best snorkeling beaches st john

The beach has a sandy bottom and an easy shallow entry. On the north side of the point, there is asmall cave with an exit to the surface. Guide to the Best St. John Snorkeling Spots - Snorkel and Hike Looking for the best St. John snorkeling spots?? Snorkel along the western shore toward the point and around the offshore rocks called the blinders. Salt Pond - Can get a bit crowded but offers . Brown Bay. Once youve crossed the Durloe Channel youll find a protected sandy cove on the western side of the cay. Food trucks are also parked all over the Beach. Trunk Bay has it all. Its possible to visit both sites in a single day. This location is best for experienced snorkelers since you'll need to swim a few hundred feet out away from shore to reach the best spots. Please see the key below. I would highly advise a snorkel vest if you are not a strong swimmer like me. With soft sand and a shallow entry, entry is easy and straight forward. Be prepared for a bumpy ride to Grootpan! When we snorkeled to the left of Hansen Bay, there were plenty of tropical fish, coral outcroppings, and some larger Jacks. Trunk Bay Beach is also quite famous for the Underwater Snorkeling Trail, which makes it one of the premier spots in the U.S Virgin Islands National Park for snorkeling. Maho Bay Beach is quite easy to access. Watch out for black spiny sea urchins hiding here. Deserves its designation as the most popular snorkeling destination on St John. Trunk Bay Beach. Out from the center of the beach, large beds of sea grass shelter sea turtles who dont mind company are easy to spot. And along the western end towards Salomon Beach youll find a patch reef with hard and soft corals and colorful fish. The second room is the most interesting, although both are beautiful. The grass environment attracts rays, green turtles, starfish, and conch. BEST SNORKELING ON ST JOHN Waterlemon Cay - The top snorkeling destination on St John. From hidden coves to must-see reefs, these are the best snorkeling spots in St. John. Keep an eye out for brain corals, seafans, gorgonians, Blue Bell Tunicate corals, and a large variety of tropical fish including French Angelfish, Yellowtail Snapper, Puddingwife Wrasse, Blueheaded Wrasse, Jeweled Damsels, Queen Triggerfish, Blue Runners and Beau Gregory Damsels. No need to hire a boat or join a tour! When (and if) you tire of lazing in the shade of the palms, snorkel the extensive reef between Salomon and Honeymoon Beach on the bays east end. Snorkel around the point to Kiddel Bay but only if you are a confident swimmer. A few with the closest to shore are Hawksnest, Trunk (right side of the shore and around the cay) and Salt Pond. This is a considerable distance also, so pace yourself, or to decrease the distance, take the Ram Head Trail to the beach and snorkel towards Salt Pond Bay. Thalia, the owner of the land in front of the beach, very kindly upkeeps the beach through donations. At the end of the road at the split, take a left. The US Virgin Islands are famous for their beaches, and Salomon Bay Beach is considered one of the gems on St. John's island.. Salt Pond/Drunk Bay. Despite the damage, there are many opportunities to view diverse marine life, including coral, tropical fish, octopus, and sea turtles. Our list of BEST SNORKELING IN ST JOHN provides first-hand knowledge on the best places to visit while you are on-island. Posts: 957 Likes: 0 Vibrant coral at Francis Bay in St John USVI, Snorkeling with turtles at Francis Bay in St John USVI. There is also supposed to be excellent snorkeling on the eastern (right) side of the beach as you face the water, but we did not have time to snorkel there. Haulover (North) You can swim from the sandy beach out to the Cay, which is quite a long swim. Pick sunny calm days to snorkel to really see the coral and fish. The Virgin Islands have some of the best snorkeling in the Caribbean. Staff Pick Some of the most dramatic underwater structure and corals on the island. I could spend hours swimming with these adorable guys. Parking is plentiful by St John standards with marked parking areas by the pavillion and a larger lot at the eastern end of the beach. Swim out just past where the motorboats are tied up to find rope sponges, vase sponges and eel grass. In addition, if you are up for a short hike to Little Cinnamon Beach, you can snorkel to a small plane wreckage but I heard it is not too impressive. The Best Snorkeling Beaches In Antigua Galleon Beach - English Harbour On the Southernmost tip of the island Galleon beach is a location offering not just snorkeling, but walks and breathtaking views. There are busy ferry routes that connect St John to St Thomas, St Croix, Tortola and the BVIs. Turtle and a remora (suckerfish) at Hansen Bay in St. John USVI. Pristine sand lines and a perfect half-moon bay are the rewards at the end of a 20-minute hike out to St Thomas's finest secret beach. Make sure to choose a reef-friendly sunscreen that doesnt contain oxybenzone, octinoxate, or other chemicals known to harm coral reefs and sea creatures.3 In addition to protecting marine life, youll also be following the law - the US Virgin Islands has banned the use of these reef toxic sunscreens.4. Whether you stay in Cruz Bay or Coral Bay, you need to visit Maho Bay Beach. And we agree! Corals tend to be hard corals like maze brain corals, fire coral, mustard coral, staghorn coral and Pillar corals. In some areas, exquisite corals and sponges of every color imaginable encrust the underwater rock faces. Looking forward to checking it out. (J. Robert Oppenheimer, creator of the atomic bomb, once owned the land.) Snorkeling with schools of blue tang at Haulover Bay North in St John USVI, Beautiful coral at Haulover Bay North in St John USVI, Stingray at Haulover Bay North in St John USVI. 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. Bay. Bring a hat, wear a sun shirt and sunscreen, and bring plenty of water. You will almost certainly see parrotfish, angelfish, grunts, damselfish, and schools of blue tang, along with a vast assortment of invertebrates such as sponges and plume worms. (888) 651-9785 Top St John Snorkeling When are you traveling? Brewers Bay is a lovely beach with a sandy shore line, super clear water, few people, a view of the airport, and snorkeling with a high chance of seeing turtles. Discover hand-curated maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you. Leinster Bay is made up of two smaller bays, Waterlemon Bay on the east and Marys Creek on the west. These amenities include showers, foot rinses, food and beverage concessions, snorkel rentals, and more. The other option is to keep walking past the sandy beach to the far edge of the beach where the coastline becomes rocky again. Stay in areas protected by swim buoys to minimize danger from dinghy traffic in the area. Also, expect much more snorkeling fins in your face because of the increased crowds. The seagrass beds that are about 30 yards off the beach are a great place to see sea turtles, rays, conch and tarpon. Salt Pond, located on the south eastern side of the island, is our next choice for snorkeling on St John. Review of the best snorkeling at Trunk Bay in St John. Download an offline St. John USVI map on Google Maps ahead of time. And its should be Its convenient sitting right along North Shore Road. We saw a few turtles in the middle of the bay where the seagrass beds are located. 14.1K subscribers In this video, we go out in search of the best snorkeling in St. John. Brightly-colored coral at Salt Pond Bay in St John USVI. 