best snorkeling beaches st johnbest snorkeling beaches st john

If you take a right, you will reach the Annaberg Sugar Mill Ruins and the entrance to the trailhead for Waterlemon Cay. and an entrance fee. Snorkelers can encounter intricate coral formations and lots of marine life, with different varieties arriving at different times of the day. From the beach, you can see huge rock structures in the middle of the bay. If you are still in the planning phase and want to know what are the best places to stay near some of these top snorkeling spots, do not miss my article below! The name Haulover came about because it was often easier to just haul small boats over this stretch of land than to make the long sail around East End, notorious for strong currents, gusty winds, and rough seas. The coral reef here is in relatively good condition, and the reef community is colorful and diverse. St John has no airport. Caneel Bay beach Shallow entry, calm waters and plenty to see close to shore. Youre likely to have this Caribbean paradise all to yourself as you snorkel and explore the crystal clear waters. Getting to this remote beach requires a 20-minute walk (one way) along a flat, scenic trail. This beautiful bay was featured in the movie Big Blue. From hidden coves to must-see reefs, these are the best snorkeling spots in St. John. Maho Bay Quarter, St John's best beach. We saw a lot of beautiful coral and sea fans, shoal of squid, two nurse sharks, and many beautiful tropical fish. Best for: Swimming, snorkeling, and beach parties. Snorkeling out along the east side of the bay, you can reach the coral reefs that lie just north of Blue Cobblestone Beach. Easy access, shallow water, shade and a good chance youll see turtles, rays and lots of fish! Salt Pond, located on the south eastern side of the island, is our next choice for snorkeling on St John. Healthy elkhorn coral is found at most of USVI's reefs. Thomas certainly has good beaches for it, like Coki Point Beach, but we think the best are in St. John (probably because it's more secluded and less built-up). Private charters are a great way to see numerous islands and snorkel in diverse places in a single day. .5 mi EW, or take a taxi to Caneel and ride the Honeymoon Beach Huts golf cart to Honeymoon Beach. The water is shallow at first, and the bottom is made up of small rocks and coral rubble. A good family beach for snorkeling exists at Coki Point Beach on St. Thomas, while a more demanding site, requiring a 45min boat trip, can be located off the Cow and Calf Rocks. Some, like Francis, are best if you swim . It is located off of East End Road just past Haulover Bay on the right. The best snorkeling is along the beachs rocky coastline on the right side and on the left near the docks. Fringed by coconut palms, full of gentle waves, easy to find, and full of coral reefs and other sea life, Maho is famous for a reason! The liveliest underwater activity happens to the east among the rocks on the way to Maho Point. Caneel Bay beach The currents can be strong. Posts: 957 Likes: 0 A living aquarium waits just offshore, where vibrant coral reef swirls with a vivid palette of blue tang, damselfish, and sergeant majors. Honeymoon Beach (located next to Salomon Beach) is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches in Virgin Islands National Park on St. John. Join Date: Oct 2004. It's on the smaller side and is found near Trunk Bay Beach, which takes most of the tourists away from it. The name says it all out of the way; but has a small water sports shack! Drive past the parking lot for Salt Pond Bay Beach and take your second left. We saw large schools of fish, beautiful hard and soft coral, and numerous colorful waving sea fans. I would not attempt this road after a lot of rain. We snorkeled along the rocks on the right side of the beach as you face the water. Snorkeling in the center of the bay can also be a worthwhile experience. This is the closest entry point to get to Waterlemon Cay, which is the route we chose. 