Cinnamon Bay

North Shore

Endless White Sand Beach with Camping, Snorkeling & Rentals

Why Visit Cinnamon Bay Beach in Virgin Islands National Park?

Cinnamon Bay is the longest stretch of sand in the US Virgin Islands, making it one of the most versatile beaches on St. John. Part of Virgin Islands National Park, Cinnamon Bay offers a wide beach with calm surf, tropical shade and views across the Caribbean Sea to the British Virgin Islands. Travelers searching for “Cinnamon Bay St John camping” will find the island’s only beachfront campground here, one of the most affordable ways to experience St John.

Cinnamon Bay Camping, Cabins & Beach Amenities

Cinnamon Bay stands out among St. John beaches because it provides a range of services and accommodations:

Campground & Eco‑Tents: Cinnamon Bay Campground hosts tent sites and eco‑tents in the trees as well as simple cottages. Staying on-site lets you enjoy sunrise walks and starry nights on the beach.
Restrooms & Showers: Flush toilets and a water spigot for rinsing are available near the campground and beach access. Showers for camp guest only.
Parking: Two large parking lots provide more spaces than most beaches on St. John. Even so, arrive early to avoid a long walk.
Food & Drinks: A camp store sells snacks, cold drinks and basic supplies, while the Cinnamon Bay Beach Cafe serves sandwiches and beverages, including alcoholic drinks.
Equipment Rentals: The watersports concession rents stand‑up paddleboards, snorkel gear and beach chairs.

Cinnamon Bay Snorkeling & Watersports

Cinnamon Bay’s calm water and sandy bottom make it ideal for swimming, but snorkeling is also excellent around the rockier eastern end. Snorkelers can see schools of fish and healthy coral not far from shore. If you’re searching for “Cinnamon Bay snorkeling,” you’ll be pleased to know that rental equipment is conveniently located on the beach. Paddleboards and kayaks are also available, allowing visitors to explore the bay or paddle along the coastline.

Exploring History & Nature Near Cinnamon Bay

In addition to the beach, Cinnamon Bay offers cultural and natural attractions:

Historic Ruins: Behind the campground stand the remains of an 18th‑century sugar plantation, with a restored stone warehouse that now serves as a small museum and cultural center.
Cinnamon Bay Nature Trail: A short loop trail winds through the plantation ruins and tropical forest, making a great educational walk for families.
Cinnamon Bay Archeological Site: Ongoing excavations around the bay have uncovered Taino artifacts dating back more than 1,000 years, highlighting the island’s indigenous heritage.
Cinnamon Bay Chats: Themed presentations on local wildlife, culture and history are held weeknights from 6 p.m to 7 p.m.

Getting to Cinnamon Bay Beach & Campground

Cinnamon Bay is located on North Shore Road, approximately 10 minutes east of Cruz Bay. Rental cars and taxis can access the parking lots. If you’re staying at the campground, a free shuttle operates between the parking area and the tents and cabins for loading luggage. Visitors who plan to explore multiple beaches can combine Cinnamon Bay with stops at Trunk Bay, Hawksnest Beach or Maho Bay.

Tips for Visiting Cinnamon Bay St John

Reserve Campsites Early: Cinnamon Bay is the only campground on St John. Book well in advance, especially during peak season.
Bring Reef‑Safe Sunscreen: Protect the marine environment by using mineral‑based sunscreens.
Arrive Early for Parking: Although there are two parking lots, spaces fill quickly on weekends and holidays.
Pack Cash: Some concessions operate on a cash basis; the National Park Service also charges a small day‑use fee for certain services.
Enjoy Nearby Trails: Hike the Cinnamon Bay Trail for ocean views or visit the Reef Bay Trail (a short drive away) to see petroglyphs and a historic sugar mill.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Bay

Can I camp at Cinnamon Bay?

Yes. Cinnamon Bay offers tent sites, eco‑tents and cottages, making it the only official beachfront camping option on St. John.

Are there restrooms and showers at Cinnamon Bay beach?

Yes. Flush toilets and a water spigot for rinsing off are available near the campground and beach access.

Does Cinnamon Bay have parking?

Yes. Two large parking lots provide more spaces than most St John beaches, but you may still need to walk 5–10 minutes to the beach.

Is there a restaurant on Cinnamon Bay beach?

Yes. The Cinnamon Bay Beach Cafe serves sandwiches and drinks, including beer and cocktails, and a camp store sells snacks and beverages.

What activities are available at Cinnamon Bay?

Popular activities include swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, beach volleyball and hiking the nearby nature trails.

Is Cinnamon Bay ADA Accessible?

Yes. There are ADA accessible eco-tents, cottages, parking spaces, bathrooms and restaurant access.

Discover Cinnamon Bay – St John’s Full‑Service Beach Paradise

Whether you’re planning a day trip or a multi‑night stay, Cinnamon Bay St John offers the best combination of beach, history, camping and water‑sports on the island. With its long sandy shoreline, convenient campground, plentiful amenities and vibrant marine life, it’s easy to see why Cinnamon Bay is one of the top beaches in the US Virgin Islands. Plan ahead, respect the natural surroundings and enjoy everything this unique St John beach has to offer.