If you are looking to piece together all that St John has to offer, check out my ultimate itinerary below. There is also more current, so you need to be a strong swimmer. Do not overestimate your swimming ability. In this area, one may also see southern stingrays, conch, trunkfish, and others. If youre lucky, you might also catch sight of some sea turtles. Vibrant coral at Francis Bay in St John USVI, Snorkeling with turtles at Francis Bay in St John USVI. The water is mild and currents or strong waves are rare. Just past these mangroves, you will come to an underwater hillside garden of coral. Great Lameshur Baylies at the bottom of the hill. There's plenty to explore in the area, from the white sands to the clear blue snorkeling waters. 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. Start your adventures snorkeling the large reef on the left with its plentiful sea life, intriguing corals, and small shipwreck. Jumbie Bay Beach. The name, Tektite,refers to a research project conducted at Beehive Bay, a smallcove on the southeastern tip of Great Lameshur Bay. On your left, you will notice a path through the woods that will lead you to Haulover Bay North. 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. Deserves its designation as the most popular snorkeling destination on St John. A Bonnier LLC Company. One of the highlights was seeing a shoal (family) of squid along the rocks on the right side. 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. Its perfect for beginner snorkelers and children. We snorkeled along the rocks on the right side of the beach as you face the water. To reduce your risk of sunburn and damage from UV rays, wear a rash guard and other clothing with a UPF factor of at least 30 and use sunscreen on any exposed skin. The snorkeling is great along the reef on the left side (as you face the water). 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. Your email address will not be published. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Maho Bay offers a wonderful seagrass environment with plenty of sea turtles. Known as The Indians, this area is a popular diving and snorkeling site with plentiful coral, fish, and other sea creatures. Theres plenty of parking. There is also plenty of colorful coral. Maho Bay Quarter, St John's best beach. 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). Be prepared for a bumpy ride to Grootpan! In fact, Hurricane Hole has been my favorite snorkel spot in the US Virgin Islands since moving here! Last updated Jan 29, 2023 | Best Snorkeling Caribbean, St. John. Honeymoon Beach: Best for Luxury Mixed With Laid Back Vibes. 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! Swim out just past where the motorboats are tied up to find rope sponges, vase sponges and eel grass. Here, the environment is sand and coral rubble. The rugged dirt road out to Lameshur will remind you of why you rented a jeep in the first place, but the beach is well worth it wide and sandy with plenty of shade. Parking spots fill up quickly, so get there early! Thread Tools Search this Thread Mar 23rd, 2011, 12:40 PM #1 Jayneann. The most popular ferries are out of Charlotte Amalie and Red Hook, St Thomas. Also, expect much more snorkeling fins in your face because of the increased crowds. 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. The area can get crowded, so plan to arrive early for the best experience. There are many deep water crevices and canyons to explore. 2022 adagio digital arts. If you decide to make the long swim out there, be SUPER CAREFUL because there is boat traffic. Snorkelers can encounter intricate coral formations and lots of marine life, with different varieties arriving at different times of the day. The Tektite snorkel is one of the absolute best snorkeling spotson St. John, and contrary to popular belief, itcan be accessed by land with relative ease. Among other cool stuff, Ive seen moray eels, turtles, nurse sharks, and squid. Private Full or Half Day Catamaran Snorkel, & Beach Experience; Private Luxury Catamaran Yacht. Guide to the Best St. John Snorkeling Spots - Snorkel and Hike Looking for the best St. John snorkeling spots?? You are exposed to the full sun. The second room is the most interesting, although both are beautiful. Best for: Swimming, snorkeling, and beach parties. Off-the-beaten-path location with a beautiful beach, food and some of the best snorkeling. After a morning snorkel, visit Vies Snack Shack and pay the nominal fee she charges to access the sandy beach next to Hansen. 