Do not overestimate your swimming ability. The reefs are destroyed but there are plenty of fish and at Maho you can't snorkel without seeing a few turtles. Snorkel out along the east coast toward the point. You can find all kinds of entertainment while you're exploring Coki Beach. The satellite view was too cloudy, so I included this map instead. Some of the most popular snorkeling spots include Hansen Bay Beach, Hawksnest Beach, Maho Bay Beach, and Salt Pond Beach. Its a Must-See on many visitors STJ Bucket List. This is where youll likely see large orange and yellow cushion starfish. To reach Waterlemon Bay, which has two great snorkeling locations, take the Leinster Bay Trail, beginning at the parking area for the Annaberg Sugar Mill Ruins. We love snorkeling and purposely seek out all the top snorkeling destinations in the world. This blog post contains affiliate links from Viator and TripAdvisor, which means we receive a small commission on any sales made via those links. School of blue tang at Grootpan Bay in St John USVI, Gorgeous hard coral at Grootpan Bay in St John USVI. Among other cool stuff, Ive seen moray eels, turtles, nurse sharks, and squid. Snorkelers can encounter intricate coral formations and lots of marine life, with different varieties arriving at different times of the day. A quarter-mile hike androck scramble along the western shore of Cabritte Horn Pointwill take you to a remote and isolated coral rubble and sandbeach called Donkey Bight. This beautiful environment continues out and around the point. The road heads west andgoes up and then down a steep hill. This top-notch snorkeling spot is easy to access. 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. This created an incredibly frustrating experience. Love my Ugo! The reef rises up close to the surface near the shore and then slopes down to a depth of about thirty feet. Although we did not see any turtles and stingrays, they are often spotted due to the presence of seagrass beds. Scrawled filefish can sometimes be seen making their way along the bottom hunting for food. Snorkel in the middle of the bay (but more towards the right) to see turtles and rays hanging out in the seagrass. The fry is extremely sensitive to minute changes in water currents and can sense the approach of the hunters. On the north side of the point, there is asmall cave with an exit to the surface. Guests can enjoy recently upgraded eco-tents or cottage accommodations; and wake up to the beauty of Cinnamon Bay each day! We have all the details including the world famous north shore beaches- including maps! There are also many different types of coral, including grooved brain coral and pillar coral. 01- Salt Pond Bay 02- Waterlemon Cay 03- Maho Bay Beach 04- Haulover Bay North 05- Hansen Bay Beach 06- Trunk Bay Beach 07- Cinnamon Bay Beach 08- Blue Cobblestone Beach 09- Little Lameshur Bay Beach 10- Grootpan Bay Beach 11- Francis Bay Beach Snorkeling gear Top snorkel tips Final thoughts St John Snorkeling Rating System We just returned from there again in July of 2018. Knowing the correct snorkeling techniques, understanding the St. Johns undersea environment, and being able to identify and know about what you will see in this strange new world can greatly enhance your enjoyment of the sport, as well as alert you to any possible safety or environmental concerns. There are a lot of sea urchins! These rocks are encrusted with mustard-yellowfire coral, which is very attractive but can give snorkelersa mild sting if touched. Be aware the far side of the Cay can have strong currents. Whether you stay in Cruz Bay or Coral Bay, you need to visit Maho Bay Beach. Private charters are a great way to see numerous islands and snorkel in diverse places in a single day. Swim out just past where the motorboats are tied up to find rope sponges, vase sponges and eel grass. About halfway (0.4 miles) down the Leinster Bay Trail lies a small sand and coral rubble beach, which provides excellent snorkeling for intermediate and advanced snorkelers. There are busy ferry routes that connect St John to St Thomas, St Croix, Tortola and the BVIs. Love my. On most days, waves break along the shoreline and over the shallow reef, so try to choose a day when the sea is calm, and the water is not churned up. Snorkeling at Honeymoon Beach is best on the eastern and western ends of the beach. MAHO BAY BEACH It's a top spot to go snorkeling in St John from the beach. Porcupine fish at Little Lameshur Bay in St John USVI. 14 Best St. John Beaches. , Williams, Jeff and Ria OHagan. Right side of Cinnamon Bay Beach (this is the entry point to snorkeling out to the Cay). Really good snorkeling is just off the start of the path to watermelon cave, just past the road. We saw so many turtles I lost count. That is why you will get to see some of the best spots. You can see many large, purple sea fans and other gorgonians, as well as hard corals, such as star, elkhorn, and brain coral. Its arguably the most beautiful beach on St John; if not all of the Caribbean! Follow East End Road beyond Coral Bay. There are a lot of rocks to navigate over and sea urchins to avoid. 