Saltpond Bay: A Tranquil Escape on St. John
Discover tranquility at Saltpond Bay, St. John: pristine waters, vibrant snorkeling, and scenic trails await on this secluded south shore escape.
Saltpond Bay, located on the southeastern coast of St. John, is a serene beach offering clear waters, excellent snorkeling, and access to scenic hiking trails. A short, rocky trail leads to this secluded bay, making it a worthwhile destination for those seeking natural beauty and tranquility.
A brief summary to Saltpond Bay
- St John, VI
Local tips
- Bring sturdy shoes for the rocky hike down to the bay and for exploring the Ram Head Trail.
- Pack sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, as there is limited shade on the beach and trails.
- Snorkel along the eastern shoreline or out to the rocks in the center of the bay for the best underwater views.
- Combine your beach visit with a hike to Ram Head for stunning panoramic views of St. John's southern coast.
- Consider visiting early in the day to avoid crowds and secure a parking spot.
Getting There
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Taxi
From Cruz Bay, taxis are readily available. A taxi to Saltpond Bay will take approximately 30-40 minutes. Taxi rates in St. John are per person, per destination. Expect to pay around $20-$30 per person for a one-way trip. Confirm the rate with the driver before starting your journey.
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Public Transport
The VITRAN bus offers an affordable way to reach Saltpond Bay from Cruz Bay. Route 108 (Salt Pond) travels from the Cruz Bay ferry dock to Coral Bay, with a stop near Saltpond Bay. The bus ride takes approximately 1 hour. From the bus stop on Route 107, it's a 7-11 minute walk to the bay. The fare is $2 per ride. Be aware that the bus service may not operate on Saturdays.
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Car
From Cruz Bay, take Centerline Road (Route 10) or North Shore Road (Route 20) towards Coral Bay. At the 'T' intersection in Coral Bay, turn right onto Route 107. Continue for approximately 4 miles, past Concordia, until you see a sharp right turn in the road with parking on the left. The Saltpond Bay Trail begins at the parking area. Parking is limited, so arrive early. Car rentals are available in Cruz Bay.
Discover more about Saltpond Bay
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St John
3.9 km
Experience the serene beauty and vibrant culture of St. John, the jewel of the U.S. Virgin Islands, featuring stunning beaches and lush landscapes.
Virgin Islands National Park
6.0 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich history of Virgin Islands National Park on St. John, a tropical paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Cinnamon Bay Trail
6.4 km
Hike through history amidst tropical beauty on St. John's Cinnamon Bay Trail, where sugar plantation ruins meet breathtaking island views.
Annaberg Sugar Plantation
6.5 km
Explore the historic Annaberg Sugar Plantation in St. John, US Virgin Islands, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Caribbean.
Cinnamon Bay Plantation Ruins
6.9 km
Step back in time at Cinnamon Bay Plantation Ruins, exploring St. John's captivating history and the echoes of its sugar-producing past.
Catherineberg Estate Ruins
7.0 km
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Santa Monica Rock
7.8 km
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Little Thatch
8.1 km
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Trunk Cay, United States Virgin Islands
8.4 km
Explore the underwater wonders of Trunk Cay, a stunning islet in St. John's famed Trunk Bay, offering an unforgettable snorkeling experience.
Omar's Fusion
8.5 km
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VOYAGE Charters
8.5 km
Experience the beauty of the British Virgin Islands with luxury yacht rentals at VOYAGE Charters, your gateway to unforgettable sailing adventures.
Arawak West End
8.5 km
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Pusser's Landing
8.5 km
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Soper's Hole Wharf & Marina
8.5 km
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DAY TRIPS BVI
8.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Ram Head Peak
1.1 km
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Tektite Trailhead
1.4 km
Hike the Tektite Trail in St. John for stunning views, a touch of history, and a moderately challenging adventure in Virgin Islands National Park.
Beehive Cove Lookout Point
1.5 km
Discover breathtaking Caribbean views and serene hiking trails at St. John's hidden gem, Beehive Cove Lookout Point in the Virgin Islands National Park.
Little Lameshur Bay
2.3 km
Discover St. John's secluded Little Lameshur Bay: soft sands, calm waters, vibrant snorkeling, and historic ruins await!
Lameshur Bay Trail
2.6 km
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Bordeaux Mountain Trail
3.3 km
Hike to St. John's highest peak on this challenging trail, rewarded with panoramic views and a glimpse into island history.
Coral Harbor
4.1 km
Discover Coral Bay, St. John: a tranquil harbor with rich history, stunning nature, and a laid-back island vibe away from the crowds.
Hurricane Hole
4.2 km
Discover Hurricane Hole in St. John: a serene bay with vibrant marine life, perfect for kayaking, snorkeling, and exploring protected mangrove ecosystems.
Reef Bay Sugar Mill Ruins
4.3 km
Discover St. John's history at the Reef Bay Sugar Mill Ruins, a preserved landmark offering a glimpse into the island's plantation past within a stunning natural setting.
