USVI-On-Line

Gibney, Hawksnest, Maho..
How are they as far as calmness, undertow, etc..? Any other great ones that you don't have to worry much about undertow, etc?

bnsilly wrote:Gibney, Hawksnest, Maho..
How are they as far as calmness, undertow, etc..? Any other great ones that you don't have to worry much about undertow, etc?

While I have not had the pleasure of Gibney yet I can tell you that We have been at Hawksnest and Maho (and Trunk, Honeymoon) during a north swell. While we experienced about a 2' surf we felt safe in the water at all North shore beaches. You must however remember that whenever surf is putting a lot of water on the beach, it has to run back out and there is a danger of undertow. Also know that all North Shore beaches are a gentle slope and do not have the components that usually accompany a strong undertow.

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As a general rule the calmest beaches are Frances, Maho, Vie's Beach and Salt Pond (though it's a hike to get to Salt Pond). Northern swells generally affect Hawksnest, Gibney, Jumbie, Truck and Cinnamon. The only time you'll find an undertow is during northern swells.

All the beaches are cleaner then any thing you would see in the states I've been in some 4ft waves at trunk and never felt much of an under tow

Ok thanks guys...just wasn't familiar with the beaches..Maho and Hawksnest sound great..Usually go to Trunk or Cinnamon..Thanks again!

I did it AGAIN!! I don't know what's with the habitual typo thing with Trunk Bay. Another senior moment?? Let's blame it on senior fingers !!

If there are no swells, Hawksnest is one of the nicest beaches you'll find. Easy access, gorgeous to look at and some pretty nice snorkeling. We haven't been to Gibney. There's not much space for parking if you don't get there early. Maho is nice and calm, but I suggest you go a little further to Francis Bay if you're out that way. It's a longer stretch of beach, and you'll get a little more privacy.

bnsilly wrote:Gibney, Hawksnest, Maho..
How are they as far as calmness, undertow, etc..? Any other great ones that you don't have to worry much about undertow, etc?

I love all of these beaches you mentioned. Gibney can be private because you pretty much have to swim to it unless you're lucky enough to get one of the few parking spots at the top. It does have a gut that can produce runoff so if it's rained hard lately, the water isn't usually as clear. But any other time, the water is crystal clear and there are a few pockets in the volcanic rock at the beginning of the beach that are cool to hide out in and just take in your surroundings. There's a lot of cool island history about Gibney. I'M me for details.

Hawksnest can be somewhat crowded sometimes but nothing like Trunk. It's well worth it because there is great snorkleing there just off the beach. Again, beautiful water and sand. The parking lot sits right by the beach so there's virtually zero walking involved.

Maho might be my favorite and is often the least crowded. The water might be just a hair less clear but still clear nonetheless. Lots of wildlife. Little sharks, turtles, conch, beautiful fish, etc. This place is in very serious danger of being developed. You need to read about the danger and contact the Trust for Public Land or the Virgin Islands National Park to see what you can do if you end up falling in love with it like I did.

Hope this helps.

Russ