One of the most beautiful national parks in the U.S., Virgin Islands National Park is always magical, regardless of the time of the year. It is home to some of the most gorgeous beaches, hidden coves, and plenty of snorkeling and scuba diving spots. One can choose from a wide range of fun activities, including exploring historic landmarks, paddleboarding, kayaking, and hiking. Visiting this national park is incredibly magical, and allows vacationers to create unforgettable memories. Here are the 10 reasons beach lovers have to visit this national park.
Accommodations recommended in this list are based on research regarding Virgin Islands National Park. These beaches are located near some of the best hotels, including the US Virgin Islands' resorts. Each hotel is designed with incredible services and amenities that make it stand out from the rest. Before booking a hotel room, one should call the management to verify the details.
10 Salomon Beach, A Secluded Stretch Of Sand On The North Shore Of Saint John
Salomon Beach is one of the reasons beach lovers enjoy visiting the beautiful Virgin Islands National Park. It is one of the most breathtaking and secluded beaches in the park, making it a perfect choice for tourists looking for a quieter experience away from crowds. Whether visiting as a family, for a solo vacation, or as a couple, one can never go wrong with exploring Salomon Beach. Getting there is easy, and there are three incredible options to choose from. One can hike the Lind Point Trail from the Visitor Center, the North Shore Road from the National Park sign, or the Lind Point Trail from Honeymoon Beach. Alexandra Cottage In Cruz Bay offers an amazing getaway for couples looking for a romantic experience.
Visitors should be prepared for the lack of amenities like lifeguards and restrooms on this beach. Rentals are also not available, which means one will have to bring their own equipment if planning to enjoy watersports, like snorkeling and paddleboarding.
- Accommodation: Alexandra Cottage In Cruz Bay
- Amenities: Adults only, Kitchen, Terrace/Patio, Air-conditioned
9 Honeymoon Beach, A Perfect Beach Getaway With A Remote Experience
Honeymoon Beach is suitable for vacationers looking for a remote experience and is a beloved option for many local visitors. Its remote position means it is not always as crowded as other beaches, giving a quiet and relaxing experience, thanks to the incredible amenities, such as a small shop where tourists can buy souvenirs, a delicious restaurant, restrooms, and a bar, one can enjoy spending a whole day here. Snorkel gear, paddle boards, and lounge chairs are available for rentals. Located in the heart of St John's, Palmetto At Grande Bay offers an epic stay and a gorgeous view of Cruz Bay.
- Accommodation: Palmetto At Grande Bay - Best View In Cruz Bay
- Amenities: Outdoor pool, Kitchen, Air-conditioned, Washing machine
8 Cinnamon Bay Beach: Suitable For Families
Famous for being St John’s longest beach, Cinnamon Bay Beach is an incredible stretch of sand with amazing facilities, such as cottages, camping, showers, restrooms, and access to watersport facilities, including rentals. The beach stretches for half a mile, and since it has plenty of space to roam around and shallow waters, Cinnamon Bay Beach is one of the best family beach destinations in the U.S. Some of the fun activities to enjoy include kiteboarding, snorkeling, windsurfing, and paddleboarding. Reserve a spot at Papaya Suite at Sunset Serenade for comfortable accommodation and a chance to catch magnificent views of Cruz Bay!
- Accommodation: Papaya Suite at Sunset Serenade
- Amenities: Kitchen, Air-conditioned, Coffee machine, Grill
7 Hawksnest Bay Beach, A Pristine Beach With A Dramatic Coastline
A portion of Hawksnest Bay, Hawksnest Bay Beach is one of the most pristine beaches in St. John. It is known to have a dramatic coastline, sea grapes that offer shade to visitors, and offers incredible access to Cruz Bay because it’s the nearest beach to the bay. It has plenty of space for parking and features changing rooms, restrooms, and picnic tables, allowing for memorable picnicking experiences for travelers. Since Hawksnest Beach is not as protected as other beaches in St John, vacationers will encounter a bit of surf during their visit. Grande Bay Resort – Aahana 1br Condo is located above Cruz Bay and offers a breathtaking view of the harbor and St. Thomas.
- Accommodation: Grande Bay Resort- Aahana 1br Condo
- Amenities: Pool, Kitchen, Balcony, Air-conditioned
Swimming and snorkeling in Hawksnest Beach can be fun, but it is advisable to go with someone. This is because it can experience larger waves and strong currents, depending on the weather conditions and moon phase. Always check the weather forecast before deciding to enjoy watersports at the beach.
