A path winds through the impressive remains of the Annaberg Plantation. The intricate stonework of the factory and distinctive tall windmill give a glimpse of what life might have been like on the plantation. The stunning views from the headlands provides a jarring backdrop for the troubling history of the enslaved men and women who lived and worked the plantation and factory.
One of the longest beaches in Virgin Islands National Park, Cinnamon Bay is the home of Cinnamon Bay Campground. (Reopening December 2021.) Other amenities will include breakfast, lunch and dinner and souvenirs, clothing, grab-and-go food items and other essentials will be available at the Cinnamon Bay Beach Shop. A watersports center will also be located on the beach.
Francis Bay is one of the quieter areas of the park and is a great place to view turtles, go for long swims, snorkel along the rock shoreline at the north end of the beach. A board walk provides access to some great birding opportunities along the salt pond located behind the beach. Visitors can also take the trail up to the remains of a "Great House" and the Francis Sugar Factory.
Maho Bay offers .3 miles of beach for your walking enjoyment, and several large seagrass areas perfect for viewing turtles. Amenities include pavilions to rent for your family party or wedding, as well as restrooms at the western end of the beach. There is a large parking area at the eastern end of the beach. Please respect closures and do not park on vegetation.
This popular trail descends through a shady, moist forest, passing through the remains of four sugar estates. Signs along the trail provide information about the natural and cultural history of the area including the names and traditional uses of the trees and plants. The trail ends at the impressive Reef Bay Sugar Estate with its old buildings and steam-powered machinery. A side trail at mile 1.6 leads to a waterfall and petroglyphs attributed to early Taino Indians.
Salt Pond is perfect for someone looking for a pleasant stroll to a beautiful beach. Just a half mile hike from the parking area to beach, has only a slight grade though the trail surface is uneven and rocky.
The purpose of Virgin Islands National Park is to preserve and protect for public benefit and inspiration outstanding scenic features, Caribbean tropical marine and terrestrial ecosystems in their natural conditions, and cultural heritage from pre-Columbian through Danish colonial times
