Lind Point Trail: A Hike to History and Hidden Beaches
Hike from Cruz Bay through history to reach St. John's pristine North Shore beaches, offering stunning views and tranquil Caribbean beauty.
The Lind Point Trail is a popular and easily accessible hiking trail located in Cruz Bay, St. John, within the Virgin Islands National Park. The trail provides access to Salomon and Honeymoon Beaches, two of the island's most beautiful and secluded North Shore beaches. The trail begins behind the National Park Visitor Center in Cruz Bay, making it easily accessible for day-trippers arriving by ferry. The path winds along the northwestern coast of St. John, offering stunning views of Cruz Bay harbor, Pillsbury Sound, and the surrounding islands. Hikers can choose between the lower and upper Lind Point trails, each offering unique perspectives and varying levels of difficulty. The lower trail is slightly shorter and less hilly, while the upper trail includes switchbacks and leads to the Lind Point Battery Overlook. Along the way, hikers traverse through diverse environments, including cactus scrub and dry forests. The area was once known as Estate Lindholm, where cotton was cultivated in colonial times. The Lind Point Battery, a semi-circular earthwork, stands as a historical reminder of the British occupation during the Napoleonic Wars. Salomon Beach, accessible via a side trail, offers a secluded getaway. Honeymoon Beach, reached by continuing on the main path, provides amenities such as chair rentals, food, and bar service. Both beaches offer opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in the clear Caribbean waters.
Local tips
- Start your hike early to avoid the midday heat and secure a parking pass from the Visitor Center if driving.
- Bring water, sunscreen, and appropriate footwear, as the trail can be rocky in places.
- Consider taking the lower trail for an easier hike or the upper trail for panoramic views from the Lind Point Battery Overlook.
- Pack a swimsuit and snorkel gear to enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Salomon or Honeymoon Beach.
A brief summary to Lind Point Trail
- 86M3+VPQ, Cruz Bay, Caneel Bay, St John, 00830, VI
Getting There
-
Walking
The Lind Point Trail is easily accessible on foot from the Cruz Bay ferry dock. From the ferry dock, walk towards the large yellow building across the street and slightly down from Mongoose Junction; this is the National Park Visitor Center. The trailhead is located behind the visitor center, accessible via a set of stairs. Follow the signs for Lind Point Trail, Honeymoon Beach, or Salomon Bay. The walk from the ferry dock to the trailhead is less than 0.5 miles and takes about 5-10 minutes. There is no cost for accessing the trail.
-
Public Transport
If arriving from St. Thomas, take the passenger ferry from either Charlotte Amalie ($12 one way) or Red Hook ($9 one way) to Cruz Bay. From the Cruz Bay ferry dock, follow the walking directions to the Lind Point Trail. The Vitran bus system services various areas of the island and usually runs Monday - Friday. The buses travel from the Cruz Bay ferry dock, through to Coral Bay, Salt Pond Bay and back to Cruz Bay. The Public Bus system is not very reliable, if you are on a tight or limited time schedule it is not a good idea to depend on the bus.
-
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Cruz Bay. Ask the taxi driver to drop you off at the National Park Visitor Center. The taxi ride from the Cruz Bay ferry dock to the Visitor Center is short, costing approximately $5-$7. From there, follow the walking directions to the Lind Point Trail.