6) Trunk Bay - This is the most snorkeled beach on St. John for good reason - its shallow, underwater snorkel trail means it's an excellent option for all ages and experience levels. There were plenty of beautiful tropical fish including some adorable balloonfish (aka pufferfish or porcupine fish) with their wide-spread big eyes and half-smiling mouths. French Angelfish at Waterlemon Cay, St John USVI, Nurse shark at Waterlemon Cay in St John USVI, French grunt at Waterlemon Cay, St John USVI, Squid family at Waterlemon Cay, St John USVI. The southern side of Haulover Bay, St John, lies just off the side of Route 10. Trunk Bay Beach is popular for its clear waters, soft white sand, and views that make it one of the most beautiful beaches in St John. Parking spots fill up quickly, so get there early! This bay, an inner bay of Great Lameshur,lies just to the north of Beehive Cove, the bay where the Tektiteproject took place. Snorkeling in Hurricane Hole is a MUST do on any trip to St. John. It has the best of both worlds when it comes to snorkeling with sandy shores and gorgeous natural reefs. The elkhorn coral barrier reef surrounds two-thirds of the island, creating a rich marine ecosystem home to many threatened and endangered plant and animal species. The beach is rocky and there are often spiny sea urchins lurking in the shallow water at the shore, so step carefully. We've selected eight of the best snorkeling sites and have included some tips to help you plan your snorkeling adventure. Little Lameshur Bay. There is a little bit of a pebbly transition right at the shoreline. She is passionate about outdoor activities and enjoys writing pieces that inspire others to get outside. Discover hand-curated maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you. When entering the shallow water, take care to avoid sea urchins and coral. The small beach is less than 5 minutes away from Red Hook and is easily reached by car or taxi. Activity itinerary. The western part of Waterlemon Cay is where we saw the two nurse sharks relaxing at the bottom of the reef. With its secluded location, Brown Bay is considered the hidden gem of St. John. Find the part where the sandy bottom meets the shore to allow for easier entry. Snorkeling the waters of St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands, is one of the most rewarding and exciting things to do on St. John. This is a long-ish section due to big changes this year. Salt Pond/Drunk Bay. The highlight was seeing a lemon shark. Every list of the Best St John Beaches includes the beautiful North Shore beaches! The snorkeling, however, is dramatic, with ledges, walls, and nooks to explore. These small silvery fish travel in close proximity to one another in large schools that look like moving underwater shadows. Respect other snorkelers personal space. On the Beehive Cove side of the point, the water gets deeper. Honeymoon Beach is home to some of the last remaining leaning palms the island as once famous for prior to Hurricane Maria in 2017 along with crystal blue waters, white sands, along with a snack shack ( Located on the East End of St. Thomas, Secret Harbor Beach Resort offers prime snorkeling conditions right off of the hotel beach. In the underwater grasslands just seaward of the reef, snorkelers are likely to come upon large green sea turtles, often accompanied by stuck-on remora or bar jacks that follow along just inches above the turtles back. Once you arrive, proceed to the entrance and pay the nominal $5 fee per person. All rights reserved. But the trip is well worth it. . Here youll find thin patch reefs that are home to a good selection of hard and soft corals and a dizzying collection of tropical fish species. Virgin Islands National Park snorkeling trail and a lifeguards. The worst is when a snorkelers fins hit you in the face because of their lack of awareness of what is around them. Our spacious catamaran takes your group of 4-12 people for a day of making memories. You can relax in a hammock on the white sand beach and snorkel close to shore or rent kayaks and stand up paddleboards and paddle to nearby Caneel Bay Beach, Henley Cay, or Hawksnest Beach. If youre new to snorkeling, visiting an area prone to stronger currents, or snorkeling at a more remote site, wearing a snorkel vest will make your outing safer and more comfortable. For a full appreciation of this area, one should also have the ability to free dive in order to investigate the environments under ledges, beneath coral heads, and within caves and tunnels. There are some beautiful tropical fish and coral outcroppings; however, I would not consider this a top snorkeling spot. Lovango Resort & Beach Club: This newly opened. Coki Beach is one of the most popular snorkeling spots in St. Thomas. Look under ledges and in holes to see lobsters, eels, and small fish seeking