Caneel Bay: A Reborn Paradise
Discover the beauty and history of Caneel Bay, a stunning beach reborn within Virgin Islands National Park on St. John.
Caneel Bay, located within Virgin Islands National Park on St. John, is a stunning beach with a rich history. Once home to a luxurious resort founded by Laurance Rockefeller, the beach is now open to the public, offering soft white sand, calm turquoise waters, and glimpses into the island's past.
A brief summary to Caneel Bay
- Cruz Bay, Caneel Bay, St John, VI
Local tips
- Bring your snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant underwater world just off the shoreline.
- Visit the Durloo Sugar Plantation ruins near the beach entrance to learn about the history of Caneel Bay.
- Pack a lunch and plenty of water, as there are limited facilities currently available.
- Take advantage of the free parking available in the designated lots.
- Arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach, especially during peak season.
Getting There
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Taxi
From Cruz Bay, taxis are readily available. A taxi to Caneel Bay costs approximately $8 per person for two or more passengers. The ride is short, about 5 minutes. Taxis operate on a per-person rate system, which may be different from what you are used to. Be sure to confirm the rate with the driver before starting your journey. Several taxi services operate on St. John, and you can often find them waiting at the ferry dock in Cruz Bay.
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Driving
If you have rented a car, Caneel Bay is easily accessible from Cruz Bay. Head north on North Shore Road (Route 20). The entrance to Caneel Bay will be on your left, just a few miles from Cruz Bay. Follow the signs to the designated public parking lots (Lots A, B, or C). Parking is free. From the parking lot, it's a short, approximately 5-minute walk to Caneel Bay Beach. Follow the signs and fencing to the beach, passing by the historic Durloo Sugar Plantation ruins.
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Public Transport
The Easy Beach Shuttle is a pilot program operating from December 22, 2024, to May 30, 2025. You can park for free at Caneel Bay Lot A and take a safari bus/taxi to Trunk Bay Beach or any other north shore beach. Shuttles depart Caneel Bay at 9:00 am, 11:00 am, and 1:00 pm, or you can catch any passing safari bus/taxi. Safari bus/taxi shuttle rides cost $6-12 per person, depending on the destination. This is a convenient option if you want to explore other beaches along the north shore.
Discover more about Caneel Bay
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Trunk Cay, United States Virgin Islands
2.2 km
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Catherineberg Estate Ruins
2.5 km
Discover the enchanting remnants of Catherineberg Estate Ruins in St. John, where history meets breathtaking Caribbean views.
Lovango Cay, U.S. Virgin Islands
3.1 km
Discover Lovango Cay: A luxurious private island escape in the US Virgin Islands, offering pristine beaches, vibrant reefs, and upscale amenities.
Cinnamon Bay Plantation Ruins
3.3 km
Step back in time at Cinnamon Bay Plantation Ruins, exploring St. John's captivating history and the echoes of its sugar-producing past.
Virgin Islands National Park
3.6 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich history of Virgin Islands National Park on St. John, a tropical paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Cinnamon Bay Trail
3.7 km
Hike through history amidst tropical beauty on St. John's Cinnamon Bay Trail, where sugar plantation ruins meet breathtaking island views.
Whistling Cay, United States Virgin Islands
4.3 km
Discover the enchanting Whistling Cay, a serene island paradise in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where pristine beaches and vibrant marine life await.
Reef Bay Sugar Mill Ruins
4.6 km
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St John
5.9 km
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Annaberg Sugar Plantation
6.2 km
Explore the historic Annaberg Sugar Plantation in St. John, US Virgin Islands, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Caribbean.
Thatch Cay, U.S. Virgin Islands
7.6 km
Discover Thatch Cay: An unspoiled Caribbean island offering pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and a tranquil escape just off St. Thomas.
Little Thatch
8.5 km
Escape to Little Thatch Island in the British Virgin Islands for pristine beaches, tranquil waters, and a serene Caribbean getaway.
Steele Point Estate
9.1 km
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Omar's Fusion
9.9 km
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VOYAGE Charters
9.9 km
Experience the beauty of the British Virgin Islands with luxury yacht rentals at VOYAGE Charters, your gateway to unforgettable sailing adventures.
Unmissable attractions to see
Honeymoon Beach
0.7 km
Discover Honeymoon Beach in St. John: pristine sands, clear waters, and a tranquil escape within the Virgin Islands National Park.
Hawksnest Beach
0.7 km
Discover Hawksnest Beach in St. John: a scenic and accessible beach with calm waters, excellent snorkeling, and convenient amenities for a perfect Caribbean getaway.
Caneel Bay Beach
0.7 km
Discover the beauty of Caneel Bay Beach in St. John, a serene escape with soft sands, calm waters, and a rich history within Virgin Islands National Park.
Oppenheimer Beach
1.0 km
Discover a serene St. John beach with calm waters, excellent snorkeling, and a fascinating history connected to J. Robert Oppenheimer.
Turtle Bay Beach
1.1 km
Discover tranquility at Turtle Bay Beach in St. John: a serene escape with white sands, clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Perfect for relaxation and snorkeling.
Bajo el Sol Gallery, Art Bar Cafe & Rum Shop
1.3 km
Explore the artistic heart of St. John at Bajo el Sol Gallery, where art meets Caribbean culture in a vibrant café setting.
Cruz Bay Visitor Center
1.4 km
Your adventure starts here! Discover St. John's natural beauty, hiking trails, and underwater snorkel trails at the Virgin Islands National Park.
