MAHO BAY, St. John, US Virgin Islands — Driftwood rests on the sandy shore of Maho Bay, a picturesque beach on the north shore of St. John in the US Virgin Islands. The pristine white sand and clear turquoise waters exemplify the natural beauty of Caribbean beaches within the Virgin Islands National Park.


Photograph by David Coleman. Maho Bay, located on the north shore of St. John in the US Virgin Islands, is renowned for its stunning beauty and pristine natural environment. This crescent-shaped beach, part of the Virgin Islands National Park, stretches for about a quarter-mile and is characterized by its soft white sand and crystal-clear, turquoise waters. The presence of driftwood on the beach is a common sight, carried by ocean currents and deposited on the shore, adding to the natural, unspoiled aesthetic of the area. Maho Bay is not only a popular destination for beachgoers but also an important ecological site. The bay's calm waters make it an ideal habitat for sea grass beds, which in turn attract sea turtles and other marine life. Green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles are often spotted grazing in the shallow waters. The beach is fringed by sea grape trees and coconut palms, providing natural shade and contributing to the tropical ambiance. Maho Bay's location within the Virgin Islands National Park ensures its preservation and limits development, maintaining its natural state. The area offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling, particularly around the western end of the beach where coral formations are found. The bay is also a favorite spot for paddleboarding and kayaking due to its usually calm conditions. Maho Bay's accessibility and natural beauty make it a popular destination for both tourists and locals, exemplifying the Caribbean's allure and the importance of conservation efforts in preserving such pristine environments.


Size: 2849px × 4290px
Location: Maho Bay, St John, US Virgin Islands, United States of America
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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