Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in , St John!

Virgin Islands National Park

Why Visit?

Unveiling the Charm of Virgin Islands National Park: A Wheelchair-Friendly Itinerary

Welcome to the tropical paradise of Virgin Islands National Park, a haven of accessibility set amidst the shimmering Caribbean Sea. This wheelchair-friendly tour ensures everyone can soak in the island’s splendor.

### Arrival in Paradise

Your journey begins by flying into Cyril E. King Airport on St. Thomas. From here, accessible taxi services or rental vans can whisk you away to Red Hook ferry terminal for a scenic, wheelchair-accessible ferry ride to Cruz Bay, St. John—your gateway to the National Park.

### Day 1: Discover Cruz Bay

Start your adventure at the Cruz Bay Visitor Center, where accessible parking and facilities set the tone for a comfortable visit. Engage with interactive exhibits and pick up a free map showing wheelchair-accessible trails and facilities. Dive into history on the nearby, flat and paved, 0.5-mile-long Cruz Bay Battery Trail, offering breathtaking views and historic ruins.

### Day 2: Majestic Trunk Bay

Head to Trunk Bay, one of the world"s top beaches, noted for its underwater snorkeling trail. The beach is equipped with a boardwalk and accessible paths, ensuring everyone can appreciate the white sands and turquoise waters. Beach wheelcharts are available, enabling an immersive experience by the sea.

### Day 3: Cinnamon Bay Plantation

Explore the ruins of Cinnamon Bay Plantation via a paved, accessible path. Learn about the island"s colonial past and sugar production, all framed by lush scenery. Nearby, Cinnamon Bay Beach offers another fantastic spot with accessible amenities to relax and enjoy the serene environment.

### Leisure and Departure

Spend your final moments relishing the laid-back island vibes of Cruz Bay, with its accessible shops and eateries, before your return ferry and flight home.

Each step of this itinerary brings the vibrant ecology and history of the Virgin Islands within reach, promising a memorable and inclusive experience in this Caribbean jewel.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Coral World Ocean Park

Why Visit?

Discover the Wonders of Coral World Ocean Park - A Wheelchair-Friendly Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable journey into the aquatic marvels at Coral World Ocean Park, perfectly tailored for visitors on wheelchairs and mobile scooters. Nestled beside the scenic Coki Point, this marine park offers an accessible escape into the wonders of the underwater world.

Getting There

Coral World Ocean Park is situated on St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. The park is accessible by taxi or a rented accessible van from Cyril E. King Airport, approximately a 30-minute drive. There"s ample accessible parking, and the entrance paths are smooth, ensuring easy mobility for all visitors.

Tour Itinerary

9:00 AM - Arrival and Ocean Tower

Begin your tour by exploring the Ocean Tower. Wheelchair ramps ensure smooth access to this unique observatory, offering panoramic views of the surrounding marine landscapes.

10:00 AM - Marine Gardens

Navigate through 21 jewel tanks in the Marine Gardens. Each tank showcases a different aspect of marine life, from delicate seahorses to vibrant coral reefs, all visible from accessible viewing points.

11:30 AM - Turtle Pool and Stingray Lagoon

Continue to the Turtle Pool where you can observe juvenile sea turtles. Nearby, the Stingray Lagoon offers a tactile encounter with friendly rays, viewable from a specially designed low-standing pool edge that’s easily reachable.

1:00 PM - Lunch at Shark Bar

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the Shark Bar. The restaurant is equipped with accessible tables and offers picturesque views of the park’s centerpiece shark tank.

2:00 PM - Undersea Observatory Tower

Conclude your visit at the Undersea Observatory Tower. The lower levels of this facility are accessible, providing a close-up view of the vibrant coral reef and its inhabitants through large, clear windows.

3:00 PM - Departure

Interesting Fact

Did you know that Coral World is the first ocean park where a Caribbean reef shark was born in captivity, highlighting their commitment to marine conservation?

Explore Coral World Ocean Park comfortably and conveniently, where the beauty of the ocean is accessible to everyone.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Magens Bay

Why Visit?

Embark on a serene and accessible day at Magens Bay, St. Thomas, renowned for its breathtaking beauty and wheelchair-friendly amenities. Start your journey with a smooth ride from Charlotte Amalie or Red Hook via accessible taxis equipped with ramps. These taxis are readily available and the drivers are often knowledgeable about the area, providing a comfortable and informative drive.

Upon arriving at Magens Bay, known for its heart-shaped shoreline and calm, turquoise waters, you"ll find designated accessible parking spots close to the beach entrance. A nominal entrance fee is charged, which goes towards the preservation of this natural paradise.