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. Add snorkeling to the mix, and you've got the perfect day! It is advised to swim counter-clockwise around the Cay, but we swam clockwise without a problem. Five miles east of Cruz Bay lies Mahos blissful sheltered bay. Both beaches can be reached via the Lind Point Trail or from the Caneel Bay Resort. Trunk Bay Beach is worth it for the swimming but not the snorkeling! There is a large parking lot, but it fills up quickly. If you try to park there, you will be trespassing across private property to get to the beach. I would highly advise a snorkel vest if you are not a strong swimmer like me. Original Poster . .5 mi EW, or take a taxi to Caneel and ride the Honeymoon Beach Huts golf cart to Honeymoon Beach. Because of the way it is situated, Maho Bay is usually the calmest of the north shore beaches. The western side of the cay is better protected from waves and wind. 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. A quick 5-minute walk and you are there! The island boasts over 3 dozen beaches to choose from and discover. BEST SNORKELING FOR CHILDREN Maho Bay Easy access, shallow water, shade and a good chance you'll see turtles, rays and lots of fish! On the Beehive Cove side of the point, the water gets deeper. As you swim through the series of caves, youll see schools of colorful tropical fish, pelicans, gulls, ferns, orange cup coral, and red sponges. Visitors will argue about which one is their favorite. And you'll find wonderful snorkeling from most of the beaches! Sail to St John National Park (the very best, least crowded beaches) where you will enjoy fantastic snorkeling & swimming stops, gourmet lunch, drinks, and great company! Avid snorkelers will want to head towards the eastern and western shorelines. The water is shallow at first, and the bottom is made up of small rocks and coral rubble. Go for the beach and not the snorkeling. A short walk later, and you will be witness to one of the most beautiful island beaches in the world! Great to know. The bottom is cobblestone, and getting into thewater is almost as easy as from a sandy beach. Guests can enjoy recently upgraded eco-tents or cottage accommodations; and wake up to the beauty of Cinnamon Bay each day! I like to wear dive booties with my snorkeling fins to offer a little more protection. If you take a right, you will reach the Annaberg Sugar Mill Ruins and the entrance to the trailhead for Waterlemon Cay. 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. , Williams, Jeff and Ria OHagan. Because there is low light within the room, some of the coral animals may have their tentacles extended as if it were night on the reef. She is passionate about outdoor activities and enjoys writing pieces that inspire others to get outside. There are not many spots. 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. 5 Best Ways to Explore Hurricane Hole in Coral Bay, St. John. Questions about the St John snorkeling sites we visited? Use reef-safe sunscreen like my favorite called Colorscience Sunforgettable Total Protection Sport Stick. 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. You can find all kinds of entertainment while you're exploring Coki Beach. Whether youre heading to St. Thomas, St. Croix, or Tortola, youre sure to find stunning places to enjoy this exciting underwater activity. 1. It is located off of East End Road just past Haulover Bay on the right. 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. While the name might imply that its only for lovers, Honeymoon Beach is a great beach for couples and families. 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 ( Maho Bay Beach is quite easy to access. The reef on the east end of Honeymoon Beach, around the point between Caneel Bays, is also a good snorkeling area. A couple of beach shacks sell drinks and snacks and rent stand up paddleboards, beach chairs, umbrellas, and snorkel gear, but there are no restrooms or other amenities. 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. The local government of St Vincent and Grenadines have declared that they should focus more on the culture and heritage of the land. . Posts: 957 Likes: 0 According to local legends, pirates once used the Norman Island Caves to hide their treasure, earning this area the name Treasure Point. Islands may receive financial compensation for products purchased through this site. 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. 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. Even if you're seeking a beach day, this is a phenomenal choice. These rocks are encrusted with mustard-yellowfire coral, which is very attractive but can give snorkelersa mild sting if touched. Trunk Bay is popular with snorkelers due to the pretty beach and usually calm protected waters, and as a cruise ship tour stop. (888) 651-9785 Top St John Snorkeling When are you traveling? Guests can enjoy white sand, towering palms, crystal clear water, the Underwater Snorkeling Trail, food, drink, showers/bathrooms and snorkel gear and chair rentals. 