Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge

Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge is a coastal protected area on Saint Croix featuring a roughly 2-mile stretch of white sand along clear, warm Caribbean waters. The beach provides essential nesting habitat for three sea turtle species that return here to lay their eggs.

This refuge was established in 1984 to protect endangered marine animals and their habitats from harm. The protection allowed declining turtle populations to begin recovering over the following decades.

People here work together to protect sea turtles and learn more about them through hands-on programs. The local community views this conservation effort as part of caring for the island's ocean and natural heritage.

The beach is only open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 AM to 4 PM and remains fully closed from April through September. Plan your visit around these hours, as the closure protects nesting sea turtles during their breeding season.

The beach served as a film location for a famous Hollywood movie scene that brought international attention to this place. Few visitors realize this cinematic connection when they first arrive at the protected shore.

Location: United States Virgin Islands

Inception: 1984

Website: https://fws.gov/caribbean/refuges/sandypoint

GPS coordinates: 17.67778,-64.90000

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:43