This easily accessible, shallow-water snorkel can be thoroughly enjoyed by snorkelers of all experience levels. 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. There is a good deal of fire coral encrustation, but true hardcoral varieties are also plentiful. You can choose from various beach, snorkeling, and diving packages or book accommodation only. 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. We saw several turtles in the seagrass beds. Can get a bit crowded but offers some nice snorkeling especially center of the bay. Its arguably the most beautiful beach on St John; if not all of the Caribbean! Just be sure to use approved anchorages so you don't harm precious reefs. The beach is rocky and there are often spiny sea urchins lurking in the shallow water at the shore, so step carefully. 2/3 of the island and surrounding reefs are protected by the US Virgin Islands National Park [ VINP ]. Posts: 957 Likes: 0 St. John's Trunk Bay is unquestionably one of the best snorkeling beaches in the world. It is located off of East End Road just past Haulover Bay on the right. 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. Brewers Bay is a favorite for Green Sea Turtles and Hawksbill Turtles. Blue Cobblestone Beach offers the opportunity toexplore an underwater environment that usually occurs furtheroffshore and in deeper waters. The worst is when a snorkelers fins hit you in the face because of their lack of awareness of what is around them. With miles of natural coral reef, excellent visibility and a gentle coastline with access, the U.S. Virgin Island of St. John is a snorkelers paradise. Getting to Grootpan Bay Beach is an adventure and can be confusing if you do not know where you are going ahead of time. Park in the Salt Pond Bay Beach parking lot. Maho Bay The reef extends out about 20 yards from shore. Maho is the best bay on St. John for observing the inhabitants of this important environment, including rays, conch, and starfish, in a calm environment. We saw many schools of fish, numerous soft and hard coral outcroppings, a stingray, and gorgeous gigantic waving purple sea fans. TRUNK BAY BEACH For more information about the benefits of wearing a snorkel vest and some recommended products, you can read our detailed snorkel vest article here. 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. Easy access, shallow water, shade and a good chance youll see turtles, rays and lots of fish! Park near the big tamarindtree at the entrance to this large cobblestone beach. There are also many vendors where you can get food and drinks or rent beach chairs and umbrellas. Cinnamon Bay is a lot like Trunk Bay with its beauty and amenities, but bigger and more spacious. The best reef corals and fish as to the left as you face the water. Private charters are a great way to see numerous islands and snorkel in diverse places in a single day. All rights reserved. After a morning snorkel, visit Vies Snack Shack and pay the nominal fee she charges to access the sandy beach next to Hansen. Ready to check out the best sites in Cruz Bay for scuba diving, snorkeling, shore diving, free diving or other ocean activities? St John island is a tiny island in the US Virgin Islands in the Caribbean Sea, with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. where is the best snorkeling when cruising the eastern caribbean? I would strongly consider wearing dive booties with your snorkeling fins. The award-winning resort has an onsite dive center with watersport rentals, snorkeling gear, and guided excursions. Parrotfish and blue tang swim about grazing on algae. On busy days, it's best to take a taxi or bus. Waterlemon Cay 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). A good family beach for snorkeling exists at Coki Point Beach on St. Thomas, while a more demanding site, requiring a 45min boat trip, can be located off the Cow and Calf Rocks. Some of Our Top Picks For Snorkeling On St John, USVI. I was not expecting much, but there was quite a bit of beautiful coral and Caribbean fish. Bring a dive light if you want to explore deeper into any of the caves, as it can get quite dark. MAHO BAY BEACH Virgin Islands National Park snorkeling trail and a lifeguards. The grass environment attracts rays, green turtles, starfish, and conch. Activity itinerary. There are many amenities, including a bar, restaurant, watersport rentals, dive shop, chairs, umbrellas, and more. Like many areas in the Virgin Islands, Smugglers Cove is still recovering from hurricanes Maria and Irma. 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. The Best of St. John Where to Stay Hale Lani: This four-bedroom villa in Maria Bluff has unobstructed sea views from every room. Trunk Bay is popular with snorkelers due to the pretty beach and usually calm protected waters, and as a cruise ship tour stop. 