10 Awesome Beaches on St. John USVI

MayOctoberTraveling Tips, US VIRGIN ISLANDS Lauren

St. John is an island paradise located in the US Virgin Islands. It’s numerous stunning beaches are what keeps us coming back year after year. Here are my top 10 favorite beaches on St John USVI:

1. Trunk Bay Beach

Located on the North Shore, Trunk Bay Beach is one of the most popular beaches on St. John. It boasts crystal clear water and a stunning underwater snorkeling trail. It’s also one of the few beaches that has restrooms, showers, a snack bar, and a gift shop. Parking can fill up quick, so get there early. Otherwise, you can park in Cruz Bay and take the shuttle. Here is a link to all the details on the Shuttle Service and tips for getting around St. John.

2. Cinnamon Bay Beach

Also located on the North Shore, Cinnamon Bay Beach is a great spot for swimming, kayaking, and paddle-boarding. Rentals are available near the restrooms and Snack Bar. The bay has a long stretch of white sand and plenty of shade for those looking to escape the sun. And right across the street from the parking lot, there are the Cinnamon Bay Plantation ruins and trail. Super fun to explore!

3. Maho Bay – My favorite! Best Beaches on St. John!

Located on the island’s North Shore, Maho Bay Beach is a popular spot for families with young children. Its calm waters and gentle waves make it a great place for swimming, paddle-boarding and snorkeling. There are also restrooms, food trucks, and kayak and paddleboard rentals right across the street from the beach! Check out my Instagram video of me almost stepping onto a STING RAY in the shallow waters of this beach! If this won’t make you want to book a flight, I don’t know what will! 🙂

4. Hawksnest Bay Beach

Another popular North Shore beach, Hawksnest Bay Beach is known for its calm waters and soft sand. You do have to hike for a short distance from the small parking lot. The hike is not very long or difficult, and the beach is well worth the effort. But if you are traveling with little kids, just know that is something to consider.

5. Francis Bay Beach

Located on the island’s North Shore, Francis Bay Beach is a secluded spot with calm waters and plenty of shade. The beach has restrooms, picnic tables, and a decent size parking lot for visitors. There are also lifeguards on duty for added safety.

6. Salt Pond Bay Beach

Located on the island’s South Shore, Salt Pond Bay Beach is a popular beach due to it’s a stunning coral reef. It does require a bit of hiking to get to it, but the hike is not very strenuous and is worth it for the secluded beach experience. From the parking lot, visitors need to hike along a rugged trail for about 10 to 15 minutes.

7. Lameshur Bay Beach

Also located on the island’s South Shore, Lameshur Bay Beach is a secluded spot with calm waters and plenty of shade. The beach is a mix of sand and pebbles with some rocky areas (seen below). It’s a great spot to escape the crowds and enjoy the island’s natural beauty.

8. Little Cinnamon Bay Beach

Located next to Cinnamon Bay Beach on the North Shore, Little Cinnamon Bay Beach is a smaller, more secluded spot. You need to take a hiking trail from the parking lot at Cinnamon Bay Beach. The trail is about a 10-15 minute hike and is moderately difficult with some steep sections. Once you reach Little Cinnamon Bay, you’ll be rewarded with a quiet and secluded beach that is great for swimming and snorkeling.

9. Haulover Bay- Best Beaches on St. John

Haulover Bay in St. John is known for its excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. The bay has a vibrant coral reef system that’s home to a variety of marine life, including colorful fish and sea turtles. The water is generally calm and clear, making it an ideal spot for underwater exploration.

10. Honeymoon Beach

To get to Honeymoon Beaches on St. John, you can drive to Caneel Bay Resort and from there, you hike the Lind Point Trail to reach Honeymoon Beach. Alternatively, you can take a water taxi or rent your own boat in Cruz Bay, which was what we did. Renting our own boat in Cruz Bay was one of the highlights of our latest vacation in St. John. It gave us the freedom to find secluded little beaches all around the island, and Honeymoon beach was one of our favorites!

Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot to relax or a popular beach with plenty of amenities, St John USVI has something for everyone. Be sure to check out these top 10 beaches on your next visit to the island!

Happy and Safe Travels!