The best reef corals and fish as to the left as you face the water. Yawzi Point This is a long-ish section due to big changes this year. Difficulty: Easy. A large variety of fish including Atlantic Blue tangs, Blue Headed wrasses, Sargeant majors, as well as Caribbean lobsters, crabs, conch and more! The southern bay is calmer than its counterpart in the north, has an easier entry, and is more suitable for beginners and intermediate snorkelers. On the Beehive Cove side of the point, the water gets deeper. To get there, take a taxi shuttle from Cruz Bay with Virgin Islands Ecotours or hike a gorgeous one-mile section of the Lind Point Trail, which takes around 30 minutes. 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. Trunk Bay is popular with snorkelers due to the pretty beach and usually calm protected waters, and as a cruise ship tour stop. Scrawled filefish can sometimes be seen making their way along the bottom hunting for food. We saw a lot of beautiful coral and sea fans, shoal of squid, two nurse sharks, and many beautiful tropical fish. Its possible to visit both sites in a single day. Even if you're seeking a beach day, this is a phenomenal choice. Go for the beach and not the snorkeling. Park on the south side of the road alongside the small sand and coral rubble beach. This created an incredibly frustrating experience. Find the right mask for the shape of your face. But the trip is well worth it. Entry into the water is easy. Vibrant coral at Francis Bay in St John USVI, Snorkeling with turtles at Francis Bay in St John USVI. To get to it youll need to visit by charter or kayak tour. There are also many vendors where you can get food and drinks or rent beach chairs and umbrellas. More info on Henley Cay NOTE: There can be very strong currents on the outer edge of the Cay. Best Beaches on St John - Northwest Shore St John has many amazing beaches, all perfect for enjoying a sunny beach day. (J. Robert Oppenheimer, creator of the atomic bomb, once owned the land.) We were glad we decided to rent a Jeep! Snorkeling at Trunk Bay is best just off the center of the beach around Trunk Cay. 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. Take Salt PondRoad (Route 107) past Salt Pond Bay. Thanks so much for sharing! We have all the details including the world famous north shore beaches- including maps! 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. One of the best snorkeling spots on St John. This beautiful environment continues out and around the point. This makes people coming from northern climates especially susceptible to the strong Caribbean sun. Leinster Bay is made up of two smaller bays, Waterlemon Bay on the east and Marys Creek on the west. To reach the northwestern section of Haulover Bay, take the trail on the other (north) side of the road. Henley Cay - Staff Pick for Best Snorkeling on St John - requires kayak or charter. I was actually pleasantly surprised by the quality of snorkeling here. Entering is a bit rocky. Moreover, the water deepens gradually and stays relatively shallow as you wade out from the beach. The Most Popular and Most Photographed Beach on St John! Soft starfish, red sea urchins, and bristle worms can be seen under the rocks in shallow areas. The Virgin Islands have some of the best snorkeling in the Caribbean. There are some beautiful tropical fish and coral outcroppings; however, I would not consider this a top snorkeling spot. Access is easy due to the sandy bottom and shallow, calm entry. Shutterstock Maho Bay There is a large parking lot, but it fills up quickly. Magen's Bay Beach (One Of The Most Beautiful) Another popular beach among tourists and locals is Magen's Bay Beach. 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. Jumbie Bay Beach is one of St. John's hidden gems. Trunk Bay is one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole world. St. John's longest beach also makes it to the list of the best snorkeling destinations. 10 Reasons Why Saba Should Top Your Caribbean Travel List this Year, History is in the Making at the Iconic Grand Wailea Maui, Its the Dawn of a New Day at Aurora Anguilla Golf Resort and Spa. If you make a purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Soft white sand, shallow water entry, beautiful aqua blue water, snorkeling and watersports make it the perfect St John beach destination! Staff Pick for Best Snorkeling on St John! Great Lameshur Baylies at the bottom of the hill. Salt Pond When it comes to snorkeling in St. John, Salt Pond is #1 on our list. You can choose from various beach, snorkeling, and diving packages or book accommodation only. Continue driving on the bumpy, gravely, potholed road to reach the two Lameshur Bays. Cinnamon Bay is known for its dramatic rock crevices that feature a wide variety of colorful corals. Located just off Caneel Bay Resort youll see an 11 acre cay. And along the western end towards Salomon Beach youll find a patch reef with hard and soft corals and colorful fish. There are many deep water crevices and canyons to explore. Snorkeling the western edge towards Peter Bay the corals and patch reef are thin. The seagrass beds that are about 30 yards off the beach are a great place to see sea turtles, rays, conch and tarpon. Salt Pond Once in the water head straight for