Background

Trunk Cay: A Snorkeler's Paradise

Explore the underwater wonders of Trunk Cay, a stunning islet in St. John's famed Trunk Bay, offering an unforgettable snorkeling experience.

Trunk Cay is a small, grass-covered islet in Trunk Bay, St. John, USVI, renowned for its underwater snorkeling trail and vibrant marine life. Just a short swim from the world-famous Trunk Bay Beach, it offers an accessible and stunning glimpse into the underwater world of the Caribbean.

A brief summary to Trunk Cay, United States Virgin Islands

  • St John, VI

Local tips

  • Arrive early to Trunk Bay to avoid crowds, especially during peak season and when cruise ships are in port.
  • Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral reefs and marine life.
  • Bring your own snorkeling gear or rent it at the Trunk Bay Beach.
  • Stay on the western side of Trunk Cay for the best snorkeling experience.
  • Be mindful of the environment; avoid touching or standing on the coral.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Ferry & Walking

    To reach Trunk Cay, start by taking a ferry from St. Thomas (Charlotte Amalie or Red Hook) to Cruz Bay, St. John. Ferries from Red Hook are more frequent (hourly) and take about 20 minutes, costing around $8.15 each way. From Cruz Bay, take a taxi to Trunk Bay Beach, approximately a 10-15 minute drive costing around $6 per person. Once at Trunk Bay Beach, Trunk Cay is a short swim away. The entrance fee to Trunk Bay Beach is $5 per adult. Snorkel gear rentals are available on-site. Note: Taxi drivers primarily accept cash. Check the ferry schedule in advance.

Unlock the Best of Trunk Cay, United States Virgin Islands

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Trunk Cay, United States Virgin Islands

Trunk Cay, a small islet just 200 feet from Trunk Bay Beach, is a must-see destination for snorkelers visiting St. John. Located within the Virgin Islands National Park, Trunk Cay is named after the leatherback turtle, locally known as 'trunks'. The island itself is a mix of rocky cliffs, coral sandy beaches, and palm trees, creating a picturesque backdrop for your aquatic adventures. The main attraction is the underwater snorkeling trail offered by the National Park Service. This 650-700 foot trail, located on the western side of Trunk Cay, is marked with underwater plaques that provide information about the surrounding reef and marine life. Divers and snorkelers can observe a variety of colorful fish, coral formations, and other sea creatures in the shallow waters. Keep an eye out for angelfish, parrotfish, snapper, and tang, as well as sea turtles, stingrays, and arrow crabs. The western side of the cay is more sheltered and boasts a greater variety of coral and fish compared to the eastern side. While Trunk Bay was impacted by Hurricane Maria in 2017, it has recovered and remains a stunningly beautiful spot. The underwater trail shows some signs of damage, but there's still plenty of marine life to enjoy. Trunk Bay is popular, so arriving early will provide a less crowded experience. Remember to use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate coral reefs and marine life.

Popular Experiences near Trunk Cay, United States Virgin Islands

Popular Hotels near Trunk Cay, United States Virgin Islands

Select Currency