The boardwalk at Francis Bay is partially underwater due to the recent rainfall. Do not attempt to walk on the boardwalk until the water has receded and the condition of the boardwalk can be assessed.

Francis Bay Boardwalk Closed

Due to recent weather, north shore beaches are experiencing heavy run-off and storm surge. Use caution when entering the water.

Heavy Run-off and Storm Surge Due to Weather

Recent rains have caused an overgrowth of vegetation on the sides of the road heading to East End near Haulover. Please use extreme caution when driving. This park alert will be removed once the vegetations has been removed.

Road to East End

Multiple trees are down on the Brown Bay Trail and rains have caused an overgrowth of vegetation. Please use caution when hiking. This park alert will be removed when the trail has been cleared.

Brown Bay Trail

Multiple trees are down on the Johnny Horn Trail and rains have caused an overgrowth of vegetation. Please use caution when hiking. This park alert will be removed once the trail has been cleared.

Johnny Horn Trail

Go beyond Virgin Islands National Park's stunning white-sand beaches. Hike to historic plantation sites to learn about a challenging past when sugar and enslaved labor dominated life on the island. Visit the Indigenous Taino's ancient petroglyphs. Snorkel coral reefs to discover hidden marine life. Two-thirds of the island of St. John is national park, making it a unique destination for visitors.

Turquoise water laps white sandy shore fringed with lush green vegetation.

Trunk Bay

Queen Angel Fish

A sunset colors the horizon as seen from an overlook above the bay.

Sunset Bench at Lind Point

Four Stilts for the Bird Watchers

Sunset Paddle

Virgin Islands

Virgin Islands National Park is always open! The Visitor Center and store are currently open from 8:15 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. Monday - Friday. It is closed on weekends, the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Thanksgiving Day

Christmas

Virgin Islands National Park Visitor Center

Self-Guided Tours - Walking

This backcountry trail is steep in places, uneven and rocky, and can be slippery even when dry –you'll need sturdy, closed-toe shoes and a sure foot. Take plenty of water, some snacks and a lunch, and a hat. Mosquito repellent is a good idea, too, and a swimsuit if you'd like to take a dip in the ocean down at the beach at the end of the trail. From the trailhead to the beach is about three miles one way if you visit the waterfall and petroglyphs. Plan on about two hours from trailhead to valley floor; it will take longer hiking the 900 foot elevation gain on the way up and out.

This is a steep strenuous hike. The duration depends on your physical condition and how much time you spend reading the waysides or at the petroglyphs and the ruins. 

The trailhead for the Reef Bay Trail is located at approximately mile marker 5 on Centerline Rd.

This is a strenuous hike that will take you past some of the oldest and tallest trees on the island. Danish sugar plantation ruins, stone walls from cattle grazing, and ancient rock carvings left behind by the pre-Colombian Taino can be found along the trail. During rainy season the waterfall can be spectacular. Signs along the trail provide information regarding the plants, their traditional uses and other interesting information regarding the days of the sugar plantations. This backcountry trail is steep in places, uneven and rocky, and can be slippery even when dry –you'll need sturdy, closed-toe shoes and a sure foot. Take plenty of water, some snacks and a lunch, and a hat. Mosquito repellent is a good idea, too, and a swimsuit if you'd like to take a dip in the ocean down at the beach at the end of the trail. From the trailhead to the beach is about three miles one way. Plan on about three and one half hours from trailhead to valley floor; it will take longer hiking the 900 foot elevation gain on the way up and out. If you would like to join a ranger-led hike on this trail visit <a href="https://friendsvinp.org/">Friends of Virgin Islands National Park </a>or visit our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/planyourvisit/rangerguidedtours.htm">Ranger Programs and Guided Tours</a> page for more information about this and other guided hikes.