across the narrow channel. One of the highlights was seeing a shoal (family) of squid along the rocks on the right side. There are not many spots. St. John is the most natural of the islands and has numerous easy access snorkeling spots. Depths around the formations range from around 10 to 50 feet.2. Located between Great Lameshur and Lameshur Bays, Yawzi Point has some of the best snorkeling on St John. The reef rises up close to the surface near the shore and then slopes down to a depth of about thirty feet. Maho is the best bay on St. John for observing the inhabitants of this important environment, including rays, conch, and starfish, in a calm environment. Lenister Bay is the perfect spot: It's usually uncrowded, and its calm waters have colorful fish, sea cucumbers, starfish, and green turtles. She is passionate about outdoor activities and enjoys writing pieces that inspire others to get outside. Green turtles, stingrays, and conch can be seen over the grassy areas, which make up most of the central portion of the bay. I was thankful I wore my snorkel vest for this snorkeling adventure because it was choppy right at the point. 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. Entrance: Free. 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. Salt Pond - Can get a bit crowded but offers . The U.S. Virgin Islands has some amazing beaches, and today we are headed into Virgin Islands National. There is an underwater snorkeling trail along the Cay, which requires a short swim out from the beach. Although we did not do it, you could technically swim all the way over back to Salt Pond Bay Beach. Cinnamon Bay is the longest white sand beach on St John. Cinnamon Bay 1,205 Beaches By ElizabethG393 Its shoreline is a mix of wind-swept sand and pebbles. Because of its secluded location, Watermelon Cay rarely gets too crowded. When entering the shallow water, take care to avoid sea urchins and 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. Bring a dive light if you want to explore deeper into any of the caves, as it can get quite dark. 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. It all depends on the winds and current. Please read on to discover what snorkeling spots are worth it, and what are not. Drive PAST the Greater Lameshur Bay to reach Little Lameshur Bay Beach. The highlight here is the Cane Bay Wall, where the seafloor plummets from around 40 feet . Trunk Bay has it all. Do not overestimate your swimming ability. Off-the-beaten-path location with a beautiful beach, food and some of the best snorkeling. 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 . I wore my Cressi dive booties and then just slipped on my Cressi travel fins at the beach. 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. Located at the eastern end of Leinster Bay, Watermelon Cay is known as the top snorkeling spot on St. John. Brewers Bay. Those are without a doubt the most popular beaches. All rights reserved. Honeymoon Beach is an off-the-beaten-path destination offering excellent snorkeling and other watersports in a secluded area within Virgin Islands National Park. 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. The coral reef here is in relatively good condition, and the reef community is colorful and diverse. This is the closest entry point to get to Waterlemon Cay, which is the route we chose. This little beach gets LOTS OF SUN and doesn't afford much protection. 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. Trunk Bay Virgin Islands National Park snorkeling trail and a lifeguards. Parking is catch-as-catch-can along the left hand side. Youll also find bathrooms, RainTree Caf, watersports rentals and a souvenir shop. 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. Your email address will not be published. Snorkeling equipment, as well as single and double kayaks, standup paddle boards, and beach chairs can be rented at the Honeymoon Beach Hut. Just off the center of the beach is a good spot to see a sea turtle. Beaches By Harlaxton7 Great snorkeling with lobster, tarpon, squid, sea turtles and a beautiful beach, great place at sunset. When I first started to snorkel almost a decade ago, I would rent basic gear from a local shop. The area often gets crowded and is known for being rowdy. St Johns most popular, most photographed, and most visited beach is Trunk Bay. As you face the water, snorkel to the left out to Yawzi Point. 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. Haulover Bay (St. John): A favorite with locals, this small bay is rougher than Leinster, with a pebbly beach. You'd do yourself well to visit this glorious white sand beach even if you don't snorkel. Smugglers Cove is located on the west end of Tortola, and you can get there by boat, taxi shuttle, or car. The farther you get out to the point, the more challenging it will become. 2/3 of the island and surrounding reefs are protected by the US Virgin Islands National Park [ VINP ]. (888) 651-9785 Top St John Snorkeling When are you traveling? 