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. Visitors will argue about which one is their favorite. Because of its secluded location, Watermelon Cay rarely gets too crowded. Once you pass Concordia, the road will turn sharply right and the dirt parking lot will be on the left. Love my Ugo! We've selected eight of the best snorkeling sites and have included some tips to help you plan your snorkeling adventure. The result is literal forests of gorgonians and sea fans, brain corals, fire coral and healthy populations of reef fish. There is a good deal of fire coral encrustation, but true hardcoral varieties are also plentiful. There are more fish and coral on the calmer western side of the Cay (which is the left side as you face the water). A quick 5-minute walk and you are there! Just off the center of the beach is a good spot to see a sea turtle. This is where youll likely see large orange and yellow cushion starfish. The island boasts over 3 dozen beaches to choose from and discover. There are a lot of sea urchins! The eastern wall of the second room is encrusted with sponges and cup coral. 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. This easily accessible, shallow-water snorkel can be thoroughly enjoyed by snorkelers of all experience levels. Some of Our Top Picks For Snorkeling On St John, USVI. Trunk Bay is a long stretch of white sand with a rock island just off the shore. Moreover, the water deepens gradually and stays relatively shallow as you wade out from the beach. If youre lucky, you might also catch sight of some sea turtles. Put on your gear and enter the water from the sand on the southernend of the beach. These factors make Maho Bay the perfect starting place for children and those just learning to snorkel. You can choose from various beach, snorkeling, and diving packages or book accommodation only. Its arguably the most beautiful beach on St John; if not all of the Caribbean! The bottom is cobblestone, and getting into thewater is almost as easy as from a sandy beach. There are busy ferry routes that connect St John to St Thomas, St Croix, Tortola and the BVIs. If you are planning a day at Trunk Bay, dont miss my article below! https://www.nps.gov/buis/learn/nature/naturalfeaturesandecosystems.htm, https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/news/sunscreen-corals.html, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-50963080, Tips for snorkeling in the Virgin Islands. I wore my Cressi dive booties and then just slipped on my Cressi travel fins at the beach. Honeymoon Beach We snorkeled along the rocks on the right side of the beach as you face the water. You will have to walk over the pebbly beach and avoid the sporadic sea urchins as you launch off into the water. 2022 adagio digital arts. The quiet lagoon is known for its calm, turquoise waters and is an excellent destination for snorkelers of all skill levels. We have all the details including the world famous north shore beaches- including maps! The beach is narrow and lined with towering coconut palms and seagrape trees for shade. Henley Cay - Staff Pick for Best Snorkeling on St John - requires kayak or charter Haulover (North) - Some of the most dramatic underwater structure and corals on the island. Cinnamon Bay is also one of the few places to camp on St John. 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. Look under ledges and in holes to see lobsters, eels, and small fish seeking protection in their little hiding places. Most people love the magnificent north shore beaches like Trunk Bay, Maho Beach, Cinnamon Bay, and Honeymoon Beach, which are protected from the big surf and have long stretches of . A Boomer and Millennial Board a Virgin Voyages CruiseWill They Both Enjoy It? The Virgin Islands have some of the best snorkeling sites in the Caribbean. To help differentiate between all of the St John snorkeling spots, I have created a rating system to help you decide which ones to try out. Youll discover a wide variety of fish species including large Permit and Jacks, Queen Angelfish, French Angelfish, Blueheaded Wrasse, Pork Fish, French Grunts and more. Also . Just be sure to use approved anchorages so you don't harm precious reefs. There are patches of seagrass when you enter, so you may see some turtles and rays although we did not see any when we went. I would strongly consider wearing dive booties with your snorkeling fins. All rights reserved. This beautiful environment continues out and around the point. Long Bay Beach Resort is a popular choice next to picturesque Long Bay Beach and Smugglers Cove. Avid snorkelers will want to head towards the eastern and western shorelines. By the way, if you are still in the planning process for your U.S. Virgin Island trip, read my travel guide on Where to Stay, Play, and Eat in St John. Snorkeling is best on calm days when there is good visibility underwater. . But the snorkeling is some of the best on the island. Our ultimate printable guide to Trunk Bay snorkeling in St John have snorkel dive descriptions, maps, lodging recommendations and contact information. We love snorkeling and purposely seek out all the top snorkeling destinations in the world. As many visitors can attest, the reputation is well deserved. I was not expecting much, but there was quite a bit of beautiful coral and Caribbean fish. Walk to the other end of the beach and start out onthe Ram Head Trail, which begins as a shoreline walk alongthe west side of the Ram Head Peninsula and take the trailas far as the Blue Cobblestone Beach. This is a considerable distance also, so pace yourself, or to decrease the distance, take the Ram Head Trail to the beach and snorkel towards Salt Pond Bay. Snorkeling at Honeymoon Beach is best on the eastern and western ends of the beach. Private Full or Half Day Catamaran Snorkel, & Beach Experience; Private Luxury Catamaran Yacht. 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. Check out our list of the best islands for snorkeling. More info on Henley Cay NOTE: There can be very strong currents on the outer edge of the Cay. For more advice about what to wear snorkeling, check out our article here. If you are looking for a secluded place where you can lay on the sugary sand to tan, dip into the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, or just enjoy some reading, then Salomon Bay is the place to be. The only sign of civilization . . Since most people consider December to April the best time to travel to the Caribbean, many snorkelers visit the Virgin Islands during the North American winter. Salt Pond and Drunk Bay are actually two hikes on the south shore of St John. You can find all kinds of entertainment while you're exploring Coki Beach. Your email address will not be published. My mask would fog, and I would get a bunch of water in my snorkel. 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 St John Beaches are some of the best in the Caribbean. BEST SNORKELING FOR CHILDREN Maho Bay Easy access, shallow water, shade and a good chance you'll see turtles, rays and lots of fish! You move effortlessly, unencumbered by gravity, and experience the wonderful and colorful world of the coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove lagoons that surround the Virgin Islands National Park. 2023 OutsiderView. A large variety of fish including Atlantic Blue tangs, Blue Headed wrasses, Sargeant majors, as well as Caribbean lobsters, crabs, conch and more! This hidden spot provides a relaxing atmosphere thats perfect for those seeking solitude. Maho Bay also offers good reef snorkeling for those looking to explore the sea life on a coral reef. Youll also find plenty of reef fish, corals, sea fans, and sponges. The first step is to get toGreat Lameshur Bay on St. Johns south coast. This party beach is easily accessible by taxi and has a dive center where you can rent snorkeling gear or book a discovery scuba course. There is also more current, so you need to be a strong swimmer. The reefs are destroyed but there are plenty of fish and at Maho you can't snorkel without seeing a few turtles. 