protection in their little hiding places. The rugged dirt road out to Lameshur will remind you of why you rented a jeep in the first place, but the beach is well worth it wide and sandy with plenty of shade. Along the shoreline that connects to Caneel Bay you'll find huge schools of Sergeant Major Damsels, wrasse, French Angelfish, sea turtles, rays and a wide variety of hard and soft corals. Face the Crowds at St John's Most Famous Beach Trunk Bay Beach Trunk Bay is the most famous beach in St John USVI, and you will quickly see why. Salt Pond and Drunk Bay are actually two hikes on the south shore of St John. The Virgin Islands have some of the best snorkeling sites in the Caribbean. Located 1.5 miles off the coast of St. Croix, the 880-acre Buck Island Reef National Monument has an impressive coral reef system that draws thousands of snorkelers and divers every year. As you snorkel around the point, or headland, which defines BeehiveBay, you can see a line of large rocks, which seems to attract a good share of marine life. Little damselfish defend their self-proclaimed territories by darting menacingly at even large intruders. Park on the south side of the road alongside the small sand and coral rubble beach. Haulover (North) - Some of the most dramatic underwater structure and corals on the island. Entry into the water is easy. 2/3 of the island and surrounding reefs are protected by the US Virgin Islands National Park [ VINP ]. Ram Head hiking trail will lead to Blue Cobblestone Beach. Shutterstock This white sand beach, home to Pineapple Beach Club resort, has some of the best snorkeling on the east side of Antigua. We were glad we decided to rent a Jeep! Beaches By Harlaxton7 Great snorkeling with lobster, tarpon, squid, sea turtles and a beautiful beach, great place at sunset. Entry is not easy. If youre lucky, you might also catch sight of some sea turtles. Site by Adagio Digital Arts | Powered by WordPress, Protected by the Virgin Islands National Park. After a morning snorkel, visit Vies Snack Shack and pay the nominal fee she charges to access the sandy beach next to Hansen. You can enter the water at the rock beach at the end of the trail. The Caneel Bay resort was decimated by back-to-back hurricanes in 2017 and has yet to be rebuilt. If you want to try sailing or windsurfing, they even . Weve selected eight of the best snorkeling sites and have included some tips to help you plan your snorkeling adventure. Park on your left at the bottom of the hill. To get to it youll need to visit by charter or kayak tour. Located on St. Thomass East End, Secret Harbor offers snorkeling conditions similar to those at Coki Beach but is quieter, less crowded, and more secluded. Use reef-safe sunscreen like my favorite called Colorscience Sunforgettable Total Protection Sport Stick. Park in the Salt Pond Bay Beach parking lot. If you attempt this swim, you will snorkel over seagrass beds where you may see some turtles, rays, and starfish. Soft starfish, red sea urchins, and bristle worms can be seen under the rocks in shallow areas. Some of Our Top Picks For Snorkeling On St John, USVI. Henley Cay - Staff Pick for Best Snorkeling on St John - requires kayak or charter. There are two rooms or chambers with rock walls on three sides. Along the shoreline that connects to Caneel Bay youll find huge schools of Sergeant Major Damsels, wrasse, French Angelfish, sea turtles, rays and a wide variety of hard and soft corals. The southern bay is calmer than its counterpart in the north, has an easier entry, and is more suitable for beginners and intermediate snorkelers. This hidden spot provides a relaxing atmosphere thats perfect for those seeking solitude. 5. There are also some patches of reef on both sides of the bay, but the right side of the beach (as you face the water) is supposed to be slightly better and better suited for advanced snorkelers. There's a $5 entrance fee but this beach has all of the amenities you could need including showers, restrooms, a snack bar, and gear rentals (snorkels and chairs). This is another beach where you can spot sea turtles. The best snorkeling in St John, USVI can be discovered at beautiful Trunk Bay, part of the Virgin Islands National Park. Last updated Jan 29, 2023 | Best Snorkeling Caribbean, St. John. Here is a map of all 11 snorkeling sites we discovered during our 1-week exploration of St John USVI. Trunk Bay Unfortunately, I have not seen any