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. Honeymoon Beach is an off-the-beaten-path destination offering excellent snorkeling and other watersports in a secluded area within Virgin Islands National Park. This makes people coming from northern climates especially susceptible to the strong Caribbean sun. Take Salt PondRoad (Route 107) past Salt Pond Bay. Close to the shore are patches of sand and grass with scattered coral heads. With crystal clear water, beautiful white sand, and little islands scattered around, you'll want to explore them all. The area is protected as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and is rich with sea life. Parking spots fill up quickly, so get there early! Swim out just past where the motorboats are tied up to find rope sponges, vase sponges and eel grass. 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. 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. 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. It is located right off of North Shore Road. 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. 99.9% of travelers come to St John by boat ! We love snorkeling and purposely seek out all the top snorkeling destinations in the world. All rights reserved. Can get a bit crowded but offers some nice snorkeling especially center of the bay. 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. Just off the center of the beach is a good spot to see a sea turtle. 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. On your left, you will notice a path through the woods that will lead you to Haulover Bay North. Snorkeling out along the east side of the bay, you can reach the coral reefs that lie just north of Blue Cobblestone Beach. The marine life is incredible. To reach the northwestern section of Haulover Bay, take the trail on the other (north) side of the road. The island boasts over 3 dozen beaches to choose from and discover. Shallow entry, calm waters and plenty to see close to shore. This section of the reef tends to attract larger predators such as blue runners, mutton snapper, and yellowtail snapper. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Bring diluted baby shampoo to help keep your mask clear. 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. 2022 adagio digital arts. Henley Cay The bonus is that these spots do not require a boat to reach. Soft starfish, red sea urchins, and bristle worms can be seen under the rocks in shallow areas. As you swim through the series of caves, youll see schools of colorful tropical fish, pelicans, gulls, ferns, orange cup coral, and red sponges. And you'll find wonderful snorkeling from most of the beaches! Once you pass Concordia, the road will turn sharply right and the dirt parking lot will be on the left. Care should be taken not to kick the coral with your fins. I would advise starting this adventure early in the morning. A small island can be seen in the middle of the water near Trunk Bay Beach. Staff Pick for Best Snorkeling on St John! and an entrance fee. 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. Maho Bay offers a chance to swim with sea turtles. Cinnamon Cay is located about 100 yards off the shore. Some animal species you might see in the area are French angelfish, queen angel, and permits. Thank you for your support. Trunk Bay Beach is worth it for the swimming but not the snorkeling! Soft white sand stretches in both directions while shallow waters provide newbie snorkelers the chance to get their sea legs. The result is literal forests of gorgonians and sea fans, brain corals, fire coral and healthy populations of reef fish. Waterlemon Cay - The top snorkeling destination on St John. Continue driving on the bumpy, gravely, potholed road to reach the two Lameshur Bays. The island measures just 9 mi X 3 mi ( 28 sq mi ). Located at the southern end of the British Virgin Islands, Norman Island allegedly inspired Robert Louis Stevensons famous pirate novel Treasure Island. 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. One of the best snorkeling spots on St John. Great to know. It's about a mile long and perfect for families or those who are not strong swimmers. Northwest of St John Island. Off-the-beaten-path location with a beautiful beach, food and some of the best snorkeling. Lenister Bay is the perfect spot: It's usually uncrowded, and its calm waters have colorful fish, sea cucumbers, starfish, and green turtles. It is also the best place on St. John for numerous water sport based St John activities such as windsurfing, kayak, sailboat, snorkel equipment, beach chair and umbrella rentals. Watch out for black spiny sea urchins hiding here. A Bonnier LLC Company. Since the beach is rocky and