The island is surrounded by gorgeous white-sand beaches, including Trunk Bay , one of the loveliest in the Caribbean. Just off the beach is an underwater snorkeling trail, but much of the coral has been killed by careless swimmers and rambunctious waves. Lockers, showers and a snack bar are provided. For a more serene experience, head for Cinnamon Bay Campground on the northern shore of the national park. Few visitors are aware of the westernmost beach in the campground, which means you ll have the postcard-perfect white sands mostly to yourself.
Good snorkeling is to be had farther west near the point and off the cay near the campground.
The campground has air-temperature showers, a restaurant and a commissary. The closest beach to Cruz Bay is Hawksnest Beach . It isn t as crowded as Trunk Bay, but it isn t as pictu resque either. On the south side of the national park are Lameshur Beach and Salt Pond Beach , near the village of Coral Bay. You can walk out to the coral reef from most beaches and see tiny, brightly colored fish everywhere.