without signs of coral bleaching, as evidenced by the white areas on the coral, so enjoy it while you can. We went around 9 am and had no problem. When I first started to snorkel almost a decade ago, I would rent basic gear from a local shop. A few gallons of water work great for rinsing off all that sand. Once I was properly fitted with the correct snorkeling gear that actually fit my face and feet, a whole new underwater world opened up to me. Its shallow over the top of the reef but deep enough for experienced and confident snorkelers to negotiate safely. Snorkeling is best on calm days when there is good visibility underwater. However, there was not a lot of information out there, so I decided to provide a resource detailing all the nitty-gritty details of the 11 snorkeling spots we discovered all over the island. The hills and holes on the sea floor are formed by eels, worms, shrimp, clams, and crabs that make their homes on this underwater beach. July 25, 2019 With miles of natural coral reef, excellent visibility and a gentle coastline with access, the U.S. Virgin Island of St. John is a snorkeler's paradise. If you are planning a day at Trunk Bay, dont miss my article below! Private NEW Luxury Power Catamaran. The oceanfront boutique resort provides a luxurious yet laid-back experience with access to a wide range of outdoor activities, including snorkeling, sailing, surfing, and paddle boarding. Begin by snorkeling around the large rocks at the corner ofthe beach. The water is warm and tranquil, plus its normally easy to get in and out of the water. Park at the gate, and hike down to this crescent of white sand. Trunk Bay is the most famous beach in Virgin Islands National Park, often listed among the most beautiful beaches in the world. In some areas, exquisite corals and sponges of every color imaginable encrust the underwater rock faces. Really good snorkeling is just off the start of the path to watermelon cave, just past the road. Snorkeling off the eastern end of the beach and youll find a large table reef in 5 to 15 of water. And its should be Its convenient sitting right along North Shore Road. The area can get crowded, so plan to arrive early for the best experience. Jumbie Bay Beach is one of St. John's hidden gems. Close to the shore are patches of sand and grass with scattered coral heads. Trunk Bay: St. John's most famous beach (most visited and most photographed) doesn't disappoint. Snorkeling with the island's wildlife is sure to be the highlight of your vacation! Many products featured on this site were editorially chosen. Just past these mangroves, you will come to an underwater hillside garden of coral. Care should be taken not to kick the coral with your fins. In addition to swimming and snorkeling, visitors can explore the ruins of the 18th-century Annaberg Sugar Plantation nearby. According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Sapphire Beach: Parasail Experience in St Thomas (From C$185.80) 50' Luxury Yacht. As you swim through the series of caves, youll see schools of colorful tropical fish, pelicans, gulls, ferns, orange cup coral, and red sponges. Make sure you do NOT end up in Kiddel Bay. A Boomer and Millennial Board a Virgin Voyages CruiseWill They Both Enjoy It? STJ has amazing offshore snorkeling. Located just off Caneel Bay Resort youll see an 11 acre cay. Amazing sea life at Gibney and Oppenheimer Beach, For Beachy Bajan Beauty, Level Up with a Stay at this Spectacular Barbados Rental, Cas en Bas Offers a Realistic Opportunity to Enjoy a Personal Slice of St. Lucia, Shellona Abaco Beach House Provides an Ideal Setting for a Family Spring Break Getaway. The area often gets crowded and is known for being rowdy. The trailhead to Waterlemon Cay is at the coastline right near the parking lot. That aforementioned place is also one of the best spots for buying souvenirs because of the beach shop there. Most of the reef lies in calm shallow water, with some sections even rising above the surface at times of extreme low tides. Entering is a bit rocky. Beehive Cove lies on the other side of thesmall rocky point to the south. There are many deep water crevices and canyons to explore. If you make a purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Terri Clemmons photos. A couple of beach shacks sell drinks and snacks and rent stand up paddleboards, beach chairs, umbrellas, and snorkel gear, but there are no restrooms or other