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. Close to the shore are patches of sand and grass with scattered coral heads. 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. Henley Cay The southern bay is calmer than its counterpart in the north, has an easier entry, and is more suitable for beginners and intermediate snorkelers. Park in the Salt Pond Bay Beach parking lot. Blue tang at Blue Cobblestone in St John USVI. For these reasons, this snorkeling area is recommended for experienced snorkelers only. 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. Check out my personal snorkeling gear picks below. 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 . Care should be taken not to kick the coral with your fins. Every now and then, one of these larger fish will enter to feed, moving quickly into the glittery mass. This is the first and only sandy beach that you pass on the trail before arriving at the beautiful beach across from Waterlemon Cay. This blog post contains affiliate links from Viator and TripAdvisor, which means we receive a small commission on any sales made via those links. Discover hand-curated maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you. I would not attempt this road after a lot of rain. The Tektite snorkel is one of the absolute best snorkeling spots on St. John, and contrary to popular belief, it can be accessed by land with relative ease. If you are looking for a secluded place where you can lay on the sugary sand to tan, dip into the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, or just enjoy some reading, then Salomon Bay is the place to be. The Caneel Bay resort was decimated by back-to-back hurricanes in 2017 and has yet to be rebuilt. Begin by snorkeling around the large rocks at the corner ofthe beach. When youve had your fill of music, stuffed French toast, and spicy Bloody Marys, head to Lameshur Beach. . Trunk Bay is a long stretch of white sand with a rock island just off the shore. There are busy ferry routes that connect St John to St Thomas, St Croix, Tortola and the BVIs. 2023 OutsiderView. 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. There are a lot of sea urchins! Located at the southern end of the British Virgin Islands, Norman Island allegedly inspired Robert Louis Stevensons famous pirate novel Treasure Island. Snorkeling out along the east side of the bay, you can reach the coral reefs that lie just north of Blue Cobblestone Beach. After you hike the dirt path to Salt Pond Bay Beach, walk all the way to the far left of Salt Pond Bay Beach and follow the trail along the shoreline. But the snorkeling is some of the best on the island. Maho Bay also offers good reef snorkeling for those looking to explore the sea life on a coral reef. Please be careful as you navigate into the water. The western part of Waterlemon Cay is where we saw the two nurse sharks relaxing at the bottom of the reef. The buoys are hard to miss. That is a long swim though, and the current can be strong. The currents can be strong. All rights reserved. The seagrass beds that are about 30 yards off the beach are a great place to see sea turtles, rays, conch and tarpon. There are more fish and coral on the calmer western side of the Cay (which is the left side as you face the water). 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. Here youll find thin patch reefs that are home to a good selection of hard and soft corals and a dizzying collection of tropical fish species. 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. 10. Follow East End Road beyond Coral Bay. In fact, Maho is our #1 recommendation for anybody that wants a chance to swim with a sea turtle on St John. Virgin Islands Day Sailing: The best sailing/snorkeling trip ever! Terri Clemmons photos. 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. Yawzi Point Protected under Virgin Islands National Coral Reef Monument, the underwater landscape . Honeymoon is one of the best beaches on St. John for day trippers from St. Thomas. Because of its secluded location, Watermelon Cay rarely gets too crowded. 2/3 of the island and surrounding reefs are protected by the US Virgin Islands National Park [ VINP ]. Getting to this remote beach requires a 20-minute walk (one way) along a flat, scenic trail. Stay in areas protected by swim buoys to minimize danger from dinghy traffic in the area. Park at the gate, and hike down to this crescent of white sand. Lovango Resort & Beach Club: This newly opened. 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. Although we did not do it, you could technically swim all the way over back to Salt Pond Bay Beach. When I first started to snorkel almost a decade ago, I would rent basic gear from a local shop. Maho Bay is on everybodys favorite beach list. Cinnamon Bay is also one of the few places to camp on St John. My husband who has an amazing eagle eye even spotted a yellowline arrow crab. Salt Pond When it comes to snorkeling in St. John, Salt Pond is #1 on our list. 