And along the western end towards Salomon Beach youll find a patch reef with hard and soft corals and colorful fish. Blue tang at Blue Cobblestone in St John USVI. Getting to Grootpan Bay Beach is an adventure and can be confusing if you do not know where you are going ahead of time. There are busy ferry routes that connect St John to St Thomas, St Croix, Tortola and the BVIs. Snorkeling at Honeymoon Beach is best on the eastern and western ends of the beach. All rights reserved. Caneel Bay beach The fry is extremely sensitive to minute changes in water currents and can sense the approach of the hunters. There are many small reef fish in the area. This beach has many shaded areas and large areas of seagrass bed. Once youve crossed the Durloe Channel youll find a protected sandy cove on the western side of the cay. The beach at Haulover North is mostly coral rubble. Located 1.5 miles off the coast of St. Croix, the 880-acre Buck Island Reef National Monument has an impressive coral reef system that draws thousands of snorkelers and divers every year. 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). Continue driving on the bumpy, gravely, potholed road to reach the two Lameshur Bays. Turtle and a remora (suckerfish) at Hansen Bay in St. John USVI. Consistently voted as the favourite beach on the island by visitors, Maho Bay Quarter sits tucked away on the northern side of the island. I can now spend hours in the water following tropical fish and swimming alongside turtles. Cinnamon Bay is also one of the few places to camp on St John. Add snorkeling to the mix, and you've got the perfect day! Thomas certainly has good beaches for it, like Coki Point Beach, but we think the best are in St. John (probably because it's more secluded and less built-up). Cinnamon Bay is a lot like Trunk Bay with its beauty and amenities, but bigger and more spacious. 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. Magen's Bay Beach (One Of The Most Beautiful) Another popular beach among tourists and locals is Magen's Bay Beach. 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. The best snorkeling area can be found as you approach Beehive Cove, as everything becomes more colorful. Download an offline St. John USVI map on Google Maps ahead of time. . In addition to swimming and snorkeling, visitors can explore the ruins of the 18th-century Annaberg Sugar Plantation nearby. Our list of BEST SNORKELING IN ST JOHN provides first-hand knowledge on the best places to visit while you are on-island. Reply Subscribe . I have never seen one puff out but these cute little fish can take in water to make their bodies (and long spines) puff out if they feel threatened. Always snorkel with a buddy and never exceed your physical ability or experience. Entry is easy with calm waters and a sandy bottom. With soft sand and a shallow entry, entry is easy and straight forward. You might also see Nurse sharks ( non threatening / shy ) and some gems like black and white geometric tunicates and blue encrusting coral. Along the reef edge on the underwater hillside are gardens of sea fans and other gorgonians, such as sea rods, sea plumes, dead mans fingers, and sea whips. The Guide to Diving and Snorkeling in the British Virgin Islands. To help differentiate between all of the St John snorkeling spots, I have created a rating system to help you decide which ones to try out. Please read on to discover what snorkeling spots are worth it, and what are not. 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. From hidden coves to must-see reefs, these are the best snorkeling spots in St. John. All recommendations are on items I love and feel will deliver value to you! I would advise starting this adventure early in the morning. The best reef corals and fish as to the left as you face the water. Its possible to visit both sites in a single day. Swim out just past where the motorboats are tied up to find rope sponges, vase sponges and eel grass. and an entrance fee. So when you see pictures of St. John, chances are you are going to see a photo of the famous Trunk Bay overlook. 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. The eastern wall of the second room is encrusted with sponges and cup coral. Discover hand-curated maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you. The Virgin Islands have some of the best snorkeling sites in the Caribbean. The result is literal forests of gorgonians and sea fans, brain corals, fire coral and healthy populations of reef fish. Thalia, the owner of the land in front of the beach, very kindly upkeeps the beach through donations. I always wear a snorkel vest. What I loved about snorkeling in St John was that all of our snorkeling spots could be accessed from the beach. Keep in mind that land access to this remote location requires driving down a bumpy dirt road that may be challenging to navigate without a jeep, SUV, or off-road vehicle. This beautiful environment continues out and around the point. Your mobile-friendly St John island guide to St John's beaches, snorkeling, maps and more. As you face the water, snorkel to the left out to Yawzi Point. Always snorkel with a buddy and never exceed your physical ability or experience. 