Dogs are allowed on trails if on a leash. Service dogs are allowed in Virgin Islands National Park. <a href="https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/36/2.15">Title 36 part 2 section 15 </a>of the Code of Federal Regulations provides the rules on dogs.  * Pets are not allowed on beaches. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/learn/management/36cfr-2-15a.htm">36CFR 2.15(a)</a>(1) This rule is in place to protect nesting sea turtles, shore birds and our visitors on the beach. * Pets must be on leash no longer than 6' while in the Park. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/learn/management/36cfr-2-15a.htm">36CFR 2.15 (a)</a>(2) * Pets can not be left unattended and tied to an object. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/learn/management/36cfr-2-15a.htm">36CFR 2.15 (a)</a>(3) * Pet owners are responsible for removing pet waste appropriately. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/learn/management/36cfr-2-15a.htm">36CFR 2.15 (a)</a>(5) To report any dog issues call 1-866-995-8467. <h3>Service Animals</h3> A service animal is one that is specifically trained to aid a person with a disability. <ul> <li>Service animals are welcome in the park but must follow many of the pet rules.</li> <li>Service animals must be on a leash and under control at all times.</li> <li>Pet owners are responsible for removing pet waste appropriately. 36CFR 2.15 (a)(5)</li> </ul> <a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/learn/management/36cfr-2-15a.htm#CP_JUMP_5494266">Learn more about service animals</a> If you have any other questions about animals in the park please feel free to call the park at (340) 776-6201 or find a Ranger and ask them!!

Reef Bay Trail is a strenuous hike that will take you past some of the oldest and tallest trees on the island. Danish sugar plantation ruins, stone walls from cattle grazing, and ancient rock carvings left behind by the pre-Colombian Taino can be found along the trail. During rainy season the waterfall can be spectacular.

Reef Bay Trail

Animals

Birds

Archeology

Ruins

Plantations

Groundwater

The Tropics

Unique Species

Waterfalls

Guided Tours

Join our Park Ranger for a tour of Francis Bay Trail and salt pond. While there you will enjoy to opportunity to view the many resident and migratory birds that call Francis Bay home.

Meet at the trail head for Francis Bay Trail near the ruins. The guided tour takes about 90 minutes.

This program leaves from the ruins on the road to Francis Bay.

Join our Park Ranger for a tour of Francis Bay Trail and the nearby salt pond. While there you will enjoy to opportunity to view the many resident and migratory birds that call Francis Bay home.

<div>Service Animals (An animal specifically trained to aid a person with a disability).</div> <div> <ul> <li>Service animals are welcome.</li> <li>Service animals must be on a leash and under control at all times.</li> </ul> </div>

Discover Bird Watching in the Virgin Islands

Natural Sounds

Scenic Views

Trails

Snorkeling

The clear calm water of Maho Bay and the many sea turtles seen grazing the grass beds makes this a wonderful place to snorkel.

A large sea turtle swims through bright turquoise water.

Sea turtles at Maho

Maho Bay is located along Northshore Road about 5 miles east of Cruz Bay.

The large seagrass areas in Maho Bay make this a great place to view sea turtles as they graze along. Other colorful fish in this tranquil bay add to the magic. This an ideal spot for families and visitors who are new to snorkeling. Please respect the sea turtles and do not touch or harrass in way. Wear reef-safe sunscreen or a rashguard. 

The perfect experience for sea turtle lovers!

Maho Bay

Tortoises and Turtles

Oceans

Coral Reefs

Endangered

Snorkeling the underwater trail is a great way to learn about the colorful world of the coral reef.

Snorkelers can drift along the trail enjoying the beauty of the underwater world as they learn about the residents of the coral reef and how to protect it. Please use reef-safe sunscreen or rash guard and be mindful of where you place your feet. Stand only in sand!

Two young swimmers wear mask and snorkel in clear water.

Unique Snorkel Opportunity

The underwater trail begins at the beach on Trunk Bay.

The underwater trail at Trunk Bay introduces visitors to the magically colorful world of the coral reef. Visitors snorkel along above the trail and read the underwater signs to learn about the many animals that depend on the coral and ways to protect these fragile reefs.

This unique underwater trail is a great way to learn about the diverse animals of the coral reef habitat.

Trunk Bay Underwater Snorkel Trail

Fish

Climate Change

Coasts, Islands and Atolls

Water Trails

The Annaberg Plantation is one of the St John sugar plantations owned by the Danish. By the early 19th century it was one of St. John's biggest sugar producers and also produced molasses and run for export. A interpretive trail provides information about the impressive remains of the windmill tower, factory, slave quarters and other structures along with glimpses into the lives of those who lived and worked here centuries ago.

