The hike to Isaac’s Bay and Jack’s Bay is one of St. Croix’s most scenic coastal walks, following well-defined trails through the protected landscapes of the East End Marine Park. Beginning near Point Udall, the trail winds through dry coastal scrubland with sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea before reaching a series of secluded beaches along the island’s southeastern shoreline.
The first beach you’ll encounter is East End Bay, followed by the beautiful white sands of Isaac’s Bay. A short side trail then leads to the more secluded Jack’s Bay, a quiet cove popular for swimming, snorkeling, and simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Along the way you’ll pass native coastal vegetation, cacti, sea grape trees, and may spot deer, iguanas, hermit crabs, shorebirds, and butterflies.
Isaac’s Bay is one of the island’s primary nesting beaches for endangered leatherback sea turtles, while the surrounding East End Marine Park protects coral reefs, seagrass beds, mangroves, and important coastal habitats. Visitors during nesting season (generally March through August) should follow all posted guidelines and avoid disturbing nesting turtles or marked nests.

DETAILS
Distance: Approximately 2 to 3 miles (3.2-4.8 km) round trip, depending on which beaches you visit
Approximate Time: 20 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes round trip, depending on whether you visit East End Bay only, continue to Isaac’s Bay, or include Jack’s Bay
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Trail Type: Out and back
Highest Elevation: Minimal elevation changes (approximately 150 feet)

TRAILHEAD
The trail begins from a small roadside parking area along East End Road (Route 82), approximately 0.2 miles before Point Udall. Informational signs mark the trailhead, which immediately descends toward the shoreline. Parking is limited, particularly on weekends. As with anywhere on St. Croix, do not leave valuables visible inside your vehicle.

HIKE INFORMATION
The trail is well-defined and easy to follow, consisting of dirt paths, small rocks, and sections of sandy terrain. Vegetation is generally low coastal scrub, so there is very little shade along the route. During the late afternoon, the first portion of the trail receives some shade, but hikers should otherwise expect full sun throughout most of the walk.
About ten minutes from the trailhead you’ll arrive at East End Bay. Turn right (west) and follow the shoreline trail to Isaac Bay, one of St. Croix’s most beautiful and unspoiled beaches. Continue to the western end of Isaac’s Bay to find a short spur trail leading to Jack’s Bay, another secluded beach tucked behind the rocky headland.
Although the terrain is not difficult, the combination of sun exposure and uneven footing makes sturdy walking shoes a good idea. The beaches offer excellent opportunities for swimming and snorkeling when sea conditions are calm, but there are no lifeguards or facilities.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

• Wear sturdy walking or hiking shoes, as the trail includes loose rocks and uneven terrain.
• Bring plenty of water. There is very little shade along the trail, and temperatures can become quite hot.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat are strongly recommended.
• Bring swimwear and snorkeling gear if you plan to enjoy the beaches.
• There are no restroom facilities, drinking water, or other amenities at the trailhead or beaches.
• Stay on the marked trail to help protect the fragile coastal ecosystem.
• During sea turtle nesting season, obey all posted signs and avoid disturbing marked nests or wildlife.
• Avoid leaving valuables visible inside your vehicle.