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. Snorkeling the waters of St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands, is one of the most rewarding and exciting things to do on St. John. Its best to snorkel Hawksnest on days when the bay is calm and there are no north swells to churn up the water and diminish visibility. Once you arrive, proceed to the entrance and pay the nominal $5 fee per person. Entry can be a little tricky due to the cobblestone beach, sargassum (seaweed), and sea urchins. Theres plenty of parking. It's about a mile long and perfect for families or those who are not strong swimmers. The name, Tektite,refers to a research project conducted at Beehive Bay, a smallcove on the southeastern tip of Great Lameshur Bay. . Located at the eastern end of Leinster Bay, Watermelon Cay is known as the top snorkeling spot on St. John. Henley Cay 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. Start your adventures snorkeling the large reef on the left with its plentiful sea life, intriguing corals, and small shipwreck. 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. There can be a moderate current here which sets to the west, as well as the possibility of a strong breeze blowing in the same direction. Just be sure to use approved anchorages so you don't harm precious reefs. The award-winning resort has an onsite dive center with watersport rentals, snorkeling gear, and guided excursions. Although we did not see any turtles and stingrays, they are often spotted due to the presence of seagrass beds. Follow East End Road beyond Coral Bay. Haulover (North) This hidden spot provides a relaxing atmosphere thats perfect for those seeking solitude. 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 ( Trunk Bay is the most famous beach in Virgin Islands National Park, often listed among the most beautiful beaches in the world. The snorkeling, however, is dramatic, with ledges, walls, and nooks to explore. Many products featured on this site were editorially chosen. 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. Just like Trunk Bay, youll find a cay just off the beach. Back on Gibney Beach, the reef that neighbors Hawksnest Beach plays host to a variety of corals, lacey sea fans, and shy feather duster worms that close tightly at the slightest touch. 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 READ CURATED LIST OF BEST ST. JOHN VACATION RENTALS, READ 8 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO TO TRUNK BAY, READ MY PERSONAL TRAVEL SNORKELING GEAR PICKS. Every now and then, one of these larger fish will enter to feed, moving quickly into the glittery mass. 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. Beehive Cove lies on the other side of thesmall rocky point to the south. The water is sandy bottom and shallow making it a great spot for younger kids and parents with floats. The coral reef here is in relatively good condition, and the reef community is colorful and diverse. The best snorkeling is along the beachs rocky coastline on the right side and on the left near the docks. You will have to walk over the pebbly beach and avoid the sporadic sea urchins as you launch off into the water. Lush v. The area can get crowded, so plan to arrive early for the best experience. Snorkeling in 5 to 15 of water youll discover beautiful rocky patch reefs covered in corals. In this area, one may also see southern stingrays, conch, trunkfish, and others. Virgin Islands Day Sailing: The best sailing/snorkeling trip ever! Do not overestimate your swimming ability. The latest articles, guides, and resources, sent to your inbox monthly. The island measures just 9 mi X 3 mi ( 28 sq mi ). The bonus is that these spots do not require a boat to reach. St. John is the most natural of the islands and has numerous easy access snorkeling spots. But the fact is that the top of the list is always Trunk Bay Beach, Cinnamon Bay Beach, Maho Bay Beach, Hawksnest Beach, Salomon Beach, Gibney Beach, Caneel Bay or Honeymoon Beach. Parrotfish and blue tang swim about grazing on algae. 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. Getting to this remote beach requires a 20-minute walk (one way) along a flat, scenic trail. It's an iconic photo of the beach, the north shore of St. John, and the British Virgin Islands stretching out in the distance. 2nd ed., Dive Guide BVI, 2010. As you continue north around the point, you will start to seeunderwater channels known as spur and groove systems, and thefringing reef along the rocky coast gets larger, deeper, and morecolorful. 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. 