Honeymoon Beach on St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands is a sheltered cove known for calm turquoise waters, soft white sand, and excellent snorkeling.
Honeymoon Beach sits within the protected boundaries of Virgin Islands National Park, which covers roughly two-thirds of St. John. That designation has kept the shoreline free of development, preserving the coral reef and the native dry-forest vegetation that drapes the surrounding hillsides.
The reef just offshore is one of the most accessible on the island. Snorkelers regularly encounter parrotfish, blue tang, and the occasional hawksbill sea turtle without venturing far from shore. The calm, sheltered position of the cove means visibility is generally good throughout the year.
Reaching Honeymoon Beach adds to its appeal. Most visitors arrive by water taxi from Cruz Bay or on foot via a short trail through the national park. Both approaches pass through scenery that sets the tone for the unhurried afternoon ahead.
The beach has no permanent bars or restaurants, which keeps the atmosphere quiet and unspoiled. That simplicity is exactly the point, and it is what draws people back to Honeymoon Beach long after their first visit to St. John.
Visit during weekday mornings to enjoy the beach before day-trippers arrive from St. Thomas ferries.
Try snorkeling along the rocky edges on either side of the cove, where sea turtles and sergeant majors are commonly spotted.
Bring water shoes, as the entry into the water near the rocks can be uneven underfoot.
Take the short trail connecting Honeymoon Beach to Caneel Bay to stretch your legs between swims.
Pack your own food and plenty of fresh water, as there are no permanent food vendors on the beach.
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