facing third-floor bar at Ocean 362 is the perfect spot. Located in the heart of Cruz Bay, this modern island-to-table restaurant offers a unique Caribbean experience. The attention to detail and focus on local ingredients can also be seen in their handcrafted drinks (a hibiscus Old Fashioned, perhaps?). Arrive before sunset and your cocktail hour will include a colorful show from Mother Nature as you take in the open-air view of the Caribbean waters from your elevated perch as the sun slowly sets.

While the Caribbean isn’t lacking when it comes to gorgeous beaches, Trunk Bay takes it up a notch with coral-colored sand, uber-blue ocean water and a lush backdrop. Condé Nast Traveler ranks it as one of the best island beaches in the world. Part of Virgin Islands National Park, Trunk Bay is named after the leatherback turtle — affectionately known as “trunks” — that call this area home. It should come as no surprise, then, that Trunk Bay offers some of the most spectacular sunsets in the area. Our recommendation: Come early for terrific snorkeling, complete with an underwater trail, and stay for the evening sunset.

ST. THOMAS

When your name includes “sunset,” odds are that magical hour is going to be especially memorable — and Sunset Grille doesn’t disappoint. Situated along Secret Harbour Beach, this unpretentious fine dining restaurant is mere steps away from the water’s edge, pairing the sound of lapping water with dishes of crispy whole snapper and crab croquettes. And if your perfect dining experience includes a show, make a reservation for around sunset, when the orange glow of the sun slowly descending over the ocean is especially magical.

According to local legend, Drake’s Seat is the vantage point on the north side of the island where Sir Francis Drake watched for enemy ships of the Spanish fleet. Today, it offers visitors a panoramic view of the confluence of the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea. A green bench with an inset stating “The Drake Seat” adds to the lore. But whether the tale is true or not, Drake’s Seat does offer a front-row seat to viewing a variety of islands, including St. John. Just below is Magens Bay, a view of which alone is worth the trip, with its powdery white sand and pristine blue water. Make the most of the view and arrive at sunset, when the changing colors of the sky add a dreamy element to the lush landscape.

If your idea of the ultimate way to view a Caribbean sunset is while leisurely sailing on the ocean, there are a number of boat tours on St. Thomas to make that a reality. From a luxury champagne cruise on a catamaran to a family-friendly sailing adventure, there’s a sunset sail for every taste. Typically lasting two hours, these cruises give new meaning to the phrase “smooth sailing.”

Family-run Dinghy’s Beach Bar draws locals and in-the-know tourists who can’t get enough of the casual spot’s impressive selection of impeccably made tropical cocktails and local cuisine — and its prime sunset views. To get to this beachfront oasis on Water Island, the fourth-largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, take the ferry from St. Thomas. Snag a table on the beach as the sun puts on its evening show. Make it a double feature and head to nearby Honeymoon Beach before the sun completely sets. There, you’ll be rewarded with white sands and calm blue waters.