The beaches on the tropical island of St. John in the United States Virgin Island are legendary, and some would say that they are the most spectacular in the entire world. The curve of the bays, the amazing shades of the water, the powdery white sand and the view of neighboring islands make St. John beaches heavenly. Snorkelers enjoy crystal clear water, calm surf and nearby coral reefs with a profusion of colorful fish and sea life. Beaches on the island, many of which are located within the Virgin Islands National Park, are well-maintained in deference to the wishes of Laurance Rockefeller, who donated much of the land on St. John.

Trunk Bay Beach

Named by Conde Nast Traveler magazine as one of the best beaches in the world, Trunk Bay beach is breathtakingly beautiful with its powdery white sand, clear water and panoramic views. This beach is part of the Virgin Islands National Park and is the most popular beach on St. John. Colorful fish and other sea life can be seen by snorkeling along the Underwater Trail that is annotated with interpretive signs to provide information. If you go, check out the ruins of the nearby Annaberg Sugar Plantation. Conveniences include a snack bar, watersport rental equipment, restrooms and showers. A lifeguard is on duty. Trunk Bay beach offers spectacular views of the sun as it sets over the water.

Caneel Bay

Caneel Bay, the site of the famous resort, consists of a string of beaches from Durloe Point to Hawksnest. This lovely beach is ideal for beachgoers who want to enjoy a day of swimming and snorkeling coupled with a meal at one of the resort’s beachside restaurants. The Caneel Beach Terrace and the casual Beach Terrace Bar are located right on the beach. If you go, take advantage of the convenient parking lot and stroll down the lushly landscaped path to the beach. You can snorkel around the rocks for a good view of starfish, sea turtles and stingrays. Caneel Bay also offers easy access the sugar works. There are rest rooms and a gift shop.

Francis Bay

If you are looking for a small, secluded beach with calm waters and pristine white sand, try Francis Bay beach. This idyllic spot faces west and is leeward of the trade winds and is generally calmer than other beaches on the north shore of the island. Snorkelers will find a world of sea life, including green sea turtles, stingrays and conch. Large numbers of silvery fry attract larger predators like jacks, snapper, mackerel and barracuda. Colored sponges and sea fans can also be seen. Make sure to bring along your snorkeling gear. Francis Bay offers portable rest rooms at the main parking area, and there are picnic tables and barbecues at the edge of the beach among the trees.

Honeymoon and Salomon Beaches

These two St. John’s beaches lie side by side along the same bay, separated by a diminutive rocky point. Getting there is part of the adventure, whether you approach by boat or along the tranquil forest path that provides a glimpse of the untouched beauty of the island’s interior. A coral reef lies at the fringe of the rocky point, and snorkelers will find that it is easy accessible from both beaches. Honeymoon Beach offers shade beneath the large maho tree at the center of the beach and under the seagrapes. If you go, be aware that day charter boats frequent Honeymoon Beach in late morning and depart in the mid afternoon.

Cinnamon Bay

If you like an active beach, Cinnamon Bay is the beach for you. Watersports like windsurfing and kayaking are available, along with volleyball on the beach. There is a snack bar, the T’ree Lizards restaurant, lockers, showers and rest rooms. An activities desk offers snorkel trips, scuba diving and windsurfing lessons, day sails and cocktail cruises. Sailboats can be rented at the end of the beach road.