Europa Bay Trail
Reached via the Lameshur Bay Trail or Bordeaux Mountain Trail, this remote out‑and‑back heads inland before dropping to a rocky bay. The path passes through open woodland with occasional glimpses of the southern coastline and is a great spot for bird watching.
Highlights
Remote and rocky coastline with powerful surf
Glimpses of the south shore through wooded interior
Good bird‑watching near the salt pond
Optional spur leading to a ridge with views of Europa and Lameshur Bays
Trail statistics
Distance | 2.2 miles out and back (from spur on Lameshur Bay Trail) |
Elevation change | ~300 ft gain |
Difficulty | Moderate |
Trail type | Out and Back |
Estimated time | 1–1.5 hours |
Parking | Lameshur Bay parking area |
Description
Hidden on the island’s south‑central coast, the Europa Bay Trail offers a quiet escape for hikers seeking solitude. At roughly 2.2 miles round trip it isn’t long, but its undulating terrain and sparse shade warrant a moderate rating. The route begins from the Lameshur Bay Trail approximately 1.2 miles from Lameshur Bay; a spur leads south through open woodland dotted with gumbo‑limbo and bay rum trees. Occasional clearings provide glimpses of the Caribbean and of Ram Head in the distance. After about a mile the trail descends toward a small, rocky bay exposed to trade winds. Because of the constant breeze, birds such as frigatebirds and ospreys are often seen soaring overhead. Swimming here is not recommended; the shoreline is steep and the waves can be rough. However, beachcombing and bird watching are rewarding, and the isolation makes it feel far from the island’s more popular beaches. Take care on the return climb, as the midday sun can be intense. The Europa Bay Trail can also be approached from the top of the Bordeaux Mountain Trail; either way, hikers should carry plenty of water and allow two to three hours for the round trip.
Distance & Difficulty
2.2 mi out-and-back
Moderate
Trail Map & Gallery