Coral Bay
4.5 km
Discover Coral Bay, St. John: A serene escape with stunning views, rich history, and tranquil beaches away from the crowds.
Petroglyphs
4.7 km
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Hansen Bay Beach
5.1 km
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Essential places to dine
Lime Out VI
4.1 km
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Ekaete Pink Corner
4.4 km
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Patricias Beach Bar
9.5 km
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1748 Restaurant
10.1 km
Experience exquisite Caribbean cuisine with stunning views at 1748 Restaurant in Long Bay, British Virgin Islands.
Tropical Fusion Beach Bar And Grill
10.1 km
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La Flaca
10.3 km
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Nardie's Beach Bar
10.3 km
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Tramonti Restaurant
10.9 km
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D'CoalPot BVI Restaurant Bar & Grill
11.8 km
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North Shore Shell Museum & Restaurant
12.0 km
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Selly's BBQ Pitt BVI
12.3 km
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Peg Legs Restaurant
12.4 km
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Nanny Cay Resort & Marina
12.5 km
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Bananakeet
12.6 km
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Mountain View Restaurant
12.7 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
BVI Island Surf and Sail
8.5 km
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Riteway Harbour Market
8.5 km
Experience the vibrant local flavors and fresh produce at Riteway Harbour Market in Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands.
Harbor Market
8.6 km
Discover local flavors and essential supplies at Harbor Market in Soper's Hole, your go-to supermarket in the British Virgin Islands.
VI National Park Store
9.5 km
Shop for unique souvenirs and support conservation efforts at the charming VI National Park Store in St. John.
Sail Caribbean Divers
9.9 km
Discover the underwater wonders of the British Virgin Islands with Sail Caribbean Divers, your premier SCUBA tour agency for unforgettable ocean adventures.
Sage Mountain National Park
11.7 km
Explore Sage Mountain National Park, a stunning national park in the British Virgin Islands, featuring lush trails, breathtaking views, and diverse wildlife.
Arawak Nanny Cay
12.7 km
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Riteway Nanny Cay
12.7 km
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Blue Water Divers
12.7 km
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The Islander Swim Collection
12.7 km
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Amorbeach
12.8 km
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KennyTees
13.5 km
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Manuel Reef Market
13.5 km
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V.I. Books & Things
13.6 km
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Indigo Beach House
13.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Windmill Bar
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Admiral's Bar
8.6 km
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The Indians
8.6 km
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West End
9.0 km
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Nigel’s Boom Boom Beach Bar & Grill
9.5 km
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Stoutt's Lookout Bar
12.7 km
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Captain Mulligans
12.9 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Oceans 7 Yacht Club
13.4 km
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Glen Seaside Bar and Restaurant
14.0 km
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Paradise Club Lounge, Bar, & Restaurant
14.2 km
Experience the ultimate beach bar vibe at Paradise Club Lounge in Cane Garden Bay, British Virgin Islands, with stunning views and refreshing cocktails.
Rudy's Bar
14.8 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and local flavors at Rudy's Bar in the British Virgin Islands, a must-visit for any traveler seeking nightlife.
Coco Locos
15.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and tropical cocktails at Coco Locos, the ultimate beach bar in White Bay, British Virgin Islands.
Foxy's, Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands
15.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exotic cocktails at Foxy's, Jost Van Dyke, a must-visit bar in the British Virgin Islands.
L'Cachet Bar
15.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and extensive drink menu at L'Cachet Bar, the perfect spot for relaxation in Road Town, British Virgin Islands.
Nicoles Beach Bar
15.8 km
Discover the vibrant Nicoles Beach Bar in the British Virgin Islands, a tropical haven serving delicious food and refreshing drinks with stunning ocean views.
The avenue bar and lounge
15.8 km
Discover the laid-back charm of The Avenue Bar and Lounge in Road Town, British Virgin Islands - your tropical escape for drinks and relaxation.
Cool Breeze Sports Bar & Restaurant
15.9 km
Discover the flavors of the Caribbean at Cool Breeze Sports Bar & Restaurant, where delicious food meets a vibrant sports atmosphere in the British Virgin Islands.
Ivan’s Stress Free Bar, Villas & Beach Bungalows
15.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of White Bay with delicious grilled dishes and vibrant beach bungalows at Ivan's Stress Free Bar.
Ali Baba's
15.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean at Ali Baba's, a beloved bar and grill in the heart of Belle Vue, British Virgin Islands.
Sandbox45
16.0 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Sandbox45 in Road Town, a bar that blends local flavors with a vibrant nightlife experience in the British Virgin Islands.
Coconut Lounge
16.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Coconut Lounge in Road Town, a tropical retreat for cocktails, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences.
B-Line beach bar & restaurant
16.0 km
Discover the flavors of the Caribbean at B-Line Beach Bar & Restaurant, where grilled delicacies meet stunning beach views on Little Jost Van Dyke.
