Caneel Bay: A Reborn Paradise
Discover the natural beauty and rich history of Caneel Bay, St. John – a Caribbean paradise reborn for all to enjoy.
Caneel Bay, located within Virgin Islands National Park on St. John, is a stunning destination reborn for public enjoyment. Once a luxurious resort developed by Laurance Rockefeller, the area boasts pristine beaches, clear waters, and a rich history, now accessible for all to experience.
A brief summary to Caneel Bay
- Cruz Bay, Caneel Bay, St John, VI
Local tips
- Bring your own snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant marine life in Caneel Bay's clear waters.
- Arrive early to secure parking, as the lots can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking to the beach and exploring the historical ruins.
- Pack a lunch and plenty of water, as there are limited food and beverage options currently available.
- Respect the designated public areas and avoid entering closed-off sections due to safety risks.
Getting There
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Ferry
From St. Thomas, take a ferry to Cruz Bay, St. John. Ferries depart from Red Hook and Charlotte Amalie. The Red Hook ferry is more frequent, running hourly and the journey takes approximately 20 minutes. The Charlotte Amalie ferry is seasonal and the journey is approximately 45 minutes. From Cruz Bay, Caneel Bay is a short taxi or car ride away. Ferry costs: * Red Hook to Cruz Bay: Adult one-way $8.15 (non-resident) * Charlotte Amalie to Cruz Bay: Adult one-way $13.00 (non-resident) * Taxi from Cruz Bay to Caneel Bay: Approximately $10 - $15.
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Car
From Cruz Bay, head north on North Shore Road (Route 20). The entrance to Caneel Bay is a short drive. Follow the signs to the designated public parking lots. From the parking lot, follow the cleared path to Caneel Bay Beach. Parking at Caneel Bay is free.
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Taxi
From Cruz Bay, taxis are readily available. Ask the driver to take you to Caneel Bay Beach. The taxi will drop you off at the entrance, where you can walk to the beach. Taxis from Cruz Bay to Caneel Bay typically cost $10 - $15.
Discover more about Caneel Bay
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Trunk Cay, United States Virgin Islands
2.2 km
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Catherineberg Estate Ruins
2.5 km
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Lovango Cay, U.S. Virgin Islands
3.1 km
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Cinnamon Bay Plantation Ruins
3.3 km
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Virgin Islands National Park
3.6 km
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Cinnamon Bay Trail
3.7 km
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Whistling Cay, United States Virgin Islands
4.3 km
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Reef Bay Sugar Mill Ruins
4.6 km
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St John
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Annaberg Sugar Plantation
6.2 km
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Thatch Cay, U.S. Virgin Islands
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Little Thatch
8.5 km
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Steele Point Estate
9.1 km
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Omar's Fusion
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VOYAGE Charters
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Unmissable attractions to see
Honeymoon Beach
0.7 km
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Hawksnest Beach
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Caneel Bay Beach Club
0.7 km
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Caneel Bay Beach
0.7 km
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Oppenheimer Beach
1.0 km
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Turtle Bay Beach
1.1 km
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Turtle Bay
1.3 km
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St John Experience Gallery
1.3 km
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Bajo el Sol Gallery, Art Bar Cafe & Rum Shop
1.3 km
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Parasail Virgin Islands
1.4 km
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Virgin Islands National Park Service Headquarters
1.4 km
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Cruz Bay Visitor Center
1.4 km
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Lind Point Trail
1.4 km
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Essential places to dine
Ekaete Pink Corner
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Lime Out VI
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Patricias Beach Bar
10.5 km
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Ocean Seven Too
11.5 km
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Claude’s Big Stop Restaurant & Bar
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Long Bay Beach Resort
11.8 km
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1748 Restaurant
12.0 km
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Tropical Fusion Beach Bar And Grill
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A&B Bar and Restaurant
12.1 km
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Tipsy Shark
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Corsairs Beach Bar & Restaurant
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Ali Baba's
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Cool Breeze Sports Bar & Restaurant
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Harris' Place
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Sidney's Peace & Love
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
VI National Park Store
1.4 km
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Riteway Harbour Market
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BVI Island Surf and Sail
10.0 km
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Harbor Market
10.0 km
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Coco Loco
11.5 km
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BVI Adenture
11.5 km
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Sugar & Spice Snack Bar
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Jost Van Dyke Scuba
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Rudy's Marketplace
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Foxy's Giftshop
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Foxy's, Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands
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JVD Grocery
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Christine's Bakery
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By Isah Chinnery
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Bubbly Pool
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Windmill Bar
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West End
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Admiral's Bar
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Nigel’s Boom Boom Beach Bar & Grill
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Coco Locos
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