Hawksnest Beach: A Convenient North Shore Paradise
Discover Hawksnest Beach in St. John: Pristine sands, turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs await in this accessible Caribbean paradise.
Hawksnest Beach, a gem on St. John's north shore, is celebrated for its accessibility, scenic beauty, and family-friendly atmosphere. With soft white sands, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs, it's a favorite for swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking. Its name is believed to come from either the hawks inhabiting the island or the hawksbill turtles nesting nearby.
A brief summary to Hawksnest Beach
- St John, 00830, VI
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a parking spot and claim a prime beach location.
- Bring your own food and drinks, as there are no restaurants or vendors directly on Hawksnest Beach.
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate coral reefs and marine life while snorkeling.
- Explore the nearby Little Hawksnest Beach for a more secluded and tranquil beach experience.
- Be mindful of the waves and currents, especially when snorkeling, and avoid swimming directly over the fragile coral reefs.
Getting There
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Driving/Taxi
From Cruz Bay, head east on Route 20 (North Shore Road) for approximately 2 miles. Hawksnest Beach will be on your left, with a clearly marked parking area. Taxis are readily available at the Cruz Bay ferry dock. A taxi to Hawksnest Beach will cost approximately $6-$10 per person. Be sure to arrange a specific time for the taxi to return and pick you up.
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Public Transportation
While St. John does have a public VITRAN bus that runs between Cruz Bay and Coral Bay along Centerline Road, it is mainly used by local commuters and is not a dependable option for tourists. The bus schedule is infrequent and unreliable. Taking a taxi or renting a car is recommended.
Discover more about Hawksnest Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Catherineberg Estate Ruins
2.1 km
Discover the enchanting remnants of Catherineberg Estate Ruins in St. John, where history meets breathtaking Caribbean views.
Cinnamon Bay Plantation Ruins
2.8 km
Step back in time at Cinnamon Bay Plantation Ruins, exploring St. John's captivating history and the echoes of its sugar-producing past.
Lovango Cay, U.S. Virgin Islands
3.0 km
Discover Lovango Cay: A luxurious private island escape in the US Virgin Islands, offering pristine beaches, vibrant reefs, and upscale amenities.
Cinnamon Bay Trail
3.2 km
Hike through history amidst tropical beauty on St. John's Cinnamon Bay Trail, where sugar plantation ruins meet breathtaking island views.
Virgin Islands National Park
3.3 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.
Whistling Cay, United States Virgin Islands
3.7 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
Explore the enchanting Reef Bay Sugar Mill Ruins and immerse yourself in the historical charm and natural beauty of St. John in the US Virgin Islands.
St John
5.7 km
Experience the serene beauty and vibrant culture of St. John, the jewel of the U.S. Virgin Islands, featuring stunning beaches and lush landscapes.
Annaberg Sugar Plantation
5.7 km
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Thatch Cay, U.S. Virgin Islands
7.9 km
Discover Thatch Cay: An unspoiled Caribbean island offering pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and a tranquil escape just off St. Thomas.
Little Thatch
7.9 km
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Steele Point Estate
8.5 km
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Omar's Fusion
9.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean at Omar's Fusion, a top restaurant in Soper's Hole, Tortola, known for its fresh seafood and live music.
VOYAGE Charters
9.4 km
Experience the beauty of the British Virgin Islands with luxury yacht rentals at VOYAGE Charters, your gateway to unforgettable sailing adventures.
West End Ferry Terminal
9.4 km
Connect to paradise from Tortola's West End: your gateway to the British Virgin Islands and beyond.
Unmissable attractions to see
Oppenheimer Beach
0.4 km
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Caneel Bay Beach
0.4 km
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Caneel Bay
0.7 km
Discover the pristine beauty and rich history of Caneel Bay, St. John, where turquoise waters meet the remnants of a bygone era.
Turtle Bay Beach
0.9 km
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Jumbie Beach
1.0 km
Discover Jumbie Beach: St. John's secluded paradise offering tranquility, clear waters, and stunning views, just steps from the iconic North Shore Road.
Turtle Bay
1.0 km
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Honeymoon Beach
1.2 km
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Caneel Bay Beach Club
1.2 km
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Trunk Bay
1.5 km
Discover Trunk Bay, a pristine beach in the US Virgin Islands, known for its soft white sands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life perfect for snorkeling.
Trunk Beach
1.5 km
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Henley Cay
1.5 km
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Coral Reef Underwater Park Trail
1.6 km
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Trunk Cay, United States Virgin Islands
1.6 km
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St John Experience Gallery
1.9 km
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Essential places to dine
Ekaete Pink Corner
7.0 km
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Lime Out VI
7.3 km
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Patricias Beach Bar
9.9 km
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Ocean Seven Too
10.9 km
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Claude’s Big Stop Restaurant & Bar
10.9 km
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1748 Restaurant
11.4 km
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Harris' Place
11.4 km
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A&B Bar and Restaurant
11.4 km
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Tipsy Shark
11.4 km
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Corsairs Beach Bar & Restaurant
11.4 km
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Ali Baba's
11.5 km
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Tropical Fusion Beach Bar And Grill
11.5 km
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Cool Breeze Sports Bar & Restaurant
11.5 km
Savor authentic Caribbean cuisine at Cool Breeze Sports Bar & Restaurant in Great Harbor – your go-to spot for breakfast and sports!
Sidney's Peace & Love
11.5 km
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Pinky's delight
11.5 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
VI National Park Store
2.0 km
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Riteway Harbour Market
9.3 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
9.4 km
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Harbor Market
9.5 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
10.9 km
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BVI Adenture
10.9 km
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Sugar & Spice Snack Bar
11.2 km
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Jost Van Dyke Scuba
11.4 km
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Foxy's Giftshop
11.4 km
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Rudy's Marketplace
11.4 km
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Foxy's, Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands
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JVD Grocery
11.4 km
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Christine's Bakery
11.5 km
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By Isah Chinnery
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Bubbly Pool
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Windmill Bar
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West End
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Admiral's Bar
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Nigel’s Boom Boom Beach Bar & Grill
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Coco Locos
10.6 km
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