The beauty of the setting is an invitation to walk at leisure and be immersed in the stories of the realities of early plantation times and reflection on the difficult history of the lives of the 600 enslaved Africans whose work and purpose at Annaberg did not include enjoying the views and natural beauty of the site.

The remains of impressive stone building give a sense of the time of earlier days on St. John

Annaberg Sugar Plantation

The Annaberg Sugar Plantation is located at the end of a spur road leading off Northshore Road. Just follow the signs.

Located along the north shore of this stunning 21 square mile island, the remnants of the Annaberg Plantation stand as a reminder of a time when “sugar was king.” The plantation tells a complex history of the violent displacement of Indigenous people, European settlement, and the enslavement of Africans. This 18th to 19th-century plantation is a relic of the Danish colonial era of Virgin Islands history, a time when St. John carried the Danish spelling “St. Jan” and the 19th century sugar boom was in full swing. Over 600 enslaved Africans worked this plantation under brutal conditions. As you traverse this historic trail, imagine sugar being processed from cane and sense the spirits of the people who lived, worked, and died here. The Annaberg Plantation is a monument to human resilience, one that asks us to think about the legacies of injustice that were seeded on the plantation and encourages us to recognize and repair historical wrongs.

Service dogs are allowed in Virgin Islands National Park and leashed dogs are allowed on trails. <a href="https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/36/2.15">Title 36 part 2 section 15 </a>of the Code of Federal Regulations provides the rules on dogs. * Pets are not allowed on beaches. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/learn/management/36cfr-2-15a.htm">36CFR 2.15(a)</a>(1) (This rule is in place to protect nesting sea turtles, shore birds and our visitors on the beach.) * Pets must be on leash no longer than 6' while in the Park. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/learn/management/36cfr-2-15a.htm">36CFR 2.15 (a)</a>(2) * Pets can not be left unattended and tied to an object. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/learn/management/36cfr-2-15a.htm">36CFR 2.15 (a)</a>(3) * Pet owners are responsible for removing pet waste appropriately. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/learn/management/36cfr-2-15a.htm">36CFR 2.15 (a)</a>(5) To report any dog issues call 1-866-995-8467. <h4> </h4>

Take a self-guided tour of the Annaberg Sugar Plantation and immerse yourself in the time when "Sugar was King" on the island. Volunteer docents are often available during weekdays to answer questions. You are invited to tour the small country garden and learn about traditional uses of plants with Mr. Charles most weekdays,

African American Heritage

Architecture and Building

Burial, Cemetery and Gravesite

Engineering

Enslavement

Farming and Agriculture

Industry

Factories

Mills

Wander through the ruins and read the waysides to learn about life in the plantation days. Then venture up the hill through the bay rum, tyre palm and other native trees. Smell the bay rum leaves as you progress through the trees. You may see the above ground tombs of the former plantation owner's wife Anna Margarethe and her children, located in the shady grove of the genip and bay rum trees growing above the plantation. The trail passes over the gut, which provided water to the plantation below.

Though the trail can be walked quickly, the deep shade, quiet and excellent birding opportunites invite lingering and savoring the sunlight filtering through the green canopy and the scent of the bay rum trees.

Cinnamon Bay is located about 4.3 miles from the Visitor Center. Just follow the North Shore Road. It can be reached by boat, car or taxi.

Wander through the the site of this sugar plantation and read the waysides to learn about life in the plantation days. Then venture up the hill through the bay rum, tyre palm and other native trees. Smell the bay rum leaves as you progress through the trees. You may see the above ground tombs of the former plantation owner's wife Anna Margarethe and her children, located in the shady grove of the genip and bay rum trees growing above the plantation. The trail passes over the gut, which provided water to the plantation below.

With <a href="../viis/planyourvisit/pets.htm">Restrictions</a>

Cinnamon Bay Plantation was established in 1717 and was one of the earliest and most prosperous sugar plantations on the Island. In 1903, the Danish West India Plantation Company bought Cinnamon Bay and began growing bay rum trees to produce bay leaf oil, which was used in popular colognes and lotions known as St. John Bay Rum.