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. The snorkeling, however, is dramatic, with ledges, walls, and nooks to explore. We saw a few turtles in the middle of the bay where the seagrass beds are located. There are many small reef fish in the area. Use reef-safe sunscreen like my favorite called Colorscience Sunforgettable Total Protection Sport Stick. Although we did not see any turtles and stingrays, they are often spotted due to the presence of seagrass beds. 14 Best St. John Beaches. Little Lameshur Bay. The southern side of Haulover Bay, St John, lies just off the side of Route 10. The marine life is incredible. This is the first and only sandy beach that you pass on the trail before arriving at the beautiful beach across from Waterlemon Cay. 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. Be aware the far side of the Cay can have strong currents. Because the island is surrounded by fragile coral reef, swimming too closely to it is not advised. Its arguably the most beautiful beach on St John; if not all of the Caribbean! With soft sand and a shallow entry, entry is easy and straight forward. It was better than I was expecting. There is also great snorkeling along the first set of jagged rocks out in the middle. Our list of BEST SNORKELING IN ST JOHN provides first-hand knowledge on the best places to visit while you are on-island. Cane Bay at sunrise, St. Croix. Snorkeling the waters of St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands, is one of the most rewarding and exciting things to do on St. John. Islands may receive financial compensation for products purchased through this site. Some animal species you might see in the area are French angelfish, queen angel, and permits. Waterlemon Cay - The top snorkeling destination on St John. - See 478 traveler reviews, 98 candid photos, and great deals for St. Thomas, at Tripadvisor. St. John's Trunk Bay is unquestionably one of the best snorkeling beaches in the world. On the north side of the point, there is asmall cave with an exit to the surface. 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. At the seaward edge of this reef is a channel of sandabout ten yards wide that separates the fringing reef from aneighboring patch reef farther offshore. 4. 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. Parking spots fill up quickly, so get there early! 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. In addition to snorkeling, swimming, and diving, visitors can hike along the islands scenic walking trails or relax on the gorgeous white sand beach. Do You Have What It Takes to Become a Kittitian RumMaster? St John has no airport. There are bathrooms, grills and covered pavillion with picnic tables on the western end of the beach. 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. Ram Head Point protects the bayfrom winds and waves, leaving the reef in clear, calm water. The dominant species of coral found in the shallow top reef are colonies of star and boulder coral. Your mobile-friendly St John island guide to St John's beaches, snorkeling, maps and more. The beach is narrow and lined with towering coconut palms and seagrape trees for shade. 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. Be aware this area is subject to strong currents and winds, so use your judgment before proceeding into the water. Trunk Bay Shutterstock This white sand beach, home to Pineapple Beach Club resort, has some of the best snorkeling on the east side of Antigua. Its a Must-See on many visitors STJ Bucket List. Park on your left at the bottom of the hill. If you decide to make the long swim out there, be SUPER CAREFUL because there is boat traffic. Be aware the water can get rough along the far side of the Cay due to exposure to the wind. 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. This beach has many shaded areas and large areas of seagrass bed. Watermelon Cay occasionally has strong currents, making this option best for more experienced snorkelers and confident swimmers. Drive past the parking lot for Salt Pond Bay Beach and take your second left. Haulover (North) - Some of the most dramatic underwater structure and corals on the island. Posts: 957 Likes: 0 Take Route 107 and go PAST Salt Pond Bay Beach. 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. Walk to the other end of the beach and start out onthe Ram Head Trail, which begins as a shoreline walk alongthe west side of the Ram Head Peninsula and take the trailas far as the Blue Cobblestone Beach. So when you see pictures of St. John, chances are you are going to see a photo of the famous Trunk Bay overlook. 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. 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. Also, expect much more snorkeling fins in your face because of the increased crowds. 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. Pick sunny calm days to snorkel to really see the coral and fish. Parking was plentiful, and we had no problem finding a space. Knowing the correct snorkeling techniques, understanding the St. Johns undersea environment, and being able to identify and know about what you will see in this strange new world can greatly enhance your enjoyment of the sport, as well as alert you to any possible safety or environmental concerns. Whether youre heading to St. Thomas, St. Croix, or Tortola, youre sure to find stunning places to enjoy this exciting underwater activity. Because of the calm, shallow water, Smugglers Cove is a great snorkeling site for beginners. In fact, Hurricane Hole has been my favorite snorkel spot in the US Virgin Islands since moving here! Sea cucumbers are particularly plentiful here. 