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Hansen Bay Beach, Beef Island Travel Guide

4.7 (238)

Discover a secluded paradise on St. John: Hansen Bay Beach offers calm waters, excellent snorkeling, and a tranquil escape on the island's East End.

Hansen Bay Beach, nestled on the eastern end of St. John, is a serene and secluded paradise. Known for its soft white sands, calm turquoise waters, and excellent snorkeling, it's the perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of the Virgin Islands.

A brief summary to Hansen Bay Beach

Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Hansen Bay Beach.

  • Bring your own food and drinks, as there are limited facilities available at the beach.
  • Pack your snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant underwater world and marine life in the bay.
  • Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter, less crowded beach experience.
  • Consider renting a car to easily access Hansen Bay and other attractions on St. John.

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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Cruz Bay, take Route 20 (North Shore Road) or Centerline Road toward Coral Bay. Continue through Coral Bay, past the Moravian Church, Donkey Diner, and Skinny Legs. Follow the winding road to the East End. Look for a large Tamarind tree that splits the road. Hansen Bay Beach will be on your right. Parking is available near the beach. There are no parking fees.

  • Taxi

    From Cruz Bay, taxis are readily available. Request a taxi to Hansen Bay Beach on St. John's East End. The taxi ride is approximately 20 minutes. Taxi fares vary depending on the number of passengers and destination, expect to pay around $20-$30 USD.

Discover more about Hansen Bay Beach

Hansen Bay Beach, located on the remote East End of St. John, offers a tranquil escape from the more crowded beaches on the island. This idyllic spot features soft, white sand and calm, clear waters, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The bay is protected from large waves, ensuring a relaxing experience for visitors of all ages.Snorkeling is a popular activity at Hansen Bay, with vibrant marine life and coral formations just off the shore. Pelican Rock, located on the left side of the beach, is a particularly great spot for snorkeling, offering an abundance of fish and sea creatures. Keep an eye out for turtles, rays, and various tropical fish that frequent the bay.Hansen Bay Beach is privately owned but open to the public. While Vie's Snack Shack, a long-time fixture that offered food, drinks, and beach access for a small fee, is now closed, Hansen Bay remains a welcoming destination. Visitors can still enjoy the beach, with parking available nearby. Remember to bring your own refreshments and beach gear, as facilities are limited.The beach has been in the same family for generations, since 1716. The family welcomes donations to help keep the beach well-maintained. Hansen Bay is dog-friendly.
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