The BEST beaches St John, US Virgin Islands

Imagine stepping onto the soft, powdery sands of a picturesque crescent-shaped beach, where the sun’s golden rays dance on the shimmering turquoise waters. Explore the post-card-worthy beaches of St John, US Virgin Islands, where every beach is a little slice of paradise waiting to be explored.  

Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, St. John stands out as a gem among island destinations. For those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, this island paradise offers an irresistible combination of natural beauty, serene beaches, and vibrant marine life. I must admit that St. John holds a special place in my heart as one of my favorite destinations for a sun-soaked getaway.

What Makes St. John Unique

What sets St. John apart is its commitment to preserving its natural beauty, with over sixty percent of the island designated as a National Park. Here, you’ll find untouched wilderness, secluded coves, and a sense of tranquility that’s hard to come by elsewhere. 

On St. John, you won’t find large resorts or high-rises but homes and cottages tucked away in the hills. Also, there is no airport in St. John. However, the island is still easily accessible and just a twenty-minute ferry ride from St. Thomas.  

So, if you’re like me and love beaches and nature, but the mere thought of sitting elbow to elbow on a crowded beach makes you break out in hives, then St. John is for you! Each St. John beach has unique charm and allure, from powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters to lush green surroundings. It simply comes down to what you enjoy! We love to snorkel and prefer a laid-back, less crowded beach, but if that’s not your thing, I promise there will be a beach or two in this list that will be perfect for YOU.

Best Beaches St John

Maho Bay

I can’t resist starting with one of my favorite St. John beaches- Maho Bay.

Maho Bay should be on your list, too, if you’re seeking a serene and laid-back beach experience. Known for its calm waters and majestic sea turtles, Maho Bay is a favorite for snorkelers. With the option to paddleboard in the calm, clear waters, Maho Bay provides the perfect setting for both relaxation and adventure.

Maho Bay offers a serene retreat away from the hustle and bustle of more popular beaches, but it still attracts a crowd. If you’re hoping to avoid the crowds, arrive by 10 a.m. and park in the lot at the east end of the beach. It’s the perfect location to avoid the crowds, snorkel, and snag a spot under one of the coveted shade trees.

Lunch Tip: Depending on the time of year, Maho Crossroads has a food truck and bar. Alternatively, we love ordering sandwiches from North Shore Deli in Cruz Bay and enjoying a picnic lunch.

Trunk Bay

Trunk Bay stands as a testament to nature’s unparalleled beauty, consistently ranking among the world’s most breathtaking beaches. As part of the island’s National Park, Trunk Bay boasts a stunning shoreline and an underwater snorkeling trail teeming with marine life. While snorkeling visibility may vary depending on the time of year, the sheer splendor of Trunk Bay’s landscape is guaranteed to leave you in awe.

Photo Tip: As you approach Trunk Bay from Cruz Bay, use the pull-off to capture the iconic image for yourself.

Salt Pond Bay

As you leave Coral Bay and head towards the island’s southern coast, Salt Pond Bay beckons to the adventurous soul who prefers a more off-the-beaten-path experience. Accessible via a scenic hike, this secluded bay offers unparalleled opportunities for exploration and discovery. 

The hike to Salt Pond Bay is half a mile, but if you are looking for a hiking adventure, continue on the trail past the bay and hike Rams Head, the easternmost point of the island. Enjoy unparalleled views of the area and the British Virgin Islands from Ram’s Head. 

If you’re a snorkeler, the rocks along the perimeter of Salt Pond Bay are great for snorkeling. Look for sea turtles, rays, and starfish in the middle of the bay, where the seagrass is prominent.  

Snorkeling Tip: The rocky sides of the bay provide the best snorkeling. Advanced snorkelers can swim to the rocks in the middle of the bay, where the sea life and coral are excellent. However, this is a long swim, so I suggest a flotation device for added safety measures. Read my “Best Snorkel Locations on St. John” blog to learn more. 

Gibney Beach

Staying on the theme of off-the-beaten-path beaches, Gibney Beach is idyllic and a great stop if you’d like to feel you’re on a deserted beach. Located just past Hawksnest Beach, Gibney Beach (also known as Oppenheimer) is easy to miss. With limited parking and just a small trail to the beach, you might miss it if you blink.

Gibney Beach boasts a soft white sand beach lined with coconut palms. With just a scattering of people (if any), Gibney Beach feels like your own paradise.

Other popular beaches of St. John

Cinnamon Bay

Adjacent to Trunk Bay lies another captivating shoreline – Cinnamon Bay. Truth be told, the last time we were at Cinnamon Bay, it was incredibly windy. So much so that the sand was whipping around, and we cut our visit short. However, this beach is a favorite among families and water sports enthusiasts, offering various activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing. With its gentle waves and serene ambiance, Cinnamon Bay is an excellent spot for relaxation and picnicking.

Hawksnest Bay

As you venture further from Cruz Bay along the north shore of St. John, you come across Hawksnest Bay. Its intimate and picturesque setting makes it a preferred destination for couples seeking a romantic retreat. With its pristine waters and lush greenery, Hawksnest Bay creates an atmosphere for sunbathing and immersing yourself in the serenity of the surroundings.

Honeymoon Beach

Lastly, Honeymoon Beach is a must-visit for those who enjoy a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Accessible by boat or a short hike, this secluded beach is part of the now-closed Caneel Bay Resort, destroyed by Hurricane Irma in 2017. Until 2022, a private company continued to operate a bar, watersports, and chair rentals at Honeymoon Beach, but that is closed, too, as plans are in the works to revive the once-famous resort.

Best Beaches St John – Final Thoughts

As you can see, St. John is a tropical paradise with many beautiful beaches. Each shoreline has its unique personality and allure, offering something special for everyone.

So, pack your swimsuits, snorkel gear, and a sense of adventure, and get ready to discover the beaches of St. John, USVI. Your dream tropical getaway awaits!

Save to Pinterest: