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Hurricane Hole: A Sheltered Marine Sanctuary

Explore St. John's Hurricane Hole: A natural harbor, vibrant ecosystem, and prime spot for kayaking and snorkeling in the Virgin Islands National Park.

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Hurricane Hole, located on the eastern end of St. John, is a protected series of bays within the Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument. Renowned as a safe harbor during hurricanes and a vibrant marine ecosystem, it offers unique snorkeling and kayaking experiences through mangrove forests and coral gardens.

A brief summary to Hurricane Hole

  • St John, VI

Local tips

  • Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate coral reefs and marine life.
  • Wear a long-sleeved shirt for sun protection while kayaking or snorkeling.
  • Consider renting a kayak or dinghy from Coral Bay for easy access to Hurricane Hole’s best spots.
  • Be mindful of the no-anchoring zones to protect the mangrove shorelines and coral reefs.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Cruz Bay, take Route 10 east towards Coral Bay. Continue past the intersection with the colorful signs, going straight towards Estate Zootenval. Follow the road until you pass the National Park sign and mile marker 10. Shortly after, find a place to park near the water and access the bay through an opening in the mangrove trees. Parking is free but limited.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from Cruz Bay to Hurricane Hole. The fare is approximately $20-$30 USD, depending on the number of passengers and the specific destination within Hurricane Hole. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. The taxi can drop you off near the access point to Princess Bay on Route 10.

  • Bus

    Take the 109 bus from Cruz Bay towards Coral Bay. The closest bus stops to Hurricane Hole are along Route 107, approximately a 55-minute walk to the bay. Check the bus schedule for accurate timings, as service can be infrequent. The bus fare is around $1-3 USD.

Unlock the Best of Hurricane Hole

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Discover more about Hurricane Hole

Hurricane Hole, nestled on the east end of St. John, is a remarkable natural harbor within the Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument. For centuries, it has served as a safe haven for boats during hurricanes, thanks to its sheltered waters and dense mangrove forests. Today, it's equally celebrated for its unique ecological features and recreational opportunities. The area's history dates back millions of years to volcanic activity that shaped the Virgin Islands. Over time, the cooled lava formed underwater caves, reefs, and ideal conditions for mangrove forests. These mangroves are vital to the coastal ecosystem, providing shelter and breeding grounds for numerous marine species. The tangled roots also prevent soil erosion and maintain water quality. Hurricane Hole is a haven for snorkelers and kayakers. Its calm, crystal-clear waters allow visitors to explore a vibrant underwater world. Snorkelers can observe juvenile fish, colorful sea anemones, and diverse coral species thriving among the mangrove roots. Kayakers can paddle through winding waterways and mangrove tunnels, spotting wildlife along the way. In 2001, President Clinton established the Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument, encompassing Hurricane Hole and further protecting its delicate ecosystem. This designation prohibits anchoring in certain areas to preserve the mangrove shorelines and coral reefs.

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