Saltpond Bay: A Tranquil Escape on St. John
Discover a serene escape at Saltpond Bay, St. John: Calm waters, snorkeling, and scenic trails await in this Caribbean paradise.
Saltpond Bay is a beautiful, crescent-shaped beach on St. John, offering calm waters, excellent snorkeling, and access to scenic hiking trails. A short, moderately steep hike from the parking area leads to this protected cove, making it a rewarding destination for beachgoers and nature enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Saltpond Bay
- St John, VI
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during peak season, as the parking lot is small and fills up quickly.
- Wear sturdy shoes for the hike from the parking lot to the beach, as the trail can be rocky.
- Bring sun protection, such as a hat, sun shirt, and reef-safe sunscreen, as there is limited shade on the beach and trail.
- Consider combining your beach visit with a hike on the Ram Head Trail for stunning views or the Drunk Bay Trail for unique rock art.
- Snorkel along the rocky sides of the bay for the best chances of seeing colorful coral and marine life.
Getting There
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Driving
From Cruz Bay, take Centerline Road (Route 10) or North Shore Road (Route 20) towards Coral Bay. At the bottom of the steep hill entering Coral Bay, turn right at the 'T' intersection. Follow the winding road for approximately 4 miles, passing Concordia Eco Resort. As the road turns sharply to the right, the parking lot for Saltpond Bay will be on your left. Parking is free but limited, so arrive early. From the parking lot, it's a 7-10 minute hike downhill to the beach. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear for the rocky trail.
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Public Transport
The VITRAN bus service runs from the ferry dock in Cruz Bay to Saltpond Bay. The bus fare is $1 per person. The parking lot for Saltpond Bay is the last stop on the route. From the parking lot, it's a 7-10 minute hike downhill to the beach. Check the VITRAN schedule for accurate timings, as buses are known to sometimes run late. A taxi from Cruz Bay to Salt Pond Bay is approximately $30 for one person or $21 per person for two or more people. There is also an additional charge of $3 per person for travel between midnight and 6:00 am.
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Walking
If you are staying at the Concordia Eco Resort, you can hike down to Saltpond Bay. Follow the trail from the resort to the beach. The hike is moderately steep and takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring water.
Discover more about Saltpond Bay
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St John
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Virgin Islands National Park
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Cinnamon Bay Trail
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Annaberg Sugar Plantation
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Cinnamon Bay Plantation Ruins
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Hurricane Hole
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Reef Bay Sugar Mill Ruins
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Coral Bay
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Essential places to dine
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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