2022 2. 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. To get to it youll need to visit by charter or kayak tour. Deserves its designation as the most popular snorkeling destination on St John. Snorkeling in the center of the bay can also be a worthwhile experience. TRUNK BAY BEACH That aforementioned place is also one of the best spots for buying souvenirs because of the beach shop there. 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. You are exposed to the full sun. Discover hand-curated maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you. Looking for the best St. John snorkeling spots?? Every now and then, one of these larger fish will enter to feed, moving quickly into the glittery mass. In fact, Hurricane Hole has been my favorite snorkel spot in the US Virgin Islands since moving here! Ivette - Jul 21, 2018 - St John July 2018 We were in St John back in July of 2016 and the beauty of the island and reefs was wonderful. There is a small fringe forest of mangroves along the coast. With soft sand and a shallow entry, entry is easy and straight forward. The water is usually calm. The thin yellow tentacles protruding from the small bright orange cups make the corals look like flowers. When we first visited, we accidentally drove into the Concordia Resort. Snorkeling equipment, as well as single and double kayaks, standup paddle boards, and beach chairs can be rented at the Honeymoon Beach Hut. We saw many schools of fish, numerous soft and hard coral outcroppings, a stingray, and gorgeous gigantic waving purple sea fans. Enter the water at the north end of the beach near the largeblack rocks. Thalia, the owner of the land in front of the beach, very kindly upkeeps the beach through donations. Be aware the water can get rough along the far side of the Cay due to exposure to the wind. This private speedboat charter from St. Thomas is a top pick that will take you snorkeling at the prime spots in the USVI and BVI. I would highly advise wearing tennis shoes or water shoes since you are navigating over rocks and a dirt path. Because of its secluded location, Watermelon Cay rarely gets too crowded. 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. The award-winning resort has an onsite dive center with watersport rentals, snorkeling gear, and guided excursions. This snorkeling spot is best for intermediate to advanced snorkelers since the current can be stronger than in other areas. There are more fish and coral on the calmer western side of the Cay (which is the left side as you face the water). Parking is catch-as-catch-can along the left hand side. This beach has many shaded areas and large areas of seagrass bed. The beach at Haulover North is mostly coral rubble. Out from the center of the beach, large beds of sea grass shelter sea turtles who dont mind company are easy to spot. Trunk Bay Beach - One of the Globe's Best Description. 1. Always snorkel with a buddy and never exceed your physical ability or experience. . 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. Respect other snorkelers personal space. Neltjeberg Bay lies on the far side of a thick tangle of bush - including wild-growing pineapple and guava - to the west of the more accessible Dorothea Beach. It's an iconic photo of the beach, the north shore of St. John, and the British Virgin Islands stretching out in the distance. Snorkel along the western shore toward the point and around the offshore rocks called the blinders. 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. You'll find underwater signage that helps you identify the common fish and coral in front of you. St Johns most popular, most photographed, and most visited beach is Trunk Bay. A small island can be seen in the middle of the water near Trunk Bay Beach. Copyright 2023 Islands. The best snorkeling is on the western side of the bay (left side of the bay as you face the water). Questions about the St John snorkeling sites we visited? The St John Beaches are some of the best in the Caribbean. 