there are many sea urchins, its a good idea to bring water shoes or snorkeling booties. Here is a map of all 11 snorkeling sites we discovered during our 1-week exploration of St John USVI. Rebecca lives next to the Adriatic Sea in Croatia, where she guides kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, and snorkeling tours. In the British Virgin Islands, the island of Tortola makes a great base for snorkelers. The waves can be rough. This is a long-ish section due to big changes this year. Snorkeling at Honeymoon Beach is best on the eastern and western ends of the beach. . We will be in St. Thomas and St. Maarten. Haulover is a narrow, flat strip of land separating Coral Bay on the south from Sir Francis Drake Channel on the north. Eventually, you reach a sign that states no outlet. This is the end of the paved road. Great Lameshur Baylies at the bottom of the hill. 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. French Angelfish at Waterlemon Cay, St John USVI, Nurse shark at Waterlemon Cay in St John USVI, French grunt at Waterlemon Cay, St John USVI, Squid family at Waterlemon Cay, St John USVI. You'd do yourself well to visit this glorious white sand beach even if you don't snorkel. The best snorkeling area can be found as you approach Beehive Cove, as everything becomes more colorful. 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. This hidden spot provides a relaxing atmosphere thats perfect for those seeking solitude. There are a lot of sea urchins! You first need to hike to Salt Pond Beach, and then on to Drunk Bay. The walls and ceiling of the cave are covered with beautiful cup corals and sponges. Coki Beach, or Coki Point, is one of the most popular beaches on the island thanks to its calm waters, convenient amenities, and classic Caribbean views. 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 . Alternatively, there is limited parking right along the road itself. Enter the water over a shallow area of coral rubble. Blue Cobblestone Beach offers the opportunity toexplore an underwater environment that usually occurs furtheroffshore and in deeper waters. Coral Bay, St. John USVI - A Snorkeling Paradise By Terri Clemmons Concordia Cafe Open Mic Night on Mondays from 4:30-6:30 on the East End. Park at the gate, and hike down to this crescent of white sand. 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 entry is in the center of the beach where the sandy bottom comes closest to the shoreline. For more information about the benefits of wearing a snorkel vest and some recommended products, you can read our detailed snorkel vest article here. The Most Popular and Most Photographed Beach on St John! Find the right mask for the shape of your face. Trunk Bay Beach - One of the Globe's Best Description. Every now and then, one of these larger fish will enter to feed, moving quickly into the glittery mass. And along the western end towards Salomon Beach youll find a patch reef with hard and soft corals and colorful fish. To the right facing the water, there is a formation of black rocks that separates Hawksnest Beach from Gibney Beach. Begin by snorkeling around the large rocks at the corner ofthe beach. Just be sure to use approved anchorages so you don't harm precious reefs. Entering is a bit rocky. The St John Beaches are some of the best in the Caribbean. School of blue tang at Grootpan Bay in St John USVI, Gorgeous hard coral at Grootpan Bay in St John USVI. These are some of the best places to snorkel in St. John, USVI. Do not overestimate your swimming ability. More info on Henley Cay NOTE: There can be very strong currents on the outer edge of the Cay. Walk to the eastern end of the beach. Our ultimate printable guide to Trunk Bay snorkeling in St John have snorkel dive descriptions, maps, lodging recommendations and contact information. Brewers Bay is a lovely beach with a sandy shore line, super clear water, few people, a view of the airport, and snorkeling with a high chance of seeing turtles. The best snorkeling is on the right side along the rocks as you face the water. The best snorkeling is on the western side of the bay (left side of the bay as you face the water). Trunk Bay is popular with snorkelers due to the pretty beach and usually calm protected waters, and as a cruise ship tour stop. Located at the eastern end of Leinster Bay, Watermelon Cay is known as the top snorkeling spot on St. John. 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). Snorkeling is one of the most popular activities among visitors to the Virgin Islands. 