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Whistling Cay: A Secluded Island Paradise

Discover Whistling Cay: A secluded US Virgin Islands islet offering snorkeling, history, and tranquil beauty within a National Park setting.

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Whistling Cay, a 19-acre islet in the US Virgin Islands National Park, offers a tranquil escape with stunning snorkeling, a small beach, and historical ruins. Accessible by boat or kayak, it's perfect for a day of exploration and relaxation.

A brief summary to Whistling Cay, United States Virgin Islands

  • St John, VI

Local tips

  • Bring your own snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant marine life around the island.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach, as there are no facilities available on the island.
  • Visit early in the morning to experience the island's tranquility and avoid potential crowds.
  • Be aware that the U.S. Park Service requests visitors to leave the island by evening.
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Getting There

  • Kayak/Boat

    The most common way to reach Whistling Cay is by boat or kayak. Kayaks can be rented from vendors at Maho Bay or Cinnamon Bay. From Maho Bay, the paddle is approximately one mile. Ensure you are aware of the current and boat traffic. Boat trips can also be arranged from Cruz Bay, with costs ranging from $20 to $50 per person, depending on the operator.

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Discover more about Whistling Cay, United States Virgin Islands

Whistling Cay, a hidden gem within the Virgin Islands National Park on St. John, is a 19-acre islet offering a serene escape into nature and history. Located just 300 yards west of Mary Point, it's separated from St. John by the Fungi Passage, a waterway popular with boaters. The island features diverse terrain, with high cliffs reaching 130 feet on the north side and a small gravel beach on the southeast. The waters surrounding Whistling Cay are renowned for their excellent snorkeling, with vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. Snorkelers can spot colorful fish, sea turtles, and various corals. The western tip of the island, with its underwater canyons and rock formations, is particularly popular. Historically, Whistling Cay has served various purposes. In the 1800s, it was used as a watch station to monitor traffic and capture slaves escaping from St. John to the British Virgin Islands. After emancipation, it became a customs house to inspect vessels for smuggling. The ruins of a stone structure, rebuilt in 1972 as part of a National Park Service restoration project, stand as a reminder of this past. Today, Whistling Cay is a peaceful destination for those seeking natural beauty and tranquility. Visitors can explore the island's trails, relax on the beach, and discover the underwater wonders through snorkeling. The U.S. Park Service asks that visitors depart by evening to preserve the island's serene environment.

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