St. John, US Virgin Islands, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and is a top destination for snorkeling enthusiasts. With its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, the island offers an unparalleled underwater experience. From swimming alongside colorful fish to encountering majestic sea turtles, snorkeling in St. John is an adventure that captures the heart of both seasoned snorkelers and first-time explorers. However, to fully enjoy these underwater wonders, having the right gear is essential. Fortunately, St. John boasts a variety of shops and rental locations that cater to snorkelers of all skill levels. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to buy or rent snorkel gear in St. John, including their locations, hours, and unique offerings to ensure you have an unforgettable snorkeling experience.
Why Snorkeling in St. John?
St. John boasts some of the most stunning snorkeling spots in the Caribbean, including Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, and Waterlemon Cay. With an abundance of colorful fish, sea turtles, and coral formations, snorkeling here is an adventure not to be missed. However, to fully enjoy these underwater wonders, you need the right equipment and know where to go to see the turtles in St John Virgin Islands.
Top Places to Buy or Rent Snorkel Gear in St. John
1. St John Beach Bum
Location: Cruz Bay, St. John – right off the foot ferry, upstairs
Hours: Daily from 9 AM to 5 PM
Caneel Bay Watersports is an excellent option for both rental and purchase of snorkel gear. Located just outside the iconic Caneel Bay Resort, they offer high-quality equipment and expert advice. You can rent full snorkel sets, including masks, snorkels, and fins,..
Highlights:
- Quality equipment rental
- Knowledgeable staff for recommendations
- Conveniently located near popular snorkeling spots
2. Low Key Watersports
Location: Cruz Bay, St. John
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 5 PM; Sunday, 10 AM to 3 PM
Low Key Watersports is well-known for its friendly service and extensive range of snorkeling gear. Located in Cruz Bay, they provide rental options for both short and long-term needs. Their knowledgeable staff can guide you to the best snorkeling locations based on your experience level.
Highlights:
- Flexible rental options
- High-quality equipment
- Local knowledge on snorkeling hotspots
3. Ocean Surfari
Location: Cruz Bay, St. John – On right as soon as your step off the foot ferry
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM; Saturday, 9 AM to 3 PM
Ocean Surfari offers a unique experience with their guided snorkeling tours, but they also provide gear rental for those who prefer to explore on their own. Their rental gear is well-maintained, ensuring you have a great experience in the water. Plus, they offer custom packages for families. (you’ll see the photo of the storefront in the photo that also included Beach Bum. Both are right off the Cruz Bay Foot Ferry terminal.)
Highlights:
- Guided snorkeling tours available
- Great packages and tours for families, groups, couples, singles
- Well-maintained rental equipment
4. Trunk Bay
Location: North Shore Road, St. John
Hours: Daily from 9 AM to 4 PM
Trunk Bay is one of the most popular snorkeling destinations in St. John, and the rental facility on-site makes it easy for visitors to grab gear to an excellent deal. They offer quality equipment for rent, including masks, snorkels, fins, and life vests. Enjoy the stunning underwater snorkel trail right off the beach.
Highlights:
- On-site rentals at a top snorkeling location
- Easy access to the underwater snorkel trail
- Family-friendly options available
5. Cinnamon Bay
Location: North Shore Road, St. John
Hours: Daily from 9 AM to 4 PM
Cinnamon Bay not only offers snorkel gear for rental but many other water sports and beach amenities to enjoy your day in the sun at one of the top beaches on St John and no doubt one of the world’s top beaches. Paddle boards, kayaks, floats, and beach chairs are available close to the beach access point.
6. Maho Bay
Location: North Shore Road, St. John
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 4 PM
Maho Bay is known for its serene atmosphere and excellent snorkeling opportunities. They provide quality snorkeling equipment and emphasize eco-friendly practices, making it a great choice for environmentally conscious snorkelers.
Highlights:
- Eco-friendly rental options
- Close proximity to snorkeling spots
- Relaxed, natural setting
7. Pirate’s Cove
Location: Pirate’s Cove, St. John
Hours: Daily from 9 AM to 5 PM
Location: Pirate’s Cove, St. John
Hours: Daily from 9 AM to 5 PM
The rental shop on-site provides everything you need for a day of snorkeling or diving, from masks to fins and more. They also offer charter options under the moniker of Stormy Pirates if you want to combine a boat ride and tour to snorkel locations lesser-known spots while exploring the underwater world.
Highlights:
- Complete gear rental options
- Friendly staff with local insights
8. Caneel Bay Watersports at Honeymoon Beach
Location: North Shore Road, St. John
Hours: Daily from 9 AM to 5 PM
Caneel Bay Watersports is an excellent option for both rental and purchase of snorkel gear. Located just outside the iconic Caneel Bay Resort, they offer high-quality equipment and expert advice. You can rent full snorkel sets, including masks, snorkels, and fins,..
Highlights:
- Quality equipment rental
- Knowledgeable staff for recommendations
- Conveniently located near popular snorkeling spots
Tips for Renting Snorkel Gear
- Inspect Equipment: Always check the gear for any damages or issues before heading out.
- Ask for Recommendations: Don’t hesitate to ask the rental staff for their suggestions on the best snorkeling locations.
- Consider a Package: Some shops offer package deals that include gear rental and guided tours, which can enhance your experience.
- Be Mindful of Your Size: Ensure the gear fits well to prevent leaks and discomfort while snorkeling.
- Use Dawn Liquid Dish Soap: Put a drop or two on the inside of the lenses and the rubber seal. Push it around with your fingers, rinse off. It works great to clear the lenses, help reduce fog and create a better seal.
- Do Not Put on Sunscreen First: Start with a clean face. Sunscreen, makeup, and lotions are slippery, and do not allow the rubber seal to adhere well; and, therefore allowing air and water to enter your mask.
Conclusion
St. John is truly a snorkeling haven, and having the right gear can make your underwater adventure even more enjoyable. Whether you choose to rent or buy, the shops mentioned above offer a range of options to suit every snorkeler’s needs. From expert advice to high-quality equipment, you’ll find everything you need to explore the stunning marine life of St. John.
So gear up and get ready for an unforgettable snorkeling experience in one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful destinations! Whether you’re swimming among sea turtles or gliding over vibrant coral reefs, the underwater world awaits you, be safe in the tropical waters with these snorkel tips. Happy snorkeling, paradise awaits you!
Visiting St John? Book great a great ST. JOHN VACATION RENTAL, enter your dates of travel below to search for a great accommodations on St John!
Travel Insurance for U.S. Virgin Islands
We are pleased to offer travel insurance underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co. as optional protection for unforeseen circumstances that may arise before or during your travel. It is highly recommended that you purchase travel insurance before you embark on your trip. If purchased within 14 days of your reservation, coverage for pre-existing health conditions are included. It provides coverage for all members of your traveling party for one nominal fee.
You must be logged in to post a comment.