Background

Brown Bay Trail: A Secluded St. John Hike

Discover St. John's hidden gem: Hike the scenic Brown Bay Trail for snorkeling, history, and stunning Caribbean views.

4.6

Escape the crowds and discover the natural beauty of St. John on the Brown Bay Trail. This moderate 1.6-mile hike leads to a secluded beach known for its snorkeling and tranquility, offering stunning views of Hurricane Hole and the British Virgin Islands. Explore historical ruins and enjoy the diverse flora and fauna along the way.

A brief summary to Brown Bay Trail

  • 976V+J68, St John, 00830, VI

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes due to the rocky and uneven terrain.
  • Bring plenty of water, as parts of the trail offer little shade.
  • Consider snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant underwater world at Brown Bay.
  • Be mindful of sea turtle nesting areas on the beach.
  • Combine the hike with a visit to nearby Skinny Legs for a post-hike meal.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    From Cruz Bay, take Route 20 (North Shore Road) east towards Coral Bay. Continue onto Route 10 (East End Road) past Coral Bay for approximately 1 mile. Look for the Brown Bay Trail entrance on the left side of the road, where limited parking is available. Be aware that the road can be narrow and winding.

  • Public Transport

    From Cruz Bay, take the 108 or 109 bus towards Coral Bay. Ask the driver to stop near the Brown Bay Trail. From the bus stop, there will be approximately a 35-54 minute walk to the trail head. Confirm the bus schedule and availability in advance.

Unlock the Best of Brown Bay Trail

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Brown Bay Trail

The Brown Bay Trail offers a rewarding escape into St. John's natural beauty and history. This 1.6-mile out-and-back trail, located on the eastern end of the island near Coral Bay, is considered moderately challenging, with some rocky and uneven terrain. The path winds over a small hill, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of Hurricane Hole and the British Virgin Islands. As you traverse the trail, you'll encounter diverse landscapes, from dry, scrubby hillsides to cooler, shaded areas. Keep an eye out for the unique flora and fauna, including cacti, wildflowers, and various bird species. Hermit crabs are also commonly seen along the trail. The trail eventually descends to Brown Bay, a secluded beach offering a tranquil escape. Brown Bay itself is a rocky beach that sometimes accumulates sargassum seaweed, particularly in the late spring and summer. However, on calm days, the bay's clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, with vibrant sea life and coral formations to explore. The bay is also a nesting area for sea turtles, so be mindful of your surroundings. History buffs can explore the extensive ruins located at the western end of the beach, remnants of a former plantation. These ruins and the remnants of a large concrete cistern along the trail offer glimpses into St. John's rich cultural past. For those seeking a longer hike, the Brown Bay Trail connects to the Johnny Horn Trail, which leads to the Windy Hill Ruins and offers even more breathtaking views.

Popular Experiences near Brown Bay Trail

Popular Hotels near Brown Bay Trail

Select Currency