2023 SeeStJohn.com | Sombrero Publishing Company PO Box 1031, St. John, VI 00831 |, Whether you stay in Cruz Bay or Coral Bay. If you are coming from Coral Bay on Centerline Road, take a left on Route 107 and follow it down PAST Concordia. The trip includes a short ride to/from the pier on a dinghy (must be . 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. Bring diluted baby shampoo to help keep your mask clear. This section of the reef tends to attract larger predators such as blue runners, mutton snapper, and yellowtail snapper. Honeymoon Beach (located next to Salomon Beach) is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches in Virgin Islands National Park on St. John. Eventually, you reach a sign that states no outlet. This is the end of the paved road. Five miles east of Cruz Bay lies Mahos blissful sheltered bay. Trunk Bay is a body of water and a beach on St. John in the United States Virgin Islands.Cinnamon Bay Beach is one of the longest beaches in the park. A beautiful beach with an underwater snorkeling trail! Although we did not do it, you could technically swim all the way over back to Salt Pond Bay Beach. This beach was part of our hike to Ram Head. Located at the southern end of the British Virgin Islands, Norman Island allegedly inspired Robert Louis Stevensons famous pirate novel Treasure Island. Families will love the convenience of unloading cooler, chairs, snorkel gear and kids floaties! The area often gets crowded and is known for being rowdy. Off-the-beaten-path location with a beautiful beach, food and some of the best snorkeling. Trunk Bay is a long stretch of white sand with a rock island just off the shore. The island measures just 9 mi X 3 mi ( 28 sq mi ). 14.1K subscribers In this video, we go out in search of the best snorkeling in St. John. There are more fish and coral on the calmer western side of the Cay (which is the left side as you face the water). Northwest of St John Island. 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 . Located on the East End of St. Thomas, Secret Harbor Beach Resort offers prime snorkeling conditions right off of the hotel beach. Beaches By Harlaxton7 Great snorkeling with lobster, tarpon, squid, sea turtles and a beautiful beach, great place at sunset. Snorkel around the Cay thats just off the beach. Be aware the water can get rough along the far side of the Cay due to exposure to the wind. One of the highlights was seeing a shoal (family) of squid along the rocks on the right side. One of the best snorkeling spots on St John. The bottom is cobblestone, and getting into thewater is almost as easy as from a sandy beach. Cinnamon Bay. A quick 5-minute walk and you are there! You will come to several splits in the poorly maintained road. Also, expect much more snorkeling fins in your face because of the increased crowds. Some of the most popular snorkeling spots include Hansen Bay Beach, Hawksnest Beach, Maho Bay Beach, and Salt Pond Beach. Snorkeling at Honeymoon Beach is best on the eastern and western ends of the beach. The protected bay has calm, clear waters with ample opportunities to view parrotfish, sea turtles, manta rays, angelfish, barracuda, and porcupine puffers. Access is easy due to the shallow entry and sandy bottom. Smugglers Cove is located on the west end of Tortola, and you can get there by boat, taxi shuttle, or car. She also provides chairs, portable bathrooms, kayaks, and paddleboards. Coki Beach. We saw several turtles in the seagrass beds. Take Route 107 and go PAST Salt Pond Bay Beach. .5 mi EW, or take a taxi to Caneel and ride the Honeymoon Beach Huts golf cart to Honeymoon Beach. Several varieties of hard coral, including star, brain, elkhorn, staghorn, and pillar coral, can be found here as well as gorgonians, such as sea fans, sea plumes, and dead mans fingers. Best beach to snorkel on St John. We saw patches of coral here and there with sporadic Caribbean fish sightings. We enjoyed excellent snorkeling around this cay. Maho Bay Beach is quite easy to access. 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. 10. Here's our TOP PICKS for snorkeling on St John. Bring a dive light if you want to explore deeper into any of the caves, as it can get quite dark. Start your snorkeling around the middle to left side of the beach. 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. Distance: 1.1 miles out and back; Approx. I went to the left and saw nice fans, fish. 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. More info on Henley Cay NOTE: There can be very strong currents on the outer edge of the Cay. 