Hurricane Hole Mangroves
Explore serene mangrove tunnels and clear waters by kayak, discovering secluded beaches and abundant birdlife. A nature lover's paradise.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calmer waters for kayaking
Hurricane Hole Mangroves
Best Time
Calmer waters for kayaking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore serene mangrove tunnels and clear waters by kayak, discovering secluded beaches and abundant birdlife. A nature lover's paradise.
"Outstanding day kaying in the various bays of Hurricane Hole. So peaceful, absolutely beautiful surrounds!"
🛶 Rent a Kayak
Essential for exploring the bays. Rent from nearby beaches like Crabby's for a full experience.
🤿 Bring Snorkel Gear
The clear waters offer fantastic snorkeling opportunities right from your kayak or shore.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.6 · 5 reviews
Type
Natural Feature
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kayaking Through Bays
Various bays within Hurricane Hole
Paddle through calm waters, discovering secluded beaches and vibrant mangrove ecosystems. A truly peaceful adventure.
Snorkeling in Clear Waters
Throughout the mangroves
Discover small fish and the unique underwater world thriving amongst the mangrove roots. Phenomenal underwater visibility.
Birdwatching Opportunities
Mangrove canopy and shorelines
Observe a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. A haven for avian enthusiasts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Kayak Essential
Best for Nature Lovers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
STJ tips!
Just enjoyed a great week! Here are my tips: - Bring cash! You need to pay for most parking in Cruz Bay. $5 for one hour, $15 for 2. They only take cash. Tip - there is free parking on the side and back in Mongoose Junction, but only for when you are onsite. - Get full…
🛶 Rent a Kayak
Essential for exploring the bays. Rent from nearby beaches like Crabby's for a full experience.
🤿 Bring Snorkel Gear
The clear waters offer fantastic snorkeling opportunities right from your kayak or shore.
Top things to do on St John
Going next month and looking for the top things to do on the island. Restaurants, beaches, activities. Does anyone have suggestions?
Currently on St. John USVI and need beach help
We have three more opportunities to hit some beaches. Of the list below, what 3 would you choose? (We want to snorkel and lay on the beach, prefer quieter crowd with no rentals or vendors): Dennis Bay Brown Bay Trunk Bay Salt Pond Beach Watermelon Cay Thank you in advance!!…
☀️ Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal on a secluded beach or shady spot. Perfect for a full day of exploration.
🌬️ Check Wind Conditions
Wind can affect kayaking. Plan your trip for calmer days for a safer and more enjoyable experience.
St John, Planning Help.
Hi! My family is taking their second trip to St John, leaving at the end of this week. We’ve recently had some family hardships that have eliminated all time for planning logistics of the week. Hence, posting anonymously. We have secured a villa for the week, and flights, but…
Tips
from all over the internet
🛶 Rent a Kayak
Essential for exploring the bays. Rent from nearby beaches like Crabby's for a full experience.
🤿 Bring Snorkel Gear
The clear waters offer fantastic snorkeling opportunities right from your kayak or shore.
☀️ Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal on a secluded beach or shady spot. Perfect for a full day of exploration.
🌬️ Check Wind Conditions
Wind can affect kayaking. Plan your trip for calmer days for a safer and more enjoyable experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the peaceful kayaking and phenomenal snorkeling in the clear waters of Hurricane Hole Mangroves. Many appreciate the secluded beaches and abundant birdlife, making it a haven for nature lovers. However, some note the limited beach space and the necessity of a kayak for the full experience.
"There is no good place to set for the day, only a small opening between trees to launch a kayak. We snorkeled and it was indeed clear water, small fish between mangroves. It would be nice to bring a kayak. You can rent Kayak at Hanson beach but there is no mangroves there and we did not dare to kayak that far due to the wind that day. This is more for dedicated naturalists."
Dr. Anna Allen
"Had an outstanding day kaying in the various bays of Hurricane Hole. So peaceful, absolutely beautiful surrounds and great kayaks rented from Crabby’s. We had small beaches to ourselves and a nice picnic in a shady spot. Saw many birds and snorkeling in many spots was amazing. A very good day in all."
c “cfl” lane
"Visited on a Kayaking and Snorkleing tour. We did not see anybody else while we were out and there was only one boat moored. Apparently it was known as a safe haven during storms, hence the name."
Jeff H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hurricane Hole Mangroves is located on St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Access is typically via boat or kayak. If you're on land, you might need to arrange transport to a launch point. Some visitors rent kayaks from nearby beaches like Crabby's to access the area.
Direct car access to the prime kayaking and snorkeling spots within Hurricane Hole is limited. The best way to experience it is by water. You may be able to drive to a nearby beach and then kayak in.
Yes, many boat and kayaking tours visit Hurricane Hole Mangroves. This is a convenient way to explore the area, especially if you don't have your own kayak.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are typically no entrance fees or tickets required for Hurricane Hole Mangroves itself, as it's a natural area. However, you will need to pay for kayak rentals or any guided tours you choose.
As a natural mangrove ecosystem, Hurricane Hole doesn't have set operating hours. It's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility, especially if kayaking or snorkeling.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The primary activities are kayaking through the various bays and snorkeling in the clear waters. It's also a great spot for birdwatching and enjoying a peaceful natural environment.
Yes, reviewers consistently praise the snorkeling at Hurricane Hole Mangroves for its clear water and abundant small fish. It's a unique experience to snorkel among the mangrove roots.
While there are small, secluded beaches within the bays, they are not extensive. The focus is more on the kayaking and snorkeling experience rather than setting up for a full day on a large beach.
You can expect to see various types of birds and small fish in the mangrove ecosystem. It's a haven for nature enthusiasts.
It can be suitable for families with older children who enjoy kayaking and snorkeling. Younger children might find it less engaging if they prefer traditional beach activities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no restaurants or food vendors directly within Hurricane Hole Mangroves. It's recommended to pack your own food and drinks for a picnic.
You'll need to travel to nearby towns or resorts on St. John for dining options. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy during your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the mangrove tunnels, clear water reflections, diverse birdlife, and secluded beach coves. The interplay of light and water is particularly photogenic.
It can be done, but be mindful of your surroundings and secure your camera. Waterproof cases are highly recommended.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit