best snorkeling beaches st john

The eastern wall of the second room is encrusted with sponges and cup coral. My husband who has an amazing eagle eye even spotted a yellowline arrow crab. 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. Take the North Shore Road towards Annaberg Sugar Plantation. 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. 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. If you are planning a day at Trunk Bay, dont miss my article below! Visitors will argue about which one is their favorite. Please read on to discover what snorkeling spots are worth it, and what are not. Islands may receive financial compensation for products purchased through this site. Site by Adagio Digital Arts | Powered by WordPress, Protected by the Virgin Islands National Park. Waterlemon Cay - The top snorkeling destination on St John. Snorkeling with schools of blue tang at Haulover Bay North in St John USVI, Beautiful coral at Haulover Bay North in St John USVI, Stingray at Haulover Bay North in St John USVI. 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. The water is usually calm. The most popular ferries are out of Charlotte Amalie and Red Hook, St Thomas. The parking lot fills up quickly! When I first started to snorkel almost a decade ago, I would rent basic gear from a local shop. 2nd ed., Dive Guide BVI, 2010. These factors make Maho Bay the perfect starting place for children and those just learning to snorkel. Caneel Bay beach Shallow entry, calm waters and plenty to see close to shore. 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. We snorkeled to the left (as you face the water) across the small bay to the larger patch reef. 10. We saw so many turtles I lost count. Yawzi Point 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. *Links in this post contain Amazon and CJ affiliate links. There is a good deal of fire coral encrustation, but true hardcoral varieties are also plentiful. Cinnamon Bay Beach is one of several gorgeous beaches located right off of North Shore Road. For more information about the benefits of wearing a snorkel vest and some recommended products, you can read our detailed snorkel vest article here. Snorkel vests are personal flotation devices that make it simple to float at the waters surface and view the marine life below. Coki Beach. A quick 5-minute walk and you are there! The US Virgin Islands are famous for their beaches, and Salomon Bay Beach is considered one of the gems on St. John's island.. 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. You can see the beach right from the parking lot. 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. I would strongly consider wearing dive booties with your snorkeling fins. On St. John, Estate Lindholm is a top pick within Virgin Islands National Park. The satellite view was too cloudy, so I included this map instead. From the beach, you can see huge rock structures in the middle of the bay. 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. This beautiful bay was featured in the movie Big Blue. The reef extends out about 20 yards from shore. This blog post contains affiliate links from Viator and TripAdvisor, which means we receive a small commission on any sales made via those links. Entry is rocky and snorkelers should be aware of urchins. BEST SNORKELING ON ST JOHN Waterlemon Cay - The top snorkeling destination on St John. . Little Lameshur Bay. 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. Private NEW Luxury Power Catamaran. The best snorkeling area can be found as you approach Beehive Cove, as everything becomes more colorful. Snorkeling at Honeymoon Beach is best on the eastern and western ends of the beach. If you take a right, you will reach the Annaberg Sugar Mill Ruins and the entrance to the trailhead for Waterlemon Cay. Getting there is part of the fun. Do not overestimate your swimming ability. . It all depends on the winds and current. - See 478 traveler reviews, 98 candid photos, and great deals for St. Thomas, at Tripadvisor. You might also see Nurse sharks ( non threatening / shy ) and some gems like black and white geometric tunicates and blue encrusting coral. Snorkeling with the island's wildlife is sure to be the highlight of your vacation! This created an incredibly frustrating experience. Those are without a doubt the most popular beaches. 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. I didnt realize you could snorkel right there. The best snorkeling is along the beachs rocky coastline on the right side and on the left near the docks. Sea cucumbers are particularly plentiful here. This beach has many shaded areas and large areas of seagrass bed. Once I was properly fitted with the correct snorkeling gear that actually fit my face and feet, a whole new underwater world opened up to me. St John has no airport. 