Cinnamon Bay Beach

Overview

Cinnamon Bay Beach is the park’s big, easygoing classic: a long sweep of powdery white sand, turquoise water, and pockets of shade under coastal trees. It’s roomy enough that even on popular days you can usually spread out, and the water is typically calm enough for relaxed swimming.

What to Do

• Swim and snorkel: The headline is Cinnamon Cay just offshore, plus reef along the east end. Expect reef fish, stingrays, and the occasional turtle. Conditions change with weather, so pick your spots and stay within your comfort.
• Paddle: Kayaks and SUPs are available right on the beach via the campground concession.
• Unplug and linger: This is one of the most “all-day” beaches thanks to on-site food, drinks, gear rentals, and restrooms.

Nature & Wildlife

In the water, look for schools of reef fish and gliding rays; turtles pop in now and then. On land, small deer, iguanas, mongooses, and seabirds roam the grounds—and you might even spot a donkey near the parking area.

History & Archaeology

Beyond the sand, Cinnamon Bay sits on an archaeological treasure trove with artifacts from Classic Taino culture. A small “little white house” on the beach is among the island’s oldest standing structures, dating to the 1600s.

Amenities & Food

Day-use restrooms are available, and the beach is backed by a full-service concession: breakfast/dinner at the Rain Tree Cafe, a lunch food truck for cold drinks and ice cream, plus a small shop for essentials. You can rent snorkel gear, chairs, kayaks, and paddleboards. Showers for day visitors aren’t reliable—think foot-rinse stations rather than true showers.

Logistics & Getting There

Cinnamon Bay sits along North Shore Road, about a short drive from Cruz Bay, with on-site parking and regular safari-taxi service. If you’re coming from St. Thomas, it’s taxi to the Red Hook ferry, ferry to St. John, then taxi or rental car to the beach.

Tips for Snorkeling

Target the cay in the middle of the bay and the east-end reef for the best structure. Scan sandy patches for rays, and keep an eye on wind and swell—visibility and comfort improve on calmer mornings.

Best Time to Visit

Arrive in the morning for easier parking and gentler water. The bay faces north, so don’t expect a dramatic over-the-water sunrise or sunset; mid-morning light is great for photos and snorkeling clarity. On windy days, sit toward the left side of the beach and closer to the water to dodge blowing sand.