Category: Beaches

LOCATION: Two miles beyond downtown Cruz Bay on Route 20, North Shore Road.

Without a doubt, this is the “most-talked-about” beach on St. John. Trunk Bay is home to the renowned underwater snorkel trail. Here, you can rent snorkeling equipment or bring your own and follow the buoys that outline the shallow-water trail. Along the way, you will see 15 artistic underwater plaques that will identify the corals and fish that inhabit these waters.  Plan on seeing plenty of parrotfish, elusive trumpet fish and elkhorn, staghorn, brain and fan coral. The beach itself has pure white sand and is bordered by luxuriant foliage. Trunk Bay also has a small shop, a snack bar and changing facilities. The nominal admission fee also includes access to historic Annaberg Plantation.

This beach is one of several maintained under the umbrella of the National Park and an admission fee is charged. You will find convenient restrooms, cold water showers, changing rooms and a snack bar as well as a place to rent snorkeling equipment. A trip around the famous underwater snorkel trail is a must.

Without a doubt, this is the “most-talked-about” beach on St. John.

LOCATION: One and a half miles beyond downtown Cruz Bay on Route 20, North Shore Road.

This sleepy little slice of paradise 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. Hawksnest is also a choice spot for snorkeling. It is less crowded and more relaxing than Trunk Bay. Its nearby reef is a magnet for marine life. Changing facilities, shelters and picnic tables are available.

This beach is popular with locals because it mirrors much of the beauty of Trunk Bay without the crowds. However, there is no underwater snorkel trail. Changing rooms, restrooms and picnic tables are considerably rustic but serve the basic functions.