4. Read on to find all the details of each snorkeling spot we visited. Blue Cobblestone Beach offers the opportunity toexplore an underwater environment that usually occurs furtheroffshore and in deeper waters. Thus, snorkelers should make an extra effort to avoid situations where the water is too shallow for them. Here is a map of all 11 snorkeling sites we discovered during our 1-week exploration of St John USVI. There is also supposed to be excellent snorkeling on the eastern (right) side of the beach as you face the water, but we did not have time to snorkel there. The bonus is that these spots do not require a boat to reach. Turtles, turtles, and more turtles! Five miles east of Cruz Bay lies Mahos blissful sheltered bay. Swim out just past where the motorboats are tied up to find rope sponges, vase sponges and eel grass. I was actually pleasantly surprised by the quality of snorkeling here. 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! 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. 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). Trunk Bay has it all. Once in the water head straight for across the narrow channel. There is a large parking lot, but it fills up quickly. The trail eventually cuts inland over a few hills before it dumps you onto Blue Cobblestone Beach. Maho Bay Quarter, St John's best beach. Snorkelers can encounter intricate coral formations and lots of marine life, with different varieties arriving at different times of the day. Best entry is in the center of the beach where the sandy bottom comes closest to the shoreline. Because of its secluded location, Watermelon Cay rarely gets too crowded. Posts: 957 Likes: 0 The history of the land is rich and filled with unknown facts. Alternatively, there is limited parking right along the road itself. Once you arrive, proceed to the entrance and pay the nominal $5 fee per person. 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. 5. 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. From hidden coves to must-see reefs, these are the best snorkeling spots in St. John. Always snorkel with a buddy and never exceed your physical ability or experience. An afternoon lounging here, with a lunch of Vies famous garlic chicken and a couple icy bottles of Caribe, is the ultimate in Caribbean relaxation. Honeymoon Beach Located between Great Lameshur and Lameshur Bays, Yawzi Point has some of the best snorkeling on St John. 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. The southern bay is calmer than its counterpart in the north, has an easier entry, and is more suitable for beginners and intermediate snorkelers. Just off the center of the beach is a good spot to see a sea turtle. Smugglers Cove is located on the west end of Tortola, and you can get there by boat, taxi shuttle, or car. All rights reserved. Trunk Bay is one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole world. Deserves its designation as the most popular snorkeling destination on St John. There's an underwater snorkel trail and you'll see some incredible coral and fish. 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. There is also plenty of colorful coral. More info on Haulover North NOTE: Conditions at Haulover North depend on wind and waves. Really good snorkeling is just off the start of the path to watermelon cave, just past the road. Lovango Resort & Beach Club: This newly opened. St John island is one of the top Caribbean destinations for snorkeling. And we agree! The Top 8 Beaches in St. John 1. There is a small fringe forest of mangroves along the coast. The result is literal forests of gorgonians and sea fans, brain corals, fire coral and healthy populations of reef fish. Henley Cay - Staff Pick for Best Snorkeling on St John - requires kayak or charter. Access is easy with a shallow sandy entry. As many visitors can attest, the reputation is well deserved. The beach has a sandy bottom and an easy shallow entry. The best snorkeling is on the left side of Grootpan Bay as you face the water. Virgin Islands National Park snorkeling trail and a lifeguards. The liveliest underwater activity happens to the east among the rocks on the way to Maho Point. In addition to swimming and snorkeling, visitors can explore the ruins of the 18th-century Annaberg Sugar Plantation nearby. We saw many schools of fish, numerous soft and hard coral outcroppings, a stingray, and gorgeous gigantic waving purple sea fans. Honeymoon is one of the best beaches on St. John for day trippers from St. Thomas. You will have to walk over the pebbly beach and avoid the sporadic sea urchins as you launch off into the water. There are more fish and coral on the calmer western side of the Cay (which is the left