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Hansen Bay Beach: A Tranquil Escape on St. John

Discover tranquility at Hansen Bay Beach, St. John: soft sands, calm waters, and vibrant snorkeling in a serene Caribbean setting.

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Hansen Bay Beach, nestled on the eastern end of St. John, is a serene and secluded tropical paradise. Known for its calm waters, soft white sands, and excellent snorkeling, it offers a peaceful retreat away from the more crowded beaches. With limited facilities, it retains a natural charm, making it ideal for relaxation and enjoying the beauty of the Caribbean.

A brief summary to Hansen Bay Beach

Local tips

  • Bring your own food and drinks, as there are limited facilities available at the beach.
  • Visit early in the morning to enjoy the beach with fewer crowds.
  • Don't forget your snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant marine life in the bay.
  • Pack sunscreen, as there is limited shade on the beach.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Cruz Bay, head east on Route 20 (North Shore Road) towards Coral Bay. Continue past Coral Bay. The road will wind and climb. Look for signs for Hansen Bay. Turn onto Hansen Bay Road and follow it to the beach. Parking is available near the beach. Be aware that the road can be hilly and winding.

  • Public Transport

    Take a taxi or shared van from Cruz Bay to Hansen Bay Beach. The ride takes approximately 20-30 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's a short walk to the beach. Taxi fares from Cruz Bay typically range from $15-$20.

Unlock the Best of Hansen Bay Beach

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Discover more about Hansen Bay Beach

Hansen Bay Beach, located on the remote East End of St. John, is a hidden gem offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle. The beach features soft, white sand and calm, clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The bay is protected from large waves, making it an ideal spot for families and those seeking a relaxing beach experience. Snorkeling is a popular activity at Hansen Bay, with diverse marine life easily accessible just off the shore. To the right, snorkelers can explore a mix of seagrass and rocky patch reefs with an array of fish, corals, and sea fans. Keep an eye out for the endangered Staghorn coral, which thrives in this area. To the left, across the small bay, lies a larger patch reef known as Pelican Rock, offering more underwater structure and marine life. Hansen Bay is also a great place to spot turtles, rays, and other fascinating sea creatures. Hansen Bay Beach has been in the Reyes family for generations, with a history dating back to 1716. Vie's Snack Shack, a beloved institution run by Vie, provided food, drinks, and beach access for many years but is now closed. Despite the closure, Hansen Bay remains open to the public, with parking and beach access available. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own refreshments and beach gear, as facilities are limited, which helps maintain the beach's peaceful atmosphere. Today, Hansen Bay continues to offer a serene and unspoiled beach experience. The beach is dog-friendly and donations help to keep everything running smoothly. Whether you're looking to relax on the sand, explore the underwater world, or simply soak in the natural beauty, Hansen Bay Beach promises an unforgettable experience on St. John.

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