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. Youll also find plenty of reef fish, corals, sea fans, and sponges. St John has no airport. Northwest of St John Island. Some animal species you might see in the area are French angelfish, queen angel, and permits. Lovango Resort & Beach Club: This newly opened. Known as The Indians, this area is a popular diving and snorkeling site with plentiful coral, fish, and other sea creatures. Park on your left at the bottom of the hill. The eastern wall of the second room is encrusted with sponges and cup coral. Soft white sand stretches in both directions while shallow waters provide newbie snorkelers the chance to get their sea legs. Last updated Jan 29, 2023 | Best Snorkeling Caribbean, St. John. Face the Crowds at St John's Most Famous Beach Trunk Bay Beach Trunk Bay is the most famous beach in St John USVI, and you will quickly see why. 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. The result is literal forests of gorgonians and sea fans, brain corals, fire coral and healthy populations of reef fish. The trip includes a short ride to/from the pier on a dinghy (must be . The fry is extremely sensitive to minute changes in water currents and can sense the approach of the hunters. Although we did not do it, you could technically swim all the way over back to Salt Pond Bay Beach. Original Poster . Another one of the best spots for snorkeling in St. John is Salomon Bay. Add snorkeling to the mix, and you've got the perfect day! Be aware the far side of the Cay can have strong currents. Trunk Bay Beach is worth it for the swimming but not the snorkeling! The Caves are accessible only by boat, so youll need to book a private charter or guided tour or visit with your own vessel. Beehive Cove lies on the other side of thesmall rocky point to the south. Here is a map of all 11 snorkeling sites we discovered during our 1-week exploration of St John USVI. We snorkeled on the right side of the bay as you face the water out towards Marys Point and saw beautiful coral outcroppings, schools of tropical fish, and even a lionfish. 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. This seven-hour private boat tour is another highly-rated excursion with multiple snorkeling stops that can be customized according to your preferences. Be prepared for a bumpy ride to Grootpan! 1. Also, expect much more snorkeling fins in your face because of the increased crowds. Love my. Salt Pond/Drunk Bay. Our list of BEST SNORKELING IN ST JOHN provides first-hand knowledge on the best places to visit while you are on-island. 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. There are many deep water crevices and canyons to explore. Sea cucumbers are particularly plentiful here. In some areas, exquisite corals and sponges of every color imaginable encrust the underwater rock faces. Families will love the convenience of unloading cooler, chairs, snorkel gear and kids floaties! After you park, walk a few minutes along a path right to the beach. Brewers Bay. The latest articles, guides, and resources, sent to your inbox monthly. Magen's Bay Beach (One Of The Most Beautiful) Another popular beach among tourists and locals is Magen's Bay Beach. Blue tang at Blue Cobblestone in St John USVI. A living aquarium waits just offshore, where vibrant coral reef swirls with a vivid palette of blue tang, damselfish, and sergeant majors. Ram Head hiking trail will lead to Blue Cobblestone Beach. 1. Not far from Norman Island lies a group of uninhabited rocky islets rising from the sea. When entering the shallow water, take care to avoid sea urchins and coral. 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. Your best picks for snorkeling lie just beyond the shoreline to the right of the old Oppenheimer house a tiny cove is hidden around the bend. BEST SNORKELING ON ST JOHN Waterlemon Cay - The top snorkeling destination on St John. The best snorkeling in St John, USVI can be discovered at beautiful Trunk Bay, part of the Virgin Islands National Park. Book St. John Snorkeling. 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. In addition to snorkeling, swimming, and diving, visitors can hike along the islands scenic walking trails or relax on the gorgeous white sand beach. But the trip is well worth it. This is the first and only sandy beach that you pass on the trail before arriving at the beautiful beach across from Waterlemon Cay. As many visitors can attest, the reputation is well deserved. Along the shoreline that connects to Caneel Bay you'll find huge schools of Sergeant Major Damsels, wrasse, French Angelfish, sea turtles, rays and a wide variety of hard and soft corals. Henley Cay Its a relatively easy entry, but be careful where you step while putting on your gear to avoid contact with any sea urchins or live coral. Reply Subscribe . Begin by snorkeling around the large rocks at the corner ofthe beach. Great to know. And its should be Its convenient sitting right along North Shore Road. You can park in the large lot located directly across from the eastern side of the beach. The Caneel Bay resort was decimated by back-to-back hurricanes in 2017 and has yet to be rebuilt. When we snorkeled to the left of Hansen Bay, there were plenty of tropical fish, coral outcroppings, and some larger Jacks. Honeymoon Beach, St. John, USVI Honeymoon Beach is an off-the-beaten-path destination offering excellent snorkeling and other watersports in a secluded area within Virgin Islands National Park. If you make a purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Caneel Bay beach Shallow entry, calm waters and plenty to see close to shore. 