Beach & Snorkeling Guide
St. John is home to some of the Caribbean's most beautiful beaches, from soft white-sand shores to secluded hidden coves. Here are a few of our favorites to help you make the most of your island getaway.
Cinnamon Bay
The longest white-sand beach on St. John, Cinnamon Bay is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and family beach days. Its calm, shallow waters and nearby cay make it one of the island's best spots to explore vibrant marine life, with seasonal snorkel and watersport rentals available.
Family-Friendly Beaches
Relax and enjoy the island! These beaches offer calm, shallow waters and gentle surf, making them perfect for families, young children, and swimmers.
• Maho Bay
• Cinnamon Bay
• Trunk Bay
Top Snorkeling Spots
Ready to swim with sea turtles, colorful tropical fish, and graceful rays? Explore St. John's best snorkeling destinations:
• Waterlemon Cay
• Henley Cay
• Salt Pond Bay
• Trunk Bay
• Maho Bay
Maho Bay
A family favorite with calm, shallow waters, plenty of shade, and frequent sightings of sea turtles, rays, and tropical fish. Arrive early during peak season to beat the crowds!
Hawksnest
A local favorite known for its soft sand, shady spots, and excellent snorkeling. Conditions can be a bit wavier, making it best suited for confident swimmers.
Denis Bay
A hidden gem perfect for those seeking a quieter beach experience. A short hike from the Peace Hill Trail leads to this secluded cove, where you'll find excellent snorkeling and a peaceful shoreline. Please respect the private property behind the beach and remain on the sand.
Waterlemon Cay
A snorkeling favorite featuring crystal-clear water, vibrant coral reefs, and frequent sightings of sea turtles, rays, tropical fish, and starfish.
Drunk Bay
Just beyond Salt Pond Bay, this unique coastal spot is known for its rocky shoreline and whimsical stone sculptures created by visitors. It's the perfect place for a scenic walk and to leave your own creative mark.
Gibney Beach
A peaceful, secluded beach with soft white sand, calm shallow waters, and plenty of palm-tree shade. Please respect the private property and remain on the public beach.
Lameshur Beaches
A secluded beach best reached by 4WD, offering calm, protected waters, excellent snorkeling, and a peaceful setting with white sand and shady picnic areas.
Salt Pond Beach
A favorite for swimming and snorkeling, Salt Pond Bay features calm, shallow waters and vibrant marine life. Pack a picnic and, if you're up for it, continue the scenic hike to Ram Head for breathtaking views.
Honeymoon Beach
A peaceful beach with soft white sand, calm shallow waters, and swaying palm trees. Enjoy kayak, paddleboard, and snorkel rentals, plus food and drinks at Bikini's Beach Bar & Grill.
Jumbie Beach
A quiet, secluded beach perfect for couples or anyone looking to escape the crowds. Due to stronger surf, it's not recommended for snorkeling.
Reef Bay
A secluded beach known for seasonal snorkeling and popular surf on windy days. Reach it via the scenic Reef Bay Trail or the public access path on the west side of the bay.
Trunk Bay
St. John's most iconic beach, featuring crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and an underwater snorkeling trail. Amenities include snorkel rentals, a snack bar, restrooms, and lifeguards, making it perfect for families and beach lovers.
