Dale,

Why don't you try some on the beaches on the far east end of St. John. Just keep heading east past Coral Bay about 3 miles to Round Bay, then Via's beach ($5.00 each) and Hansen's Beach. All of these beaches have easy access and the best thing - no swell to speak of. One thing to look out for though, because the water are so calm, you do have to keep an eye out for spiney urchens. These beaches are a bit out of the way, but they're beautiful, uncrowded, and lots of great underwater life!

Have fun!

Andrew

I send or take my guests to Salt Pond Bay for the first time. Go out the far end of the beach. Not alot of coral but there's usually alot of fish. Very calm waters.

Don

When taking kids or non-swimmers snorkeling for the first time, I like to go to Hawksnest and snorkel along the rocks at the far east end of the beach. The bottom is sandy, and the water is shallow enough to stand up if you need to. While it may not be the most spectacular underwater scenery, the first time out is really more about becoming comfortable with a mask and snorkel than it is seeing the ultimate coral reef.

Post Edited (10-15-04 11:11)

I agree with Regan about Hawksnest. The rocks are a great starter and there is a small reef about 20' off shore in 3-5' of water. That will be a great way to get him used to snorkeling and not stepping on the coral. You can be right there with him.
I would not try Trunk until he becomes comfortable and even then I would get there early before cruise crowds arrive.

Chris

Snorkeling with a kid is new to me. I've never used a snorkel vest or even seen one in person. Do they keep the snorkeler afloat adequately if they are a minimal swimmer? I read somewhere that someone used water wings. I hadn't thought about that. Any thoughts on what would be best to allow the snorkeler to lay flat in the water but also support him?

Thanks for all your beach suggestions.

Dale,
Snorkel vests are great for non-swimmers, or even for strong swimmers who just want the freedom to stop and adjust their mask or whatever without having to expend the energy to tread water. I recommend them over water wings because they are specifically designed for snorkeling, and the flotation provided is adjustable by simply adding or releasing air.

To see and/or purchase (they're available in lots of places, just search on the term) check out http://www.joediveramerica.com/page/JDA/PROD/snorkpk/SN-0221. This particular model is for kids, but they're available for adults as well.

Don's right, we went there our first day, per his recommendation, with our daughter. Took her awhile to get the hang of fitting the mask right, but once we were in we saw squid, lots of fish, and a hawksbill turtle. The water was calm and since she is paranoid about brushing against the coral, we could swim the paremeter of the outcroppings and see lots of stuff.

I also agree about Hawknest but I also have another suggestion. Get up early and go to Jumbie Beach. It is just to the west of Trunk and only has parking for about 4 vehicles, hence the neccesity of getting there a little early. Around 9AM. You'll probably be the first one's there. Cross the road and go down the stairs to the beach. At the beach walk to your left and go to the end. There is easy entry to the water here and it is also a sand beach so there are no worries about urchins. There are usually large schools of small fish close into shore drawing you out to see more. The reef rings out from the left side of the beach toward Trunk Bay and creates a coral wall that protects the beach. Remember to remind your youngster to take his time and lurk & hover rather than just swimming along. He'll see so much more. Have fun.

I agree with Don about Salt Pond being a great choice...very calm water and plenty to see. We also really enjoy Little Maho Bay along the right side, as well. Snorkel vests are a GREAT idea...my in-laws use them and feel much more relaxed and enjoy the sights all the more.
I hope your little boy enjoys it! Have a great time...