When you think of snorkeling in St. Croix, the first places that come to mind are probably Christiansted Harbor and the popular beaches like Trunk Bay and Cane Bay. While these spots are definitely worth visiting, they can also be quite crowded and busy.

However, there are some hidden gems off the beaten path that offer a more peaceful and serene snorkeling experience. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of these lesser-known snorkeling spots in St. Croix.

The North Coast

The north coast of St. Croix is home to several secluded beaches and coves that are perfect for snorkeling. One such spot is Buck Island Reef National Monument. This protected area is located about a mile off the coast of St. Croix and is known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.

Getting There

To reach Buck Island Reef National Monument, you’ll need to take a boat from Christiansted Harbor. You can charter a private boat or join a guided tour. The trip takes about 30 minutes each way.

Snorkeling at Buck Island

When you arrive at the reef, put on your snorkeling gear and start exploring. The waters here are incredibly clear, with visibility of up to 100 feet. As you swim around the reef, you’ll see a wide variety of marine life, including sea turtles, stingrays, and tropical fish.

Tips for Snorkeling at Buck Island

  • Make sure to bring sunscreen and apply it regularly, as there is no shade on the island.
  • Be careful not to touch the coral reefs, as this can damage them.
  • If you see a sea turtle or other marine life, keep a safe distance and do not disturb them.

The East End

The east end of St. Croix is home to several secluded beaches and coves that are perfect for snorkeling. One such spot is Cane Bay Reef. This reef is located off the coast of Cane Bay Beach and is known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.

Getting There

To reach Cane Bay Reef, you can swim out from Cane Bay Beach or take a boat from Christiansted Harbor. The trip takes about 20 minutes each way.

Snorkeling at Cane Bay Reef

When you arrive at the reef, put on your snorkeling gear and start exploring. The waters here are incredibly clear, with visibility of up to 50 feet. As you swim around the reef, you’ll see a wide variety of marine life, including sea turtles, stingrays, and tropical fish.

Tips for Snorkeling at Cane Bay Reef

  • Be careful not to touch the coral reefs, as this can damage them.
  • If you see a sea turtle or other marine life, keep a safe distance and do not disturb them.
  • Make sure to bring water and snacks, as there is no shade on the reef.

The West End

The west end of St. Croix is home to several secluded beaches and coves that are perfect for snorkeling. One such spot is Salt River Bay National Historical Park. This protected area is located about a mile off the coast of St. Croix and is known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.

Getting There

To reach Salt River Bay National Historical Park, you’ll need to take a boat from Christiansted Harbor. You can charter a private boat or join a guided tour. The trip takes about 30 minutes each way.

Snorkeling at Salt River Bay

When you arrive at the bay, put on your snorkeling gear and start exploring. The waters here are incredibly clear, with visibility of up to 100 feet. As you swim around the bay, you’ll see a wide variety of marine life, including sea turtles, stingrays, and tropical fish.

Tips for Snorkeling at Salt River Bay

  • Make sure to bring sunscreen and apply it regularly, as there is no shade on the island.
  • Be careful not to touch the coral reefs, as this can damage them.
  • If you see a sea turtle or other marine life, keep a safe distance and do not disturb them.

Conclusion

While Christiansted Harbor and Trunk Bay are definitely worth visiting, they can also be quite crowded. By exploring some of the lesser-known snorkeling spots in St. Croix, you’ll have a more peaceful and serene experience. Just remember to bring sunscreen, water, and snacks, and always follow safe snorkeling practices.

Additional Tips

  • Always snorkel with a buddy.
  • Never touch the coral reefs or marine life.
  • Bring a waterproof camera to capture photos of your underwater adventures.
  • Consider joining a guided tour for more information about the marine life and history of each location.