With warm, white sand and lapping, crystal blue waves along the shoreline, St. John beaches are a prime feature on our island in paradise! Whether you’re looking to lounge in the sun or participate in a variety of watersports, St. John beaches provide both relaxation and recreation. Some of our favorite beaches are within the Virigin Islands National Park on the North Shore of the island, which features stunning scenery and a perfect atmosphere for a day in the sand and surf. During your stay with CimmaronStJohn, be sure to soak in some beach days along with enjoying other local attractions and historic sites around the island. Here are 5 of our favorite St. John North Shore beaches to visit during your vacation!

Discover more great destinations across the island when you read our local attractions guide. It includes some of the best St. John beaches, boating and fishing charters, watersports, hiking trails, spas, restaurants, and more! You can also find vacation rentals near North Shore beaches by viewing our rental map!

5 of the Best St. John Beaches: North Shore

Hawksnest Beach

A short drive from Cruz Bay and under two miles from Mongoose Junction sits majestic Hawksnest Beach. This great selection of St. John beaches on the North Shore offers white sands, clear water, and lush palm trees swaying in the gentle breeze. Soak up some sun on the eastern end of the beach early in the morning, or lounge in the shade on the western end during the afternoon. You can also go for a snorkel at the nearby reef. Scan the clear water for orange elkhorn coral and a variety of colorful fish! For lunch at the beach, bring some BBQ for the grill and picnic tables or camp out on the sand with a blanket and basket.

Jumbie Bay

Another great option of St. John beaches is Jumbie Bay on the North Shore. Just over two miles from Cruz Bay and a lot of our St. John rentals, you will discover this pleasant oasis. After parking along the roadside, cross the road and embark down a narrow path through the woods. You will come out of the lush greenery to discover a short stretch of white sand fringed with sea grapes. This is Jumbie Bay! The dramatic setting features wind and surf, making it a beautiful landscape but not the best place for snorkeling. If you want a little more seclusion, however, this is a great choice. Watch the aqua green water lap against the shoreline while you settle down on the white sand with a relaxing vacation read.

Trunk Bay

One of the most iconic St. John beaches is Trunk Bay in the Virgin Islands National Park. The gorgeous beach is featured in many famous photographs of the island, and seeing it in person will be even more breathtaking! Enjoy the golden rays of sunshine sparkling against the water during the day. Then, at sunset, watch the colors melt together in a spectacular display! In between, enjoy some great snorkeling opportunities along a 225-yard-long underwater trail of reefs. This is one St. John beach you simply must visit during your vacation stay!

Cinnamon Bay

Discover great watersport activities at Cinnamon Bay on the North Shore. Snorkeling, kayaking, sailing, and paddle boarding are just a few favorites endeavors. At this beach, you can rent your gear before embarking on an exciting water adventure. You can also book a lesson or guided tour if you’re looking to learn as well as enjoy the surf! Another great feature of Cinnamon Bay is the snack bar, one of the best amenities the sandy stretch has to offer. After an adventure-packed morning of watersports, satiate your appetite with burgers, sandwiches, and more!

Oppenheimer Beach

For simply relaxing on the beach and enjoying the nature of St. John, both tourists and locals alike visit Oppenheimer Beach. The private, “off-the-beaten-path” quality of this beach is due to a lack of watersport rentals and eateries. Parking is also limited to just a few spots along the left side of the iron gate at the entrance. Through the gate, it is just a short hike to the water’s edge and a refreshing serene atmosphere. The destination is worth the effort; spend some quiet time under the palm trees, and enjoy shallow sandy bottom entry to the water to swim or snorkel.

Stay With CimmaronStJohn

Browse our vacation rentals along the North Shore to discover which home is closest to your favorite beach destination! Then, come visit our slice of paradise and enjoy the beach adventure of a lifetime!