Caneel Bay: A Reborn Paradise
Discover the pristine beauty and rich history of Caneel Bay, St. John, where turquoise waters meet the remnants of a bygone era.
Caneel Bay, located within Virgin Islands National Park on St. John, is emerging from the devastation of past hurricanes. Once the site of a luxurious resort founded by Laurance Rockefeller, it's now a public beach offering a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, with access to pristine sands and the ruins of a Danish sugar plantation.
A brief summary to Caneel Bay
- Cruz Bay, Caneel Bay, St John, VI
Local tips
- Bring your snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant underwater world of Caneel Bay, known for its diverse marine life.
- Arrive early to secure parking, especially during peak season, as the three public lots can fill up quickly.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the short walk from the parking area to the beach, and consider bringing sun protection.
- Take a moment to view the Durloo Sugar Plantation ruins, offering a glimpse into St. John's history.
Getting There
-
Taxi
From Cruz Bay, taxis are readily available. A taxi ride to the entrance of Caneel Bay takes approximately 5 minutes. The taxi will drop you off at the entrance, from where you can walk to Caneel Bay Beach. Taxi fares typically range from $10-15.
-
Public Transport
While there isn't direct public transport to Caneel Bay, safari buses/taxis run regularly along the North Shore Road. You can catch one from Cruz Bay and ask to be dropped off at the Caneel Bay entrance. From there, it's a short walk to the beach. Safari bus/taxi fares range from $6-12 per person.
-
Walking
Walking from Cruz Bay is possible but not recommended due to the distance and limited sidewalks along the road. It's approximately a 30-45 minute walk. However, once you reach the Caneel Bay entrance, the walk to the beach is a pleasant 5-minute stroll.
Discover more about Caneel Bay
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Trunk Cay, United States Virgin Islands
2.2 km
Explore the underwater wonders of Trunk Cay, a stunning islet in St. John's famed Trunk Bay, offering an unforgettable snorkeling experience.
Catherineberg Estate Ruins
2.5 km
Discover the enchanting remnants of Catherineberg Estate Ruins in St. John, where history meets breathtaking Caribbean views.
Lovango Cay, U.S. Virgin Islands
3.1 km
Discover Lovango Cay: A luxurious private island escape in the US Virgin Islands, offering pristine beaches, vibrant reefs, and upscale amenities.
Cinnamon Bay Plantation Ruins
3.3 km
Step back in time at Cinnamon Bay Plantation Ruins, exploring St. John's captivating history and the echoes of its sugar-producing past.
Virgin Islands National Park
3.6 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich history of Virgin Islands National Park on St. John, a tropical paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Cinnamon Bay Trail
3.7 km
Hike through history amidst tropical beauty on St. John's Cinnamon Bay Trail, where sugar plantation ruins meet breathtaking island views.
Whistling Cay, United States Virgin Islands
4.3 km
Discover the enchanting Whistling Cay, a serene island paradise in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where pristine beaches and vibrant marine life await.
Reef Bay Sugar Mill Ruins
4.6 km
Explore the enchanting Reef Bay Sugar Mill Ruins and immerse yourself in the historical charm and natural beauty of St. John in the US Virgin Islands.
St John
5.9 km
Experience the serene beauty and vibrant culture of St. John, the jewel of the U.S. Virgin Islands, featuring stunning beaches and lush landscapes.
Annaberg Sugar Plantation
6.2 km
Explore the historic Annaberg Sugar Plantation in St. John, US Virgin Islands, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Caribbean.
Thatch Cay, U.S. Virgin Islands
7.6 km
Discover Thatch Cay: An unspoiled Caribbean island offering pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and a tranquil escape just off St. Thomas.
Little Thatch
8.5 km
Escape to Little Thatch Island in the British Virgin Islands for pristine beaches, tranquil waters, and a serene Caribbean getaway.
Steele Point Estate
9.1 km
Discover the ultimate group getaway at Steele Point Estate, a luxurious retreat in the British Virgin Islands with breathtaking ocean views and top-notch amenities.