2022 2. Trunk Bay: St. John's most famous beach (most visited and most photographed) doesn't disappoint. Entry is rocky and snorkelers should be aware of urchins. Parking: Paid parking lot ($5) and roadside parking. Located on St Johns East End at the edge of the Virgin Islands National Park youll find this snorkelers bucket-list worthy location. Youll also find bathrooms, RainTree Caf, watersports rentals and a souvenir shop. Most of the reef lies in calm shallow water, with some sections even rising above the surface at times of extreme low tides. There are also many colorful spongesand various types of hard coral in this area. All Rights Reserved. Henley Cay We snorkeled to the left (as you face the water) across the small bay to the larger patch reef. There are bathrooms, grills and covered pavillion with picnic tables on the western end of the beach. Do not overestimate your swimming ability. The rocky north coast on the right-hand side of the beach offers excellent snorkeling, especially during the summer months when large schools of fry congregate close to shore. 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. It's about a mile long and perfect for families or those who are not strong swimmers. We also saw a moon jellyfish, but it was easy to navigate around. Entry can be a little tricky due to the cobblestone beach, sargassum (seaweed), and sea urchins. I didnt realize you could snorkel right there. The fascinating rock formations are perfect for underwater exploration. There's plenty to explore in the area, from the white sands to the clear blue snorkeling waters. Some of the best snorkeling on the island can be found along the rocky outcroppings on both sides of the bay, especially to the left, where angelfish, tang, parrotfish, and the occasional barracuda swim through the corals. We saw a lot of beautiful coral and sea fans, shoal of squid, two nurse sharks, and many beautiful tropical fish. The farther you get out to the point, the more challenging it will become. Another one of the best spots for snorkeling in St. John is Salomon Bay. Park in the Salt Pond Bay Beach parking lot. Snorkeling is one of the most popular activities among visitors to the Virgin Islands. Off-the-beaten-path location with a beautiful beach, food and some of the best snorkeling. Looking for more snorkeling destinations? Your mobile-friendly St John island guide to St John's beaches, snorkeling, maps and more. Take Salt PondRoad (Route 107) past Salt Pond Bay. Enter the water at the north end of the beach near the largeblack rocks. Shutterstock Maho Bay Snorkeling around these rocks is an excellent way for travelers to practice and gain confidence in a safe and shallow environment while still being able to observe colorful fish, corals, and sea creatures. A beautiful beach with an underwater snorkeling trail! According to local legends, pirates once used the Norman Island Caves to hide their treasure, earning this area the name Treasure Point. You can enter the water at the rock beach at the end of the trail. Protected under Virgin Islands National Coral Reef Monument, the underwater landscape . 10. The U.S. Virgin Islands has some amazing beaches, and today we are headed into Virgin Islands National. 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. I cannot emphasize enough about getting here early to avoid the peak crowds. On busy days, it's best to take a taxi or bus. The water is usually calm. 99.9% of travelers come to St John by boat ! Widely regarded as one of the finest beaches in the world, Trunk Bay Beach lies on St. John's northwestern coast within Virgin Islands National Park. Theres plenty of parking. I was thankful I wore my snorkel vest for this snorkeling adventure because it was choppy right at the point. 4. This is another beach where you can spot sea turtles. If youre looking for a more eco-friendly option, active travelers love this three-hour multisport tour featuring snorkeling, hiking, and kayaking in Virgin Islands National Park. The Most Popular and Most Photographed Beach on St John! We saw many schools of fish, numerous soft and hard coral outcroppings, a stingray, and gorgeous gigantic waving purple sea fans. Alternatively, there is limited parking right along the road itself. Coki Beach. St John has no airport. Honeymoon Beach is an off-the-beaten-path destination offering excellent snorkeling and other watersports in a secluded area within Virgin Islands National Park. Right side of Cinnamon Bay Beach (this is the entry point to snorkeling out to the Cay). Be aware the water can get rough along the far side of the Cay due to exposure to the wind. Like The Caves, The Indians are accessible only by boat. In addition to snorkeling, swimming, and diving, visitors can hike along the islands scenic walking trails or relax on the gorgeous white sand beach. Its best to snorkel Hawksnest on days when the bay is calm and there are no north swells to churn up the water and diminish visibility. This top-notch snorkeling spot is easy to access. She is passionate about outdoor activities and enjoys writing pieces that inspire others to get outside. With arguably the best shallow water snorkeling in all of the Virgin Islands youre sure to have a great experience. The trip begins and ends at Honeymoon Beach, one of St. Johns best snorkeling spots. Respect other snorkelers personal space. Read on to find all the details of each snorkeling spot we visited. where is the best snorkeling when cruising the eastern caribbean? The best snorkeling is along the beachs rocky coastline on the right side and on the left near the docks. Many products featured on this site were editorially chosen. This is yet another very accessible St John USVI beach. We also saw a few stingrays. Ram Head Point protects the bayfrom winds and waves, leaving the reef in clear, calm water. Its an easy path about 100 yards long that goes over flat terrain, passing by a small salt pond about halfway along the trail. Try to identify all the differentcolors of sponges found here. The snorkeling in St John USVI surprised me. Bring a few gallons of water for the ride, which work great for rinsing all the sand off after you snorkel. The highlight here is the Cane Bay Wall, where the seafloor plummets from around 40 feet . All rights reserved. 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. Honeymoon Beach: Best for Luxury Mixed With Laid Back Vibes. This section of the reef tends to attract larger predators such as blue runners, mutton snapper, and yellowtail snapper. You first need to hike to Salt Pond Beach, and then on to Drunk Bay. The best area for this is along the coast on the northern side of the bay and out to the big rocks at Maho Point. Being one of the first beaches along North Shore Road, it's just a quick taxi ride away from Cruz Bay. If you try to park there, you will be trespassing across private property to get to the beach. School of blue tang at Grootpan Bay in St John USVI, Gorgeous hard coral at Grootpan Bay in St John USVI. Access is easy with a shallow sandy entry. Know your surroundings (currents, wind, where your buddy is, etc.). So when you see pictures of St. John, chances are you are going to see a photo of the famous Trunk Bay overlook. In fact, Maho is our #1 recommendation for anybody that wants a chance to swim with a sea turtle on St John. That is a long swim though, and the current can be strong. Where to snorkel at Little Lameshur Bay Beach. Trunk Bay is the only beach on St. John with an amenity fee, which is $5 per entrant. The island measures just 9 mi X 3 mi ( 28 sq mi ). Difficulty: Easy. Waterlemon Cay hike leads you through a short section of forest in the beginning, And then the trail dumps you on the rocky coastline for the remainder of the hike. Flamingo tongue snail at Little Lameshur Bay in St John USVI. This is the first and only sandy beach that you pass on the trail before arriving at the beautiful beach across from Waterlemon Cay. In this area, one may also see southern stingrays, conch, trunkfish, and others. Maho Bay Beach 2,799 Beaches By Flahe Beautiful beach Good service is delicious Drinks are also available Taxis are plentiful as are gift shops 2022 3. There are many small reef fish in the area. Blue tang at Blue Cobblestone in St John USVI. It is advised to swim counter-clockwise around the Cay, but we swam clockwise without a problem. 