Situated on the eastern side of St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Coral Bay offers a serene escape from the busier Cruz Bay. This area is known for its tranquility, scenic views, and close proximity to nature.
Population and DemographicsCoral Bay is a small, close-knit community. The town has a more relaxed and less commercial atmosphere compared to Cruz Bay, making it an attractive spot for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of St. John without the hustle and bustle of more developed areas.
Comparison to Cruz BayWhile Cruz Bay is the main hub of activity on St. John with numerous shops, restaurants, and bars, Coral Bay offers a more serene environment. It is less developed, providing a quieter, more laid-back lifestyle. Visitors and residents often choose Coral Bay for its peaceful ambiance and natural surroundings.
Brief History: Coral Bay was once the commercial center of St. John, especially during the Danish colonial era. In the early 1700s, European settlers established sugar plantations, and remnants of these plantations can still be found in the area. The Emmaus Moravian Church, a historical landmark, stands as a testament to the town's rich past and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Local Traditions: Coral Bay hosts several community events throughout the year. One notable event is the "8 Tuff Miles" race, which starts in Cruz Bay and finishes at the Coral Bay ballfield, drawing participants from around the world. Local cultural practices often revolve around community gatherings, music, and maintaining the area's historical sites.
Types of Properties: Coral Bay offers a variety of real estate options, including single-family homes, condos, and undeveloped land. The properties range from luxurious villas with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea to more modest homes nestled in the lush hillsides.
Average Home Prices: The real estate market in Coral Bay can be quite dynamic. As of recent trends, prices for homes typically range from $500,000 to several million dollars, depending on the location and amenities. Waterfront properties and those with panoramic views tend to be on the higher end of the market.
Popular Neighborhoods: Within Coral Bay, areas like Carolina, Emmaus, and Bordeaux Mountain are particularly sought after. Each neighborhood offers its own unique charm, from hillside homes with expansive views to properties closer to the water.
Outdoor Activities
Coral Bay is known for its excellent hiking trails, such as the Salt Pond Bay Trail and the trail to Drunk Bay. These trails offer stunning views, access to secluded beaches, and opportunities to explore the unique flora and fauna of St. John. Some of the most beautiful beaches in Coral Bay include Salt Pond Beach and Hansen Bay. These beaches are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in a peaceful setting. Coral Bay's calm waters are ideal for water sports like snorkeling, kayaking, and sailing. Hurricane Hole is a popular spot for kayaking, offering a chance to explore the mangroves and see a variety of marine life.
Historical Sites
This historical site dates back to the 18th century and offers insight into the island's colonial past. The fort is accessible via a hiking trail and provides panoramic views of Coral Bay and the surrounding area. Coral Bay is home to several ruins and landmarks, including old sugar plantation structures and historical buildings like the Emmaus Moravian Church.
Local Attractions
The Salt Pond is a unique natural habitat where visitors can observe various bird species and other wildlife. The area is also known for its changing water colors, which vary from greenish-blue to bright orange depending on the season. Drunk Bay is famous for its coral rock formations, known as "jumbies." These formations are created by visitors who arrange coral and rocks into various shapes, adding a touch of local lore to the beach.
Restaurants
Known for its casual dining atmosphere, Skinny Legs offers burgers, sandwiches, and salads. It is a popular spot for its laid-back vibe and live music. This pizza and bar establishment features local beer on tap and live music. It is a great place to enjoy a relaxed evening with friends and family. Offering a mix of Caribbean and South Pacific cuisine, Rhumb Lines provides a unique dining experience in a tropical garden setting. Known for its diverse menu, Aqua Bistro is particularly famous for its Ponzu Tuna on Fridays. The restaurant offers a variety of bar fare and dinner entrees. This restaurant is celebrated for its Sunday Brunch and Full Moon Parties. It offers a mix of Caribbean and American dishes, set in a beautiful waterfront location. A deli that serves breakfast, lunch, and themed dinner nights. It also hosts open mic events, making it a lively spot for both locals and visitors. Popular among both locals and tourists, Shipwreck Landing serves American dishes with a Caribbean twist. The restaurant offers a relaxed dining atmosphere and stunning views of the bay.