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. and an entrance fee. Because of the calm, shallow water, Smugglers Cove is a great snorkeling site for beginners. I went to the left and saw nice fans, fish. Snorkeling is best on calm days when there is good visibility underwater. We went around 9 am and had no problem. 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. Best Beaches on St John - Northwest Shore St John has many amazing beaches, all perfect for enjoying a sunny beach day. 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). Weve selected eight of the best snorkeling sites and have included some tips to help you plan your snorkeling adventure. The result is literal forests of gorgonians and sea fans, brain corals, fire coral and healthy populations of reef fish. This little beach gets LOTS OF SUN and doesn't afford much protection. - See 478 traveler reviews, 98 candid photos, and great deals for St. Thomas, at Tripadvisor. Haulover (North) Check out our list of the best islands for snorkeling. Consistently voted as the favourite beach on the island by visitors, Maho Bay Quarter sits tucked away on the northern side of the island. St. John's Trunk Bay is unquestionably one of the best snorkeling beaches in the world. Entrance: Free. These factors make Maho Bay the perfect starting place for children and those just learning to snorkel. Long Bay Beach Resort is a popular choice next to picturesque Long Bay Beach and Smugglers Cove. Also, there is no shade along the dirt path and the beach. It was better than I was expecting. The Best Snorkeling Beaches In Antigua Galleon Beach - English Harbour On the Southernmost tip of the island Galleon beach is a location offering not just snorkeling, but walks and breathtaking views. Find the part where the sandy bottom meets the shore to allow for easier entry. Moreover, the water deepens gradually and stays relatively shallow as you wade out from the beach. Salt Pond and Drunk Bay are actually two hikes on the south shore of St John. Cane Bay (St. Croix): One of the island's best diving and snorkeling sites is off this breezy, north-shore beach. You can see the beach right from the parking lot. You will have to walk over the pebbly beach and avoid the sporadic sea urchins as you launch off into the water. As many visitors can attest, the reputation is well deserved. Looking for more snorkeling destinations? Park on your left at the bottom of the hill. Best entry is in the center of the beach where the sandy bottom comes closest to the shoreline. 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. 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. Its an easy path about 100 yards long that goes over flat terrain, passing by a small salt pond about halfway along the trail. I cannot stress this enough invest in good snorkeling gear! With its secluded location, Brown Bay is considered the hidden gem of St. John. The award-winning resort has an onsite dive center with watersport rentals, snorkeling gear, and guided excursions. More Info on Waterlemon Cay NOTE: There can be very strong currents on the outer edge of the Cay. Wear proper footwear. Cinnamon Bay is known for its dramatic rock crevices that feature a wide variety of colorful corals. Once you arrive, proceed to the entrance and pay the nominal $5 fee per person. Alternatively, there is limited parking right along the road itself. The walls and ceiling of the cave are covered with beautiful cup corals and sponges. The fascinating rock formations are perfect for underwater exploration. Snorkeling at Honeymoon Beach is best on the eastern and western ends of the beach. When entering the shallow water, take care to avoid sea urchins and coral. TOP ST JOHN SNORKELING St John, is best know for its beautiful beaches and shallow water snorkeling. Trunk Bay Beach. Answer 1 of 14: Which Caribbean resort has the best right-off-the-resort beach snorkeling? Every beach can be accessed by boat. 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. All rights reserved. St John is the smallest of the 3 US Virgin Islands located in the Caribbean. Caneel Bay beach Find the right mask for the shape of your face. We just returned from there again in July of 2018. Entry is not easy. There is also great snorkeling along the first set of jagged rocks out in the middle. Haulover Bay (St. John): A favorite with locals, this small bay is rougher than Leinster, with a pebbly beach. Located just off Caneel Bay Resort youll see an 11 acre cay. Bear left and follow the trail along the shoreline until youre at a point closest to the Cay. 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