Lind Point Trail
1.4 km
Hike from Cruz Bay to secluded beaches, discover historical remnants, and enjoy panoramic views on St. John's scenic Lind Point Trail.
Cruz Bay
1.5 km
Experience the vibrant heart of St. John: ferries, shops, restaurants, and access to the island's natural wonders all in Cruz Bay!
Captain Jug Charters
1.6 km
Discover St. John's hidden gems with personalized boat tours. Snorkel, explore secluded beaches, and create unforgettable memories on the Caribbean Sea.
Jumbie Beach
1.6 km
Discover Jumbie Beach: St. John's secluded paradise offering tranquility, clear waters, and stunning views, just steps from the iconic North Shore Road.
Freedom Statue
1.6 km
Visit the Freedom Statue in Cruz Bay, St. John, a poignant symbol of emancipation and resilience in the Virgin Islands.
Trunk Bay
2.1 km
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Essential places to dine
Ekaete Pink Corner
7.4 km
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Lime Out VI
7.6 km
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Patricias Beach Bar
10.5 km
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Ocean Seven Too
11.5 km
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Claude’s Big Stop Restaurant & Bar
11.5 km
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1748 Restaurant
12.0 km
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Tropical Fusion Beach Bar And Grill
12.0 km
Experience tropical flavors and breathtaking views at Tropical Fusion Beach Bar And Grill in Long Bay - a culinary gem in the British Virgin Islands.
A&B Bar and Restaurant
12.1 km
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Tipsy Shark
12.1 km
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Corsairs Beach Bar & Restaurant
12.1 km
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Ali Baba's
12.1 km
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Cool Breeze Sports Bar & Restaurant
12.1 km
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Harris' Place
12.1 km
Discover authentic Caribbean flavors at Harris' Place in Jost Van Dyke—where every meal is a celebration of local culture and cuisine.
Sidney's Peace & Love
12.2 km
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Pinky's delight
12.2 km
Discover authentic Caribbean cuisine at Pinky's Delight in Great Harbour, Belle Vue – a dining experience like no other!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
VI National Park Store
1.4 km
Shop for unique souvenirs and support conservation efforts at the charming VI National Park Store in St. John.
Riteway Harbour Market
9.9 km
Experience the vibrant local flavors and fresh produce at Riteway Harbour Market in Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands.
BVI Island Surf and Sail
10.0 km
Experience the thrill of water sports at BVI Island Surf and Sail in the breathtaking British Virgin Islands, where adventure meets paradise.
Harbor Market
10.0 km
Discover local flavors and essential supplies at Harbor Market in Soper's Hole, your go-to supermarket in the British Virgin Islands.
Coco Loco
11.5 km
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BVI Adenture
11.5 km
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Sugar & Spice Snack Bar
11.9 km
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Jost Van Dyke Scuba
12.0 km
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Rudy's Marketplace
12.1 km
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Foxy's Giftshop
12.1 km
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Foxy's, Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands
12.1 km
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JVD Grocery
12.1 km
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Christine's Bakery
12.2 km
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By Isah Chinnery
13.5 km
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Bubbly Pool
13.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Windmill Bar
1.2 km
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West End
9.0 km
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Admiral's Bar
10.1 km
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Nigel’s Boom Boom Beach Bar & Grill
10.5 km
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Coco Locos
11.2 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Stoutt's Lookout Bar
14.8 km
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Glen Seaside Bar and Restaurant
16.3 km
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Paradise Club Lounge, Bar, & Restaurant
16.4 km
Experience the ultimate beach bar vibe at Paradise Club Lounge in Cane Garden Bay, British Virgin Islands, with stunning views and refreshing cocktails.
The Jungle Night Club
16.6 km
Unleash your inner party animal at The Jungle Night Club in St. Thomas, where unforgettable nights and thrilling music await!
Rudy's Bar
17.7 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and local flavors at Rudy's Bar in the British Virgin Islands, a must-visit for any traveler seeking nightlife.
Nicoles Beach Bar
18.0 km
Discover the vibrant Nicoles Beach Bar in the British Virgin Islands, a tropical haven serving delicious food and refreshing drinks with stunning ocean views.
The Bight
18.0 km
Discover the serene beauty and luxurious amenities of The Bight in the British Virgin Islands, where relaxation meets adventure in paradise.
Pirates Bight
18.2 km
Discover the flavors of the Caribbean at Pirates Bight, a stunning waterfront restaurant on Norman Island, British Virgin Islands.
Sandbox45
19.4 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Sandbox45 in Road Town, a bar that blends local flavors with a vibrant nightlife experience in the British Virgin Islands.
Lounge45 Sports Bar & Restaurant
19.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Lounge45 Sports Bar & Restaurant, where Caribbean flavors meet sports entertainment in Road Town.
L'Cachet Bar
19.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and extensive drink menu at L'Cachet Bar, the perfect spot for relaxation in Road Town, British Virgin Islands.
The avenue bar and lounge
19.8 km
Discover the laid-back charm of The Avenue Bar and Lounge in Road Town, British Virgin Islands - your tropical escape for drinks and relaxation.
Climax on the Hill
19.8 km
Discover Climax on the Hill, a vibrant bar in Tortola offering stunning views, refreshing drinks, and a warm Caribbean atmosphere for tourists.
Touchdown Club & Restaurant
20.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Touchdown Club & Restaurant, the heart of culinary delight in the British Virgin Islands.
