Maho Bay Beach: A Tranquil Turtle Haven
Discover St. John's serene Maho Bay Beach: calm waters, sea turtles, and stunning natural beauty await in the Virgin Islands National Park.
Maho Bay Beach, located on the north shore of St. John, is a serene and picturesque destination known for its calm, shallow waters and abundant sea turtle population. Part of the Virgin Islands National Park, it's a favorite among families and snorkelers seeking a relaxing beach experience.
A brief summary to Maho Bay Beach
- St John, VI
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during peak season (December through April), to secure a parking spot.
- Bring your own snorkel gear or rent it from vendors across the street to explore the seagrass beds and swim with sea turtles.
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate marine ecosystem.
- Visit Maho Crossroads, located across the street, for food, drinks, and souvenir shopping.
- Consider renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters and nearby Little Maho Bay.
Getting There
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Car
From Cruz Bay, take Route 20 (North Shore Road) approximately 5 miles. The drive takes about 15 minutes. Limited parking is available beachside and in a larger lot at the eastern end of the beach. Arrive early, especially during high season, to secure a spot. Parking is free.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available at the Cruz Bay ferry dock. A taxi to Maho Bay will take approximately 15 minutes. It's advisable to arrange for a return pickup, especially if leaving outside of peak hours. Taxi fares vary, so confirm the rate before departing.
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Public Transport
The 108 and 109 bus lines stop near Maho Bay, but require a 30+ minute walk from Centerline Road to the beach. Check the Moovit app for the most up-to-date schedule. Bus fares are typically around $1 - $3.
Discover more about Maho Bay Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St John
3.1 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.
Little Thatch
4.4 km
Escape to Little Thatch Island in the British Virgin Islands for pristine beaches, tranquil waters, and a serene Caribbean getaway.
Steele Point Estate
5.2 km
Discover the ultimate group getaway at Steele Point Estate, a luxurious retreat in the British Virgin Islands with breathtaking ocean views and top-notch amenities.
Omar's Fusion
5.8 km
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VOYAGE Charters
5.8 km
Experience the beauty of the British Virgin Islands with luxury yacht rentals at VOYAGE Charters, your gateway to unforgettable sailing adventures.
Lovango Cay, U.S. Virgin Islands
5.9 km
Discover Lovango Cay: A luxurious private island escape in the US Virgin Islands, offering pristine beaches, vibrant reefs, and upscale amenities.
West End Ferry Terminal
5.9 km
Connect to paradise from Tortola's West End: your gateway to the British Virgin Islands and beyond.
Arawak West End
5.9 km
Discover unique island-inspired fashion at Arawak West End, where vibrant Caribbean culture meets stylish apparel and accessories for the perfect island vibe.
Pusser's Landing
5.9 km
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Soper's Hole Wharf & Marina
5.9 km
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DAY TRIPS BVI
5.9 km
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Omar's Coffee House
5.9 km
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Smuggler's Cove
6.6 km
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villa del mar tortola
6.7 km
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Tortola
6.7 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
America Hill Great House Ruins
0.4 km
Discover St. John's history at America Hill Great House Ruins, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's colonial past.
Cinnamon Bay Beach
0.7 km
Discover St. John's longest beach: Cinnamon Bay, a haven for snorkeling, watersports, history, and natural beauty in Virgin Islands National Park.
Cinnamon Bay Plantation Ruins
0.9 km
Step back in time at Cinnamon Bay Plantation Ruins, exploring St. John's captivating history and the echoes of its sugar plantation era.
Cinnamon Bay Trail
0.9 km
Hike through history and nature on St. John's Cinnamon Bay Trail, exploring sugar plantation ruins and enjoying panoramic Caribbean views.
Francis Bay
1.0 km
Escape to the serene shores of Francis Bay in St. John, where calm waters, rich history, and abundant wildlife create an unforgettable Caribbean experience.
Virgin Islands National Park
1.5 km
Discover pristine beaches, lush trails, and historical ruins in this Caribbean national park. Explore St. John's natural and cultural treasures.
Whistling Cay, United States Virgin Islands
1.6 km
Discover Whistling Cay: A secluded US Virgin Islands islet offering snorkeling, history, and natural beauty within Virgin Islands National Park.
