Coral Bay: St. John's Tranquil Escape
Discover Coral Bay, St. John: a tranquil harbor with rich history, stunning nature, and a laid-back island vibe away from the crowds.
Escape the crowds and discover the laid-back charm of Coral Bay, St. John. This harbor town on the island's southeastern coast offers stunning natural beauty, a close-knit community, and a glimpse into St. John's rich history as its original commercial center.
A brief summary to Coral Harbor
- Coral Bay, St John, VI
Local tips
- Rent a car, preferably a Jeep with 4WD, to explore Coral Bay and the rest of St. John comfortably. Book well in advance!
- Visit the Emmaus Moravian Church, a historical landmark that reflects the town's rich past.
- Explore the Annaberg Sugar Plantation ruins to learn about the island's colonial history and sugar production.
- Enjoy the local cuisine at Coral Bay's laid-back restaurants and bars, such as Skinny Legs and Aqua Bistro.
- Bring snorkeling gear to explore the underwater world at nearby beaches like Maho Bay and Francis Bay.
Getting There
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Driving
From Cruz Bay, the most common way to reach Coral Bay is by car. Head east on Route 10 (Centerline Road). The drive is approximately 30-40 minutes, offering scenic views along the way. Be prepared for winding roads and steep hills. Parking is generally available in Coral Bay, but can be limited during peak season. Car rentals are highly recommended on St. John, especially for exploring Coral Bay. Expect to pay around $100 or more per day for a Jeep rental.
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Public Transport
The Vitran bus offers an inexpensive way to travel from Cruz Bay to Coral Bay. The bus departs from the Cruz Bay ferry dock and travels along Centerline Road to Salt Pond Bay, with stops in Coral Bay. The fare is $1 per ride. The bus schedule can be unreliable, so it's best to check with the driver for return times. Note that the bus service does not operate on Saturdays.
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Taxi
Taxis are available from Cruz Bay to Coral Bay, but they can be expensive. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Expect to pay around $40-$60 for a one-way trip. Taxis do not regularly run to Coral Bay and must be booked in advance if a ride is needed. There is no Uber or Lyft.
Discover more about Coral Harbor
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Virgin Islands National Park
3.9 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
4.0 km
Hike through history amidst tropical beauty on St. John's Cinnamon Bay Trail, where sugar plantation ruins meet breathtaking island views.
Little Thatch
4.1 km
Escape to Little Thatch Island in the British Virgin Islands for pristine beaches, tranquil waters, and a serene Caribbean getaway.
Reef Bay Sugar Mill Ruins
4.2 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.
Cinnamon Bay Plantation Ruins
4.4 km
Step back in time at Cinnamon Bay Plantation Ruins, exploring St. John's captivating history and the echoes of its sugar-producing past.
Omar's Fusion
4.6 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
4.6 km
Experience the beauty of the British Virgin Islands with luxury yacht rentals at VOYAGE Charters, your gateway to unforgettable sailing adventures.
Arawak West End
4.6 km
Discover unique island-inspired fashion at Arawak West End, where vibrant Caribbean culture meets stylish apparel and accessories for the perfect island vibe.
Pusser's Landing
4.6 km
Discover Pusser's Landing, a vibrant pub at Soper's Hole Marina, serving Caribbean cuisine and refreshing drinks with stunning waterfront views.
Soper's Hole Wharf & Marina
4.7 km
Experience the vibrant charm of Soper's Hole Wharf & Marina, where stunning views, delicious food, and unique shopping await in the British Virgin Islands.
DAY TRIPS BVI
4.7 km
Experience the best of the British Virgin Islands with unforgettable boat tours from DAY TRIPS BVI, exploring stunning beaches and vibrant marine life.
Omar's Coffee House
4.7 km
Discover Omar's Coffee House in Soper's Hole Marina for a delightful breakfast and brunch experience paired with stunning views in the British Virgin Islands.
West End Ferry Terminal
4.9 km
Connect to paradise from Tortola's West End: your gateway to the British Virgin Islands and beyond.
Steele Point Estate
5.0 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.
Catherineberg Estate Ruins
5.1 km
Discover the enchanting remnants of Catherineberg Estate Ruins in St. John, where history meets breathtaking Caribbean views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Coral Bay
0.4 km
Discover Coral Bay, St. John: A serene escape with stunning views, rich history, and tranquil beaches away from the crowds.
Hurricane Hole
1.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Hurricane Hole, a serene bay in St. John, US Virgin Islands, ideal for kayaking, snorkeling, and unforgettable nature experiences.
Bordeaux Mountain Trail
1.8 km
Experience the breathtaking Bordeaux Mountain Trail in St. John, US Virgin Islands, where stunning views and lush landscapes await every hiker.
St John
1.8 km
Discover the serene beauty and vibrant culture of St John, the smallest and most enchanting of the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Hermitage Ruins
1.9 km
Discover the Hermitage Ruins in Coral Bay, St. John – a historical site rich with stories and surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Caribbean.
Bordeaux Mountain
2.0 km
Discover the natural beauty of Bordeaux Mountain, a stunning peak in St. John, US Virgin Islands, offering breathtaking views and unforgettable hiking experiences.
Brown Bay Trail
2.0 km
Discover St. John's hidden gem: Hike the scenic Brown Bay Trail for snorkeling, history, and stunning Caribbean views.
Lower Estate Leinster Bay Ruins
2.1 km
Explore history and breathtaking views at the Lower Estate Leinster Bay Ruins, a captivating historical site in St. John, US Virgin Islands.
Annaberg Sugar Plantation
2.7 km
Experience the captivating history and stunning views at Annaberg Sugar Plantation in St. John, US Virgin Islands - a must-visit historical landmark.
