Hawksnest Beach St John USVI
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Hawksnest Beach St John USVI

4.8
·389 reviews·, U.S. Virgin Islands

A serene St. John beach with crystal-clear emerald waters, soft white sand, and excellent snorkeling, offering a tranquil escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more parking

CrowdLow
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Hawksnest Beach St John USVI

Hawksnest Beach St John USVI

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more parking

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene St. John beach with crystal-clear emerald waters, soft white sand, and excellent snorkeling, offering a tranquil escape.

4.8
(389 reviews)

"Definitely our favorite beach on St John. We saw all kinds of turtles and pretty fish."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Arrive Early for Parking

Parking is limited! Get here before 9 AM on weekdays to guarantee a spot.

🤿 Bring Your Own Snorkel Gear

Maximize your underwater exploration by bringing your own mask and snorkel.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crystal Clear Waters

Crystal Clear Waters

The entire beach

Experience breathtakingly clear, emerald waters perfect for swimming and soaking up the Caribbean sun.

Snorkeling Haven

Snorkeling Haven

Right side of the beach

Discover a vibrant underwater world with colorful fish and sea turtles just off the shore.

Shady Sea Grape Trees

Shady Sea Grape Trees

Along the shoreline

Find ample natural shade under the lush sea grape trees, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for Paradise

Hawksnest Beach is a gem, but parking is limited and can fill up fast, especially during peak season. Arrive early to snag a spot and enjoy the tranquility before the crowds descend. Consider weekdays for a more secluded experience.

Snorkel Gear is a Must

While Hawksnest offers beautiful scenery, its real magic lies beneath the surface. Bring your own snorkel gear to explore the vibrant coral and diverse marine life. While rentals might be available, having your own ensures you're ready the moment you arrive.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more parking
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Nothing like having the beach to yourself 🫶 #stjohn #stjohnusvi #usvi #usvirginislands #islandlife #hawksnestbeach
@emily.reneeee
3.7K likes • 83.1K views

🚗 Arrive Early for Parking

Parking is limited! Get here before 9 AM on weekdays to guarantee a spot. Reddit

🤿 Bring Your Own Snorkel Gear

Maximize your underwater exploration by bringing your own mask and snorkel. Instagram

Island life 🏝️☀️🌊 #stthomas #magensbay #hawksnestbeach #stjohn #usvi #islandlife #beach #caribbean
@bethg068
3.6K likes • 56.2K views
You deserve a beach day! Come along with us to Hawksnest Beach, just a short 10 minute drive from Serendip! 🌴💦 . . . #stjohn #stjohnusvi #stjohndaily #usvi #usvirginislands #stj #stjusvi #usvirginislands🇻🇮 #usvivacationrental #usvivacation #serendipstjohn #serendipvacationcondos #caribbeanvacation #virginislandsvacation #bestofairbnb #bestofvrbo
serendipvacationcondos
32 likes • 648 views

☀️ Plenty of Shade Available

Sea grape trees offer natural shade, so you can relax comfortably all day. Instagram

🧺 Picnic Perfect

BBQ grills and picnic tables are available, making it ideal for a leisurely lunch. Reddit

Hawksnest Beach is definitely one of my favorite beaches in Saint John, U.S. Virgin Islands. From its dramatic shorelines, to its abundance of shade-offering sea-grape trees, and its velvety white sand, I have immensely enjoyed my beach-hiking experience here. “It’s not Heaven; it’s just Paradise.” #hawksnest #hawksnestbay #hawksnestbeach #beach #beaches #beachvibes #beachmood #gonebeaching #...
liliprice3
28 likes • 547 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Arrive Early for Parking

Parking is limited! Get here before 9 AM on weekdays to guarantee a spot. Reddit

🤿 Bring Your Own Snorkel Gear

Maximize your underwater exploration by bringing your own mask and snorkel. Instagram

☀️ Plenty of Shade Available

Sea grape trees offer natural shade, so you can relax comfortably all day. Instagram

🧺 Picnic Perfect

BBQ grills and picnic tables are available, making it ideal for a leisurely lunch. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Easy Access

No hiking required! This beach is conveniently located with easy parking access. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(389 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Hawksnest Beach for its stunningly clear, emerald waters and soft white sand, making it a favorite for swimming and relaxation. The good snorkeling opportunities and ample shade from sea grape trees are frequently highlighted. While parking can be limited, the beach generally maintains a less crowded, more tranquil atmosphere compared to other popular St. John locations.

