Whenever you travel, you try to find something special that will suit you well. That is quite hidden.

Cruise

Reflecting on our travels, I always seek those special spots that allow me to break away from the usual tourist path. For instance, on our Eastern Caribbean cruise in February 2020, we docked in St. Thomas without a solid plan. My wife suggested jumping over to a beach on a different island, which sparked a wave of unease in me. I tend to worry about missing the ship, after all—so many potential hurdles are involved!

That is a story for another day.

The Adventure

Yet, we pressed on. After finding a taxi to the ferry terminal, we eagerly purchased our tickets and boarded the ferry, leaving our cruise ship behind. With plenty of time to explore until our 3 PM return, I embraced the spontaneity of it all.

Upon arriving on St. John, we boarded a shuttle bus, which added to the excitement of our little adventure. The picturesque drive to the beach felt like a genuine local experience, filled with the thrill of discovering a new place. In those moments, I was reminded of why I love to travel—it’s all about finding those hidden gems away from the tourist radar and creating unparalleled memories that are uniquely ours.

We arrived.

Trunk Bay

Trunk Bay is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and photographed beaches in the Caribbean. Nestled on the breathtaking island of St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands, it’s been consistently celebrated as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches and is a proud part of Virgin Islands National Park.

Trunk Bay’s stunning relief sets It apart: powdery white sand, shimmering turquoise waters, and an exceptional snorkeling scene. One of the highlights here is the underwater snorkel trail, a unique feature boasting a marked path with informative plaques to help visitors identify various coral formations and fascinating marine life. It’s truly a paradise for both novice and seasoned snorkelers alike.

The beach is surrounded by lush tropical greenery and offers picturesque views of nearby islands, elevating the serene atmosphere. Facilities are quite basic, with restrooms, a snack bar, and rental options for snorkeling gear, but they add to the charm rather than detract from it. Visiting does come with a small entrance fee due to its location within the national park.

The calm waters here provide a haven for swimming, making it a family-friendly spot. Just offshore, the vibrant coral reefs teem with colorful tropical fish, graceful sea turtles, and other marine species.

What we did

We sat on the beach and just enjoyed the sound of the water.

We ventured into the water and enjoyed the warm, crystal-clear water. Some of us went snorkeling.

Here are some pictures…

Thoughts

If you are ever there on a cruise, you can jump over to this island and visit this bay. You will not be disappointed.

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