Yawzi Point

Short headland walk to ruins, reefy snorkeling, and big bay views
Yawzi Point, Virgin Islands National Park
InsideVirgin Islands National Park

Overview

A narrow headland separating Great Lameshur and Little Lameshur Bays, Yawzi Point is a quick, rewarding outing on the park’s south shore. The short trail threads dry coastal scrub to big blue panoramas, with a few atmospheric colonial-era ruins adding character along the way.

What You'll See

  • Broad views over two turquoise bays and the open Caribbean, with rocky coves and wave-cut benches below.
  • Small stone ruins from the Danish colonial period and a landscape of cacti, agave, anoles, and land hermit crabs.
  • Overhead, watch for brown pelicans and frigatebirds riding the coastal breeze.

Snorkeling

The point is a favorite for confident snorkelers: expect sea fan “meadows,” juvenile reef fish, coral heads, and cave-like rock structure right off the headland. Entry is usually easier from Little Lameshur Beach or via a short spur from the trail rather than jumping in at the tip (the shoreline is rocky and can be surgey, with urchins on the rocks). Check wind and swell before you go and turn back if conditions look rough.

Trail Basics

The walk is short (roughly 0.3–0.7 miles round trip depending on how many spurs you explore), mostly flat but rocky underfoot, and generally takes 20–50 minutes. Side paths lead to little pocket beaches for quiet snorkeling access and photo ops.

Getting There and Parking

Reach the area via the south shore beyond Coral Bay. The final stretch to the Lameshur bays is a rough, pothole-riddled dirt road where 4WD is recommended, and cell service can be spotty. Park at Little Lameshur and pick up the trail from the left side of the beach; parking is typically easier here than at the busier north-shore beaches.

Safety and Conditions

This headland is sun-exposed with little shade—bring plenty of water, a hat, and sun protection. Footing is uneven on sharp volcanic rock; sturdy shoes help. Keep a safe distance from cliff edges, especially after heavy surf, and use care around urchins when entering the water. Follow Leave No Trace and give sea turtles and all marine life space.

Best Time to Visit

All day works, but early morning or late afternoon is best for cooler temps, softer light, and calmer conditions. It can be buggy at dawn and dusk, so pack repellent. Sunset can be photogenic from the point when skies cooperate.

Extend Your Day

From Little Lameshur you can connect to the Lameshur Trail and on to Europa and Reef Bay if you want to turn a quick stroll into a longer hike. Otherwise, pair the point with a relaxed beach and snorkel session at Little Lameshur.

Pros

  • Short, easy walk with wide views of both Lameshur bays
  • Colonial-era stone ruins right along the trail
  • Snorkeling access to sea fan meadows and cave-like rock features

Cons

  • Rough, potholed access road; 4WD strongly recommended
  • Rocky, sometimes overgrown trail with full sun exposure
  • No on-site services; plan to be self-sufficient

Tips

  • Drive a 4WD and expect a slow, rough final stretch of road.
  • Start early for cooler temps and calmer seas, and bring plenty of water.
  • Enter the water from Little Lameshur rather than the point when it’s surgey.
  • Wear booties or sturdy sandals for rocky entries and lurking urchins.
  • Leashed pets are allowed on the trail; cell service is unreliable here.
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