St John USVI Beaches
A CAPTAIN’S GUIDE:
TO FINDING YOUR PERFECT BEACH
Ask anyone who's visited St. John what they remember most, and the answer is almost always the same: the beaches.
St John USVI beaches are consistently ranked among the most beautiful in the Caribbean and honestly, in the world. After years of sailing these waters and dropping anchor in bays that most tourists never see, I can tell you the rankings don't lie.
This little island packs more stunning coastline into its 20 square miles than places ten times its size.
THE NORTH SHORE
ST JOHN TOP BEACHES
The island's north shore is where you'll find many of the St John USVI best beaches that have made this destination famous. These beaches are accessible by car/safari and offer everything from snorkeling to floating with sea turtles.
Trunk Bay is the postcard beach, the one you've probably seen in every Caribbean travel magazine. With its heart-shaped bay, ridiculously soft sand, and a world-famous underwater snorkel trail, it earns its reputation as one of the most beautiful beaches anywhere. It is popular (and there's a $5 entrance fee), but arrive early and you'll understand why people travel from around the globe to swim in these waters. The view from the beach toward Trunk Cay is a view that makes you forget about your inbox guilt-free.
Maho Bay is where the sea turtles hang out, and I mean that literally. The calm, shallow waters and seagrass beds create the perfect grazing spot for sea turtles. You can park right alongside the beach, set up your chair under the coconut palms, and wade in for a chance to float alongside these gentle creatures.
*Captain’s Tip: Maho's calm conditions and sandy bottom make it an ideal choice for families with young children.
Cinnamon Bay offers the longest stretch of white sand on St. John. The beach is backed by historic sugar plantation ruins that you can explore, and there's a campground steps away from the beach if you want to make a weekend of it. The snorkeling around Cinnamon Cay, just offshore, reveals colorful coral and plenty of tropical fish. This beach has a little bit of everything; history, beauty, great swimming, and even an awesome restaurant, the Rain Tree Cafe, open for breakfast and dinner. Check out their menus!
Hawksnest Beach is one of the first beaches you'll encounter after leaving Cruz Bay, and its convenience makes it a local favorite. The water is calm and clear, perfect for a quick swim or snorkel session. Because it's close to town, it can get busy when cruise ship visitors come over from St. Thomas, so mornings are your best bet for a quieter experience during the week. On the weekends, Hawksnest is popular for small local celebrations and gatherings. Facilities include a changing area, restroom, several rentable gazebos charcoal grills and a parking lot. This beach is easy to catch taxis (safaris) to and from.
Hidden Gems:
Top Beaches in St John Off the Beaten Path
While the north shore beaches are stunning and picturesque, some of the St John best beaches require a little more effort to reach (and that's exactly what makes them special).
Salt Pond Bay sits on the island's quieter south side, about a 10-minute walk down a shaded trail from the parking area. The effort pays off with a peaceful crescent of sand, excellent snorkeling, and almost always fewer visitors than the north shore beaches. From here, you can hike out to Ram Head for dramatic cliff views just bring plenty of water and sun protection for the exposed trail.
Salomon Bay is reached via the Lind Point Trail from Cruz Bay; about a 20-minute hike through the forest. The reward is a gorgeous beach that often feels like your own private paradise, especially if you arrive early. The snorkeling along the rocky edges is excellent, and the sense of escape is unmatched. Pack a picnic and plan to stay awhile.
Honeymoon Beach lives up to its romantic name. Tucked within the Caneel Bay area, it's accessible by trail, boat, or shuttle. The beach is intimate and beautiful, with good snorkeling around the point. It feels like a secret, even when it is busy.
EXPLORING ST JOHN BEACHES BY BOAT
Here's a secret: some of the most beautiful St John USVI beaches aren't accessible by road at all. They're tucked into quiet coves and protected bays that you can only reach by water.
When you explore by sailboat, the whole island opens up. We can anchor in a sheltered bay where you're the only people on the beach, swim to shore through water so clear you can count the fish below you, and spend the afternoon in complete tranquility.
Plus, boat access means you can visit multiple beaches in a single day. Start the morning at a quiet cove for swimming, sail to a great snorkeling spot mid-day, and finish with a beach known for its spectacular sunset views. It's the best way to experience everything the top beaches in St John have to offer.
Tips for Enjoying St John's Beaches
Arrive early. (or late, see captain’s tip) Parking at popular beaches fills up fast, especially during peak season. Getting there in the early morning gives you the best selection of spots and generally calmer conditions.
*Captain’s tip: Late night in Cruz Bay? Head out to the beach between 12-1pm. A lot of families head home for lunch and you are now well rested and ready to take their parking spot!
Bring reef-safe sunscreen. It's the law in the USVI, and it protects the coral reefs and marine life that make these beaches so special.
*Captain’s tip: TSA friendly sunscreen won’t last your whole trip. Leave it behind and grab some on island - and you know it’s reef-safe and legal in the VI! Chelsea Pharmacy, above Starfish Market always has a great selection.
Pack it in, pack it out. Many beaches have limited or no trash facilities. Leave nothing behind but footprints.
Bring snorkel gear. Almost every beach on St. John has something worth seeing underwater. Even basic equipment opens up a whole new world.
*Captain’s tip: Skip the full face masks, they are not the safest option.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Beach?
With so many incredible St John USVI beaches to explore, the hardest part is choosing where to go first. Whether you're drawn to the famous shores of Trunk Bay, the sea turtles of Maho, or the hidden coves only accessible by water, St. John has a beach that's perfect for you.
Join Cimarron Yacht Charter for a day of beach-hopping the way it was meant to be done - by sail. We'll take you to beaches that take your breath away, drop anchor in the coves that feel like your own private discovery, and make sure you experience the very best this island has to offer. Contact us to plan your St. John adventure now!