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 . 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. The best snorkeling is on the left side of Grootpan Bay as you face the water. To the right facing the water, there is a formation of black rocks that separates Hawksnest Beach from Gibney Beach. Honeymoon Beach is an off-the-beaten-path destination offering excellent snorkeling and other watersports in a secluded area within Virgin Islands National Park. To reduce your risk of sunburn and damage from UV rays, wear a rash guard and other clothing with a UPF factor of at least 30 and use sunscreen on any exposed skin. Shutterstock Maho Bay The beach is rocky and there are often spiny sea urchins lurking in the shallow water at the shore, so step carefully. Download an offline St. John USVI map on Google Maps ahead of time. Terri Clemmons photos. Some of the finest snorkeling on the north shore area of the Virgin Islands National Park can be found on the reef between Salomon Bay and Honeymoon Beach. Vibrant coral at Francis Bay in St John USVI, Snorkeling with turtles at Francis Bay in St John USVI. Caneel Bay beach Shallow entry, calm waters and plenty to see close to shore. St John has no airport. 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. There are also many colorful spongesand various types of hard coral in this area. 2023 OutsiderView. Waterlemon Bay and Waterlemon Cay This bay (and the small island that sits in it) is one of our favorite spots to snorkel around St. John. Bring a few gallons of water for the ride, which work great for rinsing all the sand off after you snorkel. All rights reserved. A living aquarium waits just offshore, where vibrant coral reef swirls with a vivid palette of blue tang, damselfish, and sergeant majors. That is a long swim though, and the current can be strong. 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. 20-30 minutes. Where to snorkel at Little Lameshur Bay Beach. Virgin Islands National Park snorkeling trail and a lifeguards. I love to snorkel but. BEST SNORKELING ON ST JOHN Waterlemon Cay - The top snorkeling destination on St John. 2nd ed., Dive Guide BVI, 2010. The history of the land is rich and filled with unknown facts. 1. It is also the best place on St. John for numerous water sport based St John activities such as windsurfing, kayak, sailboat, snorkel equipment, beach chair and umbrella rentals. Jumbie Bay Beach. 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. Sunday is the ideal day to drive out to the south shore of St. John to partake in the waterfront jazz brunch at Miss Lucys Restaurant. It is located on the eastern end of the island along East End Road right past a sign that states you are leaving the Virgin Islands National Park. Continue driving on the bumpy, gravely, potholed road to reach the two Lameshur Bays. Thread Tools Search this Thread Mar 23rd, 2011, 12:40 PM #1 Jayneann. Put in Annaberg Sugar Plantation in GoogleMaps. Easy access, shallow water, shade and a good chance youll see turtles, rays and lots of fish! Jumbie Bay Beach is one of St. John's hidden gems. 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. The NPS actually has a great map showing where the reefs are along the beaches. With its secluded location, Brown Bay is considered the hidden gem of St. John. Here is a map of all 11 snorkeling sites we discovered during our 1-week exploration of St John USVI. These factors make Maho Bay the perfect starting place for children and those just learning to snorkel. Like many areas in the Virgin Islands, Smugglers Cove is still recovering from hurricanes Maria and Irma. Best Beaches on St John - Northwest Shore St John has many amazing beaches, all perfect for enjoying a sunny beach day. You first need to hike to Salt Pond Beach, and then on to Drunk Bay. We saw large schools of fish, beautiful hard and soft coral, and numerous colorful waving sea fans. There are many amenities, including a bar, restaurant, watersport rentals, dive shop, chairs, umbrellas, and more. Antigua's Long Bay is a great spot for boaters and water sports enthusiasts, but it's also a snorkeling paradise. Snorkeling is one of the most popular activities among visitors to the Virgin Islands. The dominant species of coral found in the shallow top reef are colonies of star and boulder coral. The walls and ceiling of the cave are covered with beautiful cup corals and sponges. Located at the eastern end of Leinster Bay, Watermelon Cay is known as the top snorkeling spot on St. John. Those are without a doubt the most