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). 99.9% of travelers come to St John by boat ! Large sea fans and gorgonians waving in the current surrounded by mustard corals and brain coral and fire corals. Enter the water over a shallow area of coral rubble. Snorkeling at Trunk Bay Beach in St John USVI. Our spacious catamaran takes your group of 4-12 people for a day of making memories. However, there was not a lot of information out there, so I decided to provide a resource detailing all the nitty-gritty details of the 11 snorkeling spots we discovered all over the island. Being one of the first beaches along North Shore Road, it's just a quick taxi ride away from Cruz Bay. And you'll find wonderful snorkeling from most of the beaches! The trailhead to Waterlemon Cay is at the coastline right near the parking lot. We snorkeled to the left (as you face the water) across the small bay to the larger patch reef. The marine life is incredible. While many of the beaches listed above have snorkeling gear available for rent, bringing your own equipment will provide you with a consistent fit, improved comfort, and a more relaxing experience overall. Trunk Bay is one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole world. Snorkel around the Cay thats just off the beach. The water is shallow and has a sandy bottom. Difficulty: Easy. A quick 5-minute walk and you are there! Follow the Leinster Bay Trail until it splits. Follow East End Road beyond Coral Bay. We saw so many turtles I lost count. You can see many large, purple sea fans and other gorgonians, as well as hard corals, such as star, elkhorn, and brain coral. Do not overestimate your swimming ability. Its closer to the beach and smaller than the more extensive reef on the other side of the bay. Snorkel around the point to Kiddel Bay but only if you are a confident swimmer. 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. Site by Adagio Digital Arts | Powered by WordPress, Protected by the Virgin Islands National Park. One of the highlights was seeing a shoal (family) of squid along the rocks on the right side. Rebecca lives next to the Adriatic Sea in Croatia, where she guides kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, and snorkeling tours. 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 . 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. Using the offline map, you should be able to continue to navigate your way over to Grootpan. The best St John snorkeling places list must include Maho Bay. This top-notch snorkeling spot is easy to access. Because of the Covid-19 pandemic, many people feel uneasy about sharing snorkeling equipment with others. For some reason, this beautiful beach always rewards me with something exciting. There is also plenty of colorful coral. While the name might imply that its only for lovers, Honeymoon Beach is a great beach for couples and families. Turtles, turtles, and more turtles! 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. 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. Honeymoon is one of the best beaches on St. John for day trippers from St. Thomas. One of the best snorkeling spots on St John. A few with the closest to shore are Hawksnest, Trunk (right side of the shore and around the cay) and Salt Pond. 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. Coki Beach is one of the most popular snorkeling spots in St. Thomas. There are also many colorful spongesand various types of hard coral in this area. Pick sunny calm days to snorkel to really see the coral and fish. Because of its secluded location, Watermelon Cay rarely gets too crowded. It's about a mile long and perfect for families or those who are not strong swimmers. Review of the best snorkeling at Trunk Bay in St John. Alternatively, there is limited parking right along the road itself. The island measures just 9 mi X 3 mi ( 28 sq mi ). The highlight here is the Cane Bay Wall, where the seafloor plummets from around 40 feet . , Williams, Jeff and Ria OHagan. The island boasts over 3 dozen beaches to choose from and discover. Youll also find bathrooms, RainTree Caf, watersports rentals and a souvenir shop. Located at the southern end of the British Virgin Islands, Norman Island allegedly inspired Robert Louis Stevensons famous pirate novel Treasure Island. Bay. I have heard that Dreams LaRomana is good but I would love to hear your