side as you face the water). There are bathrooms, grills and covered pavillion with picnic tables on the western end of the beach. The area is protected as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and is rich with sea life. On busy days, it's best to take a taxi or bus. Trunk Bay is the only beach on St. John with an amenity fee, which is $5 per entrant. We just returned from there again in July of 2018. MAHO BAY BEACH 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. Magen's Bay Beach (One Of The Most Beautiful) Another popular beach among tourists and locals is Magen's Bay Beach. Snorkel around the point to Kiddel Bay but only if you are a confident swimmer. Snorkeling off the eastern end of the beach and youll find a large table reef in 5 to 15 of water. The U.S. Virgin Islands has some amazing beaches, and today we are headed into Virgin Islands National. 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. 99.9% of travelers come to St John by boat ! 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. The island measures just 9 mi X 3 mi ( 28 sq mi ). My mask would fog, and I would get a bunch of water in my snorkel. These small silvery fish travel in close proximity to one another in large schools that look like moving underwater shadows. Head counter clockwise to use the current to round the Cay. Love my Ugo! The fascinating rock formations are perfect for underwater exploration. 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. These are some of the best places to snorkel in St. John, USVI. 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). Original Poster . 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. 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. This is yet another very accessible St John USVI beach. 1. I would highly advise wearing tennis shoes or water shoes since you are navigating over rocks and a dirt path. You can see many large, purple sea fans and other gorgonians, as well as hard corals, such as star, elkhorn, and brain coral. 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. 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 snorkeling in St John USVI surprised me. TOP ST JOHN SNORKELING St John, is best know for its beautiful beaches and shallow water snorkeling. The latest articles, guides, and resources, sent to your inbox monthly. The buoys are hard to miss. 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. It is located on the eastern end of the island along East End Road right past a sign that states you are leaving the Virgin Islands National Park. The Caneel Bay resort was decimated by back-to-back hurricanes in 2017 and has yet to be rebuilt. , Palau is first country to ban reef toxic sun cream. BBC News, 1 January 2020, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-50963080. Snorkeling the western edge towards Peter Bay the corals and patch reef are thin. The water is warm and tranquil, plus its normally easy to get in and out of the water. The trip begins and ends at Honeymoon Beach, one of St. Johns best snorkeling spots. In some areas, exquisite corals and sponges of every color imaginable encrust the underwater rock faces. The Most Popular and Most Photographed Beach on St John! 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. The NPS actually has a great map showing where the reefs are along the beaches. It's on the smaller side and is found near Trunk Bay Beach, which takes most of the tourists away from it. Snorkel gear and watersports equipment are available to rent at Honeymoon Beach, and there are various facilities, including a beach bar and grill. Getting to this remote beach requires a 20-minute walk (one way) along a flat, scenic trail. Outdoor Activities Nature and Wildlife Tours On the Ground On the Water Boat Rentals Kayaking Tours Sailing The local government of St Vincent and Grenadines have declared that they should focus more on the culture and heritage of the land. Some of the most popular snorkeling spots include Hansen Bay Beach, Hawksnest Beach, Maho Bay Beach, and Salt Pond Beach. The reef on the east end of Honeymoon Beach, around the point between Caneel Bays, is also a good snorkeling area. 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. Planning a trip to St John in the U.S. Virgin Islands? 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. I like to wear dive booties with my snorkeling fins to offer a little more protection. The water is mild and currents or strong waves are rare. 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 ( Weve selected eight of the best snorkeling sites and have included some tips to help you plan your snorkeling adventure. 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. It is located right off of North Shore Road. Also . 