Catherineberg Estate Ruins
1.9 km
Explore the historic Catherineberg Estate Ruins in St. John, offering a glimpse into the island's colonial past and stunning Caribbean views.
Annaberg Sugar Plantation
2.1 km
Experience the captivating history of sugar production at Annaberg Sugar Plantation, a historical landmark in St. John with stunning views and rich heritage.
Coral Reef Underwater Park Trail
2.1 km
Explore St. John's Coral Reef Underwater Park Trail: a mesmerizing snorkeling adventure in a vibrant, protected marine ecosystem.
Trunk Cay, United States Virgin Islands
2.1 km
Discover an underwater paradise at Trunk Cay, St. John: Snorkeling trails, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life await!
Trunk Bay
2.2 km
Discover Trunk Bay, St. John: voted one of the world's best beaches, offering pristine sands, turquoise waters, and vibrant snorkeling.
Jumbie Beach
2.7 km
Discover Jumbie Beach: St. John's secluded paradise offering tranquility, clear waters, and stunning views, just steps from the iconic North Shore Road.
Petroglyphs
2.8 km
Discover ancient Taíno carvings, sugar mill ruins, and a pristine beach on St. John's iconic Reef Bay Trail in Virgin Islands National Park.
Oppenheimer Beach
3.2 km
Discover a serene St. John beach with calm waters, excellent snorkeling, and a fascinating history connected to J. Robert Oppenheimer.
Essential places to dine
Ekaete Pink Corner
3.8 km
Discover the flavors of the Caribbean at Ekaete Pink Corner in Coral Bay - a delightful restaurant serving authentic dishes with stunning views.
Lime Out VI
4.1 km
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Patricias Beach Bar
6.5 km
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1748 Restaurant
7.9 km
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Tropical Fusion Beach Bar And Grill
8.0 km
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Nardie's Beach Bar
8.4 km
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La Flaca
8.4 km
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Tramonti Restaurant
9.0 km
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Sidney's Peace & Love
9.3 km
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Alice's Restaurant
9.5 km
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Abes By The Sea Restaurant & Bar
9.5 km
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Claude’s Big Stop Restaurant & Bar
9.7 km
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One Love Bar and Grill
9.7 km
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Ocean Seven Too
9.8 km
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A&B Bar and Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
VI National Park Store
5.4 km
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Riteway Harbour Market
5.8 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
5.9 km
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Harbor Market
5.9 km
Discover local flavors and essential supplies at Harbor Market in Soper's Hole, your go-to supermarket in the British Virgin Islands.
Pink House Villas
9.4 km
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Ivan’s Stress Free Bar, Villas & Beach Bungalows
9.6 km
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Sugar & Spice Snack Bar
9.7 km
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BVI Adenture
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Hendo's Hideout
9.7 km
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Gertrude’s Beach Bar and Grill
9.7 km
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Soggy Dollar Bar
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Coco Loco
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Foxy's Giftshop
9.7 km
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Foxy's, Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands
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JVD Grocery
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Windmill Bar
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West End
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Admiral's Bar
6.0 km
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Nigel’s Boom Boom Beach Bar & Grill
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Coco Locos
9.2 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Stoutt's Lookout Bar
10.8 km
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Glen Seaside Bar and Restaurant
12.3 km
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Paradise Club Lounge, Bar, & Restaurant
12.4 km
Experience the ultimate beach bar vibe at Paradise Club Lounge in Cane Garden Bay, British Virgin Islands, with stunning views and refreshing cocktails.
Rudy's Bar
13.6 km
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Nicoles Beach Bar
14.0 km
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Willy T
14.5 km
Experience the best of island life at Willy T, a floating bar in the British Virgin Islands, known for its vibrant atmosphere and breathtaking views.
The Bight
14.8 km
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Pirates Bight
14.9 km
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Sandbox45
15.3 km
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Lounge45 Sports Bar & Restaurant
15.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Lounge45 Sports Bar & Restaurant, where Caribbean flavors meet sports entertainment in Road Town.
L'Cachet Bar
15.6 km
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The avenue bar and lounge
15.7 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
15.7 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
15.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Touchdown Club & Restaurant, the heart of culinary delight in the British Virgin Islands.