"Very nice beach Crystal clear Emerald water at the beach."

TNBIGMAN

"Definitely our favorite beach on St John. There was also a great spot on the right hand side of the beach for snorkeling. We saw all kinds of turtles and pretty fish. Parking is kind of limited, which is kind of nice because the beach doesn't get too busy/crowded."

Laura Conway

"Went on a cloudier day but it was still SO GORGEOUS! Spacious but not too wide or large. There are bbq grills that work with coal, and easy parking in front . Loved it here!"

Isabelle

What People Like

Crystal clear emerald water
Good snorkeling
Ample shade

What People Dislike

Limited parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Hawksnest Beach is conveniently located just a short 10-minute drive from Cruz Bay. Follow the North Shore Road, and you'll see signs for the beach. Parking is available directly at the beach, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. InstagramReddit

While there isn't direct public bus service to Hawksnest Beach, you can take a taxi from Cruz Bay. Many visitors opt to rent a car or jeep to explore multiple beaches on St. John at their own pace. TikTok

Parking is available at Hawksnest Beach, but it's limited. It's highly recommended to arrive early, especially on weekdays, to secure a spot. If the main lot is full, you might need to find alternative parking further down the road. Reddit

Yes, Hawksnest Beach is easily accessible by car and has parking right at the entrance. Unlike some other St. John beaches, there's no significant hike required to reach the sand. Reddit

Yes, Hawksnest Beach is located within the Virgin Islands National Park, which helps preserve its natural beauty and tranquility. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Hawksnest Beach is part of the Virgin Islands National Park and typically does not have an entrance fee for beach access itself. However, there might be a small fee for parking during certain times or for specific park facilities. Instagram

As a natural beach within the National Park, Hawksnest Beach is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. There are no strict operating hours, but it's best to visit during daylight for safety and enjoyment. Instagram

No, you do not need to book tickets in advance for Hawksnest Beach. It's a public beach, and entry is on a first-come, first-served basis, especially for parking. Reddit

Unlike some of the more developed beaches, Hawksnest Beach generally has fewer vendors and rental services, contributing to its quieter atmosphere. It's advisable to bring your own beach essentials. Reddit

Hawksnest Beach offers restroom facilities and picnic tables, making it a great spot for a day trip. There are also BBQ grills available for use. Reddit

🎫 🏊‍♀️ Onsite Experience

The water at Hawksnest Beach is renowned for its crystal-clear, emerald hues. It's generally calm, making it excellent for swimming and wading. TikTokReddit

Yes, Hawksnest Beach offers good snorkeling opportunities, especially on the right-hand side of the beach. You can spot various fish and sometimes even sea turtles. InstagramReddit

While typically calm, the waves at Hawksnest Beach can sometimes get rough depending on the day and weather conditions. It's always wise to check conditions before entering the water. Reddit

Hawksnest Beach features soft, velvety white sand, perfect for lounging and building sandcastles. Instagram

Hawksnest Beach is known for being less crowded than some of the more popular St. John beaches like Trunk Bay, especially if you visit on a weekday. The limited parking also helps manage crowd size. TikTokReddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography at Hawksnest Beach. The golden hour before sunset provides a magical glow over the water and sand. Instagram

The entire stretch of beach with its clear turquoise water and white sand is incredibly photogenic. Don't miss capturing the sea grape trees providing natural framing and the underwater marine life if you're snorkeling. Instagram+1

Drone usage within National Parks can be restricted. It's essential to check the latest regulations from the National Park Service regarding drone operation in the Virgin Islands National Park before flying. Instagram

You can capture stunning wide-angle shots of the beach and ocean, close-ups of the vibrant marine life while snorkeling, and serene portraits with the tropical backdrop. Instagram+1

