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Little Lameshur Bay: A Secluded Snorkeling Paradise

Discover a secluded snorkeling haven on St. John's south shore, with calm waters, rich marine life, and historical ruins waiting to be explored.

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Little Lameshur Bay, located on the south shore of St. John within the Virgin Islands National Park, offers a tranquil escape with excellent snorkeling and a beautiful sandy beach. Accessible via a bumpy, unpaved road, this hidden gem rewards visitors with calm turquoise waters, diverse marine life, and a chance to explore sugar mill ruins and nearby hiking trails.

A brief summary to Little Lameshur Bay

  • St John, VI

Local tips

  • Bring your own food and drinks, as there are no vendors or facilities available at the bay.
  • Rent a Jeep or other 4x4 vehicle to navigate the unpaved and bumpy road leading to Little Lameshur Bay.
  • Snorkel early in the morning for the best visibility and to avoid crowds.
  • Combine your beach visit with a hike on the Lameshur Bay Trail to explore the island's natural beauty and historical sites.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Cruz Bay, take Centerline Road (Route 10) or the scenic North Shore Road to Coral Bay. From Coral Bay, follow Route 107 south. Continue past Salt Pond Bay. After the paved road ends, continue on the unpaved road, best traversed with a 4-wheel drive vehicle, for approximately 2 miles to Little Lameshur Bay. Parking is available near the beach.

  • Taxi

    From the Cruz Bay ferry dock, taxis are available to take you to Little Lameshur Bay. Be sure to negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey. The taxi ride will take approximately 35-40 minutes. Note that taxis are readily available to transport you to the north shore beaches, but it is less common for them to travel as far as Francis Bay.

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Discover more about Little Lameshur Bay

Little Lameshur Bay is a captivating destination on St. John, nestled within the Virgin Islands National Park. This secluded bay is known for its calm, turquoise waters and soft, white sandy beach, offering a peaceful retreat away from the more crowded spots on the island. The bay's clear waters are ideal for snorkeling, with an abundance of marine life and coral reefs to explore. Snorkelers can discover a variety of tropical fish, including parrotfish, angelfish, and blue tangs, as well as sea turtles and eagle rays. The best snorkeling spots are along the left side of the bay (facing the water) and around Yawzi Point, though the latter is recommended for experienced swimmers due to currents and deeper waters. Beyond the beach, visitors can explore the ruins of a historic sugar mill, remnants of the island's colonial past. The Lameshur Bay Trail also provides access to hiking opportunities, connecting to the Reef Bay Trail and the intriguing petroglyphs. Getting to Little Lameshur Bay is an adventure in itself. The unpaved road leading to the bay is notoriously bumpy and requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle. This challenging access contributes to the bay's secluded atmosphere, ensuring a less crowded and more serene experience.

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