| Saint Johns US Virgin Islands, Caribbean... |
St. John Beaches
Caneel Bay
Located closest to Cruz Bay on the north shore, the beach is
accessible through the Cancel Bay Resort. Ask the front desk for a
day-visitor guide.
Hawksnest Bay
Locals often head here during the peak tourist season. Located
relatively close to Cruz Bay on the north shore, it is smaller and
quieter than neighboring Trunk Bay. Like all the beaches on St.
John, the water is crystal-clear; tropical greenery provides a
beautiful backdrop, and the snorkeling is good. Changing facilities,
shelters and picnic tables are available.
Trunk Bay
By far the most popular beach among visitors, this is the site of
the renowned underwater snorkel trail. Fifteen underwater plaques
identify the corals and fish that inhabit these waters. The beach
itself has pure white sand and is bordered by luxurious foliage.
Rental snorkeling gear is available; a shop, snack bar and changing
facilities are located here as well.
Cinnamon Bay
This National Park campground has a fabulous beach with good
snorkeling, water-sports rentals, a restaurant and a store, as well
as scenic views of the nearby islands. A concessionaire rents
windsurfing equipment, kayaks and mountain bikes. Across the road
from the campground is the Cinnamon Bay Self-Guided Nature Trail.
The loop takes about an hour to complete and passes through an old
sugar-factory site. Along the path, you'll see giant kapok trees, as
well as bay, mango and cacao trees.
Other Beaches
Maho Bay, Francis Bay and Leinster Bay are also lovely spots on the
north shore. If you're energetic, follow the Leinster Bay Trail to
Watermelon Cay, where you can enjoy a swim and view some great
coral. All but Francis Bay have changing facilities.
If you're the adventurous type, you can find numerous small hidden
beaches on park land. For information and a map, pick up the Virgin
Islands National Park brochure from the Visitors Center. The
brochure also contains a guide to the park's regulations, one of the
most important of which reminds beachcombers that conch shells
cannot be removed from park waters.
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