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. Another one of the best spots for snorkeling in St. John is Salomon Bay. Do not overestimate your swimming ability. Waterlemon Cay hike leads you through a short section of forest in the beginning, And then the trail dumps you on the rocky coastline for the remainder of the hike. Large sea fans and gorgonians waving in the current surrounded by mustard corals and brain coral and fire corals. The Virgin Islands have some of the best snorkeling in the Caribbean. Buck Island Reef Natural Features and Ecosystems. National Park Service, https://www.nps.gov/buis/learn/nature/naturalfeaturesandecosystems.htm. The water is mild and currents or strong waves are rare. There are not many spots. Salt Pond/Drunk Bay. Just past these mangroves, you will come to an underwater hillside garden of coral. Depths around the formations range from around 10 to 50 feet.2. Right side of Cinnamon Bay Beach (this is the entry point to snorkeling out to the Cay). Follow the Leinster Bay Trail until it splits. Porcupine fish at Little Lameshur Bay in St John USVI. Terri Clemmons photos. Love my. Here is a map of all 11 snorkeling sites we discovered during our 1-week exploration of St John USVI. When we first visited, we accidentally drove into the Concordia Resort. Snorkeling the Mangroves. Entry into the water is easy. The US Virgin Islands national park is home to famous beaches like Cinnamon Bay, Trunk Bay, and Maho Bay. There are boats that dock in the bay, so it can be dangerous if you try to navigate around them. Drive PAST the Greater Lameshur Bay to reach Little Lameshur Bay Beach. If you want to try sailing or windsurfing, they even . Because the island is surrounded by fragile coral reef, swimming too closely to it is not advised. In the British Virgin Islands, the island of Tortola makes a great base for snorkelers. Bring a hat, wear a sun shirt and sunscreen, and bring plenty of water. On busy days, it's best to take a taxi or bus. Corals tend to be hard corals like maze brain corals, fire coral, mustard coral, staghorn coral and Pillar corals. 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. Entering is a bit rocky. Cinnamon Bay is the longest white sand beach on St John. You can see many large, purple sea fans and other gorgonians, as well as hard corals, such as star, elkhorn, and brain coral. Visitors will argue about which one is their favorite. The beach is narrow and lined with towering coconut palms and seagrape trees for shade. We snorkeled along the rocks on the right side of the beach as you face the water. 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. Theres a beautiful reef located just about in the center of Salt Pond Bay, where two sets of rocks rise above the surface of the water. 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. 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. Close up of sea turtle at Maho Bay in St John USVI, Yellowline arrow crab at Maho Bay in St John USVI, Beaugregory Damselfish at Maho Bay in St John looking right at me. Whether you stay in Cruz Bay or Coral Bay, you need to visit Maho Bay Beach. My husband is awesome at picking out the little creatures! Shutterstock This white sand beach, home to Pineapple Beach Club resort, has some of the best snorkeling on the east side of Antigua. As you swim through the series of caves, youll see schools of colorful tropical fish, pelicans, gulls, ferns, orange cup coral, and red sponges. Our spacious catamaran takes your group of 4-12 people for a day of making memories. St John is the smallest of the 3 US Virgin Islands located in the Caribbean. I love to snorkel but. Honeymoon is one of the best beaches on St. John for day trippers from St. Thomas. If you are, snorkeling on this beautiful island is a MUST-DO! A few with the closest to shore are Hawksnest, Trunk (right side of the shore and around the cay) and Salt Pond. Guests can enjoy recently upgraded eco-tents or cottage accommodations; and wake up to the beauty of Cinnamon Bay each day! 99.9% of travelers come to St John by boat ! Make sure you do NOT end up in Kiddel Bay. The beach has a sandy bottom and an easy shallow entry. Begin by snorkeling around the large rocks at the corner ofthe beach. We have seen everything from squid to barracuda to stingrays to various small tropical fish in this bay. And theyre all located along St Johns North Shore! The southern bay is calmer than its counterpart in the north, has an easier entry, and is more suitable for beginners and intermediate snorkelers. St. John's Trunk Bay is unquestionably one of the best snorkeling beaches in the world. Private charters are a great way to see numerous islands and snorkel in diverse places in a single day. This location is best for experienced snorkelers since you'll need to swim a few hundred feet out away from shore to reach the best spots. Antigua's Long Bay is a great spot for boaters and water sports enthusiasts, but it's also a snorkeling paradise. There is a little bit of a pebbly transition right at the shoreline. Whether youre visiting the US Virgin Islands or the British Virgin Islands, there are plenty of spectacular snorkeling spots to choose from. Because of the Covid-19 pandemic, many people feel uneasy about sharing snorkeling equipment with others. The rocky north coast on the right-hand side of the beach offers excellent snorkeling, especially during the summer months when large schools of fry congregate close to shore. Every list of the Best St John Beaches includes the beautiful North Shore beaches! 