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Caneel Bay: A Reborn Paradise

Discover the natural beauty and rich history of Caneel Bay, St. John, where pristine beaches meet lush tropical landscapes.

Caneel Bay, located within Virgin Islands National Park on St. John, is emerging from the devastation of the 2017 hurricanes to welcome visitors once again. This iconic location, once home to a luxurious resort founded by Laurance Rockefeller, now offers public access to its pristine beach and a glimpse into its rich history and natural beauty.

A brief summary to Caneel Bay

  • Cruz Bay, Caneel Bay, St John, VI

Local tips

  • Bring your own snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant marine life along the shoreline.
  • Arrive early to secure parking, especially during peak season.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the walk from the parking area to the beach.
  • Stay within designated public areas and heed safety warnings due to ongoing recovery efforts.
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Getting There

  • Driving/Taxi

    From Cruz Bay, head east on Route 20 (North Shore Road). The entrance to Caneel Bay is approximately 5 minutes from Cruz Bay. Follow signs to the designated public parking areas (Lots A, B, or C). From the parking lot, follow the walking path to Caneel Bay Beach, approximately a 5-minute walk. Taxi fare from Cruz Bay is approximately $10-$15. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    From the Cruz Bay ferry dock, taxis and safari buses are available to Caneel Bay. The taxi/safari bus will drop you off at the entrance to Caneel Bay. Follow the walking path to Caneel Bay Beach, approximately a 5-minute walk from the entrance. Taxi/safari bus fare is approximately $6-$12 per person. Alternatively, there is a shuttle from the Caneel Bay entrance to Honeymoon Beach for $6 one way or $12 round trip.

  • Ferry

    From St. Thomas, take the ferry to Cruz Bay, St. John. Ferries depart from Charlotte Amalie and Red Hook. The ferry from Charlotte Amalie costs $13 for adults and $3.50 for children, plus $4 per bag, and takes approximately 45 minutes. The ferry from Red Hook costs $8.15 for adults and $1 for children, plus $4 per bag, and takes approximately 20 minutes. From the Cruz Bay ferry dock, follow the 'Driving/Taxi' or 'Public Transport' guidance to reach Caneel Bay Beach.

Discover more about Caneel Bay

Caneel Bay, nestled on a 170-acre peninsula within the Virgin Islands National Park, is a destination steeped in history and natural splendor. Originally a sugar plantation known as Little Cinnamon Bay, the land was transformed in the 1950s by Laurance Rockefeller, who established the Caneel Bay Resort with a vision of simple elegance and harmony with the environment. Rockefeller later donated a large portion of the island to the U.S. government, ensuring the preservation of its natural beauty as a national park. For decades, Caneel Bay Resort offered a tranquil escape, attracting visitors with its seven beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical surroundings. The resort was designed to blend seamlessly with the landscape, with low-profile buildings and minimal artificial lighting to enhance the natural beauty of the surroundings. Although the resort was severely damaged by Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017 and is currently undergoing redevelopment, Caneel Bay Beach has reopened for public access. Today, visitors can once again enjoy the soft white sands and calm waters of Caneel Bay Beach, as well as explore the historic Durloo Sugar Plantation ruins. The National Park Service has implemented measures to ensure visitor safety and preserve the area's natural resources, including designated parking areas, signage, and walking paths. While the Caneel Bay Beach dock remains closed, the beach is accessible by land and water, offering opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.

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