6 Denis Bay, A Small, Secluded Stretch Of Sand, Only Accessible By Boat Or On Foot
Visiting Denis Bay is one of the best things to do in Virgin Islands National Park. It is among the most beautiful secluded beaches in the park and comes with a small parking area at the trailhead. It is visited by a few people, making it an excellent choice for tourists looking for a quieter, less-crowded beach vacation experience in the Virgin Islands. The beach is located only a 10-minute stroll away from the parking lot and covers a distance of 0.45 miles. Stay at Suite 6, Largest Suite, part of Marketplace Suites, right in the heart of Cruz Bay.
- Accommodation: Suite 6 Largest Suite!
- Amenities: Kitchen, Wi-Fi, Air-conditioned, Coffee machine
5 Trunk Bay Beach, A Long, Wide Stretch Of Sand With Incredible Amenities
Always considered one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, Trunk Bay Beach is stunning, and no visit to Virgin Islands National Park can be complete without spending some time here. One of the beach’s most magnificent features is the Coral Reef Underwater Park Trail, a snorkeling trail that leads tourists to some of the most colorful marine life. It takes between half an hour and 60 minutes to explore this trail, which means one should be well-prepared and be able to swim that long. The trail is well-marked, with underwater signs showing snorkelers different marine creatures as they swim. Reserve a spot at Aahana Studio at Grande Bay Resort, seated right above Cruz Bay, and one of the best hotels in St John’s US Virgin Island that offer a serene hideaway.
- Accommodation: Aahana Studio at Grande Bay Resort
- Amenities: Pool, Kitchen, Air-conditioned, Balcony
4 Spending Some Time At Maho Bay Beach Is A Must
Maho Bay Beach is a long stretch of beach offering plenty of fun things to do during a visit to the Virgin Islands, but since it is a popular beach, vacationers can expect crowds. Since it is very long, there is plenty of space, but the western end is the best spot to be, especially if one is looking to stay closer to the food trucks and tiki bar. One of the most fun things to do on the beach is kayaking to Whistling Bay, and there are kayak rentals. Paddleboarding and snorkeling are other things not to miss here. Hibiscus Suite at Sunset Serenade is an apartment suite with a large bedroom that comes with incredible features, including air-conditioning.
- Accommodation: Hibiscus Suite at Sunset Serenade
- Amenities: Kitchen, Balcony, Air-conditioned, Washing machine
3 Francis Bay Beach, A Popular Beach Suitable For Families
Francis Bay Beach is one of the top beaches for families and offers something for everyone. It provides amazing swimming and snorkeling experiences. It is an excellent option for travelers who prefer a hidden spot because it’s not as crowded as other beaches in the park and around. Vacationers can snorkel at any spot on the beach, but the eastern part offers the most impressive experience. Francis Bay Beach is one of the reasons beach lovers visit Virgin Islands National Park, and it guarantees unforgettable experiences. Ginger Thomas Villa in Cruz Bay, one of the best places to stay in St Thomas for an unforgettable Sojourn, offers an epic stay with gorgeous views of Cruz Bay and St Thomas.
- Accommodation: Ginger Thomas Villa in Cruz Bay
- Amenities: Private pool, Kitchen, Terrace/Patio, Air-conditioned
2 Little Lameshur Bay And Beach, A Perfect Snorkeling Spot
Little Lameshur Beach is a very magnificent beach that receives fewer visitors. People love it for its secluded-off-the-beaten-path position and offers a beautiful space to spend a day relaxing by the beach or snorkeling. One can choose to hike one of the trails in the park or explore the sugar mill ruins. The beach features soft sand with rocky outcroppings, which makes it a more spectacular snorkeling destination than Greater Lameshur Beach. To visit this beach, having a 4x4 vehicle is a must! Stay at Bogie’s Villa, a 6-unit complex with two buildings.
- Accommodation: Bogie's Villa, Calf Rock
- Amenities: Adults only, Pool, Air-conditioned, Washing machine
1 Great Lameshur Beach, A Rocky Stretch Of Sand
Located right next to Little Lameshur Beach, Great Lameshur Beach is stunning but rocky. The beach is a great option for lonely people seeking some time away from crowds and tourists looking for a relaxing getaway. The beach is easily accessible and free to explore, with many activities to choose from, including sunbathing and swimming. Parking is available right on the beach. It is not always crowded and remains hidden, even during the high tourism season. Reserve Limetree Cottage at Chocolate Hole, perfect for travelers looking for privacy and fascinating views of Hart Bay.
- Accommodation: Limetree Cottage At Chocolate Hole
- Amenities: Mountain View, Kitchen, Outdoor dining area, Air-conditioned