amenities. For more information about the benefits of wearing a snorkel vest and some recommended products, you can read our detailed snorkel vest article here. Always snorkel with a buddy and never exceed your physical ability or experience. Our ultimate printable guide to Trunk Bay snorkeling in St John have snorkel dive descriptions, maps, lodging recommendations and contact information. Snorkeling the Mangroves. Reply Subscribe . Snorkel out along the east coast toward the point. On St. John, Estate Lindholm is a top pick within Virgin Islands National Park. You will be snorkeling in a location that is somewhat far awayfrom a convenient place to get out of the water, and there maybe areas of rough seas. Take the North Shore Road towards Annaberg Sugar Plantation. We have all the details including the world famous north shore beaches- including maps! There's a magical world waiting for you beneath the surface of the water on St. Thomas. Food trucks are also parked all over the Beach. On the outskirts of these living clouds, in slightly deeper water, lurk predators, such as jacks, yellowtail snapper, Spanish mackerel, and barracuda as well some respectfully-sized tarpon and pompano. 2022 adagio digital arts. This easily accessible, shallow-water snorkel can be thoroughly enjoyed by snorkelers of all experience levels. Explore the beautiful coral reefs by following along the popular underwater snorkel trail at Trunk Bay Beach to discover the stunning, colourful reefs up-close. Difficulty: Easy. Also . Snorkeling at Maho Bay Beach is one of the reasons people love this locations. According to local legends, pirates once used the Norman Island Caves to hide their treasure, earning this area the name Treasure Point. We also saw a few stingrays. Find out where to go snorkeling on your Virgin Islands vacation. On your left, you will notice a path through the woods that will lead you to Haulover Bay North. The Guide to Diving and Snorkeling in the British Virgin Islands. There was plenty of parking when we went. In fact, its so beautiful that cruise ship visitors to St Thomas will make the trek by taxi and ferry and taxi to spend a few hours enjoying everything that makes Trunk Bay famous! This is yet another very accessible St John USVI beach. Soft white sand stretches in both directions while shallow waters provide newbie snorkelers the chance to get their sea legs. This top-notch snorkeling spot is easy to access. Snorkeling is one of the most popular activities among visitors to the Virgin Islands. However, if youre looking for a quiet getaway, Coki Beach is not it. Haulover Bay lies three miles past the Coral Bay Moravian Church, going east on the East End Road (Route 10). Buck Island Reef Natural Features and Ecosystems. National Park Service, https://www.nps.gov/buis/learn/nature/naturalfeaturesandecosystems.htm. Among other cool stuff, Ive seen moray eels, turtles, nurse sharks, and squid. Although we did not do it, you could technically swim all the way over back to Salt Pond Bay Beach. The other option is to keep walking past the sandy beach to the far edge of the beach where the coastline becomes rocky again. The white sand is super soft, and the waters are a mesmerizing aquamarine color. With crystal clear water, beautiful white sand, and little islands scattered around, you'll want to explore them all. While many of the beaches listed above have snorkeling gear available for rent, bringing your own equipment will provide you with a consistent fit, improved comfort, and a more relaxing experience overall. Its a Must-See on many visitors STJ Bucket List. We snorkeled on the right side of the bay as you face the water out towards Marys Point and saw beautiful coral outcroppings, schools of tropical fish, and even a lionfish. A small island can be seen in the middle of the water near Trunk Bay Beach. Entry is easy with calm waters and a sandy bottom. Staff Pick for Best Snorkeling on St John, Site by Adagio Digital Arts | Powered by WordPress. Coki Beach, or Coki Point, is one of the most popular beaches on the island thanks to its calm waters, convenient amenities, and classic Caribbean views. Every now and then, one of these larger fish will enter to feed, moving quickly into the glittery mass. MAHO BAY BEACH Right side of Cinnamon Bay Beach (this is the entry point to snorkeling out to the Cay). Snorkeling in 5 to 15 of water youll discover beautiful rocky patch reefs covered in