The best snorkeling in Saint Kitts and Nevis

From shallow shipwrecks to protected marine parks, here are the top places to snorkel on the vibrant Caribbean islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis.

Comprising two emerald-green islands, Saint Kitts and Nevis offers travelers sweeping beaches, lush rainforest, vibrant culture and a rich history. It’s less crowded than many Caribbean destinations, making it ideal for those seeking a laid-back tropical vacation.

In recent years, local organizations have expanded marine protected areas, added mooring buoys and worked with tour operators to improve access to reefs and shipwrecks. While the snorkeling here is more relaxed than in some reef-heavy islands, these enhancements mean visitors can now enjoy a richer underwater experience at several bays and protected sites.

Here are the top snorkeling locations in Saint Kitts and Nevis.

South Friars Bay

Near Basseterre, South Friars Bay remains one of the island’s best beaches for water sports and snorkeling. Calm waters, nearby reef structures and convenient amenities—rental kayaks, jet skis and beach bars—make it especially good for beginners. Snorkel near Carambola Beach Club by following the breaker out from shore, watching for sea creatures around the rocks. You can also explore the reef in front of Shipwreck Beach Bar (look for the buoys) or the shallow areas near Discovery Beach Bar.

White House Bay

On the Southeast Peninsula, White House Bay features a 40-foot shipwreck marked by a buoy beside a large boulder. The seabed hosts rocky patches, reefs and seagrass beds that attract starfish, stingrays and schools of fish. Wear reef shoes to avoid urchins when entering or exiting. After snorkeling, treat yourself to a meal or cocktail at the picturesque Salt Plage restaurant.

Shitten Bay

This hidden cove has become a favorite stop for catamaran snorkel tours. Its shallow shipwreck and clear water draw eels, rays, turtles and colorful fish. You can hike to the bay from Majors Bay (about an hour) or arrive by boat. Strong swimmers can continue to nearby Nags Head Reef to spot deeper coral formations, though currents can be swift—consider wearing a snorkel vest for safety, and save your energy for the return.

Frigate Bay

Also called Timothy Beach, Frigate Bay is one of St. Kitts’ liveliest beaches. The southern end holds sheltered lagoons and rocky pockets where snorkelers can see eels, lobsters and octopuses. Enter near the cliffs on the south side or by the jetty next to Timothy Beach Resort. After your snorkel, enjoy the beach bars, restaurants and rental facilities that make this spot ideal for a full day’s outing.

Cockleshell Bay

At the southern tip of St. Kitts, Cockleshell Bay is a lively water-sports hub. Calm turquoise waters and views of Nevis make this a favorite for beginners. Expect to see small corals, colorful reef fish and occasional rays in the shallows. Lounge chairs, beach bars and eateries like Reggae Beach Bar round out the experience. Note that when cruise ships are in port, this beach fills up quickly.

Sandy Point Marine Park

Offshore near Brimstone Hill Fortress, Sandy Point Marine Park is a protected area rich in marine life. Although more popular with scuba divers, strong snorkelers can explore its canyons and coral formations. Launch from Pump Bay or join a boat trip to see green and hawksbill turtles, lobsters and sea horses. Recent conservation efforts have improved reef health and added mooring buoys to protect corals.

Herbert’s Beach

On Nevis, Herbert’s Beach tops the list for snorkeling. Sunken concrete blocks create artificial reefs that attract fish close to shore. A natural reef further out hosts octopuses, rays, turtles and lobsters. Situated on the Atlantic side, the beach can be choppy; only go on calm days, and wear a snorkel vest if you’re not a strong swimmer.

Best snorkeling tours

Although many sites are accessible from shore, guided tours help you see more in less time. From Basseterre, consider a four-hour catamaran snorkeling tour that visits several reefs and a shipwreck. For a different adventure, drive your own mini speedboat around the Southeast Peninsula on a three-hour snorkeling tour. Local tour operators continue to expand and improve their offerings, making it easy to explore multiple sites safely.

Best places to stay

For luxury and convenience, Park Hyatt St. Kitts Christophe Harbour sits beside Cockleshell Bay and offers guided snorkeling, kayaking and paddleboarding. If you’re on a budget, Timothy Beach Resort in Frigate Bay provides simple beachfront rooms steps away from snorkel-ready waters.

St. Kitts snorkeling FAQ

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