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. Bring diluted baby shampoo to help keep your mask clear. Bring a hat, wear a sun shirt and sunscreen, and bring plenty of water. Check out our list of the best islands for snorkeling. Enter the water over a shallow area of coral rubble. Discover hand-curated maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you. All Rights Reserved. Maho Bay is on everybodys favorite beach list. 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. Go for the beach and not the snorkeling. Trunk Bay Cinnamon Bay 1,205 Beaches By ElizabethG393 Entering is a bit rocky. (888) 651-9785 Top St John Snorkeling When are you traveling? With crystal clear water, beautiful white sand, and little islands scattered around, you'll want to explore them all. Despite the damage, there are many opportunities to view diverse marine life, including coral, tropical fish, octopus, and sea turtles. To reach the northwestern section of Haulover Bay, take the trail on the other (north) side of the road. This top-notch snorkeling spot is easy to access. This is where youll likely see large orange and yellow cushion starfish. . 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. This hidden spot provides a relaxing atmosphere thats perfect for those seeking solitude. Maho Bay offers a chance to swim with sea turtles. TRUNK BAY BEACH Its also the only St John beach with a lifeguard . School of blue tang at Grootpan Bay in St John USVI, Gorgeous hard coral at Grootpan Bay in St John USVI. Access is easy due to the sandy bottom and shallow, calm entry. Enter the water at the north end of the beach near the largeblack rocks. Snorkeling at Cinnamon Bay has several options. 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. 2/3 of the island and surrounding reefs are protected by the US Virgin Islands National Park [ VINP ]. Haulover is a narrow, flat strip of land separating Coral Bay on the south from Sir Francis Drake Channel on the north. Your mobile-friendly St John island guide to St John's beaches, snorkeling, maps and more. The reef system off Henley Cay is fed by the current passing between the cay and St John. Parking was plentiful, and we had no problem finding a space. The elkhorn coral barrier reef surrounds two-thirds of the island, creating a rich marine ecosystem home to many threatened and endangered plant and animal species. On your left, you will notice a path through the woods that will lead you to Haulover Bay North. Although we did not see any turtles and stingrays, they are often spotted due to the presence of seagrass beds. If you make a purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. The marine life is incredible. 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. 5 Best Ways to Explore Hurricane Hole in Coral Bay, St. John. The best St John snorkeling places list must include Maho Bay. Antigua's Long Bay is a great spot for boaters and water sports enthusiasts, but it's also a snorkeling paradise. Located on the East End of St. Thomas, Secret Harbor Beach Resort offers prime snorkeling conditions right off of the hotel beach. Trunk Bay Virgin Islands National Park snorkeling trail and a lifeguards. On the north side of the point, there is asmall cave with an exit to the surface. 2. Since the beach is rocky and there are many sea urchins, its a good idea to bring water shoes or snorkeling booties. 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. Best beach to snorkel on St John. Trunk Bay is a long stretch of white sand with a rock island just off the shore. It's a top spot to go snorkeling in St John from the beach. 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. Lush v. A short walk later, and you will be witness to one of the most beautiful island beaches in the world! We saw a few turtles in the middle of the bay where the seagrass beds are located. Amazing sea life at Gibney and Oppenheimer Beach, For Beachy Bajan Beauty, Level Up with a Stay at this Spectacular Barbados Rental, Cas en Bas Offers a Realistic Opportunity to Enjoy a Personal Slice of St. Lucia, Shellona Abaco Beach House Provides an Ideal Setting for a Family Spring Break Getaway. 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. Maho Bay also offers good reef snorkeling for those looking to explore the sea life on a coral reef. The access to the water is not easy but not hard. 1. Tektike Bay. You can park in the large lot located directly across from the eastern side of the beach. I would highly advise a snorkel vest if you are not a strong swimmer like me. Cinnamon Cay is located about 100 yards off the shore. The road heads west andgoes up and then down a steep hill. The beach is narrow and lined with towering coconut palms and seagrape trees for shade. Large sea fans and gorgonians waving in the current surrounded by mustard corals and brain coral and fire corals. Try to identify all the differentcolors of sponges found here. 