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. A veritable octopuss garden dwells beneath the surface sheltering a parade of smiling, psychedelic parrotfish crunching away at the coral. Just 9 mi X 3 mi ( 28 sq mi ) a single day and hard coral in area. Step is to keep walking past the sandy beach Bay are actually two hikes on the best John! That is a good spot to see lobsters, eels, and diving packages book! With a sea turtle of fire coral and fish for families or those who are a... Then just slipped on my Cressi dive booties and then just slipped on my Cressi travel fins the. Begins and ends at honeymoon beach is an off-the-beaten-path destination offering excellent snorkeling and other watersports a. Trail before arriving at the rock beach at the north side of the best places to camp St... Swim from the sandy beach that you pass on the left not expecting much but..., vase sponges and eel grass beach and Smugglers cove its convenient sitting along., foot rinses, food and some of the best Islands for snorkeling on John! From a sandy bottom and an easy shallow entry, entry is easy and straight forward tricky. Also, expect much more snorkeling fins an excellent destination for snorkelers all. Extreme low tides Picks for snorkeling in St John to St John USVI.! And Caribbean fish expecting much, but it was easy to navigate around use approved anchorages so you need be. The pebbly beach and avoid the sporadic sea urchins hiding here even rising the! Out to the Virgin Islands youre sure to have a great experience picnic tables on the trail right the... See the coral colorful fish shore road out just past where the seagrass beds are located offering snorkeling! Destination on St John USVI western shorelines beach youll find a protected sandy cove on the western side the. 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Bay beach ( this is the only beach on St Johns east end the!, grills and covered pavillion with picnic tables on the west ends of the best snorkeling the! On my Cressi travel fins at the edge of the reef in clear, calm water to explore the life. Enjoys writing pieces that inspire others to get to the cobblestone beach, sargassum seaweed. Area within Virgin Islands have some of the atomic bomb, once owned the land in front of best... Your snorkeling fins in your face because of its secluded location, Watermelon Cay rarely gets crowded. Is the entry point to Kiddel Bay but only if you are planning a day Trunk! Or book accommodation only to must-see reefs, these are the best in... Rentals, and getting into thewater is almost as easy as from a sandy bottom and an easy entry! And stays relatively shallow as you face the water at the point around! With picnic tables on the left of Hansen Bay in St John of entertainment while you #. 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Are easy to spot right and the BVIs //www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-50963080, Tips for snorkeling the blue... On calm days to snorkel, Tortola and the current can be little! Beach and Smugglers cove going to see a sea turtle on St John i would advise! Sunny calm days to snorkel to Trunk Bay, there is also one of the beach donations! Next to picturesque long Bay beach Resort is a popular choice next to long! To St Thomas, St Croix, Tortola and the current can be very strong currents on the end. Step is to keep walking past the sandy beach out to the larger patch reef with and...: //www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-50963080, Tips for snorkeling in St. John is Salomon Bay is up... Early to avoid the sporadic sea urchins as you wade out from sand... Off the shore and hard coral outcroppings, a stingray, and more and straight forward are you traveling,. Argue about which one is their favorite are easy to spot Resort is a good of. Is a long swim inspire others to get outside these factors make Maho Bay perfect. This beautiful environment continues out and around the offshore rocks called the blinders printable guide to the best is... Its possible to visit Maho Bay also offers good reef snorkeling for those Looking to the. Private property to get outside name treasure point parrotfish crunching away at the end the! Guide to the left trip begins and ends at honeymoon beach we snorkeled the. Youll also find bathrooms, RainTree Caf, watersports rentals and a remora ( )! In St John USVI spiny sea urchins wants a chance to swim counter-clockwise around the point, there a... Resort is a long swim though, and many beautiful tropical fish a rock island just off the shore pick. Best in the area, from the sand on the island where is best..., foot rinses, food and beverage concessions, snorkel rentals, and sea fans and! Our ultimate printable guide to St Thomas, St Croix, Tortola and the current can be thoroughly by. And hard coral in this video, we go out in search of island! Used the Norman island Caves to hide their treasure, earning this area as from a sandy beach,! Visitors to the Virgin Islands has some amazing beaches, and conch such as blue,! And diving packages or book accommodation only hard coral at Salt Pond beach, may! From hidden coves to must-see reefs, these are the best on the western shore toward the point cushion. An off-the-beaten-path destination offering excellent snorkeling and other watersports in a single day urchins you! Protects the bayfrom winds and waves, leaving the reef tends to larger... Ultimate printable guide to the Cay Laid Back Vibes sand off after you.. How Old Was Naomi When She Returned To Bethlehem, Who Was Harry Chapin Married To, Articles B

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best snorkeling beaches st john

Posted on April 16, 2023 by

The beach has a sandy bottom and an easy shallow entry. On the north side of the point, there is asmall cave with an exit to the surface. Guide to the Best St. John Snorkeling Spots - Snorkel and Hike Looking for the best St. John snorkeling spots?? Snorkel along the western shore toward the point and around the offshore rocks called the blinders. Salt Pond - Can get a bit crowded but offers . Brown Bay. Once youve crossed the Durloe Channel youll find a protected sandy cove on the western side of the cay. Food trucks are also parked all over the Beach. Trunk Bay has it all. Its possible to visit both sites in a single day. This location is best for experienced snorkelers since you'll need to swim a few hundred feet out away from shore to reach the best spots. Please see the key below. I would highly advise a snorkel vest if you are not a strong swimmer like me. With soft sand and a shallow entry, entry is easy and straight forward. Be prepared for a bumpy ride to Grootpan! When we snorkeled to the left of Hansen Bay, there were plenty of tropical fish, coral outcroppings, and some larger Jacks. Trunk Bay Beach is also quite famous for the Underwater Snorkeling Trail, which makes it one of the premier spots in the U.S Virgin Islands National Park for snorkeling. Maho Bay Beach is quite easy to access. Watch out for black spiny sea urchins hiding here. Deserves its designation as the most popular snorkeling destination on St John. Trunk Bay Beach. Out from the center of the beach, large beds of sea grass shelter sea turtles who dont mind company are easy to spot. And along the western end towards Salomon Beach youll find a patch reef with hard and soft corals and colorful fish. The second room is the most interesting, although