Lameshur Bay Trail
3.1 km
Explore St. John's Lameshur Bay Trail: Hike through history, discover hidden ruins, and enjoy breathtaking coastal scenery in Virgin Islands National Park.
Tektite Trailhead
3.1 km
Hike the Tektite Trail in St. John for stunning views, a touch of history, and a moderately challenging adventure in Virgin Islands National Park.
Petroglyphs
3.6 km
Discover ancient Taíno carvings, sugar mill ruins, and a pristine beach on St. John's iconic Reef Bay Trail in Virgin Islands National Park.
Little Lameshur Bay
3.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Little Lameshur Bay, a secluded paradise in St. John, perfect for snorkeling, relaxation, and unforgettable sunsets.
Essential places to dine
Lime Out VI
0.1 km
Discover unforgettable flavors at Lime Out VI, a premier restaurant in Coral Bay offering fresh seafood and stunning ocean views.
Ekaete Pink Corner
0.4 km
Discover the flavors of the Caribbean at Ekaete Pink Corner in Coral Bay - a delightful restaurant serving authentic dishes with stunning views.
Patricias Beach Bar
5.6 km
Discover culinary delights at Patricias Beach Bar - a tropical grill haven in the heart of the British Virgin Islands.
1748 Restaurant
6.4 km
Experience exquisite Caribbean cuisine with stunning views at 1748 Restaurant in Long Bay, British Virgin Islands.
Tropical Fusion Beach Bar And Grill
6.5 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.
La Flaca
6.8 km
Discover La Flaca: A charming fast food gem in Freshwater Pond serving delicious local flavors and international favorites amidst stunning island scenery.
Nardie's Beach Bar
6.8 km
Experience tropical bliss at Nardie's Beach Bar in Tortola - where delicious cuisine meets stunning ocean views.
Tramonti Restaurant
7.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Tramonti Restaurant in the British Virgin Islands—where flavor meets paradise.
D'CoalPot BVI Restaurant Bar & Grill
8.4 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors at D'CoalPot BVI Restaurant Bar & Grill in Tortola - where every meal is a celebration.
North Shore Shell Museum & Restaurant
8.6 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors at North Shore Shell Museum & Restaurant - where culinary excellence meets island charm.
Selly's BBQ Pitt BVI
8.9 km
Experience mouthwatering Caribbean barbecue at Selly's BBQ Pitt BVI in beautiful Carrot Bay.
Bananakeet
9.2 km
Discover Bananakeet - A vibrant bar in the British Virgin Islands offering stunning views, refreshing drinks, and unforgettable experiences.
Mountain View Restaurant
9.6 km
Experience exceptional dining at Mountain View Restaurant in the British Virgin Islands with breathtaking views and delectable local cuisine.
Peg Legs Restaurant
10.1 km
Experience authentic Caribbean cuisine at Peg Legs Restaurant in Nanny Cay - a culinary oasis with stunning waterfront views.
Nanny Cay Resort & Marina
10.2 km
Experience unparalleled luxury at Nanny Cay Resort & Marina in Tortola – your gateway to adventure in the British Virgin Islands.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Riteway Harbour Market
4.6 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
4.6 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
4.7 km
Discover local flavors and essential supplies at Harbor Market in Soper's Hole, your go-to supermarket in the British Virgin Islands.
Sage Mountain National Park
8.6 km
Explore Sage Mountain National Park, a stunning national park in the British Virgin Islands, featuring lush trails, breathtaking views, and diverse wildlife.
VI National Park Store
8.6 km
Shop for unique souvenirs and support conservation efforts at the charming VI National Park Store in St. John.
Treasure Point
9.9 km
Explore the enchanting Treasure Point in the British Virgin Islands, where stunning coastal views and vibrant marine life await every traveler.
The Islander Swim Collection
10.3 km
Explore the Islander Swim Collection for stylish swimwear and accessories that capture the essence of the British Virgin Islands' vibrant culture.
Arawak Nanny Cay
10.3 km
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The Bight Bay
10.3 km
Experience the stunning beauty and tranquility of The Bight Bay in the British Virgin Islands - a true paradise for adventurers and relaxation seekers alike.
Riteway Nanny Cay
10.3 km
Explore Riteway Nanny Cay, your top supermarket in the British Virgin Islands for fresh produce and local goods in a beautiful marina setting.
Blue Water Divers
10.3 km
Discover the underwater wonders of the British Virgin Islands with Blue Water Divers - your gateway to unforgettable diving adventures.
Amorbeach
10.4 km
Experience the serene beauty of Amorbeach in the British Virgin Islands, a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and vibrant local culture.
Indigo Beach House
10.5 km
Discover the charm of Indigo Beach House in Cane Garden Bay, where stunning views meet tropical vibes for an unforgettable bar experience.
Willy T
10.5 km
Discover Willy T, the iconic floating bar in the British Virgin Islands, where vibrant atmosphere meets stunning views and delicious cuisine.
The Bight
10.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Admiral's Bar
4.7 km
Experience the lively spirit of Admiral's Bar in the British Virgin Islands, where exceptional drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.
West End
5.0 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.
Nigel’s Boom Boom Beach Bar & Grill
5.6 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.
The Windmill Bar
6.3 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.
The Indians
9.0 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of The Indians in the British Virgin Islands, a premier snorkeling destination surrounded by stunning rock formations and vibrant marine life.
Stoutt's Lookout Bar
9.3 km
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De Wedding
10.3 km
Experience the best of British Virgin Islands cuisine at De Wedding, a premier grill and bar in scenic Cane Garden Bay, offering stunning views and fresh flavors.
Captain Mulligans
10.5 km
Discover the flavors of the British Virgin Islands at Captain Mulligans, where local cuisine meets breathtaking views.