From Eve
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Turtle Bay Beach.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
Turtle Bay Beach: A Tranquil Escape on St. John
Discover tranquility at Turtle Bay Beach in St. John: a serene escape with white sands, clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Perfect for relaxation and snorkeling.
Turtle Bay Beach, a serene public beach on St. John, US Virgin Islands, offers soft white sands and clear turquoise waters. Ideal for relaxation, swimming, and snorkeling, it's a tranquil escape surrounded by lush greenery.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Turtle Bay Beach
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
9627+C27, St John, 00830, VI
Discover more about Turtle Bay Beach
Nestled on the north shore of St. John, Turtle Bay Beach is a hidden gem offering a tranquil escape. Once part of the Caneel Bay Resort, this public beach now falls under the Virgin Islands National Park. With its soft, white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, it's an idyllic spot for relaxation, swimming, and snorkeling.
The beach is surrounded by lush greenery, providing a stunning backdrop for a seaside experience. Snorkeling is particularly popular, thanks to the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Keep an eye out for sea turtles and stingrays, along with a myriad of tropical fish and corals. The calm waters make it an excellent environment for both novice and experienced snorkelers.
While not heavily commercialized, Turtle Bay Beach offers a friendly atmosphere where visitors can mingle with locals and create lasting memories. Remember to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking sunset views.
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Getting There
Ferry and Walking
To reach Turtle Bay Beach, first take a ferry from St. Thomas to Cruz Bay, St. John. Ferries depart from Red Hook and Charlotte Amalie on St. Thomas. The Red Hook ferry is more frequent, with departures every hour, costing $7 for adults and $1 for children, plus $4 per bag. The Charlotte Amalie ferry is less frequent, costing $13 for adults and $3.50 for children, plus $4 per bag. From Cruz Bay, options include taxi, car rental, or the Vitran bus. Note that the Vitran bus does not go down the North Shore road. If driving from Cruz Bay, head south on North Shore Road (Route 20). The main entrance and gatehouse to Caneel Bay Resort will appear on your left. Check for beach access signs. Parking is limited, so arrive early. Parking tickets can be costly. From the parking area, it's a short walk to the beach.
Taxi
From Cruz Bay, taxis are readily available. A taxi ride to Turtle Bay Beach will typically cost around $10-$15. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. The taxi will drop you off near the entrance to the Caneel Bay Resort area, from which you can walk to Turtle Bay Beach.
A brief summary to Turtle Bay Beach
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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