opinion on Dreams and any other resorts that might have what I am looking for. Brightly-colored coral at Salt Pond Bay in St John USVI. This is the closest entry point to get to Waterlemon Cay, which is the route we chose. Green turtles, stingrays, and conch can be seen over the grassy areas, which make up most of the central portion of the bay. We went twice to Salt Pond Bay: once around 9:30 am (only 1 other car there) and once around 12 pm (the parking lot was full and we had to wait for a spot to open up). Moreover, the water deepens gradually and stays relatively shallow as you wade out from the beach. The name, Tektite,refers to a research project conducted at Beehive Bay, a smallcove on the southeastern tip of Great Lameshur Bay. Put in Annaberg Sugar Plantation in GoogleMaps. 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. Trunk Bay Beach is popular for its clear waters, soft white sand, and views that make it one of the most beautiful beaches in St John. (888) 651-9785 Top St John Snorkeling When are you traveling? Drive PAST the Greater Lameshur Bay to reach Little Lameshur Bay Beach. Start your snorkeling around the middle to left side of the beach. Trunk Bay is a long stretch of white sand with a rock island just off the shore. Check out our list of the best islands for snorkeling. This created an incredibly frustrating experience. Maho Bay offers a wonderful seagrass environment with plenty of sea turtles. And we agree! You can see the beach right from the parking lot. 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. Maho Bay is on everybodys favorite beach list. Honeymoon Beach: Best for Luxury Mixed With Laid Back Vibes. St John island is one of the top Caribbean destinations for snorkeling. Close to the shore are patches of sand and grass with scattered coral heads. The snorkeling, however, is dramatic, with ledges, walls, and nooks to explore. For these reasons, this snorkeling area is recommended for experienced snorkelers only. Honeymoon Beach is an off-the-beaten-path destination offering excellent snorkeling and other watersports in a secluded area within Virgin Islands National Park. The second room is the most interesting, although both are beautiful. 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. Virgin Islands Day Sailing: The best sailing/snorkeling trip ever! Entrance: Free. Because it is off-the-beaten-path, this beach does not appear to get much use. 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 ( Here's our TOP PICKS for snorkeling on St John. Located on St Johns East End at the edge of the Virgin Islands National Park youll find this snorkelers bucket-list worthy location. 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. 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. I didnt realize you could snorkel right there. Snorkeling the western edge towards Peter Bay the corals and patch reef are thin. This little beach gets LOTS OF SUN and doesn't afford much protection. The island of St John is best known as home to Virgin Islands National Park, beautiful beaches, long hiking trails, scrumptious food, and historical places.The coast around the island has been designated as Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument, so snorkeling is one of the best activities and you can find great opportunities at any beach.. You can also go kayaking, boating, or explore . 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. The parking lot fills up quickly! 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. On the north side of the point, there is asmall cave with an exit to the surface. Overall, I would rate St John USVI as a whole as 4/5 snorkels. Its an easy path about 100 yards long that goes over flat terrain, passing by a small salt pond about halfway along the trail. Entry is easy with calm waters and a sandy bottom. This beach was part of our hike to Ram Head. Honeymoon Beach Located with the Caneel Bay Resort visitors can either hike the Lind Point Trail from Cruz Bay; park at Caneel Bay Resort and walk the approx. Snorkeling equipment, as well as single and double kayaks, standup paddle boards, and beach chairs can be rented at the Honeymoon Beach Hut. 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. Questions about the St John snorkeling sites we visited? The only sign of civilization . Best beach to snorkel on St John. 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. 2nd ed., Dive Guide BVI, 2010. 2. If you want to try sailing or windsurfing, they even . Avid snorkelers will want to head towards the eastern and western shorelines. Staff Pick for Best Snorkeling on St John! The dominant species of coral found in the shallow top reef are colonies of star and boulder coral. Its a Must-See on many visitors STJ Bucket List. This bay, an inner bay of Great Lameshur,lies just to the north of Beehive Cove, the bay where the Tektiteproject took place. From hidden coves to must-see reefs, these are the best snorkeling spots in St. John. Use reef-safe sunscreen like my favorite called Colorscience Sunforgettable Total Protection Sport Stick. Considered to have some of the best snorkeling on St. Thomas, Coki Beach is known for its calm waters, white sands, and abundant marine life. Its shallow over the top of the reef but deep enough for experienced and confident snorkelers to negotiate safely. 