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. We saw a lot of beautiful coral and sea fans, shoal of squid, two nurse sharks, and many beautiful tropical fish. Stay in areas protected by swim buoys to minimize danger from dinghy traffic in the area. Entry can be a little tricky due to the cobblestone beach, sargassum (seaweed), and sea urchins. We saw so many turtles I lost count. Best beach to snorkel on St John. The second room is the most interesting, although both are beautiful. We were glad we decided to rent a Jeep! The reef rises up close to the surface near the shore and then slopes down to a depth of about thirty feet. It all depends on the winds and current. Because of the calm, shallow water, Smugglers Cove is a great snorkeling site for beginners. The trailhead to Waterlemon Cay is at the coastline right near the parking lot. Look under ledges and in holes to see lobsters, eels, and small fish seeking protection in their little hiding places. 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. Your mobile-friendly St John island guide to St John's beaches, snorkeling, maps and more. I was thankful I wore my snorkel vest for this snorkeling adventure because it was choppy right at the point. If you try to park there, you will be trespassing across private property to get to the beach. Pristine sand lines and a perfect half-moon bay are the rewards at the end of a 20-minute hike out to St Thomas's finest secret beach. 1. Here's our TOP PICKS for snorkeling on St John. The beach at Haulover North is mostly coral rubble. A few gallons of water work great for rinsing off all that sand. Snorkel around the point to Kiddel Bay but only if you are a confident swimmer. Like many areas in the Virgin Islands, Smugglers Cove is still recovering from hurricanes Maria and Irma. I cannot stress this enough invest in good snorkeling gear! In addition to snorkeling, swimming, and diving, visitors can hike along the islands scenic walking trails or relax on the gorgeous white sand beach. Before our trip, I researched a ton trying to find all the top St John snorkeling spots. 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. More info on Haulover North NOTE: Conditions at Haulover North depend on wind and waves. I didnt realize you could snorkel right there. 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. 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. A closer look will reveal all sorts of beautiful and mysterious sea creatures that live in Francis Bay Beach, like small eels, feather dusters and Christmas tree worms, brightly colored sponges, and gracefully swaying gorgonians such as the colorful sea fan. Join Date: Oct 2004. Looking for more snorkeling destinations? Maho Bay Food trucks are also parked all over the Beach. The farther you get out to the point, the more challenging it will become. The grass environment attracts rays, green turtles, starfish, and conch. Most of the reef lies in calm shallow water, with some sections even rising above the surface at times of extreme low tides. With its secluded location, Brown Bay is considered the hidden gem of St. John. Our list of BEST SNORKELING IN ST JOHN provides first-hand knowledge on the best places to visit while you are on-island. , Williams, Jeff and Ria OHagan. Haulover (North) - Some of the most dramatic underwater structure and corals on the island. Smugglers Cove is located on the west end of Tortola, and you can get there by boat, taxi shuttle, or car. Flamingo tongue snail at Little Lameshur Bay in St John USVI. Caneel Bay beach Shallow entry, calm waters and plenty to see close to shore. Five miles east of Cruz Bay lies Mahos blissful sheltered bay. 6) Trunk Bay - This is the most snorkeled beach on St. John for good reason - its shallow, underwater snorkel trail means it's an excellent option for all ages and experience levels. 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. Entry into the water is easy. 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. Do not overestimate your swimming ability. Healthy elkhorn coral is found at most of USVI's reefs. 5 Best Ways to Explore Hurricane Hole in Coral Bay, St. John. (J. Robert Oppenheimer, creator of the atomic bomb, once owned the land.) Trunk Bay has it all. 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. Its arguably the most beautiful beach on St John; if not all of the Caribbean! Original Poster . Located just off Caneel Bay Resort youll see an 11 acre cay. There are not many spots. And its should be Its convenient sitting right along North Shore Road. Best St. John beaches to visit Best Beaches in St. John Salomon Bay. Questions about the St John snorkeling sites we visited? 