Activity Details
The Waterlemon Cay Hiking and Snorkeling tour is a three hour guided trip that highlights one of the most scenic and historic corners of St. John. Waterlemon Cay sits on the east end of Leinster Bay, an area filled with old Danish plantation ruins, a historic school site, and a former guard house. The mix of history and natural beauty makes this part of the island especially interesting to explore.
The hike follows the Leinster Bay Trail, a mostly flat shoreline walk about a mile long. The path stays close to the water, offering steady views of the bay and patches of shade. Your guide will share background on the area’s history, point out native plants, and help keep the pace comfortable for all ages.
Once you reach the end of the trail near Waterlemon Cay, you can relax on shore or continue exploring up the Johnny Horn Trail if the group is feeling energetic. When it is time to snorkel, you will take a short swim, about one tenth of a mile, across shallow water where you may see starfish and sea cucumbers on the sandy bottom.
Snorkeling around Waterlemon Cay is often a highlight of the trip. The sea is usually calm and the reef here is rich with life. You may see parrotfish, blue tang, rays, green sea turtles, and possibly an octopus if one is tucked into the rocks. After snorkeling and enjoying the area, the group returns along the same shoreline trail and finishes the excursion at the historic Annaberg Ruins, where you can take a self guided look around before heading out.
This tour works well for families, couples, and small groups who want a good mix of hiking, history, and snorkeling without a long or difficult route.
FAQ
How long is the hike?
About one mile each way on a flat shoreline trail.
Is this suitable for beginners or kids?
Yes. The walk is mostly flat, and the snorkel portion is short with calm water. All ages can join.
How far is the swim to Waterlemon Cay?
Roughly one tenth of a mile across shallow, clear water.
What might we see while snorkeling?
Starfish, sea cucumbers, parrotfish, blue tang, rays, sea turtles, and sometimes an octopus.
Do we visit any historical sites?
Yes. The route includes plantation ruins and ends at the Annaberg Ruins, where you can do a self guided tour.
What should I bring?
Drinking water, reef safe sunscreen, a hat or visor, a towel, and comfortable walking shoes or sandals.
Where do we meet?
The tour begins at the Leinster Bay trail area. Exact directions are provided in your confirmation email.
Operator
Reef2Peak
