🌴 Snorkeling Fun in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands 🐠 – The Ultimate Family Adventure! 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦🌊

No matter how you arrive in St. Thomas, one thing is a must: immerse yourself in the sapphire-blue waters 💙. Nestled in the heart of the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Thomas offers stunning views of St. John and Tortola in the distance—pure paradise for the eyes! 👀🌴

🚢 Arriving by Cruise? Here’s What We Did!

We visited St. Thomas on a Carnival Cruise out of Miami. Thanks to some lucky ship maintenance, we had an extended port time from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM—plenty of time to explore without rushing! ⏰ Even with a standard port schedule, you can still enjoy a memorable day trip without booking a pricey excursion. 💸

🐚 Why We Chose a DIY Snorkeling Adventure

Knowing my family’s love for beach snorkeling, I skipped the cruise excursions and planned our own adventure. My daughters enjoy the freedom of snorkeling from the shore—taking breaks, exploring at their own pace, and staying in their comfort zone. 🧜‍♀️🌞

After comparing prices and reading reviews, Coki Beach on the north side of the island stood out. It’s known for its vibrant marine life, easy access, and family-friendly vibe. 🐟🌊

🚕 Getting to Coki Beach

Carnival ships usually dock at Havensight Pier, and we found cabs waiting with no lines—a big win for early risers! 🌅 Cab fares are regulated:

• 💵 $18/person (single riders)
• 💵 $14/person (groups)
  Cash only, and tips are appreciated!

The 30-minute scenic ride in an open-air cab gave us a glimpse of the “real” St. Thomas beyond Charlotte Amalie. Spoiler: it’s absolutely gorgeous. 🌺🌄

🏖️ Beach Setup & Snorkeling Highlights

At Coki Beach, we rented an umbrella and two chairs for $30, grabbed a menu from a beachside restaurant, and settled in. 🍹🪑

The beach is tucked into a sheltered bay, with rocky ends that are perfect for spotting Caribbean coral and colorful fish. The water ranges from 3 to 25 feet deep, offering something for every skill level. 🐠🤿

We arrived early and enjoyed a few peaceful hours before the crowds rolled in. By afternoon, five cruise ships had docked, and the beach was packed. While mostly harmless, there were a few turf disputes over umbrellas and space. 😅

🌟 Pro Tips for a Perfect Day

Be flexible—leave when it gets too crowded 🚶‍♀️

Arrive early to beat the crowds 🕗

Bring cash for cabs and rentals 💵

Pack your own snorkel gear if possible 🥽

🍔 Beach Bites & Island Sips 🍹

We grabbed lunch right on the beach and it did not disappoint! 😋 We ordered four juicy burgers, a plate of the most mouthwatering jerk wings I’ve ever tasted 🌶️🔥, and a couple of Painkillers—the signature cocktail of the U.S. and British Virgin Islands 🍍🥥🍹. The total came to around $120 after tip, which felt like a great value for a delicious beachfront meal with a view. 🌊🌞.

✨ Ready to Make Unforgettable Memories in St. Thomas? 🐠🌴

So what can I say? When you find yourself in St. Thomas, DIVE IN—literally and figuratively! 🤿💦 Whether you’re snorkeling vibrant reefs, soaking up the sun, or just enjoying the island vibes, this tropical gem is the perfect place to create lasting family memories. 💛

And if you’re dreaming about your own island escape, I’d love to help! 🧳✈️ Planning custom family travel itineraries is my specialty—from cruise stops to full vacations, I’ll help you build an adventure that fits your family’s style and budget. 🗺️👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

📩 Send me a detailed inquiry through my contact page, and let’s start planning your next unforgettable getaway to the U.S. Virgin Islands or beyond! 🌺🌊