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Maho Bay Beach: A Tranquil Turtle Haven

Discover St. John's serene Maho Bay Beach: Swim with sea turtles in calm waters, enjoy easy access, and relax on the soft, white sand.

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Maho Bay Beach, located on the north shore of St. John, is a serene and easily accessible beach known for its calm, shallow waters and abundant sea turtles. It's a favorite spot for families, novice swimmers, and snorkelers seeking a relaxing beach experience and the chance to swim alongside these gentle creatures.

A brief summary to Maho Bay Beach

  • St John, VI

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a parking spot and avoid crowds.
  • Bring your own snorkel gear or rent it at Maho Crossroads to explore the underwater world and swim with sea turtles.
  • Pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate marine ecosystem and your skin.
  • Take advantage of the food and drink options at Maho Crossroads for a convenient beachside meal or refreshing beverage.
  • Explore the Goat Trail on the eastern end of the beach for a scenic hike to Little Maho Bay.
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Getting There

  • Car/Taxi

    From Cruz Bay, take Route 20 (North Shore Road) east for approximately 5 miles. The drive is about 15-20 minutes. There is limited parking along the road and a small parking lot on the eastern end of the beach. Taxis are readily available from Cruz Bay to Maho Bay. A taxi to Maho Bay from Cruz Bay will cost around $15-$20. Be sure to arrange a pick-up time with your taxi driver, especially if you plan to stay later in the day.

  • Public Transport

    The dollar bus (route 108 or 109) runs from Cruz Bay to Coral Bay and stops along North Shore Road. The bus meets the arriving passenger ferry in Cruz Bay approximately 20 minutes past the hour, from 6:00 AM to 7:25 PM. Ask the driver to stop at Maho Bay. From the bus stop on Centerline Road, it is a 30-minute walk to Maho Bay. The bus fare is approximately $1-3.

Unlock the Best of Maho Bay Beach

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Discover more about Maho Bay Beach

Maho Bay Beach is a picturesque gem on St. John's north shore, renowned for its tranquil waters and frequent sea turtle sightings. The beach gets its name from the beach maho tree (Hibiscus tilaceus) which is commonly found along the shoreline. The bay's calm conditions are attributed to its geographic protection from the wind by steep hillsides. The beach itself features soft, white sand and a shallow entry, making it ideal for families with children and beginner swimmers. The seafloor is a mix of sand and seagrass, which attracts green sea turtles that feed in the area. Snorkelers can easily observe these creatures in their natural habitat, along with rays and various fish species. For those seeking more diverse marine life, the rocky shorelines on either side of the bay offer opportunities to explore colorful corals and reef fish. Convenience is a key feature of Maho Bay Beach. The beach is located right off North Shore Road, with parking available along the road and in a small lot. Across the street, Maho Crossroads provides amenities such as food, drinks, souvenir shops, and rentals for beach chairs, umbrellas, and water sports equipment. Restrooms and picnic facilities are also available on the western end of the beach. While Maho Bay is a popular destination, its ease of access and abundant wildlife make it a must-visit for those seeking a relaxing and memorable beach experience on St. John.

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