Pros & cons
PROS
- Quieter cove with soft sand and clear, typically calm water
- Fun shore snorkel with a small plane-wreck remnant near the east end
CONS
- No on-site facilities—no restrooms, food, or rentals
- Access is via a short, rugged path from Cinnamon Bay
Overview
Little Cinnamon Bay Beach is the tucked-away, western extension of Cinnamon Bay—a mellow, palm-fringed slice of white sand that often dodges the crowds. You get the same luminous water and soft sand vibe as the bigger-name beaches, without the fee gate and with a lot more elbow room.
Getting There & Facilities
Park at the main Cinnamon Bay lot, walk the beach to the far left (west), then follow a narrow, rocky coastal path about 200 yards through a split boulder to reach the cove. Wear sturdy footwear; the path can be slick. There are no facilities at Little Cinnamon—no restrooms, food, lifeguards, or gear rentals. Use the restrooms, snacks/food options, and rentals at Cinnamon Bay before you head over, and bring your own water and snacks. Parking at Cinnamon Bay fills early, so morning arrivals help.
Snorkeling
This is an easy, enjoyable snorkel spot, best from the eastern end of Little Cinnamon toward Cinnamon Bay. Keep an eye out for the remains of a small plane—visitors report the engine and propeller are often visible. On calm days, visibility is usually good and the gentle wavelets are beginner‑friendly. Remember reef etiquette: don’t stand on coral and give turtles and rays ample space.
Wildlife
In the water, beachgoers in the Cinnamon Bay area frequently report sea turtles, stingrays, and plenty of small reef fish. On land, it’s not unusual to spot iguanas or even small deer wandering the fringes.
Make It a Mini-Adventure
Pair your beach time with a quick history detour back at Cinnamon Bay, where Danish-era plantation remains and interpretive sites sit near the main beach. It’s an easy way to mix a little culture into your swim-and-snorkel day.
Best Time to Visit
Go early for easier parking and calmer water. Mid-morning typically brings the best combination of light breezes and fewer people. Plan to be self-sufficient—there are no vendors at Little Cinnamon and reports on popup options vary—so bring what you need and pack out all trash.
Where it is
18.3538, -64.7557Tips for Little Cinnamon Bay Beach
- 01Park at Cinnamon Bay, then walk west and take the short rugged path.
- 02Use Cinnamon Bay’s restrooms and rentals before heading to Little Cinnamon.
- 03Bring water and snacks—there are no vendors here and reports vary.
- 04Snorkel the east end toward Cinnamon Bay to find the small plane wreck.
- 05Arrive early for parking and calmer water; use reef-safe sunscreen.
Near Little Cinnamon Bay Beach
All places →All trails →
0.1 mi awayCinnamon Bay CampgroundBeachfront camping with cafe, rentals, and snorkeling to Cinnamon CayCampground · Restroom
0.1 mi awayCinnamon Bay BeachLong, shady white-sand bay with rentals, food, and easy snorkelingRestroom · Parking
0.3 mi awayCinnamon Bay TrailSteep, shaded climb from beach to ridge with ruins and bay peeksModerate · 2.4 mi · 1.5 hr
0.4 mi awayAmerica Hill RuinsSteep little hike to photogenic ruins with big bay viewsScenic Viewpoint
0.4 mi awayMaho Bay OutlookQuick roadside pull-off to scope Maho Bay before the beachPullout · Scenic Viewpoint
0.5 mi awayCinnamon Bay Nature LoopShady stroll through sugar plantation ruins and rainforestEasy · 0.5 mi · 30 min
1 mi awayL'Esperance TrailQuiet historic descent to Reef Bay with ruins and viewsModerate · 5.2 mi · 3.5 hr
1.2 mi awayFrancis Bay TrailEasy boardwalk-and-beach loop with standout birding and calm snorkelingEasy · 0.7 mi · 20 min
