Hansen Bay Beach, Cooper Island Travel Guide

4.7 (238)

Discover a tranquil St. John escape at Hansen Bay Beach: soft sands, calm waters, and vibrant snorkeling on the island's serene East End.

Hansen Bay Beach, nestled on St. John's East End, offers a tranquil escape with soft sands, calm waters, and excellent snorkeling. Privately owned but open to the public, it's a favorite for its uncrowded atmosphere and natural beauty.

A brief summary to Hansen Bay Beach

Parcel 6ab Hansen Bay, St. John, St John, 00830, VI
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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 no facilities currently available at the beach.
Snorkel around Pelican Rock on the left side of the beach for the best chance to see diverse marine life.
Arrive early to enjoy a less crowded experience.

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Explore Hansen Bay Beach on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Hansen Bay Beach, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From Cruz Bay, head southeast on Route 20 towards Coral Bay. Continue for about 6 miles until the intersection with Route 10. Turn left onto Route 10 and follow it for about 2 miles. Look for signs for Hansen Bay Beach and turn right onto the road leading to the beach. Parking is available near the beach. There are no parking fees.
Public Transport

From Cruz Bay, take a taxi towards Hansen Bay Beach. The ride takes about 20 minutes. Alternatively, take the local bus towards Coral Bay and ask the driver to drop you off at the junction for Hansen Bay Beach, from where it is a short walk to the beach. Taxi fare from Cruz Bay to Hansen Bay is approximately $20-$30.

Discover more about Hansen Bay Beach

Hansen Bay Beach, situated on the eastern end of St. John, is a hidden gem known for its serene atmosphere and natural beauty. This secluded spot, past Cruz Bay and Coral Bay, offers a peaceful retreat away from the crowds. The beach features soft, white sand and calm, clear waters, making it ideal for swimming and relaxation.Snorkeling is a popular activity at Hansen Bay, with opportunities to spot turtles, rays, and colorful fish. Pelican Rock, located off the left side of the beach, is a prime snorkeling spot with diverse marine life. The bay's protected location ensures calm waters, perfect for both novice and experienced snorkelers.Hansen Bay is privately owned and has been managed by a local family for decades. While there's no fee to access the beach, donations are appreciated to help maintain its beauty. Although Vie's Snack Shack, a long-time fixture, is now closed, Hansen Bay continues to offer an authentic St. John experience. Remember to bring your own food and drinks, as there are no facilities currently available.To reach Hansen Bay, take Route 20 from Cruz Bay towards Coral Bay, then follow the signs to the East End. The drive is scenic, passing landmarks like the Moravian Church, Donkey Diner, and Skinny Legs. Hansen Bay provides a tranquil escape and a chance to connect with St. John's natural beauty.