Swimming

Most of the beaches in Virgin Islands National Park offer the quintessential Virgin Islands view: beautiful white sand and water so turquoise and clear you think you're on a movie set. Opinions differ on what beach is "best" for swimming, for kids, or for lazing around, but here's a secret: the water is stunning at each, the waves typically gentle, and with water temperatures between 79 and 83 degrees year-round, it's always a good time for a swim. Trunk Bay, the only pay beach in the park and the only beach with a lifeguard on duty, is popular for its wide, sandy beach and superb water, though it can get crowded. Hawksnest Bay, has a narrow beach, especially at high tide, but is more secluded and therefore less visited and less crowded. Jumbie Beach is small and has a reputation for rough water, keeping many visitors away, but when the water is calm this is a good choice if you want to feel like you have the beach to yourself. Cinnamon Bay is wide, perfectly swimmable, and has amenities for visitors that include a snack bar and restaurant, shops, equipment rentals, and a campground. Maho Bay is amenity-free but has two things going for it: the calm bay is a favorite for families with kids, and the waters here are frequented by sea turtles. Caneel Bay, near the Caneel Bay Resort, is another beautiful spot, although you'll need to be a resort guest to use any of the amenities here. One last thing to address: bathing suits. Contrary to popular belief and wishful thinking, there is no official nude or clothing-optional beach in Virgin Islands National Park. There are secluded spots where the daring may go bare, but if a ranger finds you wearing nothing but a smile and lots of strategically applied sunblock, you're getting a ticket at the "bare" minimum.