Beaches
Snorkeling
Hawksnest Bay
The closest good reef to Cruz Bay: elkhorn coral heads sit a short swim from the sand, with parking directly beside the beach.
Ages
4–18+
Cost
Free
Duration
~3h
Difficulty
Easy
Setting
On the water
Hawksnest is the first national park beach on the north shore road and the easiest to reach, with parking essentially on the sand rather than down a trail. Three patches of elkhorn coral sit close inshore, near enough that a child who can swim thirty metres is over reef, and the bay is usually calm. It is smaller and narrower than Trunk Bay and has fewer facilities - restrooms and grills, no snorkel rental - but it is free where Trunk is ticketed, and far less affected by cruise ship days. Sea grape trees give reasonable shade along the back of the beach.
Pricing
Free
Common Questions
- How much does Hawksnest Bay cost?
- Hawksnest Bay is free to visit. Free
- What ages is Hawksnest Bay good for?
- Hawksnest Bay is best for kids ages 4 to 18+.
- Is Hawksnest Bay stroller friendly?
- No, Hawksnest Bay is not considered stroller friendly.
- Can I bring my dog to Hawksnest Bay?
- No, dogs are not allowed at Hawksnest Bay.
- How hard is Hawksnest Bay?
- The difficulty level is easy. Plan for about 3 hours.
- Is Hawksnest Bay free?
- Yes, Hawksnest Bay is free!
- What should I bring to Hawksnest Bay?
- Own mask and snorkel - there is no rental here - plus reef-safe sunscreen
- How long does Hawksnest Bay take?
- Most families spend about 3 hours at Hawksnest Bay.
- When is the best time to visit Hawksnest Bay?
- Morning, before the afternoon trade winds. Much quieter than Trunk Bay.