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Trunk Bay: A Caribbean Paradise

Discover Trunk Bay, St. John: voted one of the world's best beaches, offering pristine sands, turquoise waters, and vibrant snorkeling.

★★★★★4.9 (348)

Trunk Bay, located on St. John in the US Virgin Islands, is celebrated for its pristine white sands, turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs. As part of the Virgin Islands National Park, it offers an unforgettable snorkeling experience with its underwater trail and abundant marine life.

Plan your visit

A brief summary to Trunk Bay

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

📍
St John, VI
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

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

Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.

Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and secure the best spot on the beach.
Snorkel around Trunk Cay for the best views of coral and marine life.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate coral reefs.
Check the cruise ship schedule to avoid peak tourist times.
Take a moment to appreciate the views from the Trunk Bay Overlook, a prime photo spot.

Discover more about Trunk Bay

Trunk Bay, a crown jewel of St. John, is more than just a beach; it's an immersive experience in natural beauty and tranquility. Named after the leatherback sea turtle, known locally as 'trunks,' this bay has consistently been ranked among the world's best beaches. The bay's history stretches back to 700 AD when the Taino tribe established a village here. In the colonial era, it transformed into a successful sugar estate, remnants of which can still be found today. In the 20th century, Paul Boulon Sr. purchased Trunk Bay and later sold a significant portion to Laurance Rockefeller, who then donated the land to the National Park Service, ensuring its preservation for generations to come. Today, Trunk Bay allures visitors with its soft, white sands and crystal-clear waters. The main attraction is the 650-foot underwater snorkeling trail, perfect for beginners and families. This trail guides snorkelers through a mesmerizing underwater world, complete with informational plaques about the coral formations and marine life. Keep an eye out for colorful parrotfish, sea turtles, and the rare indigo-blue tunicates. Beyond snorkeling, Trunk Bay offers amenities such as a snack bar, showers, restrooms, and snorkel gear rentals. Whether you're relaxing on the beach, exploring the underwater trail, or simply taking in the breathtaking views from Trunk Bay Overlook, this Caribbean paradise promises an unforgettable experience.

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    Getting There

    Taxi

    From Cruz Bay Ferry Dock, taxis are readily available. The ride to Trunk Bay is approximately 10-15 minutes. Most taxis will stop at the Trunk Bay Overlook for a photo opportunity. The taxi fare is around $6 per person.

    Public Transport

    Open-air safari taxis frequently travel from Cruz Bay to Trunk Bay. These taxis offer an affordable way to reach the beach and provide scenic views along the way. The fare is approximately $6 per person.

    Ferry and Taxi

    From St. Thomas, take the ferry from Red Hook to Cruz Bay, St. John. The ferry ride is about 20 minutes and costs $8.15 per person each way. Upon arrival in Cruz Bay, taxis are available to take you to Trunk Bay. The taxi ride is approximately 10-15 minutes and costs around $6 per person.

    A brief summary to Trunk Bay

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