What better way to spend your island vacation than soaking up the sun on some of the best beaches in the world? On the island of St. John, there are more than a dozen fine beaches, each with its own unique offerings for the amateur or expert beach-goer. So sink your toes in the sand and get ready: here are some of the top beaches St. John, USVI, has to offer.

Cinnamon Bay

If you enjoy getting active in the water, then Cinnamon Bay Beach on St. John might just be a perfect fit. This beautiful beach is the location of the Cinnamon Bay campground, which provides inexpensive beachfront accommodations and houses a variety of vendors offering different watersport activities, including kayaking, windsurfing, and diving equipment. You can also join a pickup volleyball game or hike the Cinnamon Bay nature trail, adding to the excitement of your day.

Hawksnest

Located close to Cruz Bay on St. John’s north shore, Hawksnest Beach is a popular spot with locals and families. Equipped with changing rooms, public picnic tables, and restrooms, it provides a convenient option for a relaxing day at the beach with friends or family. Furthermore, Hawksnest shares a cove with Oppenheimer Beach and Gibney Beach, making it an ideal location for those looking to explore various beach spots in a single day.

Maho Bay Beach

This calm roadside beach is especially great for kids and families. The beach is shaded by Maho Trees, a native hibiscus type adorned with heart-shaped leaves and yellow flowers. Swim in the shallow waters and keep an eye out for sea turtles, who often swim nearby. Additionally, a trail leads to the Maho Bay Camps, providing tent lodging and beach apartments for those wishing to experience an overnight stay.

Francis Bay Beach

Located on the north shore, Francis Bay Beach is one of the longest stretches of sand on St. John, making it a paradise for beach walkers and sunbathers alike. The stunning sunsets viewed from this west-facing beach are truly unforgettable. Additionally, snorkelers will find an abundance of tropical fish, while the nearby Francis Bay Trail offers excellent bird-watching opportunities. With ample parking and a wide beach open to all interests, this vibrant destination caters to every traveler seeking a fun day out.

Trunk Bay

As a part of Virgin Islands National Park, Trunk Bay is the most visited beach on St. John. Here, you’ll find a world-famous underwater snorkeling trail that features informative interpretive signs. Visitors can also explore the ruins of the Annaberg Sugar Plantation during their time at the beach. Renowned for its dazzling white sand and bright blue waters surrounded by lush foliage, Trunk Bay is often considered the most stunning beach on St. John, notwithstanding the occasional crowds.

Gibney Beach, nestled within Hawksnest Bay, offers a tranquil sandy oasis fringed with palm trees. Known for its bohemian reputation, this beach has a fascinating history, having once been partly owned by Robert Oppenheimer. Today, it is primarily under the stewardship of the U.S. National Park Service. This hidden gem on the island’s north shore remains unmarked from the road and can be accessed only via a gravel path on foot. For those interested, there are tourist cottages available for rent right on the beach, enhancing your overall experience.