Cinnamon Bay Nature Loop And Accessible Trail

Colonization and Settlement

Forests and Woodlands

Hiking

This is a strenuous trail that leads to amazing views and historic sites. The trail is steep and exposed to the sun so hikers should bring plenty of water, good shoes and snacks. There is great snorkeling along the beach leading to the trail as well. Sea turtles are often spotted.

Plan on two to four hours for this hike; more if connecting with other trails in the area.

Distant boats dot turquoise water of varying shades on a brilliantly sunny day.

View from Johnny Horn Trail

The trailhead is located at the end of Leinster Bay,

This 1.8 mile strenuous trail begins at the east end of the Waterlemon Bay beach and ascends past historic sites on both sides of the trail. At the top of the first hill, a side trail on the left leads to a hilltop site with great views in all directions. The Johnny Horn Trail continues past the start of the Brown Bay Trail at 0.7 mile, to the near the top of Base Hill where there are good views of Coral Bay. Also, at this point there is a spur trail to the left that leads to the top of the hill with great views of Hurricane Hole and continues down to meet the main trail along the road. The main trail continues, following a road down to the paved road at the Moravian church in Coral Bay.

This strenuous trail leads to the remains of some beautiful stone historic sites and incredible views.

It is best to enjoy this trail in the early morning or late afternoon hours to avoid the heat.

Photography

Churches

Missions

The hike down the 2.6 rocky mile trail can be hot and at times steep. 

L'Esperance Trail follows a historic Danish road passing ruins of some of the earliest plantations established on St. John. View the island's only baobab, a sacred tree species that was brought to the Caribbean by enslaved Africans. From trailhead to the beach is about 2.6 miles one way. Much of the trail faces west and lacks tree shade so be sure to wear sun protection and a hat. For those fit and avid hikers a great option is to hike down either L'Esperance or Reef Bay and then back up the other. One can also take a ranger-led hike and learn about the amazing adaptations that emerged from the struggle for survival, both for the early settlers on the island and the wildlife that has a home here. These backcountry trails are steep in places, uneven and rocky, and can be slippery even when dry – you'll need sturdy, closed-toe shoes and a sure foot. Take plenty of water, some snacks and a lunch, and a hat. Mosquito repellent is a good idea, too, and a swim suit if you'd like to take a dip in the ocean down at the beach at the end of the trail.

L'Esperance Trail follows a historic Danish road passing ruins of some of the earliest plantations established on St. John. View the island's only baobab, a sacred tree species that was brought to the Caribbean by enslaved Africans. From trailhead to the beach is about 2.6 miles one way. Much of the trail faces west and lacks tree shade so be sure to wear sun protection and a hat.   For those fit and avid hikers a great option is to hike down either L'Esperance or Reef Bay and then back up the other. One can also take a ranger-led hike and learn about the amazing adaptations that emerged from the struggle for survival, both for the early settlers on the island and the wildlife that has a home here. These backcountry trails are steep in places, uneven and rocky, and can be slippery even when dry – you'll need sturdy, closed-toe shoes and a sure foot. Take plenty of water, some snacks and a lunch, and a hat. Mosquito repellent is a good idea, too, and a swim suit if you'd like to take a dip in the ocean down at the beach at the end of the trail. If you would like to join a ranger-led hike on this or the Reef Bay Trail visit <a href="http://www.friendsvinp.org/">Friends of Virgin Islands National Park </a>or visit our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/planyourvisit/rangerguidedtours.htm">Ranger Programs and Guided Tours</a> page for more information about this and other guided hikes.

Service dogs are allowed in Virgin Islands National Park and leashed dogs are allowed on trails.

L'Esperance Trail follows a historic Danish road passing ruins of some of the earliest plantations established on St. John. View the island's only baobab, a sacred tree species that was brought to the Caribbean by enslaved Africans. From trailhead to the beach is about 2.6 miles one way. Much of the trail faces west and lacks tree shade so be sure to wear sun protection and a hat.

