Hull Bay Beach
A tranquil local beach on St. Thomas, perfect for snorkeling, relaxation, and stunning sunsets, with a popular beach bar.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
For stunning sunset views
Hull Bay Beach
Best Time
For stunning sunset views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil local beach on St. Thomas, perfect for snorkeling, relaxation, and stunning sunsets, with a popular beach bar.
"This quiet, unassuming beach has amazing snorkeling and The Shack restaurant is also right there, with excellent food."
Bring Your Snorkel Gear
Amazing snorkeling awaits! See turtles, rays, and fish. Water shoes recommended.
Local Eats at The Shack
Don't miss The Shack for great food and strong drinks right on the beach.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hull Bay Beach
St. Thomas, USVI
A tranquil local beach perfect for relaxation, swimming, and soaking up the Caribbean sun.
The Shack at Hull Bay
Adjacent to the beach
Enjoy delicious food and potent cocktails with your toes in the sand at this popular beachside eatery.
Sunset Views
Western horizon
Witness breathtaking sunsets as the sun dips below the hills, painting the sky with vibrant colors.
Snorkeling Paradise
Offshore reefs
Discover a rich marine ecosystem with sea turtles, stingrays, and colorful fish just a short swim away.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Snorkel Gear is a Must
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Your Snorkel Gear
Amazing snorkeling awaits! See turtles, rays, and fish. Water shoes recommended.
Local Eats at The Shack
Don't miss The Shack for great food and strong drinks right on the beach.
Uncrowded Paradise
Enjoy a more relaxed vibe compared to popular tourist beaches.
Sunset Spectacle
The western horizon offers incredible sunset views. Perfect for photos!
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Your Snorkel Gear
Amazing snorkeling awaits! See turtles, rays, and fish. Water shoes recommended.
Local Eats at The Shack
Don't miss The Shack for great food and strong drinks right on the beach.
Uncrowded Paradise
Enjoy a more relaxed vibe compared to popular tourist beaches.
Sunset Spectacle
The western horizon offers incredible sunset views. Perfect for photos!
Plenty of Parking
Ample parking available, making it easy to access the beach.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hull Bay Beach is a beloved local spot praised for its tranquil atmosphere, excellent snorkeling, and delicious beachside dining at The Shack. Visitors appreciate its uncrowded nature and beautiful sunset views, though some note the lack of amenities like chair rentals and restrooms. It's a great option for those seeking an authentic Caribbean beach experience.
"Beautiful beach! It seemed like more of a local spot! No chairs or umbrellas up! Lots of boats parked in the water! Very quiet and relaxing! The water is so clear! There’s a boat ramp and even a place to get drinks and food (The Shack) just right past the parking lot, which has plenty of parking."
Apocalypse Baker
"This quiet, unassuming beach has amazing snorkeling. We saw turtles, cuttlefish, huge stingrays and tons of fish. The Shack restaurant is also right there, with excellent food and stiff, original drinks."
Mark Mueller
"Great spot for Sunset as it disappears over the Hillside to the west. The Shack is located a short walk from the beach. Delicious Shrimp and Fish Tacos as well as great cocktails."
Jayme Meadows
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hull Bay Beach is located on the north side of St. Thomas. From Charlotte Amalie, it's approximately a 13-minute drive. You can rent a car or take a taxi. Many visitors find it a convenient drive from various parts of the island.
Yes, Hull Bay Beach is generally easy to find, especially if you're using GPS. It's a well-known local spot on the northern coast of St. Thomas.
Renting a car or a Jeep offers the most flexibility for exploring St. Thomas and reaching beaches like Hull Bay. Taxis are also readily available.
While direct public bus routes might be limited, you can often combine local buses with short taxi rides to reach Hull Bay. It's advisable to check local schedules.
The beach has a parking area and a boat ramp, but direct accessibility to the sandy shore might vary. It's best to assess the conditions upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Hull Bay Beach is a free public beach, so there's no cost to visit and enjoy the sand and sea.
As a public beach, Hull Bay is accessible during daylight hours. The Shack restaurant has its own operating hours, typically extending into the evening. 
No advance booking is necessary for Hull Bay Beach as it's a public access area. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
Generally, you can bring your own food, drinks, and beach gear. However, always be mindful of local regulations and pack out what you pack in.
Absolutely! Hull Bay Beach is a perfect spot for a relaxing day trip, offering swimming, snorkeling, and dining options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Hull Bay Beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and especially snorkeling. The clear waters teem with marine life.