While Hawksnest Beach is more about natural beauty, the distinctive shape of the bay and the lush green hills surrounding it create a picturesque scene. The sea grape trees also offer unique photographic elements. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hawksnest Beach is a fantastic choice for families. The calm, clear waters are perfect for little ones to splash and play safely. The ample shade from the sea grape trees means you can easily set up a comfortable base for the day, protecting children from the sun. InstagramReddit

With picnic tables and BBQ grills available, packing a lunch and making a day of it is easy and enjoyable. The beach's easy access and nearby restrooms add to the convenience for families. While snorkeling is good, it's also just a beautiful spot for kids to build sandcastles and enjoy the simple pleasures of a Caribbean beach day. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Hawksnest Beach is a budget traveler's dream on St. John. As part of the National Park, there's typically no entrance fee, and parking is often free or very reasonably priced. Instagram

Bringing your own snorkel gear and a packed picnic lunch significantly cuts down on expenses. The availability of BBQ grills and picnic tables further supports a cost-effective and enjoyable day. It offers a slice of paradise without the hefty price tag associated with some other attractions. Reddit

couples

For couples seeking a romantic and serene beach experience, Hawksnest Beach is ideal. Its less crowded atmosphere compared to other popular spots allows for intimate moments and peaceful relaxation. TikTokInstagram

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shore, share a picnic lunch under the shade of the sea grape trees, or snorkel hand-in-hand exploring the underwater world. The beautiful scenery and tranquil vibe make it a perfect setting for a romantic getaway. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Hawksnest Beach: A Traveler's Guide

Hawksnest Beach is a beloved spot on St. John, USVI, celebrated for its stunning natural beauty and relatively tranquil atmosphere. Unlike some of its more famous neighbors, Hawksnest offers a more laid-back experience, making it a favorite for those seeking relaxation and a genuine taste of island paradise. The beach is characterized by its wide expanse of soft, white sand and the inviting, crystal-clear emerald waters that gently lap the shore. It's a place where you can truly unwind and connect with nature. TikTokInstagram

One of the key draws of Hawksnest is its accessibility and the abundance of natural shade provided by the mature sea grape trees lining the beach. This makes it an ideal location for spending an entire day, whether you're swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a picnic. The beach also boasts good snorkeling opportunities, particularly on the right side, where visitors can encounter a variety of colorful fish and even sea turtles. While not as renowned for its underwater life as some other St. John locations, it offers a convenient and rewarding snorkeling experience without the need for a long trek. InstagramReddit

Practicalities for visiting Hawksnest Beach include its convenient location, just a short drive from Cruz Bay, and the availability of parking. However, this convenience also means parking can be limited, so arriving early is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. The beach is equipped with restroom facilities and picnic tables, and some visitors mention the presence of working BBQ grills, adding to its appeal for families and groups looking for a day of outdoor enjoyment. InstagramReddit

Snorkeling and Marine Life at Hawksnest

Hawksnest Beach provides a delightful introduction to the underwater wonders of St. John for snorkelers of all levels. The water clarity is exceptional, allowing for clear views of the vibrant coral formations and the diverse array of marine life that calls this bay home. The area on the right side of the beach is particularly noted for its snorkeling potential, offering a good chance to see colorful reef fish, parrotfish, angelfish, and if you're lucky, graceful sea turtles. InstagramReddit

While Hawksnest might not boast the same level of marine biodiversity as some of the more remote snorkeling spots on the island, its accessibility and the quality of the snorkeling experience make it a standout. The gentle slope of the seabed and the relatively calm waters contribute to a safe and enjoyable snorkeling adventure. It’s a perfect spot for those who want to experience the Caribbean's underwater beauty without venturing too far from shore or requiring extensive swimming. Reddit

To make the most of your snorkeling experience at Hawksnest, it's highly recommended to bring your own gear. This ensures you have a comfortable fit and are ready to explore as soon as you hit the water. Remember to practice responsible snorkeling by not touching the coral or disturbing the marine life, helping to preserve this beautiful ecosystem for future visitors. Instagram

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