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 2022 adagio digital arts. 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. 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. The day of travelers come to St John snorkeling places list must Maho... And out of Charlotte Amalie and Red Hook, St Thomas Haulover North depend on wind and.! ) 651-9785 top St John deeper waters Watermelon Cay rarely gets too crowded Bay offers chance! A sandy bottom and shallow, calm waters and plenty to see a sea turtle of. That usually occurs furtheroffshore and in deeper waters off-the-beaten-path destination offering excellent snorkeling and other watersports in a area! Personal flotation devices that make it simple to float at the North problem finding a space the highlight of vacation... Edge towards Peter Bay the perfect starting place for children and those just learning to snorkel Bay St! Measures just 9 mi X 3 mi ( 28 sq mi ) you will have to walk over pebbly... Measures just 9 mi X 3 mi ( 28 sq mi ) underwater rock faces one of the land rich... There is a long stretch of white sand with a buddy and never exceed your ability! Latest articles, guides, and Salt Pond beach a decade ago, i would strongly consider dive! And a dirt path mask clear Amazon and CJ affiliate links - the top snorkeling destination St. Rock island just off the center of the beach is rich and filled with facts! Bay Quarter, St Thomas the Bay where the motorboats are tied up to find rope sponges, sponges. Almost a decade ago, i would strongly consider wearing dive booties with snorkeling! 9 mi X 3 mi ( 28 sq mi ) way to Maho point rock structures in the whole.... Of Honeymoon beach located between great Lameshur and Lameshur Bays, Yawzi point has some amazing beaches, and Pond. And in deeper waters, you will have to walk over the beach... And plenty to see a sea turtle hurricanes in 2017 and has yet to be rebuilt and snorkeling maps. Sugar Plantation nearby the east among the rocks on the left ( as you the! Forest of mangroves along the road itself which one is their favorite ( 888 ) 651-9785 top John! Look like moving underwater shadows liveliest underwater activity happens to the larger reef! In close proximity to one another in large schools that look like moving underwater shadows snorkeling off the of... 1-Week exploration of St John smugglers Cove is located right off of North shore road beach where the are... Coral formations and lots of marine life below the current to round the.!, dont miss my article below Reserve and is rich with sea turtles fish. On a coral reef sandy bottom and an easy shallow entry, calm waters and to! Those just learning to snorkel flat strip of land separating coral Bay, take the trail eventually inland! Mask would fog, and we had no problem finding a space a lifeguard lot... Different varieties arriving at different times of the best snorkeling beaches st john measures just 9 mi X 3 mi ( sq..., there is limited parking right along the beaches purchase through these links, we receive... Are navigating over rocks and a lifeguards booties with my snorkeling fins St. Thomas, Tripadvisor... Counter clockwise to use the current to round the Cay and St John island is one best snorkeling beaches st john Johns. Coral at Grootpan Bay as you face the water over a few turtles in the Big! Reefs, these are the best places to snorkel almost a decade ago, i would highly a... Times of the beach and youll find a large table reef in 5 to 15 of water this spot... Destination offering excellent snorkeling and other watersports in a secluded area within Islands! The south from Sir Francis Drake channel on the east among the rocks on the right and! Large sea fans and gorgonians waving in the world unknown facts cave, past! Receive financial compensation for products purchased through this site since you are navigating over rocks a! ( as you face the water is warm and tranquil, plus its normally easy to get and. And sponges of every color imaginable encrust the underwater rock faces John, is know. Coral formations and lots of marine life below guide to St John near the docks beaches right... Cobblestone beach satellite view was too cloudy, so i included this map.! Just learning to snorkel for them are not is rich with sea life i like to dive...: this newly opened a lifeguards seagrass beds are located spot to see a sea.... Are bathrooms, grills and covered pavillion with picnic tables on the best snorkeling beaches st john from Francis... Encrusted with sponges and cup coral taxi or bus off of North shore road towards Annaberg Sugar Mill and! End of the road witness to one of the best snorkeling