Frequently Asked Questions

Q- Where can I get my National Park's Passport Stamps?
A- Stamps for Virgin Islands National Park and Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument are available both inside and outside at the Visitor Center in Cruz Bay as well as at the admission booth at Trunk Bay. (Do not stamp your government issued passport)

Q - Is the park currently offering the Reef Bay Hike?
A - In partnership with Virgin Islands National Park, the Friends of Virgin Islands National Park is seasonally offering Ranger Guided Reef Bay Trail hikes with a return to the park’s Visitor Center by boat. More information can be found on the Friends of Virgin Islands National Park's webpage.

Q - Is the Cinnamon Bay Campground open?
A - The campground is open seasonally. Make reservations by visiting Cinnamon Bay Resort & Campground's official website.

Q - Where is the best snorkeling?
A - Each beach is different. Some have coral reefs, others have sea grass beds that turtles enjoy. Popular snorkel spots include Trunk Bay, Maho, Waterlemon Cay and Salt Pond. Read more about snorkeling places around the islands.

Q - Where can I purchase food in the park?
A - Visitors can find food vendors at Trunk Bay, Honeymoon Beach and Cinnamon Bay. Non-park concessions are available at Maho Bay.

Q - Where can I rent umbrellas, snorkel gear, chairs, kayaks or paddleboards?
A - Trunk Bay offers rentals of snorkel gear and chairs. Cinnamon Bay offers rentals of kayaks, paddleboards as well as snorkel gear and chairs.

Q - How can I get around if I do not have a car?
A - You may take a taxi or the hourly Vitran bus that runs along Centerline Road. There are also trails leading from Cruz Bay to Salomon Beach (1.4 miles) and Honeymoon Beach (1.5 miles) Visit our hiking page for more information.

Q - Are there easy trails for families with small children or those who are looking for a short hike?
A - Yes, the Cinnamon Bay Nature Loop and Francis Bay Trail are great options. Both are under 1/2 mile and are rated easy. Visit our hiking page for more information.

Q - How do we get to St. John?
A - You will need to fly to St. Thomas and take a ferry over. There is a ferry for pedestrians and a car barge as well. Find more information and schedules at St. Thomas - St. John Ferry Service - Virgin Islands (vinow.com)

Q - Where can we park?
A - All beaches and trailheads have limited parking. We suggest arriving early to secure a spot as they fill quickly. Park only in designated areas to help protect vegetation and resources. There is parking at the Visitor Center in Cruz Bay as well for visitors hiking in the park.

Q - When is the busy season?
A - The park is busiest from November to April in a typical year.

Q-Can you mail me a brochure?
A- Please pick up a brochure when you visit the park. Park information can be found on our website or you can request an e-mailed version of the brochure.

Q - What kind of shoes should I wear to hike the trails in the park?
A - Trails are well-maintained but are rough and rocky in many places. We recommend sneakers or boots with good traction. Please note that trails can be very slippery when it rains.

Q - How do I get to Coral Reef National Monument?
A - As the monument is primarily a water park, you will need a boat to visit.