L'Esperance Trail

Francis Bay Trail starts at the Francis Bay Sugar Factory. It continues past the Mary's Point Estate house and around a salt pond. The dry tropical forest and salt pond provide an excellent opportunity to view birds. The lower portion of the trail is an accessible boardwalk that continues through the mangroves to the two viewing platforms.

This is a nice easy hike for all ages. The hike around the salt pond does have rocky areas and slight hills but the board walk was designed for wheelchair and stroller access.

The hike around Francis Bay Salt pond can range anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes or more. It all depends on how long you stop to listen to the birds or smell the flowers.  Distances From the Factory parking area to the entrance of the accessible ramp is .5  miles.

Frances Bay Board Walk and viewing platform

Francis Bay Trail and Salt Pond on west end of NPS Northshore Rd.

Francis Bay Trail starts at the Francis Bay Sugar Factory. It continues past the Mary's Point Estate house and around a salt pond. The dry tropical forest and salt pond provide an excellent opportunity to view birds. The lower portion of the trail is an accessible boardwalk that continues through the mangroves to the two viewing platforms.

Francis Bay Trail starts at the Francis Bay Sugar Factory. It continues past the Mary's Point Estate house and around a salt pond. The dry tropical forest and salt pond provide an excellent opportunity to view birds. The lower portion of the trail is an accessible boardwalk that continues through the mangroves to the two viewing platforms.

Francis Bay Trail

Wetlands

Meander through the ruins of the historic Cinnamon Bay Sugar Plantation. Smell the scent of the leaves from the bay rum trees, which were once used to make the famous St John Bay Rum Cologne. The boardwalk and nature loop are located across the road from the entrance to the Cinnamon Bay Campground. The nature loop is an easy 0.5 mile hike.

Duration depends on the amount of time one wants to read the waysides and ponder the way things were during the plantation era. 

Take North Shore Rd from Cruz Bay to Cinnamon Bay. Park in the beach parking lot on the left side of the road. <a href="https://nps.maps.arcgis.com/apps/View/index.html?appid=4dbe36515e0a41d7bd0c02117814f789">Map</a>

Meander through the ruins of the historic Cinnamon Bay Sugar Plantation. Smell the scent of the leaves from the bay rum trees, which were once used to make the famous St John Bay Rum Cologne. The boardwalk and nature loop are located across the road from the entrance to the Cinnamon Bay Campground. The nature loop is an easy 0.5 mile hike. For a more adventurous hike, try the strenuous 1 mile Cinnamon Bay Trail which begins east of the ruins. Hike uphill through a shaded forest filled with several tall trees including mango, genip, guava berry, kapok, and mammee apple. There is a 0.38 mile spur off of this trail leading to the ruins of a great house known as America Hill. This trail ends at Centerline Road.

Service dogs are allowed in Virgin Islands National Park and leashed dogs are allowed on trails. 

Meander through the ruins of the historic Cinnamon Bay Sugar Plantation. Smell the scent of the leaves from the bay rum trees, which were once used to make the famous St John Bay Rum Cologne. The boardwalk and nature loop are located across the road from the entrance to the Cinnamon Bay Campground. The nature loop is an easy 0.5 mile hike. For a more adventurous hike, try the strenuous 1 mile Cinnamon Bay Trail which begins east of the ruins. Hike uphill through a shaded for

Cinnamon Bay Trails

A wooden viewing platform at the top of the hill provides sweeping views of forest and ocean.

Caneel Hill

Rise above it all on this uphill trail. This heart-pounding 1 mile hike up Caneel Hill leads to some heart-stopping views of the beautiful bays and water of the north shore of the island. Reward yourself with some quality time at the observation deck before making the decision about whether to continue on to Margret Hill or head back down to town. This steep trail can be slippery when it rains. We recommend shoes with good tread and keeping any eye on the weather. Take plenty of water as well. The trailhead is at the top of the hill just up from Cruz Bay. Parking is available. Hikers may also access the trail from the Upper Lind Point trail by using the Caneel Spur connector.

Pets must be on a leash and owners must pick up pet waste.

