Background

Turtle Bay Beach: A Tranquil Escape on St. John

Discover tranquility at Turtle Bay Beach in St. John: pristine sands, clear waters, and vibrant marine life await in this Caribbean paradise.

3

Turtle Bay Beach, a serene public beach on St. John, US Virgin Islands, offers soft white sands and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Surrounded by lush greenery, it's a tranquil escape for relaxation and observing diverse marine life.

A brief summary to Turtle Bay Beach

  • 9627+C27, St John, 00830, VI

Local tips

  • Bring your own snacks and drinks, as the beach is not heavily commercialized.
  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during peak tourist season.
  • Pack snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
  • Check the National Park Service website for updates on land access and any potential closures.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Ferry and Taxi

    To reach Turtle Bay Beach from St. Thomas, take a ferry from either Red Hook, Charlotte Amalie, or Crown Bay Marina to Cruz Bay, St. John. From Red Hook, the ferry is approximately $8.15 one way for adults and $1 for children, plus $4 per bag. The ride is about 20 minutes. From Charlotte Amalie, the ferry is about $13 one way for adults, $6 for seniors, and $3.50 for children, plus $4 per bag. The ride is about 45 minutes. From Crown Bay, the ferry is $20 one-way for adults, $15 for seniors, and $10 for children, plus $5 per bag. The ride is about 35 minutes. Upon arrival in Cruz Bay, taxis are readily available to take you to the Caneel Bay area, from where you can access Turtle Bay Beach. Taxi fares vary, so confirm the rate before starting your trip.

  • Walking

    From Cruz Bay, walking to Turtle Bay Beach is possible but requires a significant hike. Follow the North Shore Road (Route 20) towards Caneel Bay. Once you reach the Caneel Bay area, access to Turtle Bay Beach might be restricted, as it was previously part of a private resort. Check with the National Park Service for current access information. The walk from Cruz Bay is several miles, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water. Note that public transportation (VITRAN bus) does not go down the North Shore Road.

Unlock the Best of Turtle Bay Beach

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Turtle Bay Beach

Nestled on the northern shore of St. John, within the Caneel Bay peninsula, Turtle Bay Beach is a hidden gem renowned for its tranquil beauty. This public beach offers an idyllic setting with soft white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, inviting visitors to unwind and soak up the Caribbean sun. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery, providing a stunning backdrop for relaxation and recreation. The calm waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life close to the shore. Snorkelers can spot sea turtles, tropical fish, and various coral formations. While not heavily commercialized, Turtle Bay Beach offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors often bring their own refreshments to enjoy a picnic by the shore. The beach's location also provides stunning views of boats cruising between St. John, St. Thomas, and the British Virgin Islands, especially during sunset. As of April 2024, the land encompassing Caneel Bay peninsula has been transferred to the National Park Service, with hopes of improved land access to the beach in the future.

Popular Experiences near Turtle Bay Beach

Popular Hotels near Turtle Bay Beach

Select Currency