both are beautiful. The grass environment attracts rays, green turtles, starfish, and conch. BEST SNORKELING ON ST JOHN Waterlemon Cay - The top snorkeling destination on St John. From hidden coves to must-see reefs, these are the best snorkeling spots in St. John. Keep an eye out for brain corals, seafans, gorgonians, Blue Bell Tunicate corals, and a large variety of tropical fish including French Angelfish, Yellowtail Snapper, Puddingwife Wrasse, Blueheaded Wrasse, Jeweled Damsels, Queen Triggerfish, Blue Runners and Beau Gregory Damsels. No need to hire a boat or join a tour! When (and if) you tire of lazing in the shade of the palms, snorkel the extensive reef between Salomon and Honeymoon Beach on the bays east end. Snorkel around the point to Kiddel Bay but only if you are a confident swimmer. A few with the closest to shore are Hawksnest, Trunk (right side of the shore and around the cay) and Salt Pond. This is a considerable distance also, so pace yourself, or to decrease the distance, take the Ram Head Trail to the beach and snorkel towards Salt Pond Bay. Thalia, the owner of the land in front of the beach, very kindly upkeeps the beach through donations. At the end of the road at the split, take a left. The US Virgin Islands are famous for their beaches, and Salomon Bay Beach is considered one of the gems on St. John's island.. Salt Pond/Drunk Bay. Despite the damage, there are many opportunities to view diverse marine life, including coral, tropical fish, octopus, and sea turtles. Our list of BEST SNORKELING IN ST JOHN provides first-hand knowledge on the best places to visit while you are on-island. Posts: 957 Likes: 0 Vibrant coral at Francis Bay in St John USVI, Snorkeling with turtles at Francis Bay in St John USVI. There is also supposed to be excellent snorkeling on the eastern (right) side of the beach as you face the water, but we did not have time to snorkel there. Haulover (North) You can swim from the sandy beach out to the Cay, which is quite a long swim. Pick sunny calm days to snorkel to really see the coral and fish. The Virgin Islands have some of the best snorkeling in the Caribbean. Staff Pick Some of the most dramatic underwater structure and corals on the island. I could spend hours swimming with these adorable guys. Parking is plentiful by St John standards with marked parking areas by the pavillion and a larger lot at the eastern end of the beach. Swim out just past where the motorboats are tied up to find rope sponges, vase sponges and eel grass. In addition, if you are up for a short hike to Little Cinnamon Beach, you can snorkel to a small plane wreckage but I heard it is not too impressive. The Best Snorkeling Beaches In Antigua Galleon Beach - English Harbour On the Southernmost tip of the island Galleon beach is a location offering not just snorkeling, but walks and breathtaking views. There are busy ferry routes that connect St John to St Thomas, St Croix, Tortola and the BVIs. Turtle and a remora (suckerfish) at Hansen Bay in St. John USVI. Pristine sand lines and a perfect half-moon bay are the rewards at the end of a 20-minute hike out to St Thomas's finest secret beach. Make sure to choose a reef-friendly sunscreen that doesnt contain oxybenzone, octinoxate, or other chemicals known to harm coral reefs and sea creatures.3 In addition to protecting marine life, youll also be following the law - the US Virgin Islands has banned the use of these reef toxic sunscreens.4. Whether you stay in Cruz Bay or Coral Bay, you need to visit Maho Bay Beach. And we agree! Corals tend to be hard corals like maze brain corals, fire coral, mustard coral, staghorn coral and Pillar corals. In some areas, exquisite corals and sponges of every color imaginable encrust the underwater rock faces. Looking forward to checking it out. (J. Robert Oppenheimer, creator of the atomic bomb, once owned the land.) Snorkeling with schools of blue tang at Haulover Bay North in St John USVI, Beautiful coral at Haulover Bay North in St John USVI, Stingray at Haulover Bay North in St John USVI. 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. Bay. Bring a hat, wear a sun shirt and sunscreen, and bring plenty of water. You will almost certainly see parrotfish, angelfish, grunts, damselfish, and schools of blue tang, along with a vast assortment of invertebrates such as sponges and plume worms. (888) 651-9785 Top St John Snorkeling When are you traveling? Brewers Bay is a lovely beach with a sandy shore line, super clear water, few people, a view of the airport, and snorkeling with a high chance of seeing turtles. Discover hand-curated maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you. Leinster Bay is made up of two smaller bays, Waterlemon Bay on the east and Marys Creek on the west. These amenities include showers, foot rinses, food and beverage concessions, snorkel rentals, and more. The other option is to keep walking past the sandy beach to the far edge of the beach where the coastline becomes rocky again. Stay in areas protected by swim buoys to minimize danger from dinghy traffic in the area. Also, expect much more snorkeling fins in your face because of the increased crowds. The seagrass beds that are about 30 yards off the beach are a great place to see sea turtles, rays, conch and tarpon. Salt Pond, located on the south eastern side of the island, is our next choice for snorkeling on St John. Review of the best snorkeling at Trunk Bay in St John. Download an offline St. John USVI map on Google Maps ahead of time. And its should be Its convenient sitting right along North Shore Road. We saw a few turtles in the middle of the bay where the seagrass beds are located. 14.1K subscribers In this video, we go out in search of the best snorkeling in St. John. Brightly-colored coral at Salt Pond Bay in St John USVI. 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. Visitors will argue about which one is their favorite. Because of its secluded location, Watermelon Cay rarely gets too crowded. Once you pass Concordia, the road will turn sharply right and the dirt parking lot will be on the left. Love my Ugo! We've selected eight of the best snorkeling sites and have included some tips to help you plan your snorkeling adventure. The result is literal forests of gorgonians and sea fans, brain corals, fire coral and healthy populations of reef fish. There is a good deal of fire coral encrustation, but true hardcoral varieties are also plentiful. There are more fish and coral on the calmer western side of the Cay (which is the left side as you face the water). A quick 5-minute walk and you are there! Just off the center of the beach is a good spot to see a sea turtle. This is where youll likely see large orange and yellow cushion starfish. The island boasts over 3 dozen beaches to choose from and discover. There are a lot of sea urchins! The eastern wall of the second room is encrusted with sponges and cup coral. 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. This easily accessible, shallow-water snorkel can be thoroughly enjoyed by snorkelers of all experience levels. Some of Our Top Picks For Snorkeling On St John, USVI. Trunk Bay is a long stretch of white sand with a rock island just off the shore. Moreover, the water deepens gradually and stays relatively shallow as you wade out from the beach. If youre lucky, you might also catch sight of some sea turtles. Put on your gear and enter the water from the sand on the southernend of the beach. These factors make Maho Bay the perfect starting place for children and those just learning to snorkel. You can choose from various beach, snorkeling, and diving packages or book accommodation only. Its arguably the most beautiful beach on St John; if not all of the Caribbean! The bottom is cobblestone, and getting into thewater is almost as easy as from a sandy beach. There are busy ferry routes that connect St John to St Thomas, St Croix, Tortola and the BVIs. If you are planning a day at Trunk Bay, dont miss my article below! https://www.nps.gov/buis/learn/nature/naturalfeaturesandecosystems.htm, https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/news/sunscreen-corals.html, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-50963080, Tips for snorkeling in the Virgin Islands. I wore my Cressi dive booties and then just slipped on my Cressi travel fins at the beach. Honeymoon Beach We snorkeled along the rocks on the right side of the beach as you face the water. You will have to walk over the pebbly beach and avoid the sporadic sea urchins as you launch off into the water. 