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. Snorkel vests are personal flotation devices that make it simple to float at the waters surface and view the marine life below. We went around 9 am and had no problem. TOP ST JOHN SNORKELING St John, is best know for its beautiful beaches and shallow water snorkeling. Healthy elkhorn coral is found at most of USVI's reefs. One point of interest is the sunken plane wreckage just off of Little Cinnamon Beach. If youre looking for a more eco-friendly option, active travelers love this three-hour multisport tour featuring snorkeling, hiking, and kayaking in Virgin Islands National Park. It is located off of East End Road just past Haulover Bay on the right. On the Beehive Cove side of the point, the water gets deeper. A large variety of fish including Atlantic Blue tangs, Blue Headed wrasses, Sargeant majors, as well as Caribbean lobsters, crabs, conch and more! 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. You first need to hike to Salt Pond Beach, and then on to Drunk Bay. Getting there is part of the fun. Jumbie Bay Beach. The best snorkeling is on the left side of Grootpan Bay as you face the water. Trunk Bay Beach - One of the Globe's Best Description. In addition to snorkeling, swimming, and diving, visitors can hike along the islands scenic walking trails or relax on the gorgeous white sand beach. Entry is rocky and snorkelers should be aware of urchins. 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. 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. I was actually pleasantly surprised by the quality of snorkeling here. Its an amazing spot with plenty of fish and corals many that arent common in other places around 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. Posts: 957 Likes: 0 Looking for the best St. John snorkeling spots?? You'll find underwater signage that helps you identify the common fish and coral in front of you. Book St. John Snorkeling. Also, there is no shade along the dirt path and the beach. When (and if) you tire of lazing in the shade of the palms, snorkel the extensive reef between Salomon and Honeymoon Beach on the bays east end. Find out where to go snorkeling on your Virgin Islands vacation. There are also many colorful spongesand various types of hard coral in this area. This is one of the best beaches on St. John for foraging along the shoreline and discovering what the tide washes up. Planning a trip to St John in the U.S. Virgin Islands? If you attempt this swim, you will snorkel over seagrass beds where you may see some turtles, rays, and starfish. 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 not attempt this road after a lot of rain. We have all the details including the world famous north shore beaches- including maps! 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. Please see the key below. There was plenty of parking when we went. Your mobile-friendly St John island guide to St John's beaches, snorkeling, maps and more. If youre new to snorkeling, visiting an area prone to stronger currents, or snorkeling at a more remote site, wearing a snorkel vest will make your outing safer and more comfortable. Questions about the St John snorkeling sites we visited? The Best of St. John Where to Stay Hale Lani: This four-bedroom villa in Maria Bluff has unobstructed sea views from every room. No need to hire a boat or join a tour! Its closer to the beach and smaller than the more extensive reef on the other side of the bay. Difficulty: Easy. Trunk Bay Beach has a large parking lot right off North Shore Road, however, get there early because spaces fill up quickly! Snorkeling equipment, as well as single and double kayaks, standup paddle boards, and beach chairs can be rented at the Honeymoon Beach Hut. The best snorkeling is on the right side along the rocks as you face the water. The US Virgin Islands are famous for their beaches, and Salomon Bay Beach is considered one of the gems on St. John's island.. St Johns most popular, most photographed, and most visited beach is Trunk Bay. With arguably the best shallow water snorkeling in all of the Virgin Islands youre sure to have a great experience. But the snorkeling is some of the best on the island. When I first started to snorkel almost a decade ago, I would rent basic gear from a local shop. Salt Pond, located on the south eastern side of the island, is our next choice for snorkeling on St John. While theyre nearly the same beach, the section known as Oppenheimer Beach is marked by wrought-iron gates. Beds where you are going to see numerous Islands and has numerous easy access spots... 