popular beaches. Your mobile-friendly St John island guide to St John's beaches, snorkeling, maps and more. Snorkel gear and watersports equipment are available to rent at Honeymoon Beach, and there are various facilities, including a beach bar and grill. Snorkel around the Cay thats just off the beach. Cane Bay is a popular snorkeling and scuba diving site on St. Croix's north shore. The seagrass beds that are about 30 yards off the beach are a great place to see sea turtles, rays, conch and tarpon. We enjoyed excellent snorkeling around this cay. Sergeant major and school of French grunt fish at Cinnamon Bay in St John USVI. Go for the beach and not the snorkeling. On your left, you will notice a path through the woods that will lead you to Haulover Bay North. , Palau is first country to ban reef toxic sun cream. BBC News, 1 January 2020, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-50963080. Healthy elkhorn coral is found at most of USVI's reefs. , Skincare Chemicals and Coral Reefs. National Ocean Service, https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/news/sunscreen-corals.html. Once you pass Concordia, the road will turn sharply right and the dirt parking lot will be on the left. Private NEW Luxury Power Catamaran. Dont forget your waterproof snorkeling bag to keep your valuables safe. Its closer to the beach and smaller than the more extensive reef on the other side of the bay. Entry is not easy. Maho Bay is on everybodys favorite beach list. Once in the water head straight for across the narrow channel. Snorkeling at Trunk Bay Beach in St John USVI. Cinnamon Cay is located about 100 yards off the shore. This is a long-ish section due to big changes this year. If you make a purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. All rights reserved. Snorkeling at Maho Bay Beach is one of the reasons people love this locations. The area is protected as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and is rich with sea life. In the British Virgin Islands, the island of Tortola makes a great base for snorkelers. Rebecca lives next to the Adriatic Sea in Croatia, where she guides kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, and snorkeling tours. Salt Pond, located on the south eastern side of the island, is our next choice for snorkeling on St John. Its shoreline is a mix of wind-swept sand and pebbles. She also provides chairs, portable bathrooms, kayaks, and paddleboards. Haulover Bay lies three miles past the Coral Bay Moravian Church, going east on the East End Road (Route 10). This section of the reef tends to attract larger predators such as blue runners, mutton snapper, and yellowtail snapper. Dont forget your waterproof snorkeling bag to keep your valuables safe. After you park, walk down a dirt uneven path for about 7 minutes until you reach a beautiful crescent-shaped beach with gorgeous clear water. At the seaward edge of this reef is a channel of sandabout ten yards wide that separates the fringing reef from aneighboring patch reef farther offshore. You will have to walk over the pebbly beach and avoid the sporadic sea urchins as you launch off into the water. The Caves are accessible only by boat, so youll need to book a private charter or guided tour or visit with your own vessel. Yawzi Point The worst is when a snorkelers fins hit you in the face because of their lack of awareness of what is around them. The area can get crowded, so plan to arrive early for the best experience. 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. and an entrance fee. Virgin Islands Day Sailing: The best sailing/snorkeling trip ever! There are boats that dock in the bay, so it can be dangerous if you try to navigate around them. 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. The southern bay is calmer than its counterpart in the north, has an easier entry, and is more suitable for beginners and intermediate snorkelers. We snorkeled to the left (as you face the water) across the small bay to the larger patch reef. Snorkel around the point to Kiddel Bay but only if you are a confident swimmer. The water is shallow and has a sandy bottom. Zentacle has 12 dive sites, snorkel spots, beaches, and more. 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. Because the island is surrounded by fragile coral reef, swimming too closely to it is not advised. Start your adventures snorkeling the large reef on the left with its plentiful sea life, intriguing corals, and small shipwreck. If you take a right, you will reach the Annaberg Sugar Mill Ruins and the entrance to the trailhead for Waterlemon Cay. 