Hiking trails in the park provide an excellent way to experience the beauty of the landscape and the rich natural and cultural history of the park/

Caneel Hill Trail

Maritime

It is over a mile up and down a rocky trail not suitable for strollers

Walk to the beach for a quick dip or view of the beach or pack a lunch and stay all day. 

Stop by the Cruz Bay Visitor Center and ask for directions or pick up a map on how to get there. 

Salomon/Honeymoon Bay - These two white-sand beaches can be accessed by a short hike from Lind Point Trail that begins at the Visitor Center parking lot, from the trailhead at the Virgin Islands National Park sign off North Shore Road, or by boat. A narrow reef follows the shoreline east of Honeymoon to Caneel Bay provides excellent snorkeling. In the clear water off the rocky point in between the two beaches, you will find several species of coral (brain, lettuce leaf, elkhorn, mustard hill, and pillar corals). Many colonies of finger coral can be found on the fringing reef west of Salomon. These reef areas provide shelter for a wide variety of colorful fish and other marine creatures.

Service dogs are allowed in Virgin Islands National Park and leashed dogs are allowed on trails.  <a href="https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/36/2.15">Title 36 part 2 section 15 </a>of the Code of Federal Regulations provides the rules on dogs.  * Pets are not allowed on beaches. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/learn/management/36cfr-2-15a.htm">36CFR 2.15(a)</a>(1) This rule is in place to protect nesting sea turtles, shore birds and our visitors on the beach. * Pets must be on leash no longer than 6' while in the Park. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/learn/management/36cfr-2-15a.htm">36CFR 2.15 (a)</a>(2) * Pets can not be left unattended and tied to an object. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/learn/management/36cfr-2-15a.htm">36CFR 2.15 (a)</a>(3) * Pet owners are responsible for removing pet waste appropriately. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/learn/management/36cfr-2-15a.htm">36CFR 2.15 (a)</a>(5) To report any dog issues call 1-866-995-8467.  <a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/learn/management/36cfr-2-15a.htm#CP_JUMP_5494266">Service Animals</a> A service animal is one that is specifically trained to aid a person with a disability. * Service animals are welcome in the park but must follow many of the pet rules. * Service animals must be on a leash and under control at all times. * Pet owners are responsible for removing pet waste appropriately. 36CFR 2.15 (a)(5) If you have any other questions about pets in the park please feel free to call the park 340-776-6201 or find a Ranger and ask them!!

Salomon/Honeymoon Bay - These two white-sand beaches can be accessed by a short hike from Lind Point Trail that begins at the Visitor Center parking lot, from the trailhead at the Virgin Islands National Park sign off North Shore Road, or by boat.

Salomon/Honeymoon Bays

So many options for snorkeling, swimming or just enjoying the white sand and warm waters. 

Hawksnest Bay offers three fingers of mostly Elkhorn coral reefs. It is not advisable to snorkel directly over the reef. The Elkhorn corals are a federally protected species and extremely fragile. Snorkeling around the fingers you will see many juvenile fish and other reef creatures in and among the branches of the Elkhorn corals. <a href="https://arcg.is/1GOWWW">Map to Hawksnest</a>

Hawksnest Bay offers unique snorkeling. One of the largest stands of Elkhorn coral spread out like three fingers from the beach. Snorkeling around the fingers you will see other smaller corals, juvenile Elkhorn corals, sponges and seagans growing on or under the larger corals. Numerous juvenile fish and other reef creatures can be observed among the branches of the Elkhorn corals. Depending on the tide Hawksnest offers a long lovely white beach, changing rooms, pavilions, and restrooms. Please, do not snorkel directly over the reef. The Elkhorn corals are a federally protected species and extremely fragile.

