Honeymoon Beach — St. John’s Small Slice of Caribbean Clarity
A compact, snorkel-friendly cove inside Virgin Islands National Park — clear water, close reef, and intimate beach time.
The first thing you notice at Honeymoon Beach is how small it makes the rest of the island feel. Walk down from the narrow scrubbed road and the world narrows to a crescent of sugar sand cupped by low, rocky headlands and shallow turquoise that stretches waist-deep for yards before the reef drops away. Wind rustles the coppice; a lone pelican rides the thermals; below, a parrotfish nibbles at a coral outcrop as if tidying up a countertop. It’s the kind of place that invites slow, deliberate attention — a day anchored in snorkeling, sunning, and the kind of relaxed motion that only the sea delivers.
Trail Wisdom
Arrive early for calm water
Morning light usually brings the clearest water and the gentlest conditions for snorkeling; plan to be at the beach by 8–9 a.m.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Chemical-free sunblock protects coral and is required by many local outfitters — apply before you hit the water.
Bring your own snorkel kit
Personal masks fit better and fog less than rentals, improving comfort and sightlines when you’re close to coral.
No lifeguard — buddy up
There’s no lifeguard on duty; always swim with a partner and be aware of changing wind and current conditions.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Waterlemon Cay (short boat or kayak trip for richer snorkeling)
- •A short stroll to nearby rocky headlands for tide-pooling and sunset views
Wildlife
Green sea turtle, Parrotfish
Conservation Note
Visitors are encouraged to use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching or standing on coral, and use mooring buoys instead of anchors to protect the reef.
Much of St. John’s coastline, including areas around Honeymoon Beach, became part of Virgin Islands National Park after mid-20th-century donations of land that preserved the island’s natural shoreline.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Clear-water snorkeling, Wildlife viewing, Mild temperatures
Challenges: Increased day-trip traffic in late spring, Variable trade winds
Spring offers excellent visibility and active reef life; expect more boat traffic as the season warms toward summer.
summer
Best for: Warm water swims, Long daylight hours, Kayak and boat excursions
Challenges: Heat and humidity, Higher tropical storm risk, Choppier seas on windy days
Summer is hot and humid with calm windows for snorkeling, but be mindful of hurricane season and afternoon winds.
fall
Best for: Lower crowds after Labor Day, Warm sea temperatures, Photography at golden hour
Challenges: Increased storm potential, Reduced charter schedules
Fall can be quieter, but hurricane season peaks, so check weather and operator plans before booking.
winter
Best for: Best water clarity, Cooler temperatures, Peak tourism services
Challenges: Higher visitor numbers (holiday weeks), Limited shade late in the day
Winter and spring are the island’s high season — calm seas, excellent visibility, and full services from local operators.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Mask and snorkelEssential
Personal snorkel gear improves comfort and lets you explore the reef without fussing with rentals.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects you from sunburn while preventing chemical damage to coral and marine life.
Water shoes
Useful for scrambling over rocky headlands and protecting feet on the seagrass flats.
Inflatable float or vest
Adds visibility and rest when snorkeling longer stretches off the sand.
Common Questions
How do you get to Honeymoon Beach from Cruz Bay?
Drive or taxi from Cruz Bay via North Shore Road; parking at small roadside clearings is limited, so arrive early or combine the visit with a boat charter from Cruz Bay.
Is there a fee to enter Honeymoon Beach?
Honeymoon Beach is part of Virgin Islands National Park and is open to the public; there is no additional beach entry fee, though park rules apply.
Are rentals and food available at the beach?
Facilities are minimal — bring water, snacks, and basic supplies; some operators offer beach equipment rentals from Cruz Bay or include stops on boat charters.
Is the beach good for snorkeling with kids?
Yes — the shallow entry and close reef make it family-friendly, but always supervise children closely and use flotation devices if needed.
Can I anchor my private boat at Honeymoon Beach?
If mooring buoys are present, use them; otherwise avoid anchoring on coral — contact local marinas or charter operators for up-to-date mooring information.
Are there lifeguards or medical services nearby?
There are no lifeguards at Honeymoon Beach; the closest medical facilities are in Cruz Bay or on St. Thomas via ferry; plan accordingly and carry a basic first-aid kit.
What to Pack
Mask & snorkel (for reef exploring), reef-safe sunscreen (to protect coral), refillable water bottle (hydrate in salty heat), light shade (pop-up or umbrella for mid-day comfort)
Did You Know
Virgin Islands National Park encompasses roughly two-thirds of St. John and was established in 1956, preserving extensive coastline and underwater reef habitat.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Arrive early for parking and calm water; 2) Bring cash for local vendors in Cruz Bay; 3) Use reef-safe sunscreen and a hat; 4) Book boat charters in advance during high season.
Local Flavor
Cruz Bay supplies the island’s rhythms: casual Caribbean eateries serve fresh-caught fish and conch fritters, bars play live music most nights, and local outfitters run eco-aware snorkel and sailing trips that connect visitors to small-business guides.
Logistics Snapshot
Nearest town: Cruz Bay (10–20 minute drive); parking: limited roadside spots; facilities: minimal (bring water & shade); best time: early morning for calm water; safety: no lifeguard — swim with a buddy.
Sustainability Note
Practice leave-no-trace, use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid anchoring on coral, and support local guides who follow park mooring and marine protection rules.