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Coral Bay is affectionately known as the "Quiet Side" of St. John. While the lifestyle is undeniably serene, it comes with a unique set of logistical considerations that differ significantly from the more developed Cruz Bay. Here are the most common questions from prospective residents and curious travelers.
1. How long is the drive from Cruz Bay to Coral Bay?
The drive typically takes between 25 to 40 minutes depending on your route and pace. You can take Centerline Road (Route 10), which is the most direct path through the island's mountainous interior, or the more scenic North Shore Road, which takes longer but passes many of the island's most famous National Park beaches.
2. Is there a gas station in Coral Bay?
As of 2025, there is no operational gas station in Coral Bay. The former Domino station has been closed for several years. Residents and visitors must fuel up in Cruz Bay or at the Midway Gas Station located along Centerline Road before reaching the Coral Bay valley. It is a local "golden rule" to never let your tank drop below a quarter when heading to the eastern side of the island.
3. What are the nearest medical facilities?
For non-emergency and primary care, the Myrah Keating Smith Community Health Center is located about 15–20 minutes away on Centerline Road. For major emergencies, patients are often stabilized there and then transported via the "Star of Life" ambulance boat from Cruz Bay to the Roy Lester Schneider Hospital on St. Thomas.
4. How does trash and recycling work in Coral Bay?
There is no curbside trash pickup on St. John. Residents bring their household waste to community dumpster sites. In Coral Bay, the primary site is located near the intersection of Centerline Road and Route 107. For recycling, the Island Green Living Association provides bins for aluminum cans at most dumpster sites, helping to reduce the island's landfill footprint.
5. Are there any public schools in the Coral Bay area?
Currently, there are no active public schools located directly in Coral Bay. Most students attend Julius E. Sprauve School (K-8) in Cruz Bay. For high school, students typically commute to St. Thomas. Alternatively, many residents opt for the Gifft Hill School, a private, independent school located mid-island that serves students from preschool through 12th grade.
6. Where do locals shop for groceries?
While Coral Bay doesn't have a massive supermarket, it has excellent local options. Dolphin Market and Love City Market offer a surprisingly wide range of essentials, fresh produce, and meats. For a "big shop," residents typically head to Starfish Market or Town & Country Market in Cruz Bay.
7. What is the internet and cell service like?
Connectivity has improved significantly, but "dead zones" still exist due to the mountainous terrain. Viya and Liberty are the primary cell providers. For home internet, Viya offers cable/fiber in many parts of the valley, while many residents have successfully switched to Starlink, which provides high-speed satellite service that isn't dependent on island-based lines.
8. How do property taxes work for residents?
Property taxes in the USVI are remarkably low compared to the U.S. mainland. Residential property is typically taxed at a rate of 0.00377% of the market value.
Example: A home valued at $800,000 would see annual property taxes of approximately $3,016.
Note: Specific exemptions are available for full-time residents, seniors, and veterans.
9. What are the "Two Ways Out" of Coral Bay?
Living in a valley means being aware of your surroundings. The two primary exits are Centerline Road (heading west toward Cruz Bay) and Route 107 (heading south toward Lameshur). In the event of heavy tropical rain or road blockages (often caused by fallen trees or boulders), having a 4x4 vehicle is not just a luxury—it is a safety necessity for navigating steep, unpaved residential driveways.
10. Does Coral Bay have its own water and power supply?
Coral Bay relies on the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (WAPA) for electricity, which is delivered via underwater cables from St. Thomas. However, like most of St. John, there is no municipal water system. Homes utilize cisterns to collect rainwater from rooftops. Residents must monitor their water levels closely, especially during the dry season (January–May).
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