Visiting Honeymoon Beach with Kids on St. John – Hiking, Snorkeling, and Family Tips

Honeymoon Beach with kids on St. John is a great family-friendly option as the beach is known for its soft white sand, calm clear water, and convenient access to rentals, food, and restrooms. Located inside Virgin Islands National Park, this beach is great for swimming, beginner-level snorkeling, and relaxing in the shade. With shallow waters and a natural reef just offshore, it’s a safe and fun destination for parents traveling with children.

For additional information and context for your trip, it might also help to check out our ranked family travel lists for St. Thomas and St. John:

honeymoon-beach st thomas

Why Honeymoon Beach with Kids is a Family Favorite

  • Calm, shallow waters ideal for young kids
  • Soft sand for easy barefoot walking and sand play
  • Shade from palm trees along the shore
  • Snorkeling spots that are accessible even for beginners
  • Available food, drinks, and beach gear for rent
  • Restrooms and showers nearby
  • Boat-free swimming areas for safety

How to Get to Honeymoon Beach

Honeymoon Beach is somewhat secluded, with limited access by land. Most families choose one of three main entry points:

1. Hike via Lind Point Trail

Start behind the Virgin Islands National Park Visitor Center in Cruz Bay. Parking is limited, so arrive early. Follow signs to the Lower Lind Point Trail. This path leads to Salomon Beach first, then continues to Honeymoon Beach. The hike takes about 20–30 minutes and is about 1 mile long each way.

This hike is manageable for older kids and active parents. Bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. Along the way, you’ll pass scenic overlooks, native plants, and wildlife—adding to the adventure.

2. Caneel Spur Trail

Park off North Shore Road about half a mile past Mongoose Junction. Look for the National Park sign just before a speed bump. From the parking area, walk back out to the main road and follow the trail down toward the beach. This trail is shorter than Lind Point and may be easier for families with younger children.

3. Shuttle Service from Caneel Bay (old resort entrance)

For families looking to avoid hiking, a paid shuttle service ($12 round-trip) is available from the Caneel Bay entrance. There is ample parking available. This option is easiest for families with small kids or strollers.

Note: The former Caneel Bay Resort remains closed and does not offer direct beach access through the property.


Snorkeling at Honeymoon Beach with Kids – What Families Should Know

Snorkeling at Honeymoon Beach is easy and safe for kids, especially along the reef area between Honeymoon and Salomon Beach. This patch reef is in shallow water, making it ideal for beginner snorkelers.

Family Snorkeling Tips:

  • Stick to the west side of the beach where the reef is most vibrant
  • Use swim vests or float belts for young kids and beginners
  • Stay close to shore and avoid venturing out into open boat traffic
  • Bring your own gear or rent on-site (masks, snorkels, fins, and float mats are available)
  • Teach kids basic snorkeling safety: don’t stand on coral, stay calm, and watch for boats

While sea life here isn’t as dense as in some other parts of St. John, families often see colorful fish, coral, and occasionally turtles or rays.

Or maybe dolphins! Check out the video below!


Facilities and Rentals

Honeymoon Beach is more developed than other nearby beaches. Families will find:

  • Food and drinks: Snacks, cold beverages, and casual meals available at the Caneel Bay Beach Club
  • Beach gear rentals: Chairs, umbrellas, paddleboards, kayaks, snorkel gear, float mats
  • Restrooms and showers: Located near the rental area
  • Shaded picnic spots: Great for lunch breaks and keeping kids cool
  • Water sports options: For older kids and teens, paddleboards and kayaks are fun additions

Pricing for rentals varies but typically ranges between $5–$20 depending on the item and duration.


Important Tips for Families Visiting Honeymoon Beach with Kids

  • Arrive early: Especially if hiking in, mornings offer cooler temps and less crowding
  • Pack essentials: Sunscreen, water, snacks, towels, hats, and beach toys
  • Watch for boat traffic: This is a popular bay for charter boats; swimming is safest in roped-off areas
  • Bring baby carriers: For families with toddlers or infants hiking in, a carrier is better than a stroller
  • Plan for the return: The hike back can be tiring in the heat, so plan to leave before late afternoon

Final Thoughts

Honeymoon Beach on St. John is a hidden gem that balances beauty, comfort, and adventure for families. With clear, shallow waters, convenient rentals, and scenic access hikes, it’s one of the most rewarding beaches to explore with kids. Whether parents are looking for a safe swim spot or a gentle introduction to snorkeling, Honeymoon Beach is a solid choice for a full beach day.


Planning your USVI family trip to St. Thomas or St. John? These guides can help you make the most of your time on the islands:

For additional information and context for your trip, it might also help to check out our ranked family travel lists for St. Thomas and St. John:

For more general travel info, visit the Wikivoyage page on St. Thomas. Here is the info on St. John.

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