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Hurricane Hole: St. John's Mangrove Sanctuary

Explore St. John's Hurricane Hole: a serene bay with diverse marine life, perfect for kayaking and snorkeling in a protected mangrove ecosystem.

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Hurricane Hole, located within the Virgin Islands National Park on St. John, is a series of protected bays known for calm waters and dense mangrove forests. It's a popular spot for kayaking and snorkeling, offering a unique opportunity to explore a diverse marine ecosystem.

A brief summary to Hurricane Hole

  • St John, VI

Local tips

  • Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate coral reefs and marine life.
  • Consider renting a kayak or paddleboard for a tranquil exploration of the mangrove tunnels.
  • Check the weather forecast before heading out, as conditions can change quickly.
  • Bring water, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.
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Getting There

  • Ferry and Taxi

    To reach Hurricane Hole, begin by taking a ferry from St. Thomas to Cruz Bay, St. John. Ferries depart from Red Hook, Charlotte Amalie, and Crown Bay. The Red Hook ferry is most frequent, costing $8.15 for adults and $1 for children, plus $4 per bag. From Cruz Bay, take a taxi to the Hurricane Hole area on the east end of the island. Taxi rates vary depending on the destination, confirm with the driver before. A taxi from Cruz Bay to the East End will cost approximately $20-$30.

  • Car

    If you rent a car on St. Thomas, take the car barge from Red Hook to Cruz Bay. From Cruz Bay, follow Route 20 (North Shore Road) east, then turn onto Route 10 (Centerline Road) and then Route 107. Parking is limited near Hurricane Hole; arrive early. Remember to drive on the left side of the road.

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Discover more about Hurricane Hole

Hurricane Hole, nestled on the southeastern side of St. John, is a captivating natural harbor within the Virgin Islands National Park. This unique area comprises several interconnected bays, offering a tranquil escape into a world of lush mangrove forests and vibrant marine life. Millions of years ago, volcanic activity shaped the landscape, creating a maze of underwater caves, reefs, and mangroves. Today, the sheltered waters provide refuge for boats during hurricanes, hence the name. Since the 17th century, it has served as a safe haven for ships. As part of the Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument, Hurricane Hole is a protected area with a rich ecosystem. The mangrove forests are vital for coastal habitat preservation, offering shelter and breeding grounds for numerous marine species. Snorkelers and kayakers can observe colorful fish, coral formations, and other marine creatures in the clear waters. Visitors can explore Water Creek, Otter Creek, and Princess Bay, each offering unique perspectives of the mangrove ecosystem. Keep an eye out for juvenile snappers, barracuda, starfish, and colorful sea anemones.

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