Best Snorkeling on St John
Top on any visitor’s list of activities has got to be snorkeling on St John in the US Virgin Islands. Much of the island’s beaches and reefs are under the protection and management of the Virgin Islands National Park. The result is a marine environment without equal in the Caribbean – protecting world-class snorkeling for years to come!
DISCOVER:
- TOP SNORKELING SPOTS
- OUR MOBILE FRIENDLY SNORKELING MAP
- OUR “BEST OF” SNORKELING LIST
- LINKS to SNORKELING DESTINATION MAPS and GUIDES
So what makes the snorkeling on St John so special? Well, first and foremost is the accessibility of many of the patch reefs and sea grass beds. Most are within a short walk of roads and parking. Most are located in and around the many world famous beaches. Second is the variety and health of the marine habitats under park protection. The reefs surrounding St John are home to over 400 species of reef fish and dozens of species of hard coral. The sea grass beds support rays, turtles and protect many juvenile marine species.
The following are our top picks for snorkeling destinations on St John, Virgin Islands. We hope this guide will help you pick the destinations that are right for you.
ST JOHN’S TOP SNORKELING DESTINATIONS
OUR LIST of the BEST SNORKELING ON ST JOHN
Waterlemon Cay – #1 snorkeling destination on St John.
Henley Cay – STAFF PICK, requires guide or kayak, best overall snorkeling on the island!
Haulover (North) – STAFF PICK, Some of the most dramatic underwater structure and corals on the island.
Salt Pond – Can get a bit crowded but offers some nice snorkeling especially center of the bay.
Yawzi Point – Located between Great Lameshur and Lameshur Bays, Yawzi Point has some of the best snorkeling on St John.
Hurricane Hole Mangroves – STAFF PICK, Located in Coral Bay, the mangroves are teaming with juvenile fish and corals!
Trunk Bay – A beautiful beach with an underwater snorkeling trail! One of the most popular snorkeling spots on St John!
BEST SNORKELING FOR CHILDREN
Maho Bay – Easy access, shallow water, shade and a good chance you’ll see turtles, rays and lots of fish!
Caneel Bay beach – Shallow entry, calm waters and plenty to see close to shore.
Trunk Bay – Virgin Islands National Park snorkeling trail and a lifeguard!
BEST SNORKELING FOR COUPLES
Honeymoon Beach – The name says it all …out of the way; but has a small water sports shack!
Hansen Bay – Off-the-beaten-path location with a beautiful beach, food and some of the best snorkeling.
Trunk Bay – One of the top beaches in the Caribbean also has some great snorkeling!
WATER SAFETY
Snorkeling is one of the most enjoyable things to do on St John. But, even a confident swimmer can be distracted. Make sure you stay within your physical limitations. Be aware of your surroundings. Never snorkel alone. Watch for strong currents, waves, boats, jet skis, changing weather and the distance you’ve traveled.
Snorkeling Information and Instructions
US Virgin Islands – St John Snorkeling Map