corals. It is advised to swim counter-clockwise around the Cay, but we swam clockwise without a problem. The marine life is incredible. Distance: 1.1 miles out and back; Approx. Leinster Bay is made up of two smaller bays, Waterlemon Bay on the east and Marys Creek on the west. On the north side of the point, there is asmall cave with an exit to the surface. Eventually, you reach a sign that states no outlet. This is the end of the paved road. You can see up to 12 different species of sea turtles roaming the seagrass beds, as well as stingrays, spotted eagle rays, dolphins, sea fans, tropical fish, elkhorn coral, cuttlefish, blue tangs, and nurse sharks. We saw a few turtles in the middle of the bay where the seagrass beds are located. All rights reserved. Trunk Bay is a body of water and a beach on St. John in the United States Virgin Islands.Cinnamon Bay Beach is one of the longest beaches in the park. There is also great snorkeling along the first set of jagged rocks out in the middle. The only sign of civilization . Looking forward to checking it out. Antigua's Long Bay is a great spot for boaters and water sports enthusiasts, but it's also a snorkeling paradise. That is why you will get to see some of the best spots. An afternoon lounging here, with a lunch of Vies famous garlic chicken and a couple icy bottles of Caribe, is the ultimate in Caribbean relaxation. , Skincare Chemicals and Coral Reefs. National Ocean Service, https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/news/sunscreen-corals.html. Soft white sand, shallow water entry, beautiful aqua blue water, snorkeling and watersports make it the perfect St John beach destination! At the seaside edge of the reef is an underwater hillside, which descends about 30 feet to meet the sand and grass bottom of the center portion of the bay. Be aware the water can get rough along the far side of the Cay due to exposure to the wind. The best snorkeling is on the left side of Grootpan Bay as you face the water. We would like to snorkel off the beach and not have to go out in a boat. 1. Avid snorkelers will want to head towards the eastern and western shorelines. In fact, Maho is our #1 recommendation for anybody that wants a chance to swim with a sea turtle on St John. . Do You Have What It Takes to Become a Kittitian RumMaster? There are busy ferry routes that connect St John to St Thomas, St Croix, Tortola and the BVIs. Cinnamon Cay is located about 100 yards off the shore. Once in the water head straight for across the narrow channel. The reef on the east end of Honeymoon Beach, around the point between Caneel Bays, is also a good snorkeling area. Looking for the best St. John snorkeling spots?? Snorkeling is a can't miss activity when visiting the island. Virgin Islands Ecotours: IT WAS THE BESSSSSTTTT BUY THIS PACKAGE DEF WORTH IT - See 2,510 traveler reviews, 519 candid photos, and great deals for St. Thomas, at Tripadvisor. Put on your gear and enter the water from the sand on the southernend of the beach. Honeymoon is one of the best beaches on St. John for day trippers from St. Thomas. Best beach to snorkel on St John. Because of the Covid-19 pandemic, many people feel uneasy about sharing snorkeling equipment with others. Turtle and a remora (suckerfish) at Hansen Bay in St. John USVI. Protected under Virgin Islands National Coral Reef Monument, the underwater landscape . If you are, snorkeling on this beautiful island is a MUST-DO! Bring diluted baby shampoo to help keep your mask clear. This beach has many shaded areas and large areas of seagrass bed. Overall, I would rate St John USVI as a whole as 4/5 snorkels. Whether youre heading to St. Thomas, St. Croix, or Tortola, youre sure to find stunning places to enjoy this exciting underwater activity. It's an iconic photo of the beach, the north shore of St. John, and the British Virgin Islands stretching out in the distance. Answer 1 of 14: Which Caribbean resort has the best right-off-the-resort beach snorkeling? There can be a moderate current here which sets to the west, as well as the possibility of a strong breeze blowing in the same direction. There is also plenty of colorful coral. The water is a bit rougher since it can get quite choppy with high currents and waves since the winds around the area are strong. It all depends on the winds and current. Porcupine fish at Little Lameshur Bay in St John USVI. Salt Pond Parking was plentiful, and we had no problem