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Cinnamon Bay Beach: St. John's Natural and Historical Jewel

Discover St. John's longest beach: a stunning blend of pristine sands, turquoise waters, vibrant marine life, and captivating history.

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Cinnamon Bay Beach, located in Virgin Islands National Park on St. John, is the island's longest beach, offering soft white sand, clear turquoise waters, and a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. It's a prime spot for swimming, snorkeling, watersports, and exploring the ruins of a former sugar plantation.

A brief summary to Cinnamon Bay Beach

  • St John, VI

Local tips

  • Snorkel near Cinnamon Cay or the eastern end of the beach for the best underwater views.
  • Explore the Cinnamon Bay Factory Ruins to learn about the island's sugar plantation history.
  • Hike the Cinnamon Bay Trail for scenic views and a glimpse of local flora and fauna.
  • Visit the Cinnamon Bay Heritage Center to discover the area's rich archaeological history.
  • Pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate marine ecosystem.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Cruz Bay, taxis are readily available at the ferry dock. A taxi to Cinnamon Bay Beach is a direct route along North Shore Road (Route 20). The ride is approximately 15-20 minutes, offering scenic views along the way. Taxi fare is typically around $12-$15 per person. Confirm the rate with the driver before departing. Taxis also operate out of Cinnamon Bay, making it easy to catch a ride back into town.

  • Public Transport

    The VITRAN bus service operates on St. John, providing a more budget-friendly option. From Cruz Bay, catch the Route 108 or 109 bus heading east along North Shore Road. The bus will drop you off near the entrance to Cinnamon Bay Beach. The fare is approximately $1-$3 per person. Check the bus schedule for accurate timings, as it can be subject to change.

  • Walking

    If you are already at Trunk Bay Beach, you can walk to Cinnamon Bay Beach. Head east along the North Shore Road (Route 20). The walk is approximately 1 mile and should take around 20-30 minutes. Be aware that there are no sidewalks, so exercise caution and stay to the side of the road.

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Discover more about Cinnamon Bay Beach

Cinnamon Bay Beach, nestled within the Virgin Islands National Park on the island of St. John, is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends natural splendor with rich historical context. As the longest beach on St. John, Cinnamon Bay boasts a generous expanse of soft, white sand fringed by lush greenery and inviting, clear turquoise waters. The bay's tranquil waters and the nearby Cinnamon Cay make it ideal for snorkeling, with opportunities to observe vibrant coral reefs, sea grasses, and diverse marine life, including sea turtles and stingrays. Beyond its natural allure, Cinnamon Bay is steeped in history. The Cinnamon Bay Plantation, established by the Danes in 1717, was one of the earliest sugar plantations on St. John. Today, visitors can explore the partially preserved ruins of the sugar factory, including the horse mill and boiling room, gaining insight into the island's colonial past and the lives of those who labored there. The Cinnamon Bay Trail and Cinnamon Bay Loop Trail offer opportunities to discover the area's diverse flora and fauna, as well as the remnants of the Danish settlers. Cinnamon Bay offers a range of activities and amenities, making it a perfect destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Watersports enthusiasts can enjoy windsurfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing, while those seeking relaxation can simply lounge on the beach and soak up the Caribbean sun. The Cinnamon Bay Campground provides convenient facilities, including a restaurant, snack bar, showers, and restrooms. For snorkelers, the eastern end of the beach and the area around Cinnamon Cay are particularly rewarding, with diverse marine life and coral formations. Divers can explore a sunken airplane wreck in the shallow waters off Little Cinnamon Bay. History buffs can delve into the island's past at the Cinnamon Bay Heritage Center and Archaeology Lab, which showcases artifacts from the pre-Columbian Taino culture and the colonial era. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a dose of history, Cinnamon Bay Beach offers an unforgettable Caribbean experience. Its stunning natural beauty, combined with its historical significance and convenient amenities, make it a must-visit destination on St. John.

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