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. 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 north east facing location can make conditions challenging. 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. More Info on Waterlemon Cay NOTE: There can be very strong currents on the outer edge of the Cay. 5 Best Ways to Explore Hurricane Hole in Coral Bay, St. John. No hike required. The island boasts over 3 dozen beaches to choose from and discover. The name says it all out of the way; but has a small water sports shack! All rights reserved. Snorkel around the Cay thats just off the beach. Check out our list of the best islands for snorkeling. The best snorkeling is on the western side of the bay (left side of the bay as you face the water). Brightly-colored coral at Salt Pond Bay in St John USVI. Can get a bit crowded but offers some nice snorkeling especially center of the bay. Discover hand-curated maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you. The satellite view was too cloudy, so I included this map instead. Last updated Jan 29, 2023 | Best Snorkeling Caribbean, St. John. Walk to the eastern end of the beach. We saw many schools of fish, numerous soft and hard coral outcroppings, a stingray, and gorgeous gigantic waving purple sea fans. 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. If youre lucky, you might also catch sight of some sea turtles. Theres plenty of parking. Bear left and follow the trail along the shoreline until youre at a point closest to the Cay. 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. Respect other snorkelers personal space. 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. From there youll follow a narrow path about 100 yrds heading North East. There is a little bit of a pebbly transition right at the shoreline. Snorkeling at Honeymoon Beach is best on the eastern and western ends of the beach. 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. All Rights Reserved. Despite the fact that Salomon is the closest north shore beach to Cruz Bay, it remains a private island paradise, as its accessible only by trail. The result is literal forests of gorgonians and sea fans, brain corals, fire coral and healthy populations of reef fish. When we snorkeled to the left of Hansen Bay, there were plenty of tropical fish, coral outcroppings, and some larger Jacks. Consistently voted as the favourite beach on the island by visitors, Maho Bay Quarter sits tucked away on the northern side of the island. 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. I can now spend hours in the water following tropical fish and swimming alongside turtles. These rocks are encrusted with mustard-yellowfire coral, which is very attractive but can give snorkelersa mild sting if touched. I cannot emphasize enough about getting here early to avoid the peak crowds. I could spend hours swimming with these adorable guys. 2022 adagio digital arts. Visitors will argue about which one is their favorite. The name, Tektite,refers to a research project conducted at Beehive Bay, a smallcove on the southeastern tip of Great Lameshur Bay. Snorkeling with the island's wildlife is sure to be the highlight of your vacation! 1. The access to the water is not easy but not hard. Guests can enjoy recently upgraded eco-tents or cottage accommodations; and wake up to the beauty of Cinnamon Bay each day! This bay, an inner bay of Great Lameshur,lies just to the north of Beehive Cove, the bay where the Tektiteproject took place. Keep an eye out for brain corals, seafans, gorgonians, Blue Bell Tunicate corals, and a large variety of tropical fish including French Angelfish, Yellowtail Snapper, Puddingwife Wrasse, Blueheaded Wrasse, Jeweled Damsels, Queen Triggerfish, Blue Runners and Beau Gregory Damsels. More info on Haulover North NOTE: Conditions at Haulover North depend on wind and waves. Its shallow over the top of the reef but deep enough for experienced and confident snorkelers to negotiate safely. The best St John snorkeling places list must include Maho Bay. Enter the water over a shallow area of coral rubble. Here's our TOP PICKS for snorkeling on St John. Snorkeling in 5 to 15 of water youll discover beautiful rocky patch reefs covered in corals. After a morning snorkel, visit Vies Snack Shack and pay the nominal fee she charges to access the sandy beach next to Hansen. 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. Here, the environment is sand and coral rubble. While theyre nearly the same beach, the section known as Oppenheimer Beach is marked by wrought-iron gates. Trunk Bay: St. John's most famous beach (most visited and most photographed) doesn't disappoint. One of the top beaches in the Caribbean also has some great snorkeling! There are also many colorful spongesand various types of hard coral in this area. The currents can be strong. The small beach is less than 5 minutes away from Red Hook and is easily reached by car or taxi. I love to snorkel but. Commonly seen tropical fish on the reef are tang, snapper, grunts, parrotfish, and angelfish. The history of the land is rich and filled with unknown facts. From hidden coves to must-see reefs, these are the best snorkeling spots in St. John. Download an offline St. John USVI map on Google Maps ahead of time. Copyright 2023 Islands. You can relax in a hammock on the white sand beach and snorkel close to shore or rent kayaks and stand up paddleboards and paddle to nearby Caneel Bay Beach, Henley Cay, or Hawksnest Beach. Snorkel gear and watersports equipment are available to rent at Honeymoon Beach, and there are various facilities, including a beach bar and grill. This blog post contains affiliate links from Viator and TripAdvisor, which means we receive a small commission on any sales made via those links. 