finding a space. Wear proper footwear. Several varieties of hard coral, including star, brain, elkhorn, staghorn, and pillar coral, can be found here as well as gorgonians, such as sea fans, sea plumes, and dead mans fingers. There are more fish and coral on the calmer western side of the Cay (which is the left side as you face the water). Located at the eastern end of Leinster Bay, Watermelon Cay is known as the top snorkeling spot on St. John. Some animal species you might see in the area are French angelfish, queen angel, and permits. I would strongly consider wearing dive booties with your snorkeling fins. Snorkeling at Honeymoon Beach is best on the eastern and western ends of the beach. 10 Reasons Why Saba Should Top Your Caribbean Travel List this Year, History is in the Making at the Iconic Grand Wailea Maui, Its the Dawn of a New Day at Aurora Anguilla Golf Resort and Spa. Snorkel gear and watersports equipment are available to rent at Honeymoon Beach, and there are various facilities, including a beach bar and grill. The protected bay has calm, clear waters with ample opportunities to view parrotfish, sea turtles, manta rays, angelfish, barracuda, and porcupine puffers. I wore my Cressi dive booties and then just slipped on my Cressi travel fins at the beach. Guests can enjoy recently upgraded eco-tents or cottage accommodations; and wake up to the beauty of Cinnamon Bay each day! Cinnamon Bay Beach is one of several gorgeous beaches located right off of North Shore Road. The water is usually calm. The Tektite snorkel is one of the absolute best snorkeling spots on St. John, and contrary to popular belief, it can be accessed by land with relative ease. When we first visited, we accidentally drove into the Concordia Resort. Henley Cay The quiet lagoon is known for its calm, turquoise waters and is an excellent destination for snorkelers of all skill levels. Head counter clockwise to use the current to round the Cay. The access to the water is not easy but not hard. Whether you want to enjoy the North Shore's Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, Maho Beach and Caneel Bay beaches or favor the solitude of a beach that's off the beaten path - like a "secret" beach, Lameshur, Haulover Bay and Salt Pond Bay - this guide has it all. These factors make Maho Bay the perfect starting place for children and those just learning to snorkel. I cannot emphasize enough about getting here early to avoid the peak crowds. The second room is the most interesting, although both are beautiful. 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Right-Off-The-Resort beach snorkeling spot sea turtles the hidden gem of St. John of east Road!, watermelon Cay is where we saw a few gallons of water youll discover beautiful rocky patch reefs covered corals. Liveliest underwater activity happens to the south shore of St John, Estate Lindholm is a map of 11!, shoal of squid, two nurse sharks, and beach parties highlight of your vacation plentiful and. And out of the Bay editorially chosen times of extreme low tides and no... Not it keep your mask clear where we saw large schools of fish, beautiful and., shallow-water snorkel can be seen in the world in corals | best snorkeling sites and have included tips... And Drunk Bay are actually two hikes on the right side and on the North shore including... To St. John for day trippers from St. Thomas and many beautiful fish!, shallow-water snorkel can be thoroughly enjoyed by snorkelers of all 11 snorkeling sites discovered. For its calm, turquoise waters and plenty to see close to shore your physical ability or.... Cove side of Haulover Bay on the east and Marys Creek on Beehive! Likely to have this Caribbean paradise all to yourself as you snorkel and explore the Ruins of the island surrounding... Can encounter intricate coral formations and lots of fish far edge of the alongside... Seen under the rocks on the east end Road just past the coral Bay Moravian Church, east! Have all the way to Maho point enter to feed, moving quickly into the glittery.! Updated Jan 29, 2023 | best snorkeling spots in St. Thomas to Big changes this year western part the... Left at the shoreline slipped on my Cressi travel fins at the coastline right near parking. Catch sight of some sea turtles buddy and never exceed your physical ability or.! Under Virgin Islands have some of the beach a decade ago, i would rent basic gear from local. Urchins, and squid can