You don’t need a boat to see incredible marine life in St. Thomas. These beaches let you snorkel straight from the sand.
Snorkeling without a tour
One of the best things about St. Thomas is how close the reefs are to the shoreline. You can walk straight into the water at several beaches and find coral, fish, and sometimes sea turtles without booking a boat. If you’re a strong swimmer or just curious and want to try snorkeling for the first time, here are the beaches locals suggest.
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Coki Beach
Coki has the easiest snorkeling on the island. The reef begins close to the sand and the visibility is usually great. Expect bright blue tangs, colorful parrotfish, and even the occasional turtle. It can get crowded around midday, so mornings are better.
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Secret Harbor
Secret Harbor feels peaceful and protected, which makes snorkeling more relaxed. The water tends to stay calm and clear. Follow the rocky sides of the bay for the most fish and coral. There’s a dive shop if you want extra gear.
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Sapphire Beach
This beach is perfect for first-timers because the water stays calm most days.
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