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. The tropical inn is nestled among 18th-century Danish plantation ruins, overlooks Cruz Bay, and is just a short walk away from fantastic snorkeling at Honeymoon Beach and Caneel Bay. Maho Bay offers a chance to swim with sea turtles. Thanks so much for sharing! 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. We saw a lot of beautiful coral and sea fans, shoal of squid, two nurse sharks, and many beautiful tropical fish. Our ultimate printable guide to Trunk Bay snorkeling in St John have snorkel dive descriptions, maps, lodging recommendations and contact information. Check out our post about the best travel snorkel gear to find a quality snorkeling set that will fit in your suitcase. You will come to several splits in the poorly maintained road. where is the best snorkeling when cruising the eastern caribbean? More info on Haulover North NOTE: Conditions at Haulover North depend on wind and waves. Hawksnest Beach is the best snorkeling spot in the Virgin Islands National Park to observe beautiful elkhorn coral, which is still in fairly good condition. Maho Bay Beach is quite easy to access. Sail to St John National Park (the very best, least crowded beaches) where you will enjoy fantastic snorkeling & swimming stops, gourmet lunch, drinks, and great company! The marine life is incredible. I was actually pleasantly surprised by the quality of snorkeling here. Coki Beach is one of the most popular snorkeling spots in St. Thomas. Little damselfish defend their self-proclaimed territories by darting menacingly at even large intruders. Cinnamon Bay. 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. 5 Best Ways to Explore Hurricane Hole in Coral Bay, St. John. You might also see Nurse sharks ( non threatening / shy ) and some gems like black and white geometric tunicates and blue encrusting coral. Islands may receive financial compensation for products purchased through this site. 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. I like to wear dive booties with my snorkeling fins to offer a little more protection. I cannot emphasize enough about getting here early to avoid the peak crowds. 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. Off-the-beaten-path location with a beautiful beach, food and some of the best snorkeling. It is advised to swim counter-clockwise around the Cay, but we swam clockwise without a problem. To reach the northwestern section of Haulover Bay, take the trail on the other (north) side of the road. Every beach can be accessed by boat. And along the western end towards Salomon Beach youll find a patch reef with hard and soft corals and colorful fish. Planning a trip to St John in the U.S. Virgin Islands? Protected under Virgin Islands National Coral Reef Monument, the underwater landscape . Snorkeling in Hurricane Hole is a MUST do on any trip to St. John. 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. You can park in the large lot located directly across from the eastern side of the beach. On the Beehive Cove side of the point, the water gets deeper. The trailhead to Waterlemon Cay is at the coastline right near the parking lot. Full or Half Day Charter - Sail, Beach, Snorkel. Haulover (North) But the snorkeling is some of the best on the island. According to local legends, pirates once used the Norman Island Caves to hide their treasure, earning this area the name Treasure Point. Looking forward to checking it out. Guide to the Best St. John Snorkeling Spots - Snorkel and Hike Looking for the best St. John snorkeling spots?? Always snorkel with a buddy and never exceed your physical ability or experience. Be prepared for a more difficult return to the beach, as you will be going against the chop and the current. In the midst of all this activity, large schools of French grunts, oblivious to the drama around them, hover, almost motionless, over and around colorful live coral. We saw a few turtles in the middle of the bay where the seagrass beds are located. What I loved about snorkeling in St John was that all of our snorkeling spots could be accessed from the beach. The fascinating rock formations are perfect for underwater exploration. Those are just examples, nearly all of the beaches have close snorkeling. 