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Hurricane Hole: St. John's Tranquil Mangrove Sanctuary

Discover St. John's Hurricane Hole: a serene sanctuary of mangroves, coral reefs, and diverse marine life within the Virgin Islands National Park.

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Hurricane Hole, located on the eastern end of St. John, is a series of protected bays known for calm waters and dense mangrove forests. Part of the Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument, it's a haven for kayakers, snorkelers, and boaters seeking shelter. The area's unique ecosystem supports a diverse array of marine life, making it a fascinating destination for nature lovers.

A brief summary to Hurricane Hole

  • St John, VI

Local tips

  • Bring your own food and drinks, as there are no restaurants or facilities directly at Hurricane Hole.
  • Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters and mangrove tunnels.
  • Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate coral reefs and marine life.
  • Consider a guided kayak and snorkel tour to learn more about the ecosystem.
  • Be aware that parking is limited along the side of the road.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Cruz Bay, take Route 10 east towards Coral Bay. At the intersection with the colorful signs, continue straight past Skinny Legs and Estate Zootenval. Continue along the road until you pass the National Park sign and mile marker 10. Shortly after, you can park your car close to the water and access the bay in an opening between the mangrove trees. Parking is limited and available along the roadside. Expect to pay for parking in Cruz Bay, around $5 for one hour or $15 for two. There is no parking fee at Hurricane Hole itself.

  • Public Transport

    From Cruz Bay, take the 109 bus towards Coral Bay. The closest bus stops to Hurricane Hole are Route 107 South and Route 107 North, both about a 55-minute walk away. From either bus stop, follow Route 10 towards Hurricane Hole. Confirm the bus schedule and fares with the local V.I. public transit. Keep in mind that the walk from the bus stop to Hurricane Hole is lengthy.

  • Ferry and Car

    From St. Thomas, take a ferry to Cruz Bay, St. John. The Red Hook ferry is the most frequent, running hourly and costing $8.15 per adult plus $4 per bag. The trip takes about 20 minutes. Alternatively, the Charlotte Amalie ferry costs $13 per adult and takes about 45 minutes. From Cruz Bay, follow the 'Car' directions above to drive to Hurricane Hole. Car barge services are also available from Red Hook to Cruz Bay for transporting vehicles. Car barge costs vary.

Unlock the Best of Hurricane Hole

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Discover more about Hurricane Hole

Hurricane Hole, nestled on the eastern side of St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands, is a unique aquatic environment characterized by its network of sheltered bays and extensive mangrove forests. This natural harbor has historically served as a safe haven for boats during hurricanes, hence its name. Today, it's a popular destination for those seeking tranquility and an opportunity to explore a rich and diverse ecosystem. The area is part of the Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument, established in 2001 to protect its sensitive coral reefs and marine life. The monument spans over 12,708 submerged acres and includes several distinct bays within Hurricane Hole, such as Borck Creek, Princess Bay, Otter Creek, and Water Creek. These bays offer varying degrees of shelter and unique underwater landscapes. The mangrove forests surrounding Hurricane Hole play a vital role in the ecosystem. Their intricate root systems provide shelter and breeding grounds for numerous marine species, including fish, crustaceans, and birds. The mangroves also help to maintain water quality by filtering sediments and pollutants. Visitors can explore Hurricane Hole by kayak or paddleboard, gliding through the calm waters and mangrove tunnels. Snorkeling reveals a vibrant underwater world, with colorful fish, coral formations, and other fascinating marine creatures. The area is also ideal for birdwatching, with opportunities to spot various native and migratory species. While Hurricane Hole suffered damage from Hurricane Irma in 2017, the ecosystem has shown signs of recovery, with marine life and wildlife gradually returning. The area remains a testament to the resilience of nature and the importance of preserving such ecological treasures. Notably, anchoring is forbidden in Hurricane Hole to protect the delicate ecosystem, except in emergency situations. Instead, mooring buoys are available for daytime use in specific locations.

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