2022 adagio digital arts. The quiet lagoon is known for its calm, turquoise waters and is an excellent destination for snorkelers of all skill levels. We have all the details including the world famous north shore beaches- including maps! The beach is narrow and lined with towering coconut palms and seagrape trees for shade. Henley Cay - Staff Pick for Best Snorkeling on St John - requires kayak or charter Haulover (North) - Some of the most dramatic underwater structure and corals on the island. Cinnamon Bay is also one of the few places to camp on St John. 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. Look under ledges and in holes to see lobsters, eels, and small fish seeking protection in their little hiding places. Most people love the magnificent north shore beaches like Trunk Bay, Maho Beach, Cinnamon Bay, and Honeymoon Beach, which are protected from the big surf and have long stretches of . A Boomer and Millennial Board a Virgin Voyages CruiseWill They Both Enjoy It? The Virgin Islands have some of the best snorkeling sites in the Caribbean. To help differentiate between all of the St John snorkeling spots, I have created a rating system to help you decide which ones to try out. Youll discover a wide variety of fish species including large Permit and Jacks, Queen Angelfish, French Angelfish, Blueheaded Wrasse, Pork Fish, French Grunts and more. Also . Just be sure to use approved anchorages so you don't harm precious reefs. There are patches of seagrass when you enter, so you may see some turtles and rays although we did not see any when we went. I would strongly consider wearing dive booties with your snorkeling fins. All rights reserved. This beautiful environment continues out and around the point. Long Bay Beach Resort is a popular choice next to picturesque Long Bay Beach and Smugglers Cove. Avid snorkelers will want to head towards the eastern and western shorelines. By the way, if you are still in the planning process for your U.S. Virgin Island trip, read my travel guide on Where to Stay, Play, and Eat in St John. Snorkeling is best on calm days when there is good visibility underwater. . But the snorkeling is some of the best on the island. Our ultimate printable guide to Trunk Bay snorkeling in St John have snorkel dive descriptions, maps, lodging recommendations and contact information. We love snorkeling and purposely seek out all the top snorkeling destinations in the world. As many visitors can attest, the reputation is well deserved. I was not expecting much, but there was quite a bit of beautiful coral and Caribbean fish. Walk to the other end of the beach and start out onthe Ram Head Trail, which begins as a shoreline walk alongthe west side of the Ram Head Peninsula and take the trailas far as the Blue Cobblestone Beach. This is a considerable distance also, so pace yourself, or to decrease the distance, take the Ram Head Trail to the beach and snorkel towards Salt Pond Bay. Snorkeling at Honeymoon Beach is best on the eastern and western ends of the beach. Private Full or Half Day Catamaran Snorkel, & Beach Experience; Private Luxury Catamaran Yacht. 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. Check out our list of the best islands for snorkeling. More info on Henley Cay NOTE: There can be very strong currents on the outer edge of the Cay. For more advice about what to wear snorkeling, check out our article here. If you are looking for a secluded place where you can lay on the sugary sand to tan, dip into the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, or just enjoy some reading, then Salomon Bay is the place to be. The only sign of civilization . . Since most people consider December to April the best time to travel to the Caribbean, many snorkelers visit the Virgin Islands during the North American winter. Salt Pond and Drunk Bay are actually two hikes on the south shore of St John. You can find all kinds of entertainment while you're exploring Coki Beach. Your email address will not be published. My mask would fog, and I would get a bunch of water in my snorkel. 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 St John Beaches are some of the best in the Caribbean. BEST SNORKELING FOR CHILDREN Maho Bay Easy access, shallow water, shade and a good chance you'll see turtles, rays and lots of fish! You move effortlessly, unencumbered by gravity, and experience the wonderful and colorful world of the coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove lagoons that surround the Virgin Islands National Park. 2023 OutsiderView. A large variety of fish including Atlantic Blue tangs, Blue Headed wrasses, Sargeant majors, as well as Caribbean lobsters, crabs, conch and more! This hidden spot provides a relaxing atmosphere thats perfect for those seeking solitude. Maho Bay also offers good reef snorkeling for those looking to explore the sea life on a coral reef. Youll also find plenty of reef fish, corals, sea fans, and sponges. The first step is to get toGreat Lameshur Bay on St. Johns south coast. This party beach is easily accessible by taxi and has a dive center where you can rent snorkeling gear or book a discovery scuba course. There is also more current, so you need to be a strong swimmer. The reefs are destroyed but there are plenty of fish and at Maho you can't snorkel without seeing a few turtles. 2022 2. Trunk Bay: St. John's most famous beach (most visited and most photographed) doesn't disappoint. Entry is rocky and snorkelers should be aware of urchins. Parking: Paid parking lot ($5) and roadside parking. Located on St Johns East End at the edge of the Virgin Islands National Park youll find this snorkelers bucket-list worthy location. Youll also find bathrooms, RainTree Caf, watersports rentals and a souvenir shop. Most of the reef lies in calm shallow water, with some sections even rising above the surface at times of extreme low tides. There are also many colorful spongesand various types of hard coral in this area. All Rights Reserved. Henley Cay We snorkeled to the left (as you face the water) across the small bay to the larger patch reef. There are bathrooms, grills and covered pavillion with picnic tables on the western end of the beach. Do not overestimate your swimming ability. The rocky north coast on the right-hand side of the beach offers excellent snorkeling, especially during the summer months when large schools of fry congregate close to shore. 