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Trunk Bay: A Caribbean Paradise

Discover Trunk Bay, St. John: Pristine sands, turquoise waters, and an unforgettable underwater adventure in the heart of Virgin Islands National Park.

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Trunk Bay, located in St. John, US Virgin Islands, is celebrated for its stunning white-sand beach, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant underwater snorkeling trail. As part of the Virgin Islands National Park, it offers a pristine and protected environment for visitors to enjoy.

A brief summary to Trunk Bay

  • St John, VI

Local tips

  • Arrive early to secure a parking spot and avoid crowds, especially during peak season.
  • Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate coral reefs and marine life.
  • Snorkel the Underwater Trail for a chance to see diverse marine life, including sea turtles and colorful fish.
  • Take a photo from the Trunk Bay Overlook for a stunning panoramic view of the beach.
  • Be aware that Trunk Bay is one of the only beaches in the Virgin Islands National Park that charges an entry fee ($5 for visitors over 15 years of age).
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From the Cruz Bay Ferry Dock, taxis are readily available to take you to Trunk Bay. The ride is approximately 10-15 minutes. Taxi rates are typically per person and should be agreed upon with the driver before departure. The approximate cost is $8-$10 per person. Be aware that taxis may wait to fill their vehicles before departing.

  • Public Transport

    While less convenient, the VITran bus ('Dollar Bus') travels from Cruz Bay to Coral Bay, but it doesn't directly access Trunk Bay. It might be possible to take the bus and then walk or taxi the remaining distance, but this is not recommended due to the distance and limited bus schedule. The bus costs $2 per ride.

  • Walking

    Walking to Trunk Bay from Cruz Bay is not recommended due to the distance (approximately 2.5 miles) and hilly terrain. It would take over an hour and is not practical for most visitors.

Unlock the Best of Trunk Bay

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Discover more about Trunk Bay

Trunk Bay consistently ranks among the world's top beaches, drawing visitors with its breathtaking beauty and excellent snorkeling conditions. The bay is named after the leatherback turtle, known locally as “trunks,” which once nested here in large numbers. First settled around 700 AD by the Taino tribe, Trunk Bay has a rich history. It later became a successful sugar estate during the colonial era. In the 20th century, Paul Boulon Sr. purchased the bay and surrounding land, later selling it to Laurance Rockefeller, who donated it to the National Park Service. This ensured the preservation of its natural beauty. The self-guided Underwater Snorkeling Trail, located just off the beach, is a major attraction. It features underwater plaques that provide information about the diverse marine life, including colorful fish, coral formations, and the rare indigo-blue tunicates. The western side of the cay offers more protection from waves and boasts a greater variety of corals and fish. Today, Trunk Bay is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering amenities such as a snack bar, souvenir shop, snorkel gear rentals, and restrooms. Its stunning beauty has been recognized by Condé Nast Traveler and National Geographic, and it was even featured on a USPS stamp.

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