Trunk Bay

About .9 of a mile past Little Hawksnest is the famous Trunk Bay which is shown on many of the postcards sold in the local stores. Facilities include a fascinating underwater snorkeling trail complete with explanatory plaques, maintained by the National Park Service. There is also a bathhouse, showers, snack bar, and gift shop. Snorkel gear rentals are available, and lifeguards are usually on duty. Advanced swimmers will enjoy snorkeling off the rocks at either end of the beach.

A special feature of this beach is that they have "snuba diving" which allows one to experience the underwater beauty of the beautiful coral reefs of this beach without any heavy and restrictive dive gear. Along with regular snorkeling gear, you have an air source that is contained within a flotation raft that follows your every move while touring underwater. All tours are personally guided and there is no diving or snorkeling experience necessary. The Snuba Diving Tour cost $45 and is conducted hourly, six days a week. Call 693-8063 or stop at the Trunk Bay Gift Shop for further details.

Since this is one of the beaches to which the safari buses take sizable groups of cruise ships visitors, it can be fairly crowded during the day. The best time to visit this beach is in the early morning, or during the late afternoon when it is not so crowded.