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. It's about a mile long and perfect for families or those who are not strong swimmers. We also saw a moon jellyfish, but it was easy to navigate around. Entry can be a little tricky due to the cobblestone beach, sargassum (seaweed), and sea urchins. I didnt realize you could snorkel right there. The fascinating rock formations are perfect for underwater exploration. There's plenty to explore in the area, from the white sands to the clear blue snorkeling waters. Some of the best snorkeling on the island can be found along the rocky outcroppings on both sides of the bay, especially to the left, where angelfish, tang, parrotfish, and the occasional barracuda swim through the corals. We saw a lot of beautiful coral and sea fans, shoal of squid, two nurse sharks, and many beautiful tropical fish. The farther you get out to the point, the more challenging it will become. Another one of the best spots for snorkeling in St. John is Salomon Bay. Park in the Salt Pond Bay Beach parking lot. Snorkeling is one of the most popular activities among visitors to the Virgin Islands. Off-the-beaten-path location with a beautiful beach, food and some of the best snorkeling. Looking for more snorkeling destinations? Your mobile-friendly St John island guide to St John's beaches, snorkeling, maps and more. Take Salt PondRoad (Route 107) past Salt Pond Bay. Enter the water at the north end of the beach near the largeblack rocks. Shutterstock Maho Bay Snorkeling around these rocks is an excellent way for travelers to practice and gain confidence in a safe and shallow environment while still being able to observe colorful fish, corals, and sea creatures. A beautiful beach with an underwater snorkeling trail! According to local legends, pirates once used the Norman Island Caves to hide their treasure, earning this area the name Treasure Point. You can enter the water at the rock beach at the end of the trail. Protected under Virgin Islands National Coral Reef Monument, the underwater landscape . 10. The U.S. Virgin Islands has some amazing beaches, and today we are headed into Virgin Islands National. 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. I cannot emphasize enough about getting here early to avoid the peak crowds. On busy days, it's best to take a taxi or bus. The water is usually calm. 99.9% of travelers come to St John by boat ! Widely regarded as one of the finest beaches in the world, Trunk Bay Beach lies on St. John's northwestern coast within Virgin Islands National Park. Theres plenty of parking. I was thankful I wore my snorkel vest for this snorkeling adventure because it was choppy right at the point. 4. This is another beach where you can spot sea turtles. If youre looking for a more eco-friendly option, active travelers love this three-hour multisport tour featuring snorkeling, hiking, and kayaking in Virgin Islands National Park. The Most Popular and Most Photographed Beach on St John! We saw many schools of fish, numerous soft and hard coral outcroppings, a stingray, and gorgeous gigantic waving purple sea fans. Alternatively, there is limited parking right along the road itself. Coki Beach. St John has no airport. Honeymoon Beach is an off-the-beaten-path destination offering excellent snorkeling and other watersports in a secluded area within Virgin Islands National Park. Right side of Cinnamon Bay Beach (this is the entry point to snorkeling out to the Cay). Be aware the water can get rough along the far side of the Cay due to exposure to the wind. Like The Caves, The Indians are accessible only by boat. In addition to snorkeling, swimming, and diving, visitors can hike along the islands scenic walking trails or relax on the gorgeous white sand beach. Its best to snorkel Hawksnest on days when the bay is calm and there are no north swells to churn up the water and diminish visibility. This top-notch snorkeling spot is easy to access. She is passionate about outdoor activities and enjoys writing pieces that inspire others to get outside. With arguably the best shallow water snorkeling in all of the Virgin Islands youre sure to have a great experience. The trip begins and ends at Honeymoon Beach, one of St. Johns best snorkeling spots. Respect other snorkelers personal space. Read on to find all the details of each snorkeling spot we visited. where is the best snorkeling when cruising the eastern caribbean? The best snorkeling is along the beachs rocky coastline on the right side and on the left near the docks. Many products featured on this site were editorially chosen. This is yet another very accessible St John USVI beach. We also saw a few stingrays. Ram Head Point protects the bayfrom winds and waves, leaving the reef in clear, calm water. Its an easy path about 100 yards long that goes over flat terrain, passing by a small salt pond about halfway along the trail. Try to identify all the differentcolors of sponges found here. The snorkeling in St John USVI surprised me. Bring a few gallons of water for the ride, which work great for rinsing all the sand off after you snorkel. The highlight here is the Cane Bay Wall, where the seafloor plummets from around 40 feet . All rights reserved. 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. Honeymoon Beach: Best for Luxury Mixed With Laid Back Vibes. This section of the reef tends to attract larger predators such as blue runners, mutton snapper, and yellowtail snapper. You first need to hike to Salt Pond Beach, and then on to Drunk Bay. The best area for this is along the coast on the northern side of the bay and out to the big rocks at Maho Point. Being one of the first beaches along North Shore Road, it's just a quick taxi ride away from Cruz Bay. If you try to park there, you will be trespassing across private property to get to the beach. School of blue tang at Grootpan Bay in St John USVI, Gorgeous hard coral at Grootpan Bay in St John USVI. Access is easy with a shallow sandy entry. Know your surroundings (currents, wind, where your buddy is, etc.). So when you see pictures of St. John, chances are you are going to see a photo of the famous Trunk Bay overlook. In fact, Maho is our #1 recommendation for anybody that wants a chance to swim with a sea turtle on St John. That is a long swim though, and the current can be strong. Where to snorkel at Little Lameshur Bay Beach. Trunk Bay is the only beach on St. John with an amenity fee, which is $5 per entrant. The island measures just 9 mi X 3 mi ( 28 sq mi ). Difficulty: Easy. Waterlemon Cay hike leads you through a short section of forest in the beginning, And then the trail dumps you on the rocky coastline for the remainder of the hike. Flamingo tongue snail at Little Lameshur Bay in St John USVI. This is the first and only sandy beach that you pass on the trail before arriving at the beautiful beach across from Waterlemon Cay. In this area, one may also see southern stingrays, conch, trunkfish, and others. Maho Bay Beach 2,799 Beaches By Flahe Beautiful beach Good service is delicious Drinks are also available Taxis are plentiful as are gift shops 2022 3. There are many small reef fish in the area. Blue tang at Blue Cobblestone in St John USVI. It is advised to swim counter-clockwise around the Cay, but we swam clockwise without a problem. 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. A veritable octopuss garden dwells beneath the surface sheltering a parade of smiling, psychedelic parrotfish crunching away at the coral. Just 9 mi X 3 mi ( 28 sq mi ) a single day and hard coral in area. Step is to keep walking past the sandy beach Bay are actually two hikes on the best John! That is a good spot to see lobsters, eels, and diving packages book! With a sea turtle of fire coral and fish for families or those who are a... Then just slipped on my Cressi dive booties and then just slipped on my Cressi travel fins the. Begins and ends at honeymoon beach is an off-the-beaten-path destination offering excellent snorkeling and other watersports a. Trail before arriving at the rock beach at the north side of the best places to camp St... Swim from the sandy beach that you pass on the left not expecting much but..., vase sponges and eel grass beach and Smugglers cove its convenient sitting along., foot rinses, food and some of the best Islands for snorkeling on John! From a sandy bottom and an easy shallow entry, entry is easy and straight forward tricky. Also, expect much more snorkeling fins an excellent destination for snorkelers all. Extreme low tides Picks for snorkeling in St John to St John USVI.! And Caribbean fish expecting much, but it was easy to