Omar's Fusion
9.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean at Omar's Fusion, a top restaurant in Soper's Hole, Tortola, known for its fresh seafood and live music.
VOYAGE Charters
9.9 km
Experience the beauty of the British Virgin Islands with luxury yacht rentals at VOYAGE Charters, your gateway to unforgettable sailing adventures.
Unmissable attractions to see
Honeymoon Beach
0.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Honeymoon Beach in Caneel Bay, St. John, where pristine sands meet crystal-clear waters for an unforgettable tropical escape.
Hawksnest Beach
0.7 km
Discover Hawksnest Beach in St. John: a scenic and accessible beach with calm waters, excellent snorkeling, and convenient amenities for a perfect Caribbean getaway.
Caneel Bay Beach Club
0.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Caneel Bay Beach Club in St. John, a perfect escape for relaxation and adventure amidst stunning Caribbean landscapes.
Caneel Bay Beach
0.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Caneel Bay Beach, a tropical paradise in St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Oppenheimer Beach
1.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of Oppenheimer Beach in St. John, a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Turtle Bay Beach
1.1 km
Discover the tranquility of Turtle Bay Beach, a serene public beach in St. John, US Virgin Islands, perfect for relaxation, swimming, and snorkeling.
Turtle Bay
1.3 km
Discover the tranquility and beauty of Turtle Bay, a hidden gem in St. John, USVI, perfect for snorkeling and serene beach days.
St John Experience Gallery
1.3 km
Explore the vibrant artistic expressions of St. John at the St. John Experience Gallery, showcasing local talent and Caribbean culture.
Bajo el Sol Gallery, Art Bar Cafe & Rum Shop
1.3 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of St. John at Bajo el Sol Gallery, where art meets culinary delights in a lively Caribbean setting.
Parasail Virgin Islands
1.4 km
Experience breathtaking views and exhilarating adventures with Parasail Virgin Islands, the ultimate parasailing destination in St. John.
Virgin Islands National Park Service Headquarters
1.4 km
Explore the gateway to the Virgin Islands National Park, where adventure, nature, and history come together in a Caribbean paradise.
Cruz Bay Visitor Center
1.4 km
Explore the natural splendor of Virgin Islands National Park at Cruz Bay Visitor Center, your essential hub for information and adventure.
Lind Point Trail
1.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lind Point Trail, a scenic hiking area in St. John, US Virgin Islands, offering stunning views and lush landscapes.
Essential places to dine
Ekaete Pink Corner
7.4 km
Discover the flavors of the Caribbean at Ekaete Pink Corner in Coral Bay - a delightful restaurant serving authentic dishes with stunning views.
Lime Out VI
7.6 km
Discover unforgettable flavors at Lime Out VI, a premier restaurant in Coral Bay offering fresh seafood and stunning ocean views.
Patricias Beach Bar
10.5 km
Discover culinary delights at Patricias Beach Bar - a tropical grill haven in the heart of the British Virgin Islands.
Ocean Seven Too
11.5 km
Experience exquisite Caribbean cuisine at Ocean Seven Too in White Bay, British Virgin Islands - where every meal is a feast for your senses.
Claude’s Big Stop Restaurant & Bar
11.5 km
Discover authentic Caribbean flavors at Claude's Big Stop Restaurant & Bar in Belle Vue - a true gem for food enthusiasts visiting the British Virgin Islands.
Long Bay Beach Resort
11.8 km
Experience luxury and tranquility at Long Bay Beach Resort in the British Virgin Islands - your perfect tropical escape.
1748 Restaurant
12.0 km
Experience exquisite Caribbean cuisine with stunning views at 1748 Restaurant in Long Bay, British Virgin Islands.
Tropical Fusion Beach Bar And Grill
12.0 km
Experience tropical flavors and breathtaking views at Tropical Fusion Beach Bar And Grill in Long Bay - a culinary gem in the British Virgin Islands.
A&B Bar and Restaurant
12.1 km
Experience the best of Caribbean cuisine at A&B Bar and Restaurant in Belle Vue - where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.
Tipsy Shark
12.1 km
Discover culinary excellence at Tipsy Shark in Belle Vue, where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views in the heart of the British Virgin Islands.
