snorkeling in st thomas-please help!
 

Looking for a good place to snorkel in St. Thomas - We have limited time so can't go to St. John cause cruise ship leaves early. Please let me know if there are any places good to snorkel where we can get a cab back and forth so we don't miss our cruise ship. How's Magans bay - we heard this is close ? Thanks

Go to Coki Beach. YOu can snorkle right off shore there. Coral World is also there and there are a couple restaurants if you want something to eat. There are taxis right at the dock to take you there and plenty more at Coki to take you back to the ship.

We just came back from a cruise where we stopped in STT. WE tried 3 different beaches: Saphire, Coki, and Magens.

Saphire was beautiful, with very few people on it in the AM. The snorkeling was okay, but nothing great.

Coki was supposed to be one of the best places to snorkel on STT. We got there late morning, and it was packed. The snorkeling was a little better than Saphire, but still not what we'd consider great. Yes, there a few fish, and some rocks & coral, but it's a "C" at best, and the crowds were ridiculous.

Magens is (NOT) known for snorkeling. It's known for being very scenic, and it lived up to it's reputation. A very nice setting, and beautiful beach & water. No snorkeling to be had here. Unfortunately, the crowds are here as well.

Overall, the ebaches were all nice, but the snorkeling just was mediocre at best. I can't say I'd recommend St Thomas as a prime snorkeling island. My guess is that we simply didn't go to the best spots, or we made the mistake of not going to St John.

Hope this helps.

Definitely not Magens for snorkeling.

To escape the crowds, try Secret Harbour - go to right of beach as you face the water.

Coki's great when it's not crowded. If there are lots of people, go all the way to the left (opposite end from Coral World).

s4kip~We had the same situation this past July & after a great deal of research, went to Coki Beach. Our ship docked at 7:30 a.m. & by 8:30 we where snorkeling. At that time of day there were only a couple local women swimming & the guy that rents the chairs & umbrellas. It is a very small beach, with beautiful views, crystal clear water, and very easy snorkeling. We didn't see a huge variety of fish, but there were lots. It did get increasingly busy as the cruisers found their way. There are restrooms, & a small bar there, I didn't notice restaurants, but it's an interesting & easy trip for a short stay. We still had time to get back to the ship, change & shop for a while right at the dock. Have a great time! Hope this helps.

Thank you for all your help and advise!!!