Leinster Bay Trail St John
A scenic coastal trail leading to the snorkeling haven of Waterlemon Cay, offering a mix of natural beauty and historical intrigue.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Leinster Bay Trail St John
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic coastal trail leading to the snorkeling haven of Waterlemon Cay, offering a mix of natural beauty and historical intrigue.
"The trail is an easy walk to Waterlemon Bay and Cay, perfect for snorkeling and enjoying the quiet beach. "
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for walking in water to Waterlemon Cay and navigating rocky trails.
Combine with Johnny Horn Trail
Enhance your exploration by linking this trail with the adjacent Johnny Horn Trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Waterlemon Cay
End of Leinster Bay Trail
A small, rocky island perfect for snorkeling and exploring. Reachable by wading through shallow water.
Leinster Bay
Along Leinster Bay Trail
A beautiful, often quieter bay offering a serene beach experience and good snorkeling opportunities.
Annenberg Ruins
Trailhead of Leinster Bay Trail
Historic ruins marking the start of the trail, offering a glimpse into the island's past.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Footwear is Key for Waterlemon
Combine Trails for a Full Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
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St. John Travel Tips
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for walking in water to Waterlemon Cay and navigating rocky trails.
Combine with Johnny Horn Trail
Enhance your exploration by linking this trail with the adjacent Johnny Horn Trail.
St John, Planning Help.
Honeymoon in the Virgin Islands June 2016 - ideas needed
Pack Plenty of Water
The trail is mostly exposed, so stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. :water_wave:
Snorkel Gear Recommended
Waterlemon Cay and the bay offer excellent snorkeling. Bring your own or rent nearby. :fish:
Currently on St. John USVI and need beach help
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for walking in water to Waterlemon Cay and navigating rocky trails.
Combine with Johnny Horn Trail
Enhance your exploration by linking this trail with the adjacent Johnny Horn Trail.
Pack Plenty of Water
The trail is mostly exposed, so stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. :water_wave:
Snorkel Gear Recommended
Waterlemon Cay and the bay offer excellent snorkeling. Bring your own or rent nearby. :fish:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Leinster Bay Trail for its scenic beauty, leading to the excellent snorkeling at Waterlemon Cay. The trail is manageable, though the rocky terrain and need for water shoes are frequently mentioned. Some find the walk a bit exposed, but the payoff of reaching the bay and cay is widely considered worth the effort.
"This is your entry route to Waterlemon Bay and Waterlemon Cay.
It's an easy walk, right at about a mile to get to the entry to Waterlemon Cay, and just less than that to get to the bay.
It's mostly exposed, but there are some small wooded sections.
If you go past the bay, you'll likely be walking in water for a bit - so I would wear water shoes if you plan on going on to the Cay or the Johnny Horn Trail.
Total distance for us was about 2.4 miles round trip, with almost zero elevation."
Greg Eakins
"The trail starts by the shore past the Annenberg ruins. It's a rocky shoe and best with hiking shoes. Plan on 45 minutes to walk to the end."
Arjun Sharma
"You better combine this trail with the Johnny Horn Trail."
Nils Hünerfürst
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is located past the Annenberg ruins, near the shore. It's accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Consider combining it with the Johnny Horn Trail for a fuller experience.
Yes, there is parking available near the trailhead. It can get busy, especially during peak season, so arriving early is advisable.
Taxis are available on St. John and can drop you off near the trailhead. Confirm the drop-off point with your driver.
Public transport options are limited on St. John. Renting a car or taking a taxi is generally the most convenient way to reach the trailhead.
From the end of the Leinster Bay Trail, you'll need to wade through shallow water to reach Waterlemon Cay. Water shoes are highly recommended for this part.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to the Leinster Bay Trail and its surrounding areas is generally free. It's part of the Virgin Islands National Park. :park:
There are no specific entrance fees for Waterlemon Cay itself, as it's part of the national park. Standard park entrance fees may apply if you are visiting other areas of the Virgin Islands National Park. :moneywithwings:
The trail is accessible during daylight hours. It's best to visit during the day for safety and visibility. :sunriseovermountains:
While not always necessary, guided tours can offer historical context and insights. Check with local tour operators on St. John for availability. :guide_dog:
The main Virgin Islands National Park Visitor Center is in Cruz Bay. It's a good place to get maps and information before heading out to the trail. :information_desk:
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The trail is considered easy to moderate. It's about a mile to the bay and slightly more to the Cay, with minimal elevation gain. The terrain is rocky.
Plan for about 45 minutes to an hour to reach the end of the trail to Waterlemon Cay, round trip. This doesn't include time spent at the bay or Cay.
Waterlemon Cay and the waters around Leinster Bay are excellent for snorkeling, with vibrant coral and marine life.
Facilities are limited. It's best to use restrooms at your accommodation or in Cruz Bay before starting your hike. :toilet:
The trail is manageable for families, but the rocky terrain and potential for walking in water might be challenging for very young children. Water shoes are a must. :familymanwomangirlboy:
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning coastal views of Leinster Bay, the turquoise waters, and the unique landscape leading to Waterlemon Cay. The ruins also offer historical photo ops. :camerawithflash:
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography. The golden hour can be particularly magical. :sunriseovermountains:
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery. Consider a waterproof camera or protective case if you plan on snorkeling or wading. :iphone:
The entire trail offers scenic vistas. The approach to Waterlemon Cay and the bay itself provide picturesque backdrops. Look for elevated spots along the trail for panoramic shots.
Drone usage is subject to National Park Service regulations. Check the official NPS website for current rules and restrictions before flying. :drone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trail and Water
Reaching Waterlemon Cay requires wading through knee-deep or shallower water, depending on the tide. This is where appropriate footwear becomes crucial for comfort and safety. Many visitors find combining the Leinster Bay Trail with the adjacent Johnny Horn Trail offers a more comprehensive exploration of the area's natural beauty and historical significance.
Snorkeling Paradise at Waterlemon Cay
To make the most of your snorkeling adventure, it's recommended to bring your own gear or rent it in Cruz Bay. The best times to snorkel are typically in the morning when the water is calmest and visibility is at its peak. Remember to practice responsible snorkeling by not touching or disturbing the coral and marine life, ensuring these beautiful underwater ecosystems are preserved for future visitors. :fish:
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