Trunk Bay Tours

Trunk Bay which includes island views
Trunk Bay which includes island views
Trunk Bay featuring a sandy beach
Trunk Bay featuring tropical scenes and a beach
Trunk Bay which includes general coastal views


Backed by palms, this stretch of sparkling white sand is regularly ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Part of the protected Virgin Islands National Park, the idyllic Trunk Bay is one of the most famous beaches on St. John. Lie back and relax on the sands, dip your feet in the warm water or don a snorkel and explore the underwater trail here.

Find your very own piece of paradise at the quarter-mile (half-kilometer) long beach on the northern side of the island. Lounge under the bright midday sun or enjoy the natural shade created by the thick coconut palm trees whose branches extend out over the sand.

Cool off with a splash in the sea or put on flippers and a mask and go in search of marine life a little farther out. Good snorkeling can be found close to the rocky islet of Trunk Cay. The real highlight for marine wildlife enthusiasts, however, is definitely the purpose-built underwater trail.

Bring your own snorkeling gear or rent it from the nearby beach center. Follow the 675-foot (205-meter) trail, which begins offshore from the beach. The route leads snorkelers over bright coral where many species of tropical fish can be seen. Read the trail signs, which will help you to identify the different types of fish and coral.

Pack a picnic for your day out at the beach or head to the snack bar for a refreshing drink and snack. Look for ships gliding across the horizon as you eat.

Trunk Bay is on the north coast of St. John just west of Cinnamon Bay. Note that Trunk Bay, unlike most other beaches on the island, does charge an entry fee. Toilets, showers and lifeguard services are provided. A taxi rank is also situated here, so getting to and from the beach won’t be a problem even if you don’t have a car.

Plan a trip to see Trunk Bay

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Bluebeard's Castle Resort
Margaritaville Vacation Club - St. Thomas
Wharfside Village Hotel

Reviews of Trunk Bay

4.6
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
251
5 - Excellent 71%
4 - Good
86
4 - Good 24%
3 - Okay
18
3 - Okay 5%
2 - Disappointing
0
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
1
1 - Terrible 0%

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

Bring water and snacks. The lines are long and there's no wait service. The only Bar was out of Salt for a decent Margarita and they don't have blenders for frozen drinks. It's kind of a Hippie Vibe if you like that sort of thing. Cute places to sit and everyone is really nice.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

underwater trail

5/5 - Excellent

SallyfromDallas

We've been to many beaches. This one stands out for it's great ecosystem. It's located in a national park and has not been heavily commercialized. We took a cab here for $6/person. There were picnic tables to put our things, we also saw lockers but with no locks. The beach itself is picture perfect and preserves the natural beauty of the area. The water is crystal clear and we saw a healthy ecosystem during our snorkeling. There's a small store if you want to rent gear, a bar area, and small food area. It's simple, but natural. My son saw an octopus while snorkeling, and the coral is in good shape with lots of marine life. This was our favorite beach we visited during our stay

3/5 - Okay

Ford

Was an expensive excursion and full of tourists.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Go on a low cruise ship day (St. Thomas), the beach will be far less crowded. Definitely snorkel the trail great fish, rays, etc. Full facilities (showers, lockers, bar and snack bar)

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

It's a Federal Park on St. John.  If you drive, make sure you park in parking spots.  If you park on the road, make sure you park in off the road.  A person got towed.  Not great experience for them.  They have showers, a bar, food truck, snorkle rentals.  The taxi from center of town was only $6.00 per person and worth not driving.  Windy, narrow and steep roads.  We loved St. John better than St. Thomas    We wented snorkle equipment from a local business.  When you get off ferry ($16.00 rt), it's the first building to your right.  Just walk up the stairs and the shop rents them.  We ate at High Tides in same building complex on the water great and Longboards.  Also very good.

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Tropical Studio on Gifft Hill w/ Balcony and Pool

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Coconuts: Indoor/Outdoor Living, Spa, Heated Pool & Privacy!

Coconuts: Indoor/Outdoor Living, Spa, Heated Pool & Privacy!

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2 bedroom w/ 2 en-suite private bathrooms - 1mile from Cruz Bay

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Trunk Bay

Trunk Bay in St. John offers stunning sunsets, prime snorkeling spots, and excellent birdwatching opportunities. Visitors can enjoy guided Trunk Bay tours, relax on the beautiful beach, or explore the famous snorkeling trail featuring underwater trails that showcase vibrant marine life. Whether you're looking for a beach vacation or adventure-filled activities, Trunk Bay has something for everyone.

Shopping

For souvenirs, visit St. John Spice, just 2 miles from Trunk Bay, for unique gifts. Mongoose Junction, also 2 miles away, offers a vibrant atmosphere with shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, check out Market Square East, located 9 miles away, for more local finds.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at The Self Centre, just a mile from Trunk Bay, offering rejuvenating body treatments and a serene atmosphere. For outdoor enthusiasts, Mahogany Run Golf Course, 9 miles away, provides a stunning golfing experience amidst lush landscapes, while Lionel Roberts Stadium, 11 miles away, caters to sports fans.

Adventure

Explore the stunning Lind Point Trail, located 2 miles from Trunk Bay, offering outdoor adventure vibes. Hike the scenic Reef Bay Trailhead, also 2 miles away, for breathtaking views. For a family-friendly thrill, take the Skyride to Paradise Point, situated 10 miles from Trunk Bay, and enjoy panoramic vistas.

Nightlife

Trunk Bay's nightlife offers a unique vibe, with Magic Ice Gallery providing a cool drinking experience just 11 miles away. Enjoy refreshing cocktails while soaking in the romantic atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day at the beach.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Trunk Bay

Trunk Bay, located in St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands, is renowned for its breathtaking beach and picturesque scenery. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and explore nearby attractions, including the stunning Trunk Bay Beach, often hailed as one of the best beaches in the area. With its serene bay and the nearby Virgin Islands National Park, Trunk Bay offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for travelers seeking a memorable beach experience.

  • Virgin Islands National Park: A stunning natural haven located 0.9 miles from Trunk Bay, this national park offers adventure and breathtaking scenery. Explore hiking trails, snorkeling spots, and wildlife, immersing yourself in the rich biodiversity and pristine landscapes of the Virgin Islands.
  • Cinnamon Bay Beach: Situated 0.6 miles from Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay Beach boasts soft sands and vibrant waters. Perfect for sunbathing and swimming, it provides a serene outdoor setting with picturesque views, making it an ideal spot for relaxation.
  • Maho Beach: Located 1 mile from Trunk Bay, Maho Beach is famous for its stunning shoreline. With tranquil waters and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s a perfect place to unwind or enjoy leisurely walks along the beach.

Best time to go to Trunk Bay

The best time to visit Trunk Bay is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. March is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January78.3°F (25.7°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February77.9°F (25.5°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March77.5°F (25.3°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April78.6°F (25.9°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May80.2°F (26.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June81.7°F (27.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July82.2°F (27.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August82.8°F (28.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
September83.1°F (28.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
October82.6°F (28.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
November81.1°F (27.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December79.7°F (26.5°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

Tips to save on your trip to Trunk Bay

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Trunk Bay.
  • Consider traveling to Trunk Bay during the low season (September to November) for more affordable options.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.