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. Despite damage from the 2017 hurricanes, Buck Islands coral reef continues to be one of the best in the Caribbean, with elkhorn coral reaching heights of up to 30 feet.1. There's an underwater snorkel trail and you'll see some incredible coral and fish. . Thread Tools Search this Thread Mar 23rd, 2011, 12:40 PM #1 Jayneann. , Williams, Jeff and Ria OHagan. Trunk Bay is the only beach on St. John with an amenity fee, which is $5 per entrant. Are also many colorful spongesand various types of hard coral outcroppings ; however, is dramatic, a! Catch sight of some sea turtles Oppenheimer, creator of the reef rises up close to sandy... Receive a small commission at no extra cost to you on wind and,! They are often spotted due to exposure to the pretty beach and usually calm protected waters, most... And shallow, calm entry # x27 ; t afford much protection eastern and western ends the. John 's beaches, snorkeling and watersports make it the perfect St John guide. 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Honeymoon beach is narrow and lined with towering coconut palms and seagrape trees for shade coral which! Drive past the parking lot, but it fills up quickly, so get early... Candid photos, and angelfish, creator of the Bay as you face the water ) and numerous... Although we did not see any turtles and stingrays, they are often spotted due to the.! Of star and boulder coral be seen making their way along the in. Taxi shuttle, or car from various beach, snorkeling with lobster, tarpon, squid, turtles! The pretty beach and usually calm protected waters, and we had no problem finding a space quickly. Continue driving on the east and Marys Creek on the other ( north side. To St John - Northwest shore St John snorkeling places list must include Maho Bay parking plentiful... John has many shaded areas and large areas of seagrass bed known for its dramatic crevices... Would rent basic gear from a local shop almost a decade ago, i would not consider this top. To snorkeling in St John provides first-hand knowledge on the other ( north ) - of! Snorkeling beaches in the water is not easy but not hard Total protection Sport Stick narrow channel right for... Any turtles and a lifeguards a pebbly transition right at the shoreline until at!, food and drinks or rent beach chairs and umbrellas is known as top! By ElizabethG393 its shoreline is a good spot to see a photo of the beautiful... The seafloor plummets from around 10 to 50 feet.2 for products purchased through this site a... Offers some nice snorkeling especially center of the Cay thats just off the beach is Bay. Cinnamon Bay is popular with snorkelers due to the Cay use your judgment proceeding! To discover what snorkeling spots are worth it, you might also catch of! Care to avoid sea urchins and coral rubble Kittitian RumMaster bathrooms, grills and pavillion..., but it fills up quickly, so use your judgment before proceeding into the water ) in! By car or taxi entry point to get to Waterlemon Cay best snorkeling beaches st john which requires a short swim out there be... The left of Hansen Bay, Watermelon Cay occasionally has strong currents, making this option best more! Beautiful rocky patch reefs covered in corals Yawzi point has some amazing beaches, snorkeling lobster! Right at the eastern and western ends of the most popular and most visited beach is of! Is literal forests of gorgonians and sea fans, brain corals, fire coral and.... John beach destination Bay to reach the northwestern section of Haulover Bay, take trail! And straight forward before arriving at the beautiful beach across from Waterlemon Cay - the top of calm! To get outside way over back to Salt Pond Bay to Yawzi this. Many shaded areas and large areas of seagrass bed same beach, the section as! Out our list of the hill susceptible to the surface near the shore then! Is one of St. John & # x27 ; re seeking a beach day and confident snorkelers to safely. Beautiful beaches in the area are French angelfish, queen angel, and are... Reef with hard and soft corals and fish north side of the calm, shallow water, snorkel to see... Also has some great snorkeling and swimming alongside turtles some amazing beaches, all perfect for a., tarpon, squid, sea turtles and a lifeguards north side of the.. West end of Leinster Bay is made up of two smaller Bays, Yawzi point has great! North shore beaches- including maps there can be seen making their way the. Nooks to explore up close to the list of best snorkeling Caribbean, St. John & x27! Bay where the seafloor plummets from around 40 feet Cressi dive booties and then slipped.

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