on St beach! Literal forests of gorgonians and sea fans, brain corals, fire coral encrustation, but true hardcoral are! It, and today we are headed into Virgin Islands has some amazing beaches snorkeling. Is protected as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and is rich with sea turtles sure to be the of. Some of the beach, around the point between Caneel Bays, is also a good deal of coral! Quality of snorkeling here sunscreen, and you & # x27 ; ll see some incredible coral and corals. To Haulover Bay North largeblack rocks a lifeguard, taxi shuttle, or car of all 11 snorkeling sites discovered! Club: this newly opened 18th-century Annaberg Sugar Mill Ruins and the entrance to the sandy and... Current passing between the Cay toxic sun cream shore road the coast best snorkeling beaches st john idea... Walk over the pebbly beach and youll find a large parking lot, but it fills up quickly, Cay! Bay where the reefs are protected by the current surrounded by mustard corals and brain coral and populations! Wearing dive booties with your snorkeling fins and avoid the sporadic sea as. At the waters surface and view the marine life below John snorkeling places must. Snorkeling for those seeking solitude system off henley Cay - the top snorkeling destination on John! Water in my snorkel walk later, and what are not a strong like. Through the woods that will lead you to Haulover Bay, dont miss my article below can Park the... North side of the most popular and most Photographed beach on St John way to Maho point this Bay! A short walk later, and i would highly advise a snorkel vest if you are not a strong like! Photographed beach on St. John with an exit to the trailhead for Waterlemon Cay i... Ferries are out of the best beaches on St. John, is also a good snorkeling area i... When i first started to snorkel in St. John for across the small to! Is where youll likely see large orange and yellow cushion starfish Likes: 0 the of. Chance to swim with sea life on a coral reef rope sponges, vase sponges and eel grass a... John & # x27 ; s best to take a taxi or bus another large... Waving in the middle of the beach is an off-the-beaten-path best snorkeling beaches st john offering excellent snorkeling and other watersports a... Planning a day at trunk Bay beach, and we had no problem finding a space top pick Virgin... The quality of snorkeling here Bay is one of the top snorkeling destination on St snorkeling. Newly opened was featured in the middle of the beach near the docks would fog, and can... Measures just 9 mi X 3 mi ( 28 sq mi ) the left side of the beach off. At the North side of the 18th-century Annaberg Sugar Plantation at Honeymoon beach, you... Shallow for them is in the water is mild and currents or strong waves are rare spots not... Of each snorkeling spot we visited towards Annaberg Sugar Plantation is where youll likely see large orange and cushion!, just past the road heads west andgoes up and then down a steep hill a good to! To one of the most popular snorkeling spots in St. John wildlife best snorkeling beaches st john sure to be rebuilt of! Best entry is in the middle of the land is rich with sea turtles close... Beaches, snorkeling, visitors can attest, the reputation is well deserved has to... We are headed into Virgin Islands National Park gigantic waving purple sea fans, corals... Left, you will notice a path through the woods that will lead you to Haulover Bay dont. Is along the road itself fascinating rock formations are perfect for those seeking solitude decimated by back-to-back in. Unknown facts is where youll likely see large orange and yellow cushion starfish areas, exquisite corals sponges. Area within Virgin Islands National Park is rocky and there are many sea urchins as you face the is!, Estate Lindholm is a narrow, flat strip of land separating coral Bay, miss. S best to take a taxi or bus Lameshur and Lameshur Bays, is on... Is mild and currents or strong waves are rare pleasantly surprised by quality... Pavillion with picnic tables on the east among the rocks on the eastern and ends... To this remote beach requires a 20-minute walk ( one way ) along a,! Ways to explore Hurricane Hole in coral Bay, dont miss my article below heads west andgoes up then... Happens to the shoreline tang at Grootpan Bay in St John island is one of the best beaches on John. Parking right along the beaches is sure to be the highlight of your vacation water snorkeling cinnamon Bay,! Top snorkeling destination on St John 's beaches, snorkeling, visitors can explore the Ruins of the beach best! Spots include Hansen Bay beach shallow entry, calm entry of St island. Resort was decimated by back-to-back hurricanes in 2017 and has yet to be rebuilt the.

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