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. My mask would fog, and I would get a bunch of water in my snorkel. The Most Popular and Most Photographed Beach on St John! 4. You can see up to 12 different species of sea turtles roaming the seagrass beds, as well as stingrays, spotted eagle rays, dolphins, sea fans, tropical fish, elkhorn coral, cuttlefish, blue tangs, and nurse sharks. These rocks are encrusted with mustard-yellowfire coral, which is very attractive but can give snorkelersa mild sting if touched. Trunk Bay: St. John's most famous beach (most visited and most photographed) doesn't disappoint. I went to the left and saw nice fans, fish. Also, there is no shade along the dirt path and the beach. Do not overestimate your swimming ability. There are also some patches of reef on both sides of the bay, but the right side of the beach (as you face the water) is supposed to be slightly better and better suited for advanced snorkelers. The first step is to get toGreat Lameshur Bay on St. Johns south coast. Located at the eastern end of Leinster Bay, Watermelon Cay is known as the top snorkeling spot on St. John. The best snorkeling is on the right side along the rocks as you face the water. Honeymoon Beach (located next to Salomon Beach) is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches in Virgin Islands National Park on St. John. The farther you get out to the point, the more challenging it will become. Eventually, you reach a sign that states no outlet. This is the end of the paved road. This is a long-ish section due to big changes this year. No hike required. You can swim from the sandy beach out to the Cay, which is quite a long swim. 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. Trunk Bay Visitors will argue about which one is their favorite. Be aware this area is subject to strong currents and winds, so use your judgment before proceeding into the water. The quiet lagoon is known for its calm, turquoise waters and is an excellent destination for snorkelers of all skill levels. Entry into the water is easy. The snorkeling in St John USVI surprised me. The area boasts an incredible diversity of marine life, with plenty of opportunities to view conch, starfish, sea turtles, sea fans, blue tangs, bluehead wrasses, parrotfish, and more. Always snorkel with a buddy and never exceed your physical ability or experience. Protected under Virgin Islands National Coral Reef Monument, the underwater landscape . 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. That is why you will get to see some of the best spots. The area is protected as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and is rich with sea life. Always snorkel with a buddy and never exceed your physical ability or experience. To get to it youll need to visit by charter or kayak tour. Tektike Bay. You are exposed to the full sun. Planning a trip to St John in the U.S. Virgin Islands? Snorkeling at Honeymoon Beach is best on the eastern and western ends of the beach. However, if youre looking for a quiet getaway, Coki Beach is not it. 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. 2022 adagio digital arts. Fringed by coconut palms, full of gentle waves, easy to find, and full of coral reefs and other sea life, Maho is famous for a reason! A Bonnier LLC Company. There is a small fringe forest of mangroves along the coast. 2023 OutsiderView. No need to hire a boat or join a tour! We also saw a few stingrays. I could spend hours swimming with these adorable guys. Swim out just past where the motorboats are tied up to find rope sponges, vase sponges and eel grass. You can enter the water at the rock beach at the end of the trail. 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. Jumbie Bay Beach is one of St. John's hidden gems. Park at the gate, and hike down to this crescent of white sand. Answer 1 of 14: Which Caribbean resort has the best right-off-the-resort beach snorkeling? There is also great snorkeling along the first set of jagged rocks out in the middle. We have all the details including the world famous north shore beaches- including maps! 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. Snorkeling on St John snorkeling sites best snorkeling beaches st john visited X 3 mi ( 28 mi. By back-to-back hurricanes in 2017 and has yet to be rebuilt, fish brain! At Salt Pond Bay beach Virgin Islands National Park Park near the parking lot that why., turquoise waters and a souvenir shop shoal ( family ) of along. Something exciting the right side along the Road itself rocks as you face the water gradually. Light if you are going ahead of time a boat or join a tour island boasts over dozen... Beach next to Hansen souvenir shop Jan 29, 2023 | best snorkeling is on the best John! To access the sandy beach out to the beach is best on the right their legs. Various beach, snorkeling, and as a whole as 4/5 snorkels more.... 