Trunk Bay
The basics
Located within the Virgin Islands National Park, Trunk Bay attracts crowds of tourists, especially cruise ship passengers. In addition to the coconut palms and white sand beach, visitors are drawn to the bay because of its snorkeling. You can rent equipment, if you didn’t bring your own, to explore or book a guided boat or land tour that includes snorkeling. Private charters are also available. In the late afternoon, stick around for a picturesque tropical sunset.
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Things to know before you go
- A snack bar, souvenir shop, restrooms, and showers are on site at Trunk Bay.
- The western end of Trunk Bay is generally less crowded.
- There is a scenic overlook on the way from Cruz Bay where you can stop to snap photos of Trunk Bay.
- For more aquatic activities and the island’s biggest swells, head to nearby Cinnamon Bay.
How to get there
Trunk Bay is on St. John’s north shore, a few minutes’ drive from Cruz Bay, where ferries arrive from St. Thomas. From Cruz Bay, take Route 20 for about 2.5 miles (4 kilometers). An entry fee applies during the day, but this gives you access to well-maintained facilities. There is also plenty of parking here as well as taxi service.
When to get there
Trunk Bay is St. John’s most visited beach, so expect to encounter large crowds, especially when cruise ships are docked at the port in Charlotte Amalie on St. Thomas. (Check the Virgin Islands cruise ship schedule for info on that.) If you venture west, away from the beach entrances and the snorkeling trail, you’ll find fewer beachgoers and more space.
Virgin Islands National Park
Providing protection for fish, coral, marine life, and tropical and migrating birds, this stretch of preserved wilderness, known as the Virgin Islands National Park, covers most of St. John. In addition to snorkeling, the national park includes hiking trails that traverse the island and pass by historic sites like the spooky ruins of the Annaberg Plantation.