NOTES: Northeast of Cruz Bay on St Johns, the snorkeling at Maho Bay is considered by many as the best on the island. This more protected sandy bay is ideal for families, even during the winter swells. The Maho Bay snorkeling is known for its turtle grass beds in the middle of this shallow bay that are frequented by hawksbill turtles and green sea turtles. The marine life includes starfish, hermit crabs, and southern stingrays. Also, keep on the look out for the angel fish known to frequent these waters. While the bay is mainly known for it's sand flats and grass beds, there are some interesting rocks along the west edge of the bay.
Note, the east side of the bay is not particularly interesting to snorkelers since there are few reefs and little marine life.
To reach the Maho Bay snorkeling from Cruz Bay, head east along North Shore Road (Route 20) to Maho Bay. There is limited roadside parking at this usually quiet beach.
Note: When snorkeling off St Johns USVI, be aware of potentially dangerous marine life including lionfish and sea urchins. Also, the coral reefs are in distress so be careful not to walk on or touch the coral.
Additional printed reading material on Maho Bay snorkeling
can be found in Snorkel St John
by from Jill Burt.
FOR MORE
INFORMATION: Virgin Islands National Park (340) 776-6201; USVI Tourism (800) 372-USVI
SEASON: Any
RATING: Easy
BREAKFAST JOINT: Jake's, Cruz Bay; Tree Lizard, Cinnamon Bay