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. . Bear left and follow the trail along the shoreline until youre at a point closest to the Cay. There's an underwater snorkel trail and you'll see some incredible coral and fish. The island measures just 9 mi X 3 mi ( 28 sq mi ). It's about a mile long and perfect for families or those who are not strong swimmers. Park near the big tamarindtree at the entrance to this large cobblestone beach. Different varieties arriving at different times of the beach through donations a stingray, and many beautiful tropical fish enjoying. North side of the beach shop there island of Tortola makes a way! ) to see turtles, nurse sharks, and Gorgeous gigantic waving purple sea,. The poorly maintained road western ends of the beach is mostly coral rubble satellite was. And school of blue tang at Grootpan Bay in St John USVI, Gorgeous hard coral in front of Bay... Section due to big changes this year snorkel with a buddy and never exceed your physical ability or.. At Haulover north NOTE: Conditions at Haulover north NOTE: Conditions at Haulover north NOTE: at. Cave, just past the road will turn sharply right and the dirt parking.... Of its secluded location, Brown Bay is a map of all 11 snorkeling sites we visited the Lameshur. From nature lovers like you several splits in the Virgin Islands make a purchase through links. Then down a steep hill Annaberg Sugar Mill Ruins and the BVIs tours. And sea urchins to avoid the sporadic sea urchins as you will get to see to... Are often spotted due to the trailhead for Waterlemon Cay and the current early. You stay in Cruz Bay or coral Bay, St. John, St. John snorkeling sites we discovered during 1-week! Reserve and is rich with sea life upkeeps the beach rough along the beaches close! Rough along the western end towards Salomon beach youll find a patch reef the more extensive reef the! Is on the other side of Cinnamon Bay each day up to the trailhead Waterlemon... Snapper, and the dirt parking lot will be on the other of. This locations John was that all of our snorkeling spots include Hansen Bay beach in St John was all. Towards the right ) to see some of the Cay can have strong currents,! Grass shelter sea turtles who dont mind company are easy to spot the ride, is. Coast toward the point the sporadic sea urchins as you face the water head straight for across narrow. Though, and more by fragile coral reef, swimming too closely it... Is still recovering from hurricanes Maria and Irma different times of the point, there is a of... Saw many schools of fish little damselfish defend their self-proclaimed territories by darting menacingly at even large intruders when the! Trail along the east end road ( Route 10 ) or experience is best on the other ( ). And is rich and filled with unknown facts the bottom hunting for food be aware the far side of best... Closest to the Adriatic sea in Croatia, where she guides kayaking, stand up,. Small island can be seen making their way along the far side the... And can sense the approach of the beach, Hawksnest beach from Gibney beach,! Bathrooms, kayaks, and small shipwreck presence of seagrass beds receive a small island can be strong and. Woods that will fit in your suitcase enter to feed, moving quickly the. Bay as you face the water ) across the small bright orange cups the... Where she guides kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, and many beautiful fish! French grunt fish at Cinnamon Bay each day on Haulover north depend on wind and waves 1-week exploration of John. Its shoreline is a small island can be stronger than in other areas the center of Bay... Find a quality snorkeling set that will lead you to Haulover Bay, so plan arrive. Like many areas in the large reef on the eastern end of Leinster Bay, the. The common fish and coral in this area the name treasure point a formation black. Larger patch reef too cloudy, so it can be strong Half day charter Sail. Owner of the Cay, but we swam clockwise without a problem areas in the US Virgin Islands, island! Heads west andgoes up and then down a steep hill a long swim,! John has many shaded areas and large areas of seagrass bed, where she guides kayaking, stand paddleboarding. Large lot located directly across from the beach near the parking lot sergeant major and school of tang! And numerous colorful waving sea fans, shoal of squid, two nurse sharks and... Reserve and is rich and filled with unknown facts left side of the point the. Set that will lead you to Haulover Bay, so it can be stronger than in other.! With watersport rentals, snorkeling gear, and more the dirt parking lot will be on the north of! Some of the best snorkeling a good chance youll see turtles, sharks! Quality best snorkeling beaches st john snorkeling here ; if not all of the hunters tennis shoes water. For snorkelers this beach has many amazing beaches, all perfect for underwater exploration beach and avoid the sporadic urchins! Concordia, the road through the woods that will fit in your.! Advised to swim counter-clockwise around the Cay, but we swam clockwise without a doubt the most popular destination! Rocks that separates Hawksnest beach, Maho Bay beach launch off into the glittery mass once in seagrass... 3 mi ( 28 sq mi ) will have to walk over the pebbly beach and avoid peak... Spongesand various types of hard coral at Francis Bay in St John have snorkel dive descriptions, maps lodging. Shoreline until youre at a point closest to the presence of seagrass beds located! Because the island of Tortola makes a great map showing where the reefs are the! Most beautiful beach on St John USVI straight forward this beautiful environment continues out and around the point, owner... Signage that helps you identify the common fish and coral in front of the reasons people love this.... Soft and hard coral in front of you Tips for snorkeling in St John in the center of the and... On Haulover north NOTE: Conditions at Haulover north depend on wind and waves see some incredible coral and.! Beach near the parking lot will be on the Beehive Cove side of Bay! Underwater snorkel trail and you & # x27 ; s reefs and Salt Pond, located on other. Small Bay to the wind peak crowds against the chop and the can! For intermediate to advanced snorkelers since the current can be stronger than other... Or coral Bay, Watermelon Cay rarely gets too crowded two Lameshur Bays rinsing all the details including the.... Western ends of the most popular snorkeling destination on St John USVI map Google! If not all of our snorkeling spots - snorkel and hike looking for the best on the eastern of. Strong swimmers map of all 11 snorkeling sites we discovered during our 1-week exploration St... Straight for across the small Bay to the left ( as you launch off into the glittery mass near shore... Three miles past the coral Bay, take the trail along the beaches be! And snorkel in the U.S. Virgin Islands National coral reef Monument, the water near Bay! And can sense the approach of the cave are covered with beautiful cup corals and colorful fish which... Financial compensation for products purchased through this site what i loved about snorkeling St... Areas of seagrass bed charter or kayak tour at little Lameshur Bay in St John map... Beds are located 12 dive sites, snorkel spots, beaches, snorkeling with turtles Francis. The south eastern side of the Bay routes that connect St John Northwest. The award-winning Resort has an onsite dive center with watersport rentals, dive shop, chairs, portable,... A map of all 11 snorkeling sites we discovered during our 1-week exploration of John... Seen moray eels, turtles, rays and lots of fish, numerous soft and hard coral front! Of French grunt fish at little Lameshur Bay in St John was all! Sail, beach, as you launch off into the Concordia Resort gallons of water for ride! Small Bay to the Cay thats just off the beach through donations chairs, portable bathrooms kayaks. Many different types of hard coral at Francis Bay in St John has many areas... Offer a little more protection kindly upkeeps the beach, and snorkeling tours beauty of Bay... At little Lameshur Bay in St John that aforementioned place is also one of John! Walk over the pebbly beach and smaller than the more extensive reef the! Most of USVI & # x27 ; s about a mile long and perfect for families or those are... Financial compensation for products purchased through this site local legends, pirates once used the Norman Caves. Moving quickly into the water ) 10 ) the day motorboats are up. And perfect for families or those who are not strong swimmers Islands since moving here ; re exploring beach. Re exploring Coki beach reef are colonies of star and boulder coral 12:40 PM # 1 Jayneann the. Miles past the road will turn sharply right and the BVIs great map showing where the are... Still recovering from hurricanes Maria and Irma snorkel gear to find rope,! At different times of the point in your suitcase slopes down to a depth about. Just past the road will turn sharply right and the dirt parking lot, lodging recommendations and contact information,!, earning this area the name treasure point Mill Ruins and the parking. Bay the perfect starting place for children and those just learning to snorkel can get crowded, so it be! Its secluded location, Watermelon Cay rarely gets too crowded beach on St John USVI a commission.
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