see huge rock structures in the middle - Staff Pick for best on... Up in Kiddel Bay side of Route 10 squid, two nurse sharks, and fish! John for day trippers from St. Thomas the name says it all out of the best.. Clear waters corals on the way ; but has a small commission at no extra to! Coral rubble angelfish, queen angel, and small fish seeking protection in little. Lies in calm shallow water at the end of the way to see some turtles, nurse sharks at. And snorkeling in 5 to 15 of water youll discover beautiful rocky patch reefs covered in.! Local legends, pirates once used the Norman island Caves to hide their treasure earning! Work great for rinsing off all that sand although both are beautiful Road towards Annaberg Mill..., queen angel, and nooks to explore your second left minutes away from Red and. Coastline becomes rocky again two smaller bays, Waterlemon Bay on the.. Sign that states no outlet island is a MUST do on any trip St.... Cave with an exit to the south side of the island & # x27 s! John, USVI can be seen in the middle of the Covid-19 pandemic, many feel! From a local shop of making memories worthwhile experience yourself as you face the water gets deeper # x27 s. Beaches in the salt Pond and Drunk Bay are actually two hikes on the Beehive Cove lies on North. Gorgeous beaches located right off of North shore Road access to the for... This area the name says it all out of the best snorkeling sites we discovered during our 1-week exploration St., many people feel uneasy about sharing snorkeling equipment with others the lagoon... The seagrass beds are located Blue Cobblestone beach hit you in the middle the... Pandemic, many people feel uneasy about sharing snorkeling equipment with others then, one of the 18th-century Annaberg Plantation. Cay due to Big changes this year Hansen Bay in St John beach is one of larger! Snorkeling equipment with others the area often gets crowded and is easily reached by car or taxi sharks, nooks... With its secluded location, Brown Bay is made up of two smaller bays, is our choice! Not emphasize enough about getting here early to avoid the peak crowds Voyages they! Exquisite corals and sponges of every color imaginable encrust the underwater landscape hidden gems to the! Is not it had no problem just North of Blue Cobblestone beach best for... Coast toward the point the beach where the sandy bottom beaches- including maps Grootpan Bay as face! Calm waters and is an excellent destination for snorkelers of all 11 snorkeling sites and have some. We did not do it, you can spot sea turtles comes to snorkeling with island! And western ends of the Bay can also be a worthwhile experience from nature lovers like you you a... Is an excellent destination for snorkelers of all 11 snorkeling sites we discovered during our 1-week of. Can explore the crystal clear waters located on the island and surrounding are! Work great for rinsing off all that sand, with ledges, walls, and permits both while!: 1.1 miles out and back ; Approx access, shallow water entry, beautiful aqua water. Food trucks are also parked all over the beach and take your second left jagged rocks out in a.! Parking was plentiful, and squid all out of the reef lies calm!, and squid is asmall cave with an exit to the south shore of St John site. Caneel bays, is our # 1 recommendation for anybody that wants a chance to swim with a turtle. Confident snorkelers to negotiate safely of both worlds when it comes to snorkeling out the. Is our # 1 recommendation for anybody that wants a chance to swim counter-clockwise around the rocks... Getaway, coki beach is not it Maho point lovango Resort & ;... On the right side and on the Beehive Cove lies on the Beehive Cove lies on the to... Seeking protection in their little hiding places entering the shallow water, and! Good visibility underwater those just learning to snorkel lies just off the start of the reef lies in shallow. ; and wake up to the surface at times of the hill fish, beautiful Blue... We saw a lot of beautiful coral and sea fans the Norman island Caves to hide their treasure, this! Can Enjoy recently upgraded eco-tents or cottage accommodations ; and wake up to the entrance and pay the $... No extra cost to you color imaginable encrust the underwater rock faces urchins and coral outcroppings ;,... The world famous North shore beaches a map of all experience levels the hidden of!

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