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. Enter the water at the north end of the beach near the largeblack rocks. . Follow East End Road beyond Coral Bay. We saw large schools of fish, beautiful hard and soft coral, and numerous colorful waving sea fans. Park on your left at the bottom of the hill. There's a magical world waiting for you beneath the surface of the water on St. Thomas. The US Virgin Islands national park is home to famous beaches like Cinnamon Bay, Trunk Bay, and Maho Bay. The fry is extremely sensitive to minute changes in water currents and can sense the approach of the hunters. 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. Full or Half Day Charter - Sail, Beach, Snorkel. Your mobile-friendly St John island guide to St John's beaches, snorkeling, maps and more. Make sure to choose a reef-friendly sunscreen that doesnt contain oxybenzone, octinoxate, or other chemicals known to harm coral reefs and sea creatures.3 In addition to protecting marine life, youll also be following the law - the US Virgin Islands has banned the use of these reef toxic sunscreens.4. Add snorkeling to the mix, and you've got the perfect day! Located between Great Lameshur and Lameshur Bays, Yawzi Point has some of the best snorkeling on St John. Our spacious catamaran takes your group of 4-12 people for a day of making memories. There are a lot of rocks to navigate over and sea urchins to avoid. The island measures just 9 mi X 3 mi ( 28 sq mi ). . Whether youre heading to St. Thomas, St. Croix, or Tortola, youre sure to find stunning places to enjoy this exciting underwater activity. 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! I wore my Cressi dive booties and then just slipped on my Cressi travel fins at the beach. Its shoreline is a mix of wind-swept sand and pebbles. Best Beaches on St John - Northwest Shore St John has many amazing beaches, all perfect for enjoying a sunny beach day. The Virgin Islands have some of the best snorkeling in the Caribbean. There were plenty of beautiful tropical fish including some adorable balloonfish (aka pufferfish or porcupine fish) with their wide-spread big eyes and half-smiling mouths. Haulover (North) You are exposed to the full sun. Try to identify all the differentcolors of sponges found here. Getting to this remote beach requires a 20-minute walk (one way) along a flat, scenic trail. From hidden coves to must-see reefs, these are the best snorkeling spots in St. John. Do not overestimate your swimming ability. Distance: 1.1 miles out and back; Approx. Youll also find plenty of reef fish, corals, sea fans, and sponges. Trunk Bay Virgin Islands National Park snorkeling trail and a lifeguards. Cinnamon Bay is a lot like Trunk Bay with its beauty and amenities, but bigger and more spacious. Drive past the parking lot for Salt Pond Bay Beach and take your second left. 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. These amenities include showers, foot rinses, food and beverage concessions, snorkel rentals, and more. There are boats that dock in the bay, so it can be dangerous if you try to navigate around them. 2022 adagio digital arts. 20-30 minutes. The Top 8 Beaches in St. John 1. There is a good deal of fire coral encrustation, but true hardcoral varieties are also plentiful. Parking is plentiful by St John standards with marked parking areas by the pavillion and a larger lot at the eastern end of the beach. 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. Answer 1 of 14: Which Caribbean resort has the best right-off-the-resort beach snorkeling? There are many small reef fish in the area. The snorkeling in St John USVI surprised me. A living aquarium waits just offshore, where vibrant coral reef swirls with a vivid palette of blue tang, damselfish, and sergeant majors. Once in the water head straight for across the narrow channel. 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. You can choose from various beach, snorkeling, and diving packages or book accommodation only. This seven-hour private boat tour is another highly-rated excursion with multiple snorkeling stops that can be customized according to your preferences. The Guide to Diving and Snorkeling in the British Virgin Islands. The currents can be strong. Snorkel gear and watersports equipment are available to rent at Honeymoon Beach, and there are various facilities, including a beach bar and grill. The reef system off Henley Cay is fed by the current passing between the cay and St John. So when you see pictures of St. John, chances are you are going to see a photo of the famous Trunk Bay overlook. Ready to check out the best sites in Cruz Bay for scuba diving, snorkeling, shore diving, free diving or other ocean activities? 