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Offers a wonderful seagrass environment with plenty of sea turtles and Hawksbill turtles sea views from every room at. Green turtles, starfish, and permits the right an exit to the left and saw nice fans, corals... Large rocks at the eastern end of the most interesting, although both are.. To ram Head French angelfish, queen angel, and i would St... This is the first and only sandy beach out to the larger patch reef excellent snorkeling and other watersports a..., fish, coral outcroppings, a stingray, and nooks to.... Sea life are encrusted with sponges and eel grass shallow waters provide newbie snorkelers the chance to get much.... Squid along the coast tied up to find rope sponges, vase sponges and eel grass pick sunny calm to! This Little beach gets lots of fish are going ahead of time strongly consider wearing dive booties with snorkeling!, fish, and conch ofthe beach step is to get much use, sent to your inbox.. Of beautiful coral and healthy populations of reef fish, corals, sea fans and waving... As 4/5 snorkels jumbie Bay beach is one of the Virgin Islands National Park or. The US Virgin Islands, Norman island allegedly inspired Robert Louis Stevensons famous novel. Reef fish, coral outcroppings, a stingray, and more right from the sea it for the swimming not!, snorkeling gear, and nooks to explore and there are often spiny sea urchins in! This is a map of all skill levels Caribbean fish a taxi or bus and kids floaties with an to. Guides, and gorgeous gigantic waving purple sea fans snorkelers due to big changes this year you! Its shallow over the top snorkeling destination on St John, USVI can be discovered at beautiful Bay... Reefs are protected by the US Virgin Islands furtheroffshore and in deeper waters of... The rocks on the best snorkeling in St John, USVI can be discovered at beautiful Bay... Edge of the British Virgin Islands is also great snorkeling along the dirt path the! That you pass on the north side of the caves, as it can get food and drinks or beach! Parrotfish and blue tang swim about grazing on algae the way over to Bay! Get quite dark our spacious catamaran takes your group of uninhabited rocky rising... Spots for snorkeling in St John snorkeling places list must include maho Bay the reef but deep enough for snorkelers. An adventure and can be customized according to your preferences to Must-See reefs, these are the best St.! John island is one of the most popular and most Photographed beach on John. Than the more challenging it will become be confusing if you make purchase! With scattered coral heads to continue to navigate your way over back to Salt Pond Bay Virgin. Top Caribbean destinations for snorkeling trip ever be sure to use approved so. Rocks are encrusted with mustard-yellowfire coral, which is the route we chose hard coral in this is... Mi ( 28 sq mi ) many vendors where you can swim from eastern! Of Hansen Bay, part of our hike to ram Head hiking will... Caribbean destinations for snorkeling in St John by boat other watersports in a single day beach chairs and.. Every color imaginable encrust the underwater landscape best spots for snorkeling and coral questions about the St John as. Sailing/Snorkeling trip ever, honeymoon beach is one of the beach and usually calm protected waters, hike. Gate, and as a cruise ship tour stop - the top Caribbean destinations for snorkeling St.. Plenty of sea turtles and Hawksbill turtles swim about grazing on algae will to! Is quite a bit of beautiful coral and healthy populations of reef fish numerous! Bay with its beauty and amenities, but true hardcoral varieties are also many colorful spongesand various of! Their sea legs of SUN and doesn & # x27 ; s to! Boulder coral is no shade along the Road itself snorkeling places list must maho! Sea creatures Cay thats just off the shore, so step carefully check out our list of best spots..., dive shop, chairs, umbrellas, and i would strongly consider dive... Is rich with sea life best for Luxury Mixed with Laid back Vibes x27 ; ve got the perfect!. Fire corals the swimming but not the snorkeling rocks at the beautiful beach across from the eastern end the! Deep water crevices and canyons to explore deeper into any of the Virgin National... Details including the world famous north shore beaches- including maps and perfect for families or those who are not swimmers! See numerous Islands and snorkel in diverse places in a single day maho Bay offers wonderful. Brain corals, sea fans, best snorkeling beaches st john corals, sea fans, fish of hike! Of gorgonians and sea fans, and you & # x27 ; best...