WHERE TO RENT EQUIPMENT? - Alphabetical Order


  1. Busy Bee Charter – Located in a quiet end of the island in Coral Bay right across from Skinny Legs. They advertise brand new Scubapro snorkel gear. Also, you’ll find clothes and they are one of the major companies to go on BVI snorkel dives.

  2. Just Beach – Go to Mongoose Junction and you will see them right as you go in. They have all kinds of snorkel equipment to rent plus a great selection of tee’s, hats and other good stuff.

  3. Low Key Water Sports – Just turn right at the ferry dock and walk to the end of the alleyway. Turn right and you will see this operation right after Terrace Restaurant. They have rentals, snorkel, sailing and dive trips.

WHERE TO GO? - There are numerous choices depending on experience, endurance, and ability.

1. Trunk Bay – This North Shore Beach is the Number 1 snorkel and beach destination on St. John. Which means it gets very crowded starting around 10:30 am when cruise passengers arrive from St. Thomas to spend a few hours on this famous beach. So get there early or after 2:30 pm to have a little privacy. Take the underwater trail out to the island. (I’ve always wondered how they got the fish to stay in the same place each day)? Good place for children snorkeling, has all amenities and lifeguard. But honestly, not much in terms of fish.

Maho Beach

 

2. Maho Bay – A little further down past Trunk is Maho. Park in the new lot. Enjoy a drink and a light lunch across from the beach This is my favorite “beer drinking” beach. Wide, usually few people and likely to see some turtles out about twenty yards or so.

3. Leinster Bay – Located on the East End near Coral Bay. This is gonna be a hike! Almost a mile from the end of the paved road is the bay and also Waterlemon Key. But well worth it. You’ll likely have company with several wild donkeys that call this area home. Go to the right and swim along the rocks here you will likely see turtles and rays.

4. Francis Bay – My personal favorite. At end of paved road head down the bumpy dirt road for about a quarter of a mile. Try and get there early during season cause there’s only about eight parking places but if full just park by the side of the road. Usually calm with some overnight boats in harbor. I usually go to the right at end of beach by rocks – lots of turtles, rays, and many types of fish.

SUMMARY 

Make sure wherever you stay, the villa has coolers and chairs for the beach. Take plenty of bottle water and of course, other favorite drinks - cans only. 

See you on St. John and HAVE FUN!