Caribbean Snap Shots: Maho Bay, St. John, USVI

Expansive white sands, crystal clear water and sheltered shallows make Maho Bay an easy pick for a day at the beach

 

You could spend a month going to a different beach every day on the island of St. John, as there are over 50 bays, coves and sandy stretches of coastline to choose from. But if you only have a day, and want to park your beach umbrella on a strand that offers easy access, calm water and great scenery, you need look no farther than Maho Bay. Located on the island’s north shore, and fully protected from easterly trade winds and swells by a protruding headland, Maho is a favorite with locals and visitors alike. Access is easy, as there is parking along North Shore Road, with the beach just steps away. As a result, you may want to arrive early on weekends to secure a prime spot. If your ambitions run beyond sunning and napping, you can don mask and snorkel to explore the coral reefs that fringe the outer edges of the bay, or glide over the sea grass in the center to discover grazing green turtles. Mornings and evenings are the best time for a sighting.