Little Lameshur Bay: A Secluded Snorkeling Paradise

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Discover St. John's secluded Little Lameshur Bay: pristine snorkeling, soft sands, and a tranquil escape within Virgin Islands National Park.

Little Lameshur Bay, nestled on St. John's south shore within the Virgin Islands National Park, offers a tranquil escape with excellent snorkeling and a beautiful sandy beach. The somewhat challenging access keeps the crowds away, rewarding visitors with a serene Caribbean experience.

A brief summary to Little Lameshur Bay

St John, VI

Local tips

Rent a Jeep or 4x4 vehicle to navigate the unpaved road leading to the bay.
Arrive early to secure a parking spot and enjoy the beach with fewer crowds.
Bring your own snorkeling gear to explore the underwater wonders of the bay.
Pack food and water, as amenities at the beach are limited.
Combine your beach visit with a hike on the Lameshur Bay Trail to explore nearby ruins and connect to the Reef Bay Trail.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Lameshur Bay Trail

Lameshur Bay Trail: A Coastal Hike Through History

Beehive Cove Lookout Point

Beehive Cove: A Hidden Gem on St. John

Tektite Trailhead

Tektite Trailhead: A Hike to History and Views

Getting There

Driving

From Cruz Bay, take Centerline Road (Route 10) towards Coral Bay. Turn right onto Route 107 into Coral Bay. Continue past the signs for Salt Pond Bay. The paved road will eventually turn into a bumpy, unpaved road. Continue on this road, using caution and driving slowly, until you reach Little Lameshur Bay. Parking is available near the beach. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended.
Taxi

From Cruz Bay, taxis are available to Little Lameshur Bay. Be sure to confirm the per-person fare with the driver before departing. The taxi ride will take approximately 35-40 minutes. Note that the taxi will drop you off at the parking area, and from there it is a short walk to the beach. Taxi rates from Cruz Bay to Lameshur are approximately $38 for one person or $25 per person for two or more in the same group.

Discover more about Little Lameshur Bay

Little Lameshur Bay is a hidden gem located on the southern coast of St. John, in the US Virgin Islands. This picturesque bay, part of the Virgin Islands National Park, is framed by lush green hills and boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Unlike its neighbor, Great Lameshur Bay, Little Lameshur features a soft, sandy beach, making it ideal for relaxing and sunbathing. The bay's calm waters and vibrant underwater life make it a prime spot for snorkeling. Snorkelers can explore the reefs along the left side of the bay (facing the water), discovering coral formations and a variety of tropical fish, including parrotfish, filefish, angelfish, and blue tangs. Lucky visitors might even spot sea turtles and eagle rays. Beyond the beach, Little Lameshur Bay offers access to hiking trails, including the Lameshur Bay Trail that connects to the Reef Bay Trail. This trail leads to the Great Reef Bay House Ruins and ancient Petroglyphs, offering a glimpse into the island's history. The bay is also home to the ruins of a former plantation, reflecting St. John's development from the mid-18th century. Getting to Little Lameshur Bay requires a bit of an adventurous drive along a bumpy, unpaved road, often requiring a 4x4 vehicle. This challenging access helps keep the beach less crowded, providing a more secluded and peaceful experience.

Explore the best of what Little Lameshur Bay has to offer

Discover Coral Bay, St. John: a tranquil harbor with rich history, stunning nature, and a laid-back island vibe away from the crowds.

Explore St. John's Lameshur Bay Trail: Hike through history, discover hidden ruins, and enjoy breathtaking coastal scenery in Virgin Islands National Park.