Hawksnest Bay: Where the Reef Meets the Wind — A Snorkeler’s Guide to St. John’s North Shore
A compact reef, calm mornings, and turtle encounters — the north shore snorkel that proves small coves pack the best surprises.
You step off the narrow roadside and the island exhales — trade wind, salt, and the distant hum of a charter motor pulling away from shore. Hawksnest Bay collects light differently; it seems to hold a clarity and calm that the rest of St. John’s north shore parcels out in jagged, brilliant pieces. Palm crowns stir as if nudging the turquoise water; beneath that surface, coral gardens hold steady, waving finger corals and brain-shaped colonies like watchful sentinels. For half a day you can let the world contract to that sheet of water, the reef, and the slow business of watching a hawksbill turtle pick at algae.
Trail Wisdom
Go early for calm water
Morning hours (before 9 a.m.) offer the best visibility and fewer charter boats; trade winds typically pick up in the afternoon.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Chemical-free sunblock and a long-sleeve rashguard protect both your skin and fragile coral.
Bring a surface marker or whistle
If snorkeling solo or with a small group, a bright float and whistle help you stay visible to boat traffic.
Respect mooring buoys and anchoring rules
If your charter can't use a mooring, ask the operator to deploy anchor in sand away from coral to avoid damage.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the shoreline east after low tide to find small tide pools with juvenile reef fish
- •Combine a Hawksnest morning with a short hike to nearby overlooks for island panorama views
Wildlife
hawksbill turtle, parrotfish
Conservation Note
Visitors are encouraged to use mooring buoys, avoid stepping on coral, and carry out all trash to minimize human impact on the reef ecosystem.
The Virgin Islands National Park, which protects much of St. John’s coastline, was established in 1956 and helps preserve sites like Hawksnest Bay.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: calm seas, wildlife viewing, shoulder-season deals
Challenges: occasional east winds, sporadic showers
Spring offers warm water and good visibility; expect increasingly steady trade winds as you move later into the season.
summer
Best for: warmest water, long daylight, kayaking
Challenges: higher heat and humidity, potential tropical storms
Summer brings hot, balmy days ideal for paddling, but keep an eye on weather forecasts during hurricane season.
fall
Best for: fewer crowds, comfortable sea temps
Challenges: increased storm risk late season, reduced ferry schedules
Fall is quieter with pleasant water temps, but plan flexibly around potential storm windows.
winter
Best for: calm, crisp mornings, excellent visibility, consistent charters
Challenges: cooler nights, higher visitor volume around holidays
Winter is peak season for clear, glassy snorkeling conditions and predictable charter availability — book ahead.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Snorkel mask and finsEssential
Well-fitting mask and fins improve visibility and reduce fatigue while exploring reef sections.
Rashguard or sun shirtEssential
Protects skin from sun and minor scrapes; helps reduce sunscreen use directly on the reef.
Surface float / safety sausage
Increases visibility to boats and gives a resting aid if you tire while snorkeling.
Waterproof camera or housing
Captures reef colors and marine life; limited light late in the day calls for a strobelight.
Common Questions
How do I get to Hawksnest Bay from Cruz Bay?
Hawksnest is a short drive northeast of Cruz Bay; rental car or taxi from town takes 10–20 minutes depending on traffic. There’s a small roadside parking area and a short walk to the beach.
Are there facilities at the beach?
Facilities are limited — expect minimal shade and no full-service restrooms; bring water, snacks, and shade gear.
Is it child-friendly?
Yes, shallow reef flats make it approachable for older children with swimming ability, but always closely supervise and use flotation if needed.
Can I anchor my boat in the bay?
Look for mooring buoys and use them when available; if you must anchor, ask a local operator to help place the anchor away from coral.
What marine life can I expect to see?
Common sightings include parrotfish, sergeant majors, angelfish, rays, and occasional green or hawksbill turtles; sharks may appear offshore but are usually harmless.
Is reef-safe sunscreen required?
While not legally required, reef-safe sunscreen is strongly recommended to protect coral health and is commonly expected by local operators.
What to Pack
mask and fins for better reef access; reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral; water and snacks because facilities are limited; lightweight rashguard for sun protection and comfort
Did You Know
The Virgin Islands National Park protects about 60 percent of St. John and was established in 1956, helping preserve many of the island’s beaches and reefs including those near Hawksnest.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Book gear or a charter in Cruz Bay the day before; 2) Arrive early for calmer water and parking; 3) Bring cash for small vendors and tips; 4) Check marine weather — afternoon trades can make seas choppy
Local Flavor
Cruz Bay is the gateway: grab a fish sandwich and a local rum punch after your swim, pick up reef-safe sunscreen at a beach outfitter, and chat with captains to learn which coves are quiet that day.
Logistics Snapshot
Getting there: 10–20 min drive from Cruz Bay. Parking: small roadside lot. Best time: early morning. Facilities: minimal — bring water and shade. Moorings: available but limited.
Sustainability Note
Choose operators that use mooring buoys, avoid single-use plastics, and insist on reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral ecosystems.