Things to Do at Trunk Bay

Complete Guide to Trunk Bay in St. John's

About Trunk Bay

Trunk Bay curves in a perfect crescent on St. John's north shore, its white sand beach and turquoise water consistently ranked among the world's most beautiful beaches by travel magazines that rarely exaggerate. The 225-yard underwater snorkel trail takes you over coral gardens where angelfish, parrotfish, and yellow tangs swim among brain coral and sea fans marked with interpretive signs. Above water, the beach offers plenty of shade under sea grape trees and facilities including restrooms, a snack bar, and equipment rental booth. Beach access costs $5 per person (included with national park pass), and snorkel gear rents for $15 per day if you don't bring your own. Visit early morning before 10am or after 3pm when cruise ship crowds thin out and you can find quiet stretches of sand for relaxing after snorkeling the reef.

What to See & Do

Underwater Snorkel Trail

A self-guided underwater path with plaques identifying coral species and marine life - it's like an aquarium, but better

Trunk Cay

The small island just offshore that you can actually swim to if you're a decent swimmer, offering great views back to the beach

Coconut Palms

Classic Caribbean palm trees that provide natural shade and make for those quintessential tropical photos

Coral Gardens

Shallow coral formations perfect for beginner snorkelers, with parrotfish, angelfish, and sergeant majors commonly spotted

Sunset Views

While not west-facing, the late afternoon light filtering through the palms creates genuinely magical photo opportunities

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Sunrise to sunset daily; no gates or formal hours, but facilities typically open 9 AM - 4 PM

Tickets & Pricing

$5 entrance fee for adults (part of Virgin Islands National Park); children under 15 free. Annual park passes accepted

Best Time to Visit

Early morning (7-9 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) for fewer crowds; avoid midday when cruise ship tours arrive

Suggested Duration

2-4 hours for a relaxed visit with snorkeling; you could easily spend a full day here

Getting There

Trunk Bay sits 20 minutes from Cruz Bay on North Shore Road. The winding, narrow Route 20 demands patience, but the parking situation is what'll test you. Arrive early or don't bother. The lot fills fast during peak hours-finding a spot matters more than avoiding crowds. Some visitors walk or bike from Cruz Bay, though that is quite a trek. Taxis run regularly for $10-15 per person.

Things to Do Nearby

Cinnamon Bay Beach
A longer, less crowded beach about 10 minutes east with good snorkeling and camping facilities

Hawksnest Beach
Smaller, more secluded beach just 5 minutes toward Cruz Bay, popular with locals

Annaberg Sugar Plantation Ruins
Historic plantation ruins about 15 minutes away, offering a glimpse into the island's colonial past

Peace Hill Windmill Ruins
Short hike to old windmill ruins with panoramic views of the north shore beaches

Virgin Islands National Park Visitor Center
Located in Cruz Bay, good for maps, trail information, and understanding the island's ecology

Tips & Advice

Bring your own snorkel gear if possible - rental prices at the beach are pretty steep, and you'll get better quality equipment

The left side of the beach (as you face the water) tends to be less crowded and has better snorkeling

Pack reef-safe sunscreen - regular sunscreen is actually prohibited to protect the coral

Bring water and snacks; the beach bar is convenient but pricey, and there aren't many other options nearby