Yes, Hull Bay Beach is highly recommended for snorkeling. Visitors often spot sea turtles, stingrays, and a variety of fish. Bring water shoes as the sand transitions to rocks.
Restroom facilities are not explicitly mentioned as being available directly at the beach. It's advisable to check with The Shack or plan accordingly.
Based on reviews, it seems Hull Bay Beach is more of a local spot with fewer amenities like chair and umbrella rentals. It's best to bring your own if needed.
Hull Bay Beach is generally considered less crowded than some of the more popular tourist beaches on St. Thomas, offering a more tranquil experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The most popular spot is 'The Shack at Hull Bay,' located right by the beach, offering excellent food and drinks. Other restaurants like Nomads and Fish Bar are also nearby.
The Shack is known for its delicious shrimp and fish tacos, along with great cocktails. It's a casual beachside dining experience.
Specific vegetarian or vegan options are not detailed in reviews, but it's always worth asking the staff at The Shack about their current menu.
Yes, visitors are generally welcome to bring their own food and beverages to enjoy on the beach.
Hull Bay Hideaway appears to be a charming accommodation option, not a restaurant. Dining is available at nearby establishments like The Shack.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoons and evenings are ideal for photography, especially for capturing the stunning sunsets. Early mornings can also offer beautiful, soft light.
Popular subjects include the beach itself, the clear turquoise water, vibrant sunsets, marine life (if you're lucky enough to photograph it), and the relaxed atmosphere.
The western side of the beach offers excellent vantage points for sunset photography. The shoreline and the water's edge provide picturesque settings.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check current FAA and local USVI guidelines before flying a drone over Hull Bay Beach.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean views. A waterproof camera or housing is ideal for underwater shots while snorkeling.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to bring your own beach toys and snacks, as amenities are limited. The Shack nearby offers kid-friendly food options, making it easy to grab a bite. Remember to pack water shoes for the kids, as the transition to the water can be rocky. The snorkeling here is also fantastic, and older children might enjoy exploring the underwater world with supervision.
💰 Budget Travelers
Bringing your own snorkel gear is a must to fully enjoy the marine life without paying for rentals. Renting a car might be an initial cost, but it offers flexibility for exploring multiple free attractions like Hull Bay. Consider staying in accommodations slightly further from prime tourist zones to find better rates, with Hull Bay being a great day-trip destination.
couples
+1The sunsets at Hull Bay are particularly breathtaking, offering a perfect backdrop for a romantic evening. Consider dining at The Shack for a casual, beachfront meal with your partner. For a truly special experience, booking a stay at The Hideaway at Hull Bay provides charming cottages for a secluded and memorable getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Hull Bay Beach
Beyond its peaceful ambiance, Hull Bay is a hotspot for marine life. The waters are exceptionally clear, making it a prime location for snorkeling. Many visitors report sightings of sea turtles, stingrays, cuttlefish, and a diverse array of fish, turning a simple beach visit into an underwater adventure. This makes it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and anyone looking to connect with the vibrant ecosystem of the Virgin Islands.
Adding to its appeal is the presence of 'The Shack at Hull Bay,' a beloved beach bar and eatery. It provides a convenient spot to refuel with delicious food and refreshing drinks, often enjoyed with a view of the water. The combination of a beautiful, less-crowded beach and a great local dining option makes Hull Bay a well-rounded destination for a day of relaxation and enjoyment.
Snorkeling and Marine Life at Hull Bay
Beyond the more commonly seen species, some visitors have even spotted more elusive marine life such as cuttlefish and squid. The transition from sand to rocks at the water's edge is a common feature of many Caribbean beaches, and Hull Bay is no exception. Wearing water shoes or fins is highly recommended to protect your feet and enhance your snorkeling experience as you navigate these areas.
For the best snorkeling experience, consider visiting during calmer conditions, typically in the morning or when the sea is less choppy. While the beach itself is free to access, the real treasure lies beneath the surface. Bringing your own snorkel gear is essential, as rentals are not typically available on-site, ensuring you're fully prepared to explore this underwater paradise.
The Hideaway at Hull Bay
Reviews suggest that The Hideaway is a delightful place to stay, offering spacious accommodations that can be perfect for couples or small families. Its proximity to Hull Bay Beach means you can easily step out for a morning swim or an evening sunset stroll. The charming cottages contribute to the overall relaxed and idyllic island experience.
While The Hideaway itself is focused on accommodation, its location places you within easy reach of Hull Bay's main attractions, including the beach and local eateries like The Shack. It's a great option for those looking to extend their visit and truly soak in the local atmosphere of Hull Bay.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit