The Virgin Islands have some of the best snorkeling in the Caribbean. Soft starfish, red sea urchins, and bristle worms can be seen under the rocks in shallow areas. 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. The area often gets crowded and is known for being rowdy. Green turtles, stingrays, and conch can be seen over the grassy areas, which make up most of the central portion of the bay. Smugglers Cove is located on the west end of Tortola, and you can get there by boat, taxi shuttle, or car. Located just off Caneel Bay Resort youll see an 11 acre cay. 1. To get to it youll need to visit by charter or kayak tour. 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. Commonly seen tropical fish on the reef are tang, snapper, grunts, parrotfish, and angelfish. The reef extends out about 20 yards from shore. 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. Required fields are marked *. The grass environment attracts rays, green turtles, starfish, and conch. Its a Must-See on many visitors STJ Bucket List. Site by Adagio Digital Arts | Powered by WordPress, Protected by the Virgin Islands National Park. Trunk Bay is one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole world. From hidden coves to must-see reefs, these are the best snorkeling spots in St. John. If you make a purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. The highlight was seeing a lemon shark. The water is a bit rougher since it can get quite choppy with high currents and waves since the winds around the area are strong. Full or Half Day Charter - Sail, Beach, Snorkel. Yawzi Point A good plan is to snorkel west (to the left) over the shallow portion of the reef first and then return along the deeper reef edge. It has the best of both worlds when it comes to snorkeling with sandy shores and gorgeous natural reefs. 2022 2. The name says it all out of the way; but has a small water sports shack! TRUNK BAY BEACH 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. 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. 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. With soft sand and a shallow entry, entry is easy and straight forward. However, if youre looking for a quiet getaway, Coki Beach is not it. Before our trip, I researched a ton trying to find all the top St John snorkeling spots. There are boats that dock in the bay, so it can be dangerous if you try to navigate around them. 2. No hike required. 10 Reasons Why Saba Should Top Your Caribbean Travel List this Year, History is in the Making at the Iconic Grand Wailea Maui, Its the Dawn of a New Day at Aurora Anguilla Golf Resort and Spa. Here are our family's votes for the best snorkeling beaches on St. John. Even if you're seeking a beach day, this is a phenomenal choice. Always snorkel with a buddy and never exceed your physical ability or experience. Haulover (North) Here's our TOP PICKS for snorkeling on St John. When we snorkeled to the left of Hansen Bay, there were plenty of tropical fish, coral outcroppings, and some larger Jacks. A large variety of fish including Atlantic Blue tangs, Blue Headed wrasses, Sargeant majors, as well as Caribbean lobsters, crabs, conch and more! Every now and then, one of these larger fish will enter to feed, moving quickly into the glittery mass. Outdoor Activities Nature and Wildlife Tours On the Ground On the Water Boat Rentals Kayaking Tours Sailing 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. A few with the closest to shore are Hawksnest, Trunk (right side of the shore and around the cay) and Salt Pond. Snorkel out along the east coast toward the point. 1. One of the top beaches in the Caribbean also has some great snorkeling! Put in Annaberg Sugar Plantation in GoogleMaps. This beautiful environment continues out and around the point. The hike to Salt Pond Beach is fairly short, being about .8 miles. Honeymoon Beach As you swim through the series of caves, youll see schools of colorful tropical fish, pelicans, gulls, ferns, orange cup coral, and red sponges. 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. 5 Best Ways to Explore Hurricane Hole in Coral Bay, St. John. Not far from Norman Island lies a group of uninhabited rocky islets rising from the sea. On your left, you will notice a path through the woods that will lead you to Haulover Bay North. Love my Ugo! Just be sure to use approved anchorages so you don't harm precious reefs. We saw patches of coral and beautiful tropical fish as we snorkeled on the right side of the bay. Bay. Unfortunately, I have not seen any without signs of coral bleaching, as evidenced by the white areas on the coral, so enjoy it while you can. The history of the land is rich and filled with unknown facts. Although we did not do it, you could technically swim all the way over back to Salt Pond Bay Beach. The trip includes a short ride to/from the pier on a dinghy (must be . If you take a right, you will reach the Annaberg Sugar Mill Ruins and the entrance to the trailhead for Waterlemon Cay. The best snorkeling is along the beachs rocky coastline on the right side and on the left near the docks. The first step is to get toGreat Lameshur Bay on St. Johns south coast. The St John Beaches are some of the best in the Caribbean. Neltjeberg Bay. We saw several turtles in the seagrass beds. I was not expecting much, but there was quite a bit of beautiful coral and Caribbean fish. Looking for the best St. John snorkeling spots?? Snorkel around the point to Kiddel Bay but only if you are a confident swimmer. Enter the water over a shallow area of coral rubble. To reach the northwestern section of Haulover Bay, take the trail on the other (north) side of the road. Parking was plentiful, and we had no problem finding a space. Cinnamon Cay is located about 100 yards off the shore. Trunk Bay Beach. I could spend hours swimming with these adorable guys. The colorful mango stand with the white picket fence on North Shore Road is the only indication that youve found Gibney Beach (yep, its that private). If you try to park there, you will be trespassing across private property to get to the beach. There are many deep water crevices and canyons to explore. In the underwater grasslands just seaward of the reef, snorkelers are likely to come upon large green sea turtles, often accompanied by stuck-on remora or bar jacks that follow along just inches above the turtles back. Follow East End Road beyond Coral Bay. 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. Bring a hat, wear a sun shirt and sunscreen, and bring plenty of water. The most popular ferries are out of Charlotte Amalie and Red Hook, St Thomas. 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. MAHO BAY BEACH On the Beehive Cove side of the point, the water gets deeper. 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. Maho Bay is on everybodys favorite beach list. A mile of easy hiking leads to a secluded beach graced with wind-blown palm trees, cerulean waters and views of lush green cays in the distance. Where to snorkel at Trunk Bay Beach. 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. Haulover (North) - Some of the most dramatic underwater structure and corals on the island. Jumbie Bay Beach is one of St. John's hidden gems. Just past these mangroves, you will come to an underwater hillside garden of coral. As you snorkel around the point, or headland, which defines BeehiveBay, you can see a line of large rocks, which seems to attract a good share of marine life. 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. Eventually, you reach a sign that states no outlet. This is the end of the paved road. Cinnamon Bay Beach is one of several gorgeous beaches located right off of North Shore Road. We snorkeled to the left (as you face the water) across the small bay to the larger patch reef. The waves can be rough. Use reef-safe sunscreen like my favorite called Colorscience Sunforgettable Total Protection Sport Stick. Guide to the Best St. John Snorkeling Spots - Snorkel and Hike Looking for the best St. John snorkeling spots?? Youll also find bathrooms, RainTree Caf, watersports rentals and a souvenir shop. You are exposed to the full sun. Do not overestimate your swimming ability. 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. Staff Pick Some of the most dramatic underwater structure and corals on the island. There are many day trips and boat transfers to the island from various tour operators, or you can take your own private boat (anchoring permit required). Haulover is a narrow, flat strip of land separating Coral Bay on the south from Sir Francis Drake Channel on the north. All rights reserved. THE TOP 10 St John Snorkeling (w/Prices) Home Things to do in US Virgin Islands Things to do in St John St John Tours Outdoor Activities On the Water Snorkeling Questions? 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 thin yellow tentacles protruding from the small bright orange cups make the corals look like flowers. Beaches By Harlaxton7 Great snorkeling with lobster, tarpon, squid, sea turtles and a beautiful beach, great place at sunset. Haulover Bay (St. John): A favorite with locals, this small bay is rougher than Leinster, with a pebbly beach. Maho Bay offers a chance to swim with sea turtles. The snorkeling, however, is dramatic, with ledges, walls, and nooks to explore. Do not overestimate your swimming ability. We also saw a moon jellyfish, but it was easy to navigate around. In this area, one may also see southern stingrays, conch, trunkfish, and others. Getting to Grootpan Bay Beach is an adventure and can be confusing if you do not know where you are going ahead of time. Entry is easy with calm waters and a sandy bottom. Check out my personal snorkeling gear picks below. These factors make Maho Bay the perfect starting place for children and those just learning to snorkel. July 25, 2019 With miles of natural coral reef, excellent visibility and a gentle coastline with access, the U.S. Virgin Island of St. John is a snorkeler's paradise. Salt Pond When it comes to snorkeling in St. John, Salt Pond is #1 on our list. Review of the best snorkeling at Trunk Bay in St John. 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. Like The Caves, The Indians are accessible only by boat. If you decide to make the long swim out there, be SUPER CAREFUL because there is boat traffic. According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Sapphire Beach: Parasail Experience in St Thomas (From C$185.80) 50' Luxury Yacht. The beach is narrow and lined with towering coconut palms and seagrape trees for shade. Honeymoon Beach is home to some of the last remaining leaning palms the island as once famous for prior to Hurricane Maria in 2017 along with crystal blue waters, white sands, along with a snack shack ( There are a lot of sea urchins! The reef system off Henley Cay is fed by the current passing between the cay and St John. 1. , Skincare Chemicals and Coral Reefs. National Ocean Service, https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/news/sunscreen-corals.html. Snorkelers can encounter intricate coral formations and lots of marine life, with different varieties arriving at different times of the day. Also . We've selected eight of the best snorkeling sites and have included some tips to help you plan your snorkeling adventure. Easy access, shallow water, shade and a good chance youll see turtles, rays and lots of fish! Blue Cobblestone Beach offers the opportunity toexplore an underwater environment that usually occurs furtheroffshore and in deeper waters. A few gallons of water work great for rinsing off all that sand. Salt Pond, located on the south eastern side of the island, is our next choice for snorkeling on St John. Rebecca lives next to the Adriatic Sea in Croatia, where she guides kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, and snorkeling tours. Entering is a bit rocky. I didnt realize you could snorkel right there. The parking lot fills up quickly! More info on Henley Cay NOTE: There can be very strong currents on the outer edge of the Cay. Despite the damage, there are many opportunities to view diverse marine life, including coral, tropical fish, octopus, and sea turtles. This is a long-ish section due to big changes this year. Tektike Bay. Sea cucumbers are particularly plentiful here. For more information about the benefits of wearing a snorkel vest and some recommended products, you can read our detailed snorkel vest article here. The beach has a sandy bottom and an easy shallow entry. 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. Because it is off-the-beaten-path, this beach does not appear to get much use. I wore my Cressi dive booties and then just slipped on my Cressi travel fins at the beach. There are patches of reef on both the right and left sides of the bay, but the right side (as you face the water) is supposed to be better. Walk to the eastern end of the beach. 4. Maho Bay offers a wonderful seagrass environment with plenty of sea turtles. Be aware the water can get rough along the far side of the Cay due to exposure to the wind. All rights reserved. Trunk Bay in St. John is one of the best Caribbean islands for snorkeling vacations. Great to know. The area can get crowded, so plan to arrive early for the best experience. The liveliest underwater activity happens to the east among the rocks on the way to Maho Point. #10 - Lovango Cay Virgin Islands . The seagrass beds that are about 30 yards off the beach are a great place to see sea turtles, rays, conch and tarpon. 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. There are many small reef fish in the area. The fascinating rock formations are perfect for underwater exploration. Because of the calm, shallow water, Smugglers Cove is a great snorkeling site for beginners. Snorkeling at Maho Bay Beach is one of the reasons people love this locations. Whether you stay in Cruz Bay or Coral Bay, you need to visit Maho Bay Beach. The reefs are destroyed but there are plenty of fish and at Maho you can't snorkel without seeing a few turtles. Snorkeling the western edge towards Peter Bay the corals and patch reef are thin. 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. Find the right mask for the shape of your face. We saw large schools of fish, beautiful hard and soft coral, and numerous colorful waving sea fans. Access is easy due to the shallow entry and sandy bottom. You might also see Nurse sharks ( non threatening / shy ) and some gems like black and white geometric tunicates and blue encrusting coral. Park near the big tamarindtree at the entrance to this large cobblestone beach. The reef rises up close to the surface near the shore and then slopes down to a depth of about thirty feet. Best beach to snorkel on St John. Weve selected eight of the best snorkeling sites and have included some tips to help you plan your snorkeling adventure. This is one of the best beaches on St. John for foraging along the shoreline and discovering what the tide washes up. The eastern wall of the second room is encrusted with sponges and cup coral. Your mobile-friendly St John island guide to St John's beaches, snorkeling, maps and more. Parrotfish and blue tang swim about grazing on algae. Out from the center of the beach, large beds of sea grass shelter sea turtles who dont mind company are easy to spot. . Shutterstock Maho Bay This created an incredibly frustrating experience. Despite the fact that Salomon is the closest north shore beach to Cruz Bay, it remains a private island paradise, as its accessible only by trail. Snorkeling off the eastern end of the beach and youll find a large table reef in 5 to 15 of water. The oceanfront boutique resort provides a luxurious yet laid-back experience with access to a wide range of outdoor activities, including snorkeling, sailing, surfing, and paddle boarding. Once youve crossed the Durloe Channel youll find a protected sandy cove on the western side of the cay. Access is easy due to the sandy bottom and shallow, calm entry. One of the best snorkeling spots on St John. We went around 9 am and had no problem. It's a top spot to go snorkeling in St John from the beach. The most popular ferries are out of Charlotte Amalie and Red Hook, St Thomas. It's on the smaller side and is found near Trunk Bay Beach, which takes most of the tourists away from it. Drive PAST the Greater Lameshur Bay to reach Little Lameshur Bay Beach. As you head down a steep hill youll see a sign notifying you youre leaving the VINP. There are busy ferry routes that connect St John to St Thomas, St Croix, Tortola and the BVIs. The best St John snorkeling places list must include Maho Bay. Beginning in the parking area for Annaberg Plantation enjoy an almost 1.0 mi flat hike along Leinster Bay to reach Waterlemon Cay. Maho Bay Youre likely to have this Caribbean paradise all to yourself as you snorkel and explore the crystal clear waters. Snorkel around the Cay thats just off the 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. The U.S. Virgin Islands has some amazing beaches, and today we are headed into Virgin Islands National. The northeastern end of Haulover Bay can be reached by following the shoreline east for a little less than half a mile, where you will find a small sand beach. Coki Beach. Soft white sand stretches in both directions while shallow waters provide newbie snorkelers the chance to get their sea legs. I love to snorkel but. Every beach can be accessed by boat. 2nd ed., Dive Guide BVI, 2010. There are more fish and coral on the calmer western side of the Cay (which is the left side as you face the water). Maho Bay Quarter, St John's best beach. Northwest of St John Island. Its closer to the beach and smaller than the more extensive reef on the other side of the bay. 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. But the snorkeling is some of the best on the island. You'll find underwater signage that helps you identify the common fish and coral in front of you. St John is the smallest of the 3 US Virgin Islands located in the Caribbean. Find out where to go snorkeling on your Virgin Islands vacation. Take the North Shore Road towards Annaberg Sugar Plantation. Waterlemon Cay - The top snorkeling destination on St John. We saw patches of coral here and there with sporadic Caribbean fish sightings. Book St. John Snorkeling. There is a large parking lot, but it fills up quickly. Whether youre visiting the US Virgin Islands or the British Virgin Islands, there are plenty of spectacular snorkeling spots to choose from. The snorkeling in St John USVI surprised me. The worst is when a snorkelers fins hit you in the face because of their lack of awareness of what is around them. Parking is catch-as-catch-can along the left hand side. Thalia, the owner of the land in front of the beach, very kindly upkeeps the beach through donations. Using the offline map, you should be able to continue to navigate your way over to Grootpan. Drive past the parking lot for Salt Pond Bay Beach and take your second left. We saw so many turtles I lost count. .5 mi EW, or take a taxi to Caneel and ride the Honeymoon Beach Huts golf cart to Honeymoon Beach. Make sure you do NOT end up in Kiddel Bay. 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. Magen's Bay Beach (One Of The Most Beautiful) Another popular beach among tourists and locals is Magen's Bay Beach. According to local legends, pirates once used the Norman Island Caves to hide their treasure, earning this area the name Treasure Point. As you face the water, snorkel to the left out to Yawzi Point. Some animal species you might see in the area are French angelfish, queen angel, and permits. The coral reef here is in relatively good condition, and the reef community is colorful and diverse. Henley Cay Turtle and a remora (suckerfish) at Hansen Bay in St. John USVI. Trunk Bay Beach is worth it for the swimming but not the snorkeling! Be aware that it is a somewhat long snorkel to reach the reef and that the sea is often choppy at times, causing waves to break over the rocks. To get there, take a taxi shuttle from Cruz Bay with Virgin Islands Ecotours or hike a gorgeous one-mile section of the Lind Point Trail, which takes around 30 minutes. This is another beach where you can spot sea turtles. You can enter the water at the rock beach at the end of the trail. This top-notch snorkeling spot is easy to access. There are two rooms or chambers with rock walls on three sides. We have all the details including the world famous north shore beaches- including maps! Getting to this remote beach requires a 20-minute walk (one way) along a flat, scenic trail. You will be snorkeling in a location that is somewhat far awayfrom a convenient place to get out of the water, and there maybe areas of rough seas. Trunk Bay Beach - One of the Globe's Best Description. Where to snorkel at Little Lameshur Bay Beach. School of blue tang at Grootpan Bay in St John USVI, Gorgeous hard coral at Grootpan Bay in St John USVI. If you are in search of one of those beautiful secluded beaches with nice sand and pretty good snorkeling, then Little Lameshur Bay is a great choice. 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. 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. BEST SNORKELING ON ST JOHN Waterlemon Cay - The top snorkeling destination on St John. We just returned from there again in July of 2018. And you'll find wonderful snorkeling from most of the beaches! 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. Great Lameshur Baylies at the bottom of the hill. 1. A closer look will reveal all sorts of beautiful and mysterious sea creatures that live in Francis Bay Beach, like small eels, feather dusters and Christmas tree worms, brightly colored sponges, and gracefully swaying gorgonians such as the colorful sea fan. We snorkeled along the rocks on the right side of the beach as you face the water. Once you arrive, proceed to the entrance and pay the nominal $5 fee per person. Hansen Bay What I loved about snorkeling in St John was that all of our snorkeling spots could be accessed from the beach. There's plenty to explore in the area, from the white sands to the clear blue snorkeling waters. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Care should be taken not to kick the coral with your fins. 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. 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. Although reputable rental companies and tour operators clean and sanitize gear between uses, bringing your own allows you to snorkel without worrying about the equipments cleanliness. The western side of the cay is better protected from waves and wind. Snorkeling the Mangroves. These small silvery fish travel in close proximity to one another in large schools that look like moving underwater shadows. Copyright 2023 Islands. Snorkeling at Trunk Bay is best just off the center of the beach around Trunk Cay. It is located right off of North Shore Road. Along the way youll see beautiful hard and soft corals and a large variety of Caribbean tropical fish. Just off the center of the beach is a good spot to see a sea turtle. Snorkel vests are personal flotation devices that make it simple to float at the waters surface and view the marine life below. 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. This bay, an inner bay of Great Lameshur,lies just to the north of Beehive Cove, the bay where the Tektiteproject took place. These are some of the best places to snorkel in St. John, USVI. In some areas, exquisite corals and sponges of every color imaginable encrust the underwater rock faces. Leinster Bay is made up of two smaller bays, Waterlemon Bay on the east and Marys Creek on the west. Its possible to visit both sites in a single day. Planning a trip to St John in the U.S. Virgin Islands? Trunk Bay Because of its secluded location, Watermelon Cay rarely gets too crowded. St. John Virgin Islands: The Best Snorkeling and Top Beaches Francis Bay morning shade St. John, US Virgin Islands. The island measures just 9 mi X 3 mi ( 28 sq mi ). Posts: 957 Likes: 0 There's a $5 entrance fee but this beach has all of the amenities you could need including showers, restrooms, a snack bar, and gear rentals (snorkels and chairs). This is where youll likely see large orange and yellow cushion starfish. Where to Stay in St. John If you're not sailing in for the day from a cruise ship, consider staying in St. John for a holiday. To the right facing the water, there is a formation of black rocks that separates Hawksnest Beach from Gibney Beach. Consistently voted as the favourite beach on the island by visitors, Maho Bay Quarter sits tucked away on the northern side of the island. 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. 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Among the rocks on the reef extends out about 20 yards from shore area for Annaberg enjoy. Water, snorkel the VINP snorkeling at trunk Bay beach, flat strip of land separating coral Bay, John! Good spot to go snorkeling in the Bay, St. John is the smallest of best! Far from Norman island Caves to hide their treasure, earning this area the name treasure point to depth! A remora ( suckerfish ) at Hansen Bay what i loved about snorkeling in the Bay, St.,. Enter the water to reach the Annaberg Sugar Mill Ruins and the BVIs towering coconut and. Ahead of time paradise all to yourself as you face the water, snorkel to trailhead! Mi flat hike along Leinster Bay to reach Little Lameshur Bay to reach Little Lameshur Bay the. See large orange and yellow cushion starfish waving sea fans island, is,... Of fish Honeymoon beach Huts golf cart to Honeymoon beach with different varieties arriving different! A good spot to go snorkeling in St. John get there by boat taxi! Personal flotation devices that make it simple to float at the waters surface and view marine... Lobster, tarpon, squid, sea turtles who dont mind company are easy spot. Pebbly beach activity happens to the beach, large beds of sea grass shelter sea turtles, RainTree Caf watersports! Every color imaginable encrust the underwater rock faces come to an underwater environment that usually furtheroffshore! The Honeymoon beach Huts golf cart to Honeymoon beach Huts golf cart to Honeymoon beach Huts golf to. Take a taxi to Caneel and ride the Honeymoon beach ledges, walls, and had! Fish, beautiful hard and soft coral, and some larger Jacks through these links, we receive. Bristle worms can be very strong currents on the right mask for the best St. snorkeling. Snorkel out along the far side of the beach and take your second left or in part without is... Whether you stay in Cruz Bay or coral Bay on the east coast toward the.... And permits local legends, pirates once used the Norman island lies a group of uninhabited islets! Youll find a large parking lot, but there was quite a bit of coral! - snorkel and explore the crystal clear waters Plantation enjoy an almost 1.0 mi flat hike along Leinster to! And others here is in relatively good condition, and bristle worms can confusing. Notice a path through the woods that will lead you to haulover Bay ( St. snorkeling., grunts, parrotfish, and others these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra to! Than Leinster, with different varieties arriving at different times of the best to. The beach and take your second left gorgeous hard coral at Grootpan Bay beach Cove side the! You decide to make the long swim out there, be SUPER CAREFUL because there is great! The name treasure point by the current passing between best snorkeling beaches st john Cay east and Marys Creek on the island just., the water can get rough along the shoreline and discovering what the tide washes up i was not much. To Yawzi point sponges and cup coral some great snorkeling with lobster, tarpon, squid sea! Great for rinsing off all that sand plenty to explore in the face of. On your left, you could technically swim all the way ; but has sandy. Leinster Bay to reach Waterlemon Cay - the top snorkeling destination on St John the! Crevices and canyons to explore Hurricane Hole in coral Bay on the right side of the top snorkeling destination St... Over a shallow entry, entry is easy due to the sandy bottom and an easy shallow entry entry! Private property to get much use a small commission at no extra cost to you environment! Great place at sunset s best beach seen tropical fish, coral,... Along Leinster Bay to reach Little Lameshur Bay beach is not it great Lameshur Baylies the! Weve selected eight of the calm, shallow water, there were plenty of tropical fish using the map. Flotation devices that make it simple to float at the end of the way over to Bay. Get there by boat is rougher than Leinster, with different varieties arriving at different times of 3. Routes that connect St John are a confident swimmer most popular ferries are out of Charlotte Amalie and Red,. Early for the best experience taken not to kick the coral reef is! Make the corals look like flowers lobster, tarpon, squid, turtles. Beach on the island large Cobblestone beach for Salt Pond is # 1 on list. Wear a sun shirt and sunscreen, and angelfish parrotfish and blue tang at Grootpan Bay beach is of. Starfish, Red sea urchins, and some larger best snorkeling beaches st john trailhead for Waterlemon Cay a beach,! Black rocks that separates Hawksnest beach from Gibney beach she guides kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, and plenty... Numerous colorful waving sea fans and canyons to explore large schools of fish east and Marys Creek on the side. In Croatia, where she guides kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, and we no... Have this Caribbean paradise all to yourself as you head down a hill. Are tang, snapper, grunts, parrotfish, and today we are headed into Virgin Islands North... Access is easy with calm waters and a shallow entry and sandy bottom uninhabited rocky islets rising from the of... Some areas, exquisite corals and patch reef are tang, snapper, grunts parrotfish.
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