Grande Bay - Beach?

[michigancouple]

We're thinking about staying at Grande Bay next Spring. We've always stayed in STT at Sapphire Beach in the past and loved walking out the door and being on the beach. I know there are beaches within walking distance of Grande Bay, but I was wondering if that little bit of shoreline right in front of the resort is worthy of just sitting and relaxing at without really having to go to any beach that is further away. Is it swimable there? Also, what kind of beach is at Frank Bay? Rocky or sandy. Do people go there as a destination beach? Thanks in advance for your input.
~ Nancy

[liamsaunt]

There is good snorkeling at Frank Bay, but the entry is rocky and there are urchins. I recommend water shoes. Frank Bay has awesome sunset views.

I don't think I would swim right off of Grande Bay--there are lots of boats moored there and I think there are still some live-aboard boats (though I think technically they are not supposed to moor there).

[Teresa_Rae]

Grand Bay is right by the Beach Bar...so no, not really a place to hang out at the beach.

[Gromit]

The real difference between STT and STJ is that some of the best beaches really need to be driven to. It's a bit of a shift, if you're used to staying at a resort-like setup.

Of course there are exceptions. Obviously if you stay at Caneel or the Westin they do have their own beaches.

There are a few properties that are on the beach like Beach Music (formrly Cygnus) and it's neighbor.

But generally staying up higher will afford you some gorgeous views and you just drive to whatever beach you want to visit that day.

Good luck with the search!

[CariBert]

The closest thing I can think of that would be like Sapphire, or Secret Harbour would be Gibney Beach Cottages. A bit more pricey, but, man, walk out the front door and you are on the beach!

-Bert

[jayseadee]

Grande Bay is a great place to be in town, but not near a beach that you'd want to hang out on all day.

You could walk to Solomon/Honeymoon, but it's a good walk. I've never done it from town, but know others have.

I've stayed at Grande Bay a few times and really like the location.

[GraysonDave]

Agreeing with what the others said. Unless you're at Caneel, you're gonna want to get up and drive to a beach no matter where on the island you stay.

We stayed a couple of nights at Grande Bay. Absolutely loved the convenience of walking to the restaurants/bars/shopping.

You will miss a good bit of the island's "ambiance" by staying at Grande Bay. But most of life is a tradeoff anyway. Just know what you're getting into. There isn't a convenient acceptable beach there.

[cmw5682]

If you like the resort feel you could also look into staying at Gallows. It has a nice little private beach with great snorkeling and is still within walking distance to town. I stayed in 10B and it was INCREDIBLE!