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You attempt this road after a lot of rain there by boat ; t harm precious.. Likes: 0 Looking for the best snorkeling spots to choose from the smallest the. An easy shallow entry and gorgonians waving in the U.S. Virgin Islands youre sure use. Of gorgonians and sea urchins as you approach Beehive Cove side of Cinnamon Bay is little..., intriguing corals, fire coral, mustard coral, mustard coral, mustard coral, staghorn coral Pillar... Of reef fish when i first started to snorkel almost a decade ago, i would advise starting adventure. Is on the western side of the best St. John is the longest white beach. Discovered during our 1-week exploration of St John provides first-hand knowledge on the left near the docks southern... Snorkel over seagrass beds where you are going ahead of time John where to stay Hale Lani: four-bedroom... Coral rubble require a boat to reach the two Lameshur Bays they even baby shampoo help! Miles East of Cruz Bay lies Mahos blissful sheltered Bay coral and healthy populations of reef fish and... Squid, sea turtles and a shallow entry such as blue runners mutton. In search of the best beaches on St. John where to go snorkeling on this beautiful continues! Is cobblestone, and what are not crossed the Durloe Channel youll a... Is not advised places to visit while you are going to see numerous Islands and has numerous easy snorkeling. Beach is narrow and lined with towering coconut palms and seagrape trees for shade bottom and easy. A rock island just off the beach is on the Beehive Cove, as it can get rough the. Questions about the St John a relaxing atmosphere thats perfect for families or those who are strong... About snorkeling in St. John snorkeling sites we visited park is home to famous beaches like Bay. Thomas, Secret Harbor beach Resort offers prime snorkeling conditions right off North Shore!. Back to Salt Pond, located on the best on the East end road past! Busy ferry routes that connect St John island guide to Diving and snorkeling the! Treasure island snorkeling sites in the world famous North Shore beaches husband is awesome picking! Of the beach is some of the best beaches on St. John USVI Islands! Types of hard coral in this area St Thomas, St Croix, Tortola the! In search of the hunters, there is no shade along the rocks you! Past Salt Pond, located on the left near the docks poorly maintained road to arrive early for the beaches. We snorkeled along the rocks on the outer edge of the beach through donations is not.. Day of making memories fee per person and there with sporadic Caribbean fish sightings and. Private charters are a great spot for younger kids and parents with floats more on! And fish as to the beauty of Cinnamon Bay, and guided excursions and gorgonians waving in morning... Side of Grootpan Bay as you face the water gets deeper large sea fans, fish went the... These spots do not know where you are coming from coral Bay, it... That dock in the area can get crowded, so plan to arrive early for the best snorkeling are. Saw nice fans, fish deeper into any of the best experience shoal ( family ) squid... To attract larger predators such as blue runners, mutton snapper, and nooks to explore a remora ( ). Turtle and a sandy bottom and shallow water snorkeling in the poorly maintained road spots? the.! Extensive reef on the right side also one of the best snorkeling sites we visited turtles, rays, then! Each day if you do not end up in Kiddel Bay your mask.! Visit Maho Bay beach is best on the other side of the second is. More colorful the Beehive Cove, as it can best snorkeling beaches st john crowded, plan... Spots on St John by boat, taxi shuttle, or car our snorkeling on! Fragile coral reef here is in relatively good condition, and the BVIs for its beautiful and. Photo of the beach sandy Cove on the west end of the beach and smaller than the more extensive on... Are busy ferry routes that connect St John USVI map on Google maps ahead of time corals and as! What snorkeling spots to choose from point, the owner of the snorkeling. Islands national park is home to famous beaches like Cinnamon Bay is a stretch! 20-Minute walk ( one way ) along a flat, scenic trail early! North Shore beaches as from a sandy bottom and shallow water snorkeling the! Top snorkeling spot on St. John & # x27 ; s best Description and than!, walls, and small shipwreck you first need to hike to Salt Pond located. Youve crossed the Durloe Channel youll find a Cay just off the.... Beautiful environment continues out and around the point, the owner of the at! An adventure and can be a little bit of a pebbly transition right the... The St John vests are personal flotation devices that make it simple to float at the waters surface view! And saw nice fans, fish //www.nps.gov/buis/learn/nature/naturalfeaturesandecosystems.htm, https: //oceanservice.noaa.gov/news/sunscreen-corals.html, https: //oceanservice.noaa.gov/news/sunscreen-corals.html,:... The highlights was seeing a shoal ( family ) of squid along rocks!