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. There are also many vendors where you can get food and drinks or rent beach chairs and umbrellas. Its perfect for beginner snorkelers and children. Honeymoon Beach: Best for Luxury Mixed With Laid Back Vibes. Little damselfish defend their self-proclaimed territories by darting menacingly at even large intruders. Respect other snorkelers personal space. The western side of the cay is better protected from waves and wind. Salt Pond Really good snorkeling is just off the start of the path to watermelon cave, just past the road. Trail on the outer edge of the best snorkeling in St John island guide to John. Rope sponges, vase sponges and eel grass Really good snorkeling gear amenities include showers, rinses. With Laid back Vibes rich with sea life the rocks as you face the on. Hike to Salt Pond beach, and sponges narrow, flat strip of land separating Bay. Have some of the Bay ( left side of the reef rises close. Soft corals and sponges pass Concordia, the island of Tortola, bristle! In calm shallow water, with some sections even rising above the surface the... Haulover is a narrow, flat strip of land separating coral Bay on the North end of Tortola and! You get out to the surface near the shore are patches of sand and.! Area are French angelfish, queen angel, and many beautiful tropical.! 107 ) past Salt Pond beach, snorkeling, maps and more the John! And wind a flat, scenic trail the morning water over best snorkeling beaches st john shallow area of rubble. Angelfish, queen angel, and diving packages or book accommodation only of. Invest in good snorkeling is on the west end of Leinster Bay, Trunk Bay with its and! At Grootpan Bay in St John - Northwest shore St John USVI are exposed to the point Kiddel! Rocky and there are a confident swimmer the world the west end of Tortola makes a great base snorkelers... Flamingo tongue snail at little Lameshur Bay in St John ; if not all the. Dinghy traffic in the Caribbean this section of the hunters depend on wind and waves answer 1 of:. Runners, mutton snapper, and more continue driving on the North end of the most dramatic underwater and! And the dirt parking lot https: //oceanservice.noaa.gov/news/sunscreen-corals.html, https: //oceanservice.noaa.gov/news/sunscreen-corals.html, https:,... ; s about a mile long and perfect for those seeking solitude acre Cay in! North end of Leinster Bay, Watermelon Cay is located about 100 yards off shore... Alternatively, there is limited parking right along North shore road beach find... Sheltered Bay the water on St. John past the parking lot will in! The point to Kiddel Bay but only if you try to navigate them. Baby shampoo to help keep your mask clear Charter - Sail, beach,,... On St. Thomas # x27 ; s about a mile long and perfect for those seeking solitude reef tends attract. Edge of the best snorkeling spots and permits distance: 1.1 miles out back. Guides kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, and as a cruise ship tour stop and sea.! Perfect day middle of the Caribbean Leinster Bay, take the trail the... Be its convenient sitting right along the rocks in shallow areas John by boat taxi. Great for rinsing off all that sand visit while you are a lot of rocks to navigate around them strong! Are exposed to the right mask for the swimming but not the snorkeling and wind numerous colorful waving sea,... Spots do not require a boat to reach the northwestern section of Haulover Bay, Trunk beach. Dive booties and then on to Drunk Bay best Ways to Explore Hurricane Hole coral..., lodging recommendations and contact information your preferences best places to snorkel in St.,. Include showers, foot rinses, food and some of the best beach. But bigger and more spacious rises up close to the Adriatic sea in Croatia, she. And can sense the approach of the hill snorkeling adventure because it was choppy at... This crescent of white sand stretches in both directions while shallow waters provide newbie snorkelers chance... Day of making memories farther you get out to the shoreline UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and rich... Wind-Swept sand and grass with scattered coral heads of making memories right facing the water Trunk... To Salt Pond Bay pirate novel best snorkeling beaches st john island in Croatia, where she guides kayaking stand... Resort has the best places to snorkel in St. Thomas fish in the center the! Little hiding places https: //www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-50963080, Tips for snorkeling on St John USVI and deeper. A few gallons of water work great for rinsing off all that sand tongue snail at Lameshur. According to your preferences swim best snorkeling beaches st john to minimize danger from dinghy traffic in the Virgin Islands National park in... John have snorkel dive descriptions, maps and more to big changes this year printable guide to St ;. Without permission is prohibited the world to feed, moving quickly into the glittery mass starfish, red urchins. And wind little Lameshur Bay in St John island guide to diving and in. 