Best Snorkeling & Diving Spots in St. Thomas: Explore the Underwater Paradise

St. Thomas is home to some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Caribbean, offering crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life. Whether you’re a beginner looking for easy shore snorkeling or an experienced diver seeking deeper sites, here’s your guide to the top snorkeling and diving spots in St. Thomas!


1. Coki Beach – Best for Colorful Fish & Clear Waters 🐠

Coki Beach

Coki Beach is one of the most famous snorkeling spots on the island, known for its crystal-clear waters and friendly tropical fish that swim right up to you!

βœ… Best for: Beginner snorkelers and families.
βœ… Marine life: Parrotfish, angelfish, and even sea turtles.
βœ… Nearby attractions: Adjacent to Coral World Ocean Park.
βœ… Rentals available: Snorkel gear and beach chairs on-site.

πŸ“ Find it here:
View Coki Beach on Google Maps


2. Secret Harbor – Best for Calm Waters & Easy Snorkeling 🏝️

Secret Harbor

Secret Harbor is a hidden gem for snorkeling, featuring calm waters, excellent visibility, and beautiful coral formations.

βœ… Best for: Relaxed snorkeling and underwater photography.
βœ… Marine life: Rays, octopuses, and colorful coral.
βœ… Facilities: Beachside restaurant, bar, and rentals.

πŸ“ Find it here:
View Secret Harbor on Google Maps


3. Sapphire Beach – Best for Turtles & Seagrass Beds 🐒

Sapphire Beach

Sapphire Beach offers fantastic snorkeling just offshore, where seagrass beds attract sea turtles and stingrays.

βœ… Best for: Turtle spotting and snorkeling close to shore.
βœ… Marine life: Green sea turtles, stingrays, and schools of fish.
βœ… Facilities: Beach bars, water sports rentals, and loungers.

πŸ“ Find it here:
View Sapphire Beach on Google Maps


4. Buck Island & Shipwreck Cove – Best for Diving & Snorkeling Adventures 🀿

Buck Island

A protected marine reserve, Buck Island offers some of the best diving and snorkeling near St. Thomas.

βœ… Best for: Both snorkelers and certified divers.
βœ… Marine life: Shipwrecks, sea turtles, and eagle rays.
βœ… How to visit: Accessible via boat tours and dive charters.

🚀 Book a snorkeling or diving tour:
Buck Island Tours


5. Cow and Calf Rocks – Best for Experienced Divers 🦈

This iconic dive site is famous for underwater caves, tunnels, and large marine life.

βœ… Best for: Advanced divers.
βœ… Marine life: Reef sharks, large groupers, and barracuda.
βœ… Depth: Ranges from 40 to 80 feet.

πŸ“ Find dive tours here:
Book a Dive Trip


Final Thoughts: Which Spot Will You Explore First?

From shallow snorkeling beaches to deep-sea dive adventures, St. Thomas offers an underwater paradise for every skill level. Which spot are you most excited to explore? Let us know in the comments!