Trunk Bay, West End Travel Guide

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Discover Trunk Bay, St. John: Pristine sands, turquoise waters, and vibrant snorkeling in a protected National Park paradise.

Trunk Bay, located in St. John, US Virgin Islands, is celebrated for its stunning white-sand beach, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and an underwater snorkeling trail. As part of the Virgin Islands National Park, it offers a pristine and protected environment for visitors to enjoy.

A brief summary to Trunk Bay

St John, VI

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Arrive early to secure a parking spot and avoid crowds, especially if visiting after 10 AM.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate coral reefs and marine life.
Rent snorkel gear at the beach shop or bring your own to explore the underwater trail.
Take a photo from the Trunk Bay Overlook for a stunning panoramic view of the bay.
Be aware that Trunk Bay is one of the only beaches on St. John that charges an entrance fee ($5 for visitors over 15).

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Explore Trunk Bay on the Map

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

Getting There

Taxi

From Cruz Bay Ferry Dock, taxis are readily available. The ride to Trunk Bay is approximately 12 minutes via North Shore Road. Taxi drivers often provide a brief stop at the Trunk Bay Overlook for photos. The taxi fare is around $8 per person. Be sure to confirm the rate with the driver before departing. Alternatively, open-air safari taxis are a popular choice.
Public Transport

While there isn't a dedicated public bus, taxis function as shared shuttles. From Cruz Bay, look for taxis heading towards North Shore beaches. The per-person rate is typically lower than a private taxi, but the ride may involve multiple stops. Confirm the destination and fare before boarding.
Walking

While possible, walking from Cruz Bay to Trunk Bay is not recommended due to the distance (approximately 2.5 miles) and the road's narrowness. However, if you're already on North Shore Road, walking from nearby beaches like Hawksnest or Caneel Bay is an option. Use caution and be aware of traffic.

Discover more about Trunk Bay

Trunk Bay is more than just a beach; it's an experience. Nestled within the Virgin Islands National Park on the island of St. John, this world-renowned bay boasts a crescent of dazzling white sand fringed by vibrant turquoise waters. The bay is named after the leatherback turtle, known locally as “trunks,” which once nested here in large numbers.Its fame is well-deserved, with accolades from Condé Nast Traveler, National Geographic, and even a feature on a US postage stamp. The bay's location within the national park ensures its preservation, keeping aggressive development at bay and maintaining its pristine beauty.Trunk Bay's history stretches back to around 700 AD when it was first settled by the Taino tribe. The area later became a successful sugar estate during the colonial era. In the late 1920s, Paul Boulon Sr. purchased Trunk Bay, and in 1956, the Boulon family sold a large portion of the property to Laurance Rockefeller, who then donated it to the National Park Service.Today, Trunk Bay offers more than just sun and sand. Snorkelers can explore the 650-foot underwater snorkeling trail, marked with underwater plaques that identify the diverse marine life. Keep an eye out for colorful fish, coral formations, sea turtles, and the rare indigo-blue tunicates. The western side of the cay offers more protection from waves and is home to a greater variety of corals and fish.Amenities at Trunk Bay include a snack bar, souvenir shop, restrooms, showers, and snorkel gear rentals. Lifeguards are typically on duty, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all.