Corsairs Beach Bar & Restaurant
12.1 km
Discover Corsairs Beach Bar & Restaurant: A Culinary Oasis in Belle Vue Offering Breathtaking Views and Delicious Local Cuisine.
Ali Baba's
12.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of the British Virgin Islands at Ali Baba's Grill - where every meal is a celebration of local cuisine.
Cool Breeze Sports Bar & Restaurant
12.1 km
Savor authentic Caribbean cuisine at Cool Breeze Sports Bar & Restaurant in Great Harbor – your go-to spot for breakfast and sports!
Harris' Place
12.1 km
Discover authentic Caribbean flavors at Harris' Place in Jost Van Dyke—where every meal is a celebration of local culture and cuisine.
Sidney's Peace & Love
12.2 km
Discover Sidney's Peace & Love: A charming family-run restaurant in the British Virgin Islands offering fresh local cuisine in an inviting atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
VI National Park Store
1.4 km
Shop for unique souvenirs and support conservation efforts at the charming VI National Park Store in St. John.
Riteway Harbour Market
9.9 km
Experience the vibrant local flavors and fresh produce at Riteway Harbour Market in Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands.
BVI Island Surf and Sail
10.0 km
Experience the thrill of water sports at BVI Island Surf and Sail in the breathtaking British Virgin Islands, where adventure meets paradise.
Harbor Market
10.0 km
Discover local flavors and essential supplies at Harbor Market in Soper's Hole, your go-to supermarket in the British Virgin Islands.
Coco Loco
11.5 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Coco Loco, the ultimate beach bar in the British Virgin Islands offering stunning views and refreshing drinks.
BVI Adenture
11.5 km
Explore the best sporting goods in the British Virgin Islands at BVI Adventure, your one-stop shop for outdoor gear and equipment.
Sugar & Spice Snack Bar
11.9 km
Experience the taste of the Caribbean at Sugar & Spice Snack Bar in Belle Vue, offering a delightful grill menu with stunning coastal views.
Jost Van Dyke Scuba
12.0 km
Explore the breathtaking underwater world at Jost Van Dyke Scuba, a top diving destination in the British Virgin Islands.
Rudy's Marketplace
12.1 km
Explore the unique offerings of Rudy's Marketplace, a vibrant destination in Belle Vue, British Virgin Islands, blending shopping, dining, and local culture.
Foxy's Giftshop
12.1 km
Explore the vibrant culture of the British Virgin Islands at Foxy's Giftshop, where unique souvenirs and delicious Caribbean cuisine await.
Foxy's, Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands
12.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and Caribbean culture at Foxy's, the quintessential beachfront bar in Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands.
JVD Grocery
12.1 km
Explore JVD Grocery in Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke for an unforgettable shopping experience with local flavors and essentials.
Christine's Bakery
12.2 km
Discover a delightful bakery experience at Christine's Bakery in Belle Vue, offering fresh pastries, artisan bread, and local flavors.
By Isah Chinnery
13.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Isah Chinnery's Gift Shop in Long Bay, British Virgin Islands, capturing the spirit of island life.
Bubbly Pool
13.8 km
Experience the natural beauty and serene bubbling waters of Bubbly Pool in the British Virgin Islands, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Windmill Bar
1.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and relaxing ambiance of The Windmill Bar in Cruz Bay, a perfect stop for grill lovers and tropical drink enthusiasts alike.
West End
9.0 km
Explore the natural beauty and vibrant culture of West End, a serene peninsula in the British Virgin Islands perfect for beach lovers and adventure seekers.
Admiral's Bar
10.1 km
Experience the lively spirit of Admiral's Bar in the British Virgin Islands, where exceptional drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.
Nigel’s Boom Boom Beach Bar & Grill
10.5 km
Discover the vibrant taste of the British Virgin Islands at Nigel’s Boom Boom Beach Bar & Grill, where delicious food and stunning views await.
Coco Locos
11.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Coco Locos Beach Bar in White Bay, British Virgin Islands, where refreshing cocktails meet stunning ocean views.
