Salt Pond Bay - St John US Virgin Islands

 

Salt Pond Bay - St John US Virgin Islands

Salt Pond Bay, located on the east end of St John is one of my favorite snorkel spots on the island.

This bay is almost always tranquil even on a stormy day on St John. The calm, clear blue water is soothing and this bay is as peaceful as any on the island.

To access the beach you must park at the top of the Salt Pond Trailhead and hike for about 10 minutes until you reach the white sandy beach of the bay. The trail is scenic and lined with beautiful cactus and plants. Once on the beach be prepared for some of the best snorkeling on the island. Sea turtles are just off shore and beautiful corals and colorful fish of all variety await. I like to snorkel both sides of the bay. Each side has it's own unique character. 

The beach is long and the bay never seems crowded. On some trips I have been the only person on the beach at times. What a treasure this bay is.

Sal Pond Bay has a beautiful beach perfect for lounging and soaking up the sun.

The top of the Salt Pond Trailhead tells you everything you need to know. Except for how great the experience you are about to have is.

Parking is at the entrance of the trailhead. Be sure to lock your vehicle and keep valuables out of sight. Thefts of items from vehicles has been reported here. It's a shame, but no matter where you visit you should always be aware of your surroundings. I personally have never had an incident. Well, there was that one time when a mongoose or donkey stole my breakfast while I was out snorkeling! 

No smoking on the beaches. This is important! Don't turn these beautiful beaches into ashtrays... 

The Salt Pond Bay Trail is an easy hike and takes only a few minutes. 

Beautiful cactus line the trail. 

Salt Pond Bay Trail. 

Ahhhh, the beautiful Salt Pond Bay. 

On this day I shared the bay with only a few other people. I feel like I have the entire island to myself.  

Boats moor out in the bay taking advantage of the calm waters. 

Any trip to St John should include a day at Salt Pond. 

Salt Pond Bay - St John US Virgin Islands