Cinnamon Bay Beach, West End Travel Guide

4.9 (114)

Discover St. John's longest beach: Cinnamon Bay! Snorkel, explore historic ruins, and relax in this Caribbean paradise within Virgin Islands National Park.

Cinnamon Bay Beach, the longest beach on St. John, is a stunning stretch of soft, white sand fringed with towering palms, offering excellent snorkeling and a range of watersports. Part of the Virgin Islands National Park, it combines natural beauty with historical significance, featuring the ruins of a former sugar plantation and Taino artifacts.

A brief summary to Cinnamon Bay Beach

St John, VI

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cinnamon Bay Beach.

Arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a parking spot, as the lot tends to fill up quickly.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate coral reefs and marine life while snorkeling.
Explore the Cinnamon Bay Nature Trail and Factory Ruins to delve into the area's rich history and natural beauty.
Visit Little Cinnamon Bay for a more secluded beach experience and unique snorkeling opportunities.
Take advantage of the watersports rentals available to enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, or windsurfing in the bay's calm waters.

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Explore Cinnamon Bay Beach on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Cinnamon Bay Beach, mapped for you.

Getting There

Taxi

From Cruz Bay, taxis are readily available at the ferry dock. A taxi to Cinnamon Bay Beach, approximately 4 miles east of Cruz Bay via North Shore Road (Route 20), costs around $12-$15 per person. The scenic drive takes about 15 minutes. Taxis operate frequently, and a taxi stand is available at Cinnamon Bay for your return trip to Cruz Bay.
Public Transport

The 108 and 109 bus lines connect Cruz Bay to Cinnamon Bay Beach. The bus departs from the Cruz Bay ferry dock approximately every hour and costs $1 per person each way. The ride takes about 30 minutes, offering a budget-friendly option to reach the beach.
Driving

From Cruz Bay, follow North Shore Road (Route 20) for approximately 4 miles. The drive is scenic but winding. Ample parking is available at Cinnamon Bay Beach, but the lot can fill up quickly, especially during peak hours. Parking is free. Be aware that spaces are also reserved for taxis.

Discover more about Cinnamon Bay Beach

Cinnamon Bay Beach, nestled on the north shore of St. John, is a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. As the island's longest beach, it boasts a half-mile of pristine, soft white sand, inviting visitors to relax and soak up the Caribbean sun. Towering coconut palms and sea grape trees provide ample shade, while the crystal-clear waters beckon snorkelers and swimmers alike.The bay's calm and shallow waters make it an ideal spot for families with children, and the small cay just offshore offers excellent snorkeling opportunities. Snorkelers can explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter a variety of marine life, including colorful Caribbean fish, sea turtles, and stingrays. For a unique snorkeling experience, a short hike to Little Cinnamon Bay reveals the wreckage of a small aircraft in shallow waters.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 ruins of the sugar factory, slave quarters, and other historical structures, gaining insights into the island's colonial past. The Cinnamon Bay Nature Trail and Cinnamon Bay Trail offer hiking opportunities through the lush tropical forest, where you can discover more ruins and learn about the local flora and fauna.Cinnamon Bay has also been inhabited by the Taino people from about 1000 AD until the end of the 15th Century. Archaeological digs have uncovered Taino artifacts, providing a glimpse into the island's pre-Columbian history.Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or a dose of history, Cinnamon Bay Beach offers something for everyone. With its stunning scenery, abundant amenities, and fascinating historical background, it's a must-visit destination on St. John.