The beach features a boardwalk that allows easy access to the water, making it convenient for wheelchair users and those on mobility scooters to enjoy the scenery without the hindrance of sand. The beach is equipped with floating wheelchairs, free of charge, enabling everyone to experience the gentle waves firsthand. Staff are typically on hand to assist with the floating wheelchairs, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Take a leisurely stroll along the paved paths of the adjacent arboretum, where you can admire a diverse collection of tropical plants and birds. The paths are well-maintained and provide a peaceful nature experience that’s fully accessible.

For lunch, visit the nearby accessible café which offers stunning views of the bay and a variety of local and international cuisine. The café has ample accessible seating and staff who are ready to assist in any way needed.

End your visit with a relaxing moment under one of the thatched-roof shelters available throughout the beach, perfect for enjoying the sunset and reflecting on a day well-spent in one of the Caribbean"s most picturesque and accommodating locations.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Whistling Cay

Why Visit?

Whistling Cay: A Wheelchair-Friendly Tour

Morning: Arrival at Cruz Bay, St. John

Begin your adventure at Cruz Bay on the island of St. John, where you can easily rent a wheelchair-accessible boat equipped with a lift. These boats are specially designed to provide stability and comfort for all travelers. Depart early to enjoy the calm morning seas, cruising towards the picturesque Whistling Cay, a small, uninhabited island known for its vibrant marine life and historical ruins.

Boat Tour Around Whistling Cay

As you circle Whistling Cay, your guide will share fascinating stories about the island’s history, including its use as a customs station in the 18th century to control smuggling. The ruins of the old customs house, visible from your boat, make for a dramatic sight against the backdrop of azure waters. The boat’s special viewing glass allows everyone on board, regardless of mobility, to peer into the clear waters and observe the colorful reefs and marine life.

Snorkeling Experience

For those interested in snorkeling, the boat provides accessible snorkeling gear and assistance, enabling everyone to explore the underwater world. Whistling Cay is famous for its shallow reefs, making it an ideal spot for beginners or those who prefer staying close to the surface.

Lunch on Board

Enjoy a delicious, locally sourced lunch aboard the boat. Indulge in fresh fruits, seafood, and other Caribbean delicacies prepared with your dietary needs in mind. Relax on the deck, sunbathe, or continue watching the bustling aquatic life below.

Afternoon: Return to Cruz Bay

As the day winds down, your boat will glide back to Cruz Bay. The return trip offers a perfect time to reflect on the day’s sights and sounds. Back on St. John, explore the accessible paths leading to charming shops and cafes where you can sample more local flavors before concluding your day of adventure.

This tailored tour promises a safe, engaging, and comprehensive experience of Whistling Cay, ensuring that the beauty of the Virgin Islands is accessible to all.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Hawksnest Bay

Why Visit?

Explore Hawksnest Bay: A Wheelchair-Friendly Adventure

Hawksnest Bay, renowned for its serene beauty and clear waters, offers a refreshing escape suitable for all, including those on wheelchairs or scooters. Here’s a detailed itinerary for a seamless and enjoyable visit.

Morning: Arrival and Exploration

Start your day early and head to Hawksnest Bay on St. John, US Virgin Islands. Accessible parking is available near the beach, providing an easy path for those in wheelchairs and scooters. The beach itself is known for its shorter distance from the parking area to the water, making it one of the more accessible beaches in the area.

Once there, you can relax on the beach"s wheelchair-friendly areas or use one of the available beach wheelchairs to get closer to the water. The calm, turquoise waters are perfect for a refreshing dip.

Afternoon: Picnic and Nature Watching

Enjoy a leisurely picnic at one of the accessible picnic areas under the shade of sea grape trees. The area is known for its lush greenery and local wildlife, so keep an eye out for tropical birds and the occasional iguana basking in the sun.

Late Afternoon: Snorkeling

For those who wish to try snorkeling, the left side of Hawksnest Bay offers gentler slopes and accessible entry points into the water. Equipment rental shops nearby provide snorkeling gear and assistance for a comfortable experience.

Interesting Facts

- Hawksnest Bay is less commercialized than other beaches, offering a peaceful nature immersive experience.

- The bay features several historical ruins that date back to the era of Danish colonization, visible from certain vantage points.

Accessibility

Wheelchair-accessible restrooms and paved paths make this bay a convenient choice for all visitors. The clear signage and helpful local guides ensure a safe and enjoyable visit for everyone.

Wrap up your day by watching a stunning sunset from the beach, a perfect end to a relaxing day at Hawksnest Bay.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.