Trunk Bay

Trunk Bay is St. John’s most magnificent beach, and by extension, its most popular. The bay is a vision of fluffy white sand, sea grape trees, and coconut palms. Trunk Cay, just offshore, is a tiny island of rocky cliffs, tufted by hearty palm trees. The National Park Service maintains an underwater snorkel trail alongside the cay, which is good for beginners. The extensive facilities—lifeguards, bathrooms, showers, a snack bar, gift shop, and telephones—are open daily from 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Park rangers lead a weekly snorkel tour of Trunk Bay for experienced snorkelers every Tuesday. The group usually meets at the Trunk Bay lifeguard station at 9:30 a.m., but call the NPS Visitor Center (340/776-6201) to confirm.

Trunk Bay is the only beach on St. John that you must pay to enter. The National Park Service collects $4 per person (under 17 free) 9 a.m.–4 p.m. If you save your entry ticket, you won’t have to pay at the Annaberg Ruins (or vice versa) on the same day.

Trunk Bay is often mobbed, because it is the most popular stop for organized day trips from St. Thomas and the cruise ships. To avoid the crowds come early or late, but do come—this is what Caribbean beach dreams are made of.