Frequently Asked Questions

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 offering 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 - Yes! The campground is now open. 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. Note: good snorkeling areas are highlighted in pink on the park brochure, You can find a copy at the Visitor Center or at the kiosk next to the playground.

Q - Where can I purchase food in the park?
A - Visitors can find food vendors at Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, Salt Pond, and 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 and Maho offer 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. Schedules and Routes. 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 - Can you mail me a brochure?
A - Of course! We'd love to. Submit your request to viis_interpretation@nps.gov

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

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.

Last updated: February 23, 2023

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

1300 Cruz Bay Creek
St. John, VI 00830

Phone:

340 776-6201
Headquarters/Visitor Center phone contact Information.

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