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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, vibrant marine life, and access to scenic hiking trails.

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Little Lameshur Bay, located on the south shore of St. John within the Virgin Islands National Park, is a serene beach offering soft sand, calm turquoise waters, and lush jungle surroundings. It's a great spot for swimming and snorkeling, with underwater treasures like coral reefs, sea turtles, and colorful fish.

A brief summary to Little Lameshur Bay

  • St John, VI

Local tips

  • Bring a four-wheel-drive vehicle to navigate the rocky road leading to the bay.
  • Snorkel on the left side of the bay (facing the water) for the best views of coral reefs and tropical fish.
  • Combine your beach visit with a hike on the Lameshur Bay Trail to explore historical ruins and connect to the Reef Bay Trail.
  • Pack food and water, as there are limited facilities at the bay.
  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best snorkeling conditions.
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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 towards Salt Pond Bay. Continue past the Salt Pond Bay parking lot. The road will turn from pavement to a rocky, unpaved road. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is highly recommended. Follow the signs for Lameshur Bay. The drive from Cruz Bay is approximately 35-40 minutes. There is a parking area near the beach. Parking is free.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from Cruz Bay to Little Lameshur Bay. The taxi fare is per person and per destination. Expect to pay around $38 per person each way from Cruz Bay to Lameshur. Negotiate the fare before getting in. Taxis may be open-air safari buses. Arrange for a return pick-up in advance.

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Discover more about Little Lameshur Bay

Little Lameshur Bay is a hidden gem on the southern coast of St. John, a part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, and within the protected Virgin Islands National Park. This tranquil bay offers a classic Caribbean beach experience with its soft, white sandy beach, clear turquoise waters, and verdant jungle backdrop. Unlike its neighbor, Great Lameshur Bay, Little Lameshur boasts a sandy shoreline, making it more popular for swimming and sunbathing. The bay is known for its calm waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Snorkelers can explore the vibrant underwater world, discovering coral reefs, sea turtles, and a variety of tropical fish. The left side of the bay (facing the water) is particularly rewarding for snorkeling, with diverse marine life inhabiting the underwater outcroppings and seagrass beds. Keep an eye out for parrotfish, filefish, angelfish, and blue tangs. Beyond the beach, Little Lameshur Bay provides access to hiking trails, including the Lameshur Bay Trail that connects to the Reef Bay Trail. These trails offer stunning views and lead to historical sites like the Great Reef Bay House Ruins and ancient Petroglyphs. The ruins of a Danish sugar mill are located at the west end of the bay, offering a glimpse into the island's colonial past. Getting to Little Lameshur Bay is an adventure in itself, often requiring a four-wheel-drive vehicle due to the rocky and bumpy road. This challenging access contributes to the bay's secluded atmosphere, making it a perfect escape from the more crowded beaches on the north shore.

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