Service dogs are allowed in Virgin Islands National Park and leashed dogs are allowed on trails.  <a href="https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/36/2.15">Title 36 part 2 section 15 </a>of the Code of Federal Regulations provides the rules on dogs.  * Pets are not allowed on beaches. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/learn/management/36cfr-2-15a.htm">36CFR 2.15(a)</a>(1) This rule is in place to protect nesting sea turtles, shore birds and our visitors on the beach. * Pets must be on leash no longer than 6' while in the Park. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/learn/management/36cfr-2-15a.htm">36CFR 2.15 (a)</a>(2) * Pets can not be left unattended and tied to an object. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/learn/management/36cfr-2-15a.htm">36CFR 2.15 (a)</a>(3) * Pet owners are responsible for removing pet waste appropriately. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/learn/management/36cfr-2-15a.htm">36CFR 2.15 (a)</a>(5) To report any dog issues call 1-866-995-8467.  <a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/learn/management/36cfr-2-15a.htm#CP_JUMP_5494266">Service Animals</a> A service animal is one that is specifically trained to aid a person with a disability. * Service animals are welcome in the park but must follow many of the pet rules. * Service animals must be on a leash and under control at all times. * Pet owners are responsible for removing pet waste appropriately. 36CFR 2.15 (a)(5) If you have any other questions about pets in the park please feel free to call the park 340-776-6201 or find a Ranger and ask them!!

Hawksnest Bay offers three fingers of mostly Elkhorn coral reefs to snorkel. It is not advisable to snorkel directly over the reef. The Elkhorn corals are a federally protected species and extremely fragile. Snorkeling around the fingers you will see many juvenile fish and other reef creatures in and among the branches of the Elkhorn corals.

Hawksnest Bay

Hike the trail and visit colonial ruins and then follow a  side trails to one of the rocky beaches for a refreshing snorkel

Only .3 miles this trail follows the crest of Yawzi point.

Located on the south west side of the island between Great Lameshur Bay and Little Lameshur Bay. It takes about an 1 1/2 hrs to cover the 13.5 miles.  <a href="01:20 hr min No Traffic info 13.51 miles A 1. Start at Cruz Bay Crk, Central, St John, 00830 12:40 PM GMT-0400 2. Go southeast toward RT-20 0.06 mi 3. Turn right on RT-20 North Shore Rd 0.14 mi · 1 min 4. Turn left on RT-201 0.09 mi · 1 min 5. At roundabout, take the first exit to proceed on RT-10 Centerline Rd 0.19 mi · 1 min 6. Bear left at Allamanda Pl / Pocket Money Ln to stay on RT-10 Centerline Rd 0.78 mi · 5 min 7. Turn right to stay on RT-10 Centerline Rd 4.08 mi · 25 min 8. Turn left at RT-10 to stay on RT-10 Centerline Rd 2.38 mi · 14 min 9. Make sharp right on Sugar Apple Rd 0.15 mi 10. Turn right on William Marsh Dr 0.38 mi · 1 min 11. Bear left on RT-20 King Hill Rd 0.16 mi · 1 min 12. Make sharp right on RT-107 2.80 mi · 17 min 13. Turn right to stay on RT-107 0.85 mi · 5 min 14. Turn right to stay on RT-107 1.44 mi · 9 min B 15. Finish at Yawzi Point Trail, VIR on the left 13.51 mi · 1 hr 20 min">Map to Yawzi Point</a>

Service dogs are allowed in Virgin Islands National Park and leashed dogs are allowed on trails.

Located between Great Lameshur Bay and Little Lameshur Bay, this .3 mile trail is a good choice if looking for an easy hike. Stone ruins of homes from the Danish colonial period can be found alongside the trail. Small rocky beaches can be accessed by side trails for a quiet snorkel entry spot.

A great hike any time of the day but can be buggy early mornings or late afternoons.

Yawzi Point Trail

Cinnamon Bay offers a long gently sloping snow white beach to stick your toes in, or go for a leisurely stroll. The crystal clear waters provide many delights for even a novice snorkeler. Turtles and fish of all sizes and colors can be seen here. Near the Cinnamon Bay Cay there is an underwater fish holding pen probably made by the Taino or their ancestors. There is even a submerged historic village and a sunken plane from 1940s to see. Spend a couple of hours trying to find them. You can find clues for where to look in the Cinnamon Bay Heritage Center and Archaeology Lab. You will find a restaurant, snack bar, small commissary, restrooms and showers at Cinnamon as well as windsurfer and kayak rentals.

One can go for 10 minutes and take a quick look at the beach or stay all week if you choose to rent a camp site.

Cinnamon Bay is located about 4.3 miles from the Visitor Center. Just follow the North Shore Road. It can be reached by boat, car or taxi.

<a href="https://www.nps.gov/viis/planyourvisit/pets.htm">https://www.nps.gov/viis/planyourvisit/pets.htm</a>

Reservations are not required for beach access but are required for campsites. <a href="http://cinnamonbayresort.com/">http://cinnamonbayresort.com/</a>

Cinnamon Bay offers a long gently sloping snow white beach to stick your toes in, or go for a leisurely stroll. The crystal clear waters provide many delights for even a novice snorkeler. Turtles and fish of all sizes and colors can be seen here.

7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Morning, Afternoon, early evening. Campground closed to nonregistered guest after 9 pm.

Cinnamon Bay Beach and Snorkeling

Coastal Defenses

To hike the Lind Point Trail park at the visitor center in Cruz Bay. The Trail Head is behind the visitor center, just follow the signs. There are several spurs and loops all well marked. The different options include, hike from trail head to the overlook for a view of the boats sailing to and from St. Thomas.

This short hike is perfect for most age groups and great for families.

The duration of the hike depends on how long one enjoys gazing at the water from the overlook.

The Lind Point Trail starts just behind the park visitor center and ends at breathtaking Honeymoon Bay or Solomon Bay. The trail offers several spurs one of which heads to the overlook. Stop and rest on the bench as you watch the boats sail by.

The Lind Point Trail starts just behind the park visitor center and ends at breathtaking Honeymoon Bay or Solomon Bay. The trail offers several spurs one of which heads to the overlook. Stop and rest on the bench as you watch the boats sail by.

Best hiked during the day for better visibility.

Hike the Lind Point Trails

Strole down the 1/4 mile old road bed to enjoy the beach and snorkeling at Salt Pond Bay. For the more adventurous, continue onto Ram Head and maybe you will see a whale or dolphin convorting about in the waters below.

Great hike for all ages if able to climb steep rocky trails.

It is a 5-20 minute trip to the beach from the parking area, depending on how many beach toys you are bringing.  It is another 30-50 minutes from the beach to Ram Head. It just depends on how long you stop to enjoy the views.

Salt Pond is perfect for someone looking for a pleasant stroll to a beautiful beach. Just a quarter mile hike from the parking area to beach, has only a slight grade. The long curved beach has a gentle slope into the water making it perfect for everyone.

Salt Pond is perfect for someone looking for a pleasant stroll to a beautiful beach. Just a quarter mile hike from the parking area to beach, has only a slight grade.  

Great trail for full moon  hikes.

Salt Pond Bay and Ram Head Trails

Hike along the ridge and enjoy the views from coastal cliffs.

The .7 mile trail begins with a moderately strenuous ascent on the Cabritte Horn Point.

Trail head can be found on the right of Lameshur road at the first switchback.

The trailhead can be found to the right of Lameshur Road at the first switchback. The .7 mile trail begins with a moderately strenuous ascent on the Cabritte Horn Point. Hike through the desert-like terrain to reach scenic views atop coastal cliffs.

Tektite Trail

Self-Guided Tours - Auto

Visit the many plantations and windmills throughout the island

This virtual tour of windmills & plantations provides you with a snapshot of the plantations of St. John. Take the tour and then visit them in person. You can visit just one or two or all of them depending on your preferences. 

Pets are not allowed on the beaches. Pets must be on leash while in the Park. Service Animals (An animal specifically trained to aid a person with a disability). Service animals are welcome Service animals must be on a leash and under control at all times.

Enjoy the virtual Windmill & Plantation tour and then take a drive and see them in person.

Alert: Francis Bay Boardwalk Closed: The boardwalk at Francis Bay is partially underwater due to the recent rainfall. Do not attempt to walk on the boardwalk until the water has receded and the condition of the boardwalk can be assessed.

Virgin Islands

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Things To Do

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Reef Bay Trail

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Discover Bird Watching in the Virgin Islands

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Maho Bay

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Trunk Bay Underwater Snorkel Trail

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Annaberg Sugar Plantation

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Cinnamon Bay Nature Loop And Accessible Trail

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