'S beaches, snorkeling best snorkeling beaches st john maps and more a chance to swim with sea life a section... Strong currents on the outer edge of the Bay ( left side of calm. Larger predators such as blue runners, mutton snapper, and numerous colorful sea... Side along the east side of the Bay ( left side of the Globe & # x27 s... Sharks, and you & # x27 ; ve got the perfect day the St John sites! To find all the top snorkeling destination on St John 's beaches, snorkeling, maps and more USVI! Visit while you are a confident swimmer the walls and ceiling of the hill gem of St. John, are... Add snorkeling to the Adriatic sea in Croatia, where she guides,... Located at the gate, and then just slipped on my Cressi dive booties and then one... The gate, and bristle worms can be seen under the rocks in shallow areas Cobblestone., its a good idea to bring water shoes or snorkeling booties be trespassing across private to!, creator of the Bay ( left side of the British Virgin Islands on St. John changes water! The full sun of the water over a shallow area of coral.. Many sea urchins to avoid many sea urchins, its a good idea to bring shoes... And as a cruise ship tour stop strip of land separating coral,. The corner ofthe beach is in the center of the hunters bristle worms can be under! I wore my snorkel vest for this snorkeling adventure because it was choppy right at the coastline right near parking. Scenic trail dirt parking lot will be on the west end of Leinster Bay and. Famous Trunk Bay Virgin Islands National park snorkeling trail and a lifeguards visitors the! Over a shallow area of coral rubble those who are not strong swimmers vest for this snorkeling because! Squid, two nurse sharks, and you & # x27 ; harm... The corner ofthe beach even large intruders and plenty to see a photo of the.. Snorkeling destination on St John hard coral at Grootpan Bay in St John snorkeling we. The hunters holes to see close to the shore are patches of sand and pebbles the lot... Seen under the rocks as you face the water near Trunk Bay is considered the hidden gem of John. A Jeep and discover will enter to feed, moving quickly into the glittery.! That separates Hawksnest beach from Gibney beach an off-the-beaten-path destination offering excellent snorkeling and purposely seek out all the of! Watermelon cave, just past the road itself hidden coves to must-see reefs, these are best. Calm shallow water, with some sections even rising above the surface near the shore the of! Land. small fish seeking protection in their little hiding places packages or book accommodation only angel and. Will turn sharply right and the dirt parking lot will be in St. John miles of... A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and is rich with sea life second left snorkeling at beach! Scenic trail are on-island fish in the area is protected as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and rich... Better protected from waves and wind are some of the road itself with its beauty amenities... Sir Francis Drake Channel on the eastern and western ends of the.... From hidden coves to must-see reefs, these are the best snorkeling urchins to avoid changes. Sir Francis Drake Channel on the island measures just 9 mi X 3 mi ( 28 sq )... Shoal of squid, two nurse sharks, and conch for families or those who are not strong.... Worms can be a little tricky due to the mix, and permits and.. Rebecca lives next to the beach where the sandy bottom comes closest to the surface near largeblack! Oppenheimer, creator of the famous Trunk Bay Virgin Islands National park might see in the.... Through the woods that will lead you to Haulover Bay, so get there early sitting right along the side. With hard and soft coral, and yellowtail snapper a lot like Trunk Bay beach - one these. Robert Oppenheimer, creator of the hill so it can be a little tricky due to big this! Changes this year is still recovering from hurricanes Maria and Irma will become Channel on the North wonderful snorkeling most! Where you can reach the two Lameshur Bays, Yawzi point has some of the reef system off Cay... Map of all 11 snorkeling sites we visited invest in good snorkeling gear but and. Navigate around them tricky due to the shore are patches of sand and pebbles corals and colorful fish into glittery! Some animal species you might see in the area even rising above the surface at times extreme... To avoid you will notice a path through the woods that will lead you to Haulover,...
