Limetree Cove Beach
Limetree Cove is one of the little known beaches on St John. Difficult to reach because the land surrounding this tiny bay is private and posted. While you can certainly kayak or snorkel … you might also consider staying at East of Eden Villa and Rebecca’s Fancy It’s located just steps from the beach …
Getting There:
Located on St John’s remote East End, Limetree Cove is just one bay west of Hansen Bay ( “Vie’s Beach” CLOSED). From Cruz Bay – take Rte 20 ( North Shore Road) or Centerline towards Coral Bay. Continue on through Coral Bay, past the Moravian Church, Donkey Diner and Skinny Legs. You’ll drive a winding and sometimes hilly road out to the East End. After you descend a steep hill you’ll see signs that you are leaving the VI National Park. To your right is Haulover South a popular snorkeling spot. You can park here and snorkel or kayak/SUP around the point to Limetree Cove or continue on towards Hansen Bay. When you crest the hill Limetree Cove will be on your right and below you. Continue on and you’ll come upon a large Tamarind tree that splits the center of the road . Up and over the next small hill is Hansen Bay Beach with parking, paddle board & kayak rentals. You can snorkel from Hansen Bay to Limetree – but it’s a reasonably long snorkel.
NOTE: There is a small Cottage behind this beach. While beaches are public in the US Virgin Islands, you should practice respect for anybody that’s “sharing” the beach ; )
Limetree Cove Beach
This tiny crescent of sand and pebble beach is an oasis. Difficult to get to – it affords a certain amount of privacy to the guests and owners of the cottage behind the beach. But for those few that emerge from the water to sun themselves at Limetree – it will feel like they have St John all to themselves! The beach gets great early morning and afternoon sun but slips into shadows as the late afternoon sun dips. The mostly sandy bottom makes it a great spot to swim. And the proximity to decent snorkeling make it a wonderful spot to view corals and fish.
Snorkeling
The reef between Limetree Cove and Hansen Bay Beach is a great snorkel. Structure, corals and fish increase as you head east toward Hansen Bay ( “Vie’s Beach”). Most of the best snorkeling is at the point that marks the western side of Hansen Bay Beach. you’ll see the very tip of a rocky outcropping break the surface about 20 yards off the shoreline.
Where To Stay
Looking for a St John beachfront vacation rental? There are two villa rentals on Lime Tree & Hansen Bay.
East of Eden Villa. Located on the small point that divides Lime Tree Cove from Hansen Bay. This beautiful 3 bedroom, 3 bath with pool has access to a couple of beaches!
Walk to beach from Rebecca’s Fancy Cottage located on the opposite side of the road that runs along Hansen Bay!
