The US Virgin Islands are a great place for both beginner and experienced snorkelers. The waters tend to be calm, clear, and warm year round, and there are many places where you can see an abundance of reef and marine life in relatively shallow waters. We love helping visitors experience the magic of the underwater world, and we have guided snorkeling tours and snorkel gear rentals available on all three islands: St. Thomas , St. John , and St. Croix . In order to best appreciate our waters and have a wonderful time while you’re “under the sea,” here are a few USVI snorkeling safety tips to keep in mind:
Not sure whether to rent water sports gear or book a guided tour? Learn the pros and cons of each to choose the best Virgin Islands experience.
Here’s a hot take I have for the US Virgin Islands: Everyone should take a guided snorkel tour at least a couple of times, no matter how many times they’ve been snorkeling here before. I know, I know… you’ve already snorkeled here. Why would going with a guide change anything when you already know how to snorkel? Why do you need someone to accompany you when you already have a fish identification card and rented snorkel gear so you can go by yourself?
Unless you don’t use social media and/or haven’t done any research about visiting the US Virgin Islands, you’ve likely heard of and seen plenty of pictures and videos of Lime Out , the floating taco bar off the island of St. John. It’s hard to miss all of their amazing viral videos. Nothing snags your attention like seeing people hanging out on floating couches being served up delicious tacos in the middle of a bay in the Caribbean. You see it, and you instantly start dreaming of being there. Admit it: It happened to you, too. ;) So if you’ve got a trip planned to the USVI and are wondering if you should add a trip to Lime Out to your itinerary (short answer: definitely yes ), then here’s everything you need to know.
With the launch of our new retail shop & home base in Mongoose Junction on St. John, the 2025/26 season ahead is shaping up to be an exciting one! (By the way… did you join us for the virtual tour of the new shop? You can find it on our Instagram account in our reels, if you’re not already following us there.)
Do you have a trip planned to visit St. John in the US Virgin Islands? Then you will definitely want to add Mongoose Junction to your list of must-see spots on the island! Mongoose Junction is a unique outdoor plaza in Cruz Bay, St. John. Conveniently located a short walk from the main ferry dock, it's a versatile location that you will likely visit again and again. 
Learn what to expect when visiting the Virgin Islands during Christmas: festive events, island traditions, warm weather, and travel tips for the holidays.
Spot sea turtles safely and respectfully with these helpful tips for snorkeling encounters in the clear waters of the Virgin Islands.
As one of the top island tour operators in the US Virgin Islands with guided tours available on all three islands— St. Thomas , St. John , and St. Croix —we are often asked if we can provide private tours as opposed to our group tours. The answer? Absolutely, yes!