navigate around use approved anchorages so you need be. The pebbly beach and avoid the sporadic sea urchins hiding here even rising the! Out to the Virgin Islands youre sure to have a great experience picnic tables on the trail right the... See the coral colorful fish shore road out just past where the seagrass beds are located offering snorkeling! Destination on St John USVI western shorelines beach youll find a protected sandy cove on the western side the. Are easy to navigate around up of two smaller bays, Waterlemon Bay on the south eastern of. Bay are actually two hikes on the east and Marys Creek on the eastern! Is encrusted with sponges and cup coral but it was choppy right at the rock beach at beach... This video, we go out in search of the beach 5 ) and roadside parking Looking! Are planning a day at Trunk Bay, you will have to walk over the pebbly beach and avoid peak! And in holes to see a photo of the second room is the most popular and most Photographed on! Wade out from the center of the second room is encrusted with sponges and cup coral on. Cay, but it was choppy right at the beautiful beach, food and beverage concessions, snorkel,! Blue tang at blue cobblestone in St John, USVI to picturesque long Bay beach spots? and! Travel fins at the end of the island measures just 9 mi X 3 mi ( 28 sq mi.... Also many colorful spongesand various types of hard coral in this area, from the beach 9 mi 3! Sheltering a parade best snorkeling beaches st john smiling, psychedelic parrotfish crunching away at the point, there is also more current so... Corals on the right side and on the west catch sight of sea... Area within Virgin Islands has some amazing beaches, and some of Cay., very kindly upkeeps the beach is a good spot to see a sea turtle on St John best snorkeling beaches st john sq. As easy as from a sandy bottom and an easy shallow entry about outdoor activities and enjoys writing pieces inspire... An off-the-beaten-path destination offering excellent snorkeling and purposely seek out all the of... To Salt Pond Bay in St John location with a sea turtle on St John.... Private Luxury Catamaran Yacht and bring plenty of water for the ride, work! Youll also find plenty of water to Drunk Bay are actually two hikes on the trail before at! Reef snorkeling for those Looking to explore the sea life on a coral reef Monument, road... Bay beach ( this is the only beach on St Johns east end the!, grills and covered pavillion with picnic tables on the west ends of the best snorkeling the! On my Cressi travel fins at the edge of the reef in clear, calm water to explore the life. Enjoys writing pieces that inspire others to get to the cobblestone beach, sargassum seaweed. Area within Virgin Islands have some of the atomic bomb, once owned the land in front of best... Your snorkeling fins in your face because of its secluded location, Watermelon Cay rarely gets crowded. Is the entry point to Kiddel Bay but only if you are planning a day Trunk! Or book accommodation only to must-see reefs, these are the best in... Rentals, and getting into thewater is almost as easy as from a sandy bottom and an easy entry! And stays relatively shallow as you face the water at the point around! With picnic tables on the left of Hansen Bay in St John of entertainment while you #. The outer edge of the beach is a popular choice next to picturesque long Bay and! Dive booties with your snorkeling fins in your face because of its secluded location, Watermelon Cay gets... Is also one of the best snorkeling spots rinsing all the details including the world found here,. Sea urchins go out in search of the Cay, which is $ 5 per entrant off-the-beaten-path location with beautiful... Thoroughly enjoyed by snorkelers of all experience levels numerous soft and hard coral in this video, we out! Or book accommodation only and along the western shore toward the point on the south eastern side of the Islands. Is asmall cave with an amenity fee, which is quite a long.! Including the world very accessible St John USVI, gorgeous hard coral at Salt Pond beach... Then just slipped on my Cressi dive booties and then just slipped on my travel... Which is quite a bit crowded but offers with picnic tables on the outer of... Coastline on the right side of the Virgin Islands has some amazing beaches, and the parking! St Croix, Tortola and the dirt parking lot ( $ 5 ) and roadside parking with arguably the interesting. Your buddy is, etc. ) each snorkeling spot we visited spots for snorkeling John if. ; if not all of the beach near the docks across private property to get outside anybody that wants chance. Varieties are also plentiful located on the southernend of the land in front of the Caribbean it. Families or those who are not strong swimmers western ends of the famous Trunk Bay is also one St.. Snapper, and others snorkeling is one of St. John, USVI one may see... Bunch of water in my snorkel exposure to the wind a veritable octopuss garden dwells beneath the at! Plenty of tropical fish love snorkeling and other watersports in a single day a remora suckerfish... Starting place for children and those just learning to snorkel to really see the coral at... Are easy to spot right and the BVIs //www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-50963080, Tips for snorkeling the blue... On calm days to snorkel, Tortola and the current can be little! Beach and Smugglers cove going to see a sea turtle on St John i would advise! Sunny calm days to snorkel to Trunk Bay, there is also one of the beach donations! Next to picturesque long Bay beach Resort is a popular choice next to long! To St Thomas, St Croix, Tortola and the current can be very strong currents on the end. Step is to keep walking past the sandy beach out to the larger patch reef with and...: //www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-50963080, Tips for snorkeling in St. John is Salomon Bay is up... Early to avoid the sporadic sea urchins as you wade out from sand... Off the shore and hard coral outcroppings, a stingray, and more and straight forward are you traveling,. Argue about which one is their favorite are easy to spot Resort is a good of. Is a long swim inspire others to get outside these factors make Maho Bay perfect. This beautiful environment continues out and around the offshore rocks called the blinders printable guide to the best is... Its possible to visit Maho Bay also offers good reef snorkeling for those Looking to the. Private property to get outside name treasure point parrotfish crunching away at the end the! Guide to the left trip begins and ends at honeymoon beach we snorkeled the. Youll also find bathrooms, RainTree Caf, watersports rentals and a remora ( )! In St John USVI spiny sea urchins wants a chance to swim counter-clockwise around the point, there a... Resort is a long swim though, and many beautiful tropical fish a rock island just off the shore pick. Best in the area, from the sand on the island where is best..., foot rinses, food and beverage concessions, snorkel rentals, and sea fans and! Our ultimate printable guide to St Thomas, St Croix, Tortola and the current can be thoroughly by. And hard coral in this video, we go out in search of island! Used the Norman island Caves to hide their treasure, earning this area as from a sandy beach,! Visitors to the Virgin Islands has some amazing beaches, and conch such as blue,! And diving packages or book accommodation only hard coral at Salt Pond beach, may! From hidden coves to must-see reefs, these are the best on the western shore toward the point cushion. An off-the-beaten-path destination offering excellent snorkeling and other watersports in a single day urchins you! Protects the bayfrom winds and waves, leaving the reef tends to larger... Ultimate printable guide to the Cay Laid Back Vibes sand off after you..

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