In 1989 Hurricane Hugo used all its destructive powers to lay waste to Statia's most popular beach, but despite the devastation locals restored their favourite patch of sand in no time. Also known as Smoke Alley Beach due to the unusually dark and varied colour of its sand, it's an easy stroll north from Lower Town. Unfortunately, changing tides flush much of the sand into the Caribbean Sea making snorkelling a bit of a challenge. Bring your own drinks, towel and other amenities as nothing else is available here apart from the beach and the water. Waves are smaller on this side of the island, but please note that there are no life guards on duty. This is largely due to the lack of strong currents and dangerous creatures such as sea urchins.