Coral Bay St. John

The basics

In Coral Bay, relax on the white sand beaches, take a dip in the Caribbean waters, or go snorkeling or diving. There's great snorkeling to be found at nearby Salt Pond Bay, just a short drive out of town, or there’s the secluded haven of Lameshur Bay, further along the coastline. Other options include Haulover Bay, Newfound Bay, and Drunk Bay. Alternatively, charter a boat and head to the nearby British Virgin Islands. In addition to beaches and bays, another notable attraction is the red-roofed Moravian Church, which dates back to 1750 and serves as a local landmark.

Things to know before you go

• There is no beach at Hurricane Bay, but you can go kayaking, diving, swimming, and snorkeling there.
• Coral Bay is quieter than Cruz Bay, with restaurants shutting down around 10pm.
• Remember sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong sun.

How to get there

Coral Bay is located on the east coast of St. John. From Cruz Bay, the landing point for ferries from neighboring St. Thomas, you can reach the town in about 20–30 minutes by car. Rent a 4WD vehicle if you plan to explore on your own. The island’s Vitran Bus System typically runs during the week from the dock at Cruz Bay to Coral Bay and Salt Pond Bay.

When to get there

Since the ferries from St. Thomas and most charter boats and day trips arrive in Cruz Bay, Coral Bay experiences smaller crowds of tourists, even in the popular winter months. The town also hosts quirky local events like a Labor Day parade, a mini-golf tournament, and a Christmas fair and carol sing-off.

Snorkeling at Hurricane Hole

This storm-protected bay, lined with mangrove trees and home to colorful fish, serves as a popular shallow snorkeling spot in Coral Bay. The mangrove vegetation has yet to fully recover from recent hurricanes, but it’s on the mend, according to recent visitors. Charter boats need a special permit to access Hurricane Hole, so book accordingly. You can also access it by kayak and paddleboard.