Maho Bay Beach: A Tranquil Turtle Haven
Discover St. John's tranquil Maho Bay Beach: gentle waters, sea turtles, and a perfect spot for families and snorkeling adventures.
Maho Bay Beach, located on the north shore of St. John, is celebrated for its calm, shallow waters, pristine white sand, and abundant sea turtle population. It's an ideal spot for families, novice snorkelers, and anyone seeking a relaxing beach experience in the Virgin Islands National Park.
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 and avoid crowds.
- Bring your own snorkel gear or rent it from Reef2Peak at Maho Crossroads to explore the underwater world and swim with sea turtles.
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral reefs and marine life.
- Be mindful of the native plant restoration project and avoid disturbing the protected plants along the beach.
- Visit the America Hill Great House ruins via the Cinnamon Bay Trail for a scenic hike and panoramic views of Maho Bay.
Getting There
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Taxi
From Cruz Bay, taxis, often open-air safari-style, are readily available at the ferry dock. A taxi ride to Maho Bay Beach, approximately 5 miles along North Shore Road (Route 20), typically takes about 15-20 minutes. Taxis operate on a per-person rate, with fares to Maho Bay ranging from $11 to $18 per person, depending on the number of passengers. Confirm the rate with the driver before departing. Safari taxis frequently serve the North Shore beaches, making it easy to find a ride back to Cruz Bay from Maho Bay.
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Car
If driving from Cruz Bay, take North Shore Road (Route 20) east for approximately 5 miles. The drive takes about 15 minutes. There are two parking areas: a small lot beachside and a larger lot on the eastern end. Parking can be limited, especially during peak hours, so arriving early is recommended. Parking is free. Be aware of parking restrictions and avoid parking on the sand or in restricted areas, as fines can be steep (starting at $125). An alternative is to park across the street from the beach in designated spots, ensuring tires and mirrors are off the road.
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Public Transport
The VITran bus, also known as the 'Dollar Bus,' offers a budget-friendly option. The bus travels from Cruz Bay to Coral Bay, but it may not stop directly at Maho Bay Beach. The closest bus stop is Centerline Rd, East, which is a 31-minute walk (2418 meters) away from Maho Bay. Bus lines 108 and 109 stop near Maho Bay. The fare is approximately $2 per ride. However, the bus schedule can be unreliable, and it may not be the most convenient option for reaching the beach directly.
Discover more about Maho Bay Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St John
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Little Thatch
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Steele Point Estate
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Omar's Fusion
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VOYAGE Charters
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Lovango Cay, U.S. Virgin Islands
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West End Ferry Terminal
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Arawak West End
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Pusser's Landing
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Soper's Hole Wharf & Marina
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DAY TRIPS BVI
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Omar's Coffee House
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Smuggler's Cove
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villa del mar tortola
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Tortola
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Unmissable attractions to see
America Hill Great House Ruins
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Cinnamon Bay Beach
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Cinnamon Bay Plantation Ruins
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Cinnamon Bay Trail
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Francis Bay
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Virgin Islands National Park
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Whistling Cay, United States Virgin Islands
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Catherineberg Estate Ruins
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Annaberg Sugar Plantation
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Coral Reef Underwater Park Trail
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Trunk Cay, United States Virgin Islands
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Trunk Bay
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Jumbie Beach
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Petroglyphs
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Oppenheimer Beach
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Essential places to dine
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Lime Out VI
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Nardie's Beach Bar
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Sidney's Peace & Love
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Riteway Harbour Market
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BVI Island Surf and Sail
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Harbor Market
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Pink House Villas
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Ivan’s Stress Free Bar, Villas & Beach Bungalows
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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The Bight
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Pirates Bight
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Touchdown Club & Restaurant
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