waterlemon cay

jamieatl

St John is blessed with sugar-sand beaches and crystal clear water, but Leinster Bay and Waterlemon Cay topped our list. Compared to Trunk, Salomon, Honeymoon and Cinnamon, Waterlemon was least crowded by humans and most active with sea life. It's a little harder to reach---longer taxi ride (but so enjoyable to see all the North beaches), followed by a 1-mile walk along the shore. Only a small part of the bay has a sandy beach, and it's not as deep or long as others, so many people find spots on the rocks, which are fairly comfortable. Presumably because of these factors, there are fewer people snorkeling, and fewer people damaging the coral, which was significantly more bright and alive here. Fish are plentiful and curious. We also saw several green sea turtles, who didn't mind our presence at all. Best was a ginormous Spotted Eagle ray---about 9' from tip to tail---who was actively trying to lose some helper fish. Waterlemon is also host to lots of mongooses. We were excited to see them up close---then witnessed from the water as a pack of six opened our backpack and removed our sandwiches.

DebTraveler57

Waterlemon is a longer walk to the beach and it was a smaller (but still very nice) beach but one of the better spots for snorkeling. We were looking forward to the much talked about starfish but the day we went there weren't any there. We did get to see a turtle and stingray. For better snorkeling it's highly recommended to go out to the point - easier if you walk out as far as you can and get in the water there to see much more sea life.

M4472SUsteved

The walk to the spot you get in the water is nothing. You can't even call it a hike. Once you get there the swim out is relatively short across a deep channel where you may see rays, sharks, and larger fish if you're lucky. At the little island itself you start up the right side, going counter clockwise around the cay. The farther you go, the better it gets, but the swell and current get stronger, too. It's best to choose a day with calmer seas and lighter winds, but that may not be an option depending on how much time you have. Don't be stupid. Know your limits and turn back if things get too rough. You'll see mostly the same fish you see every where, but more and larger, especially if you go earlier in the day.

Arnoldfamily1

This is about a 1 mile walk along a mostly flat, rocky trail and is a beautiful beach and has some great snorkeling. You can hike around to swim over to watermelon cay the snorkel in the bay.

Joleana24

great place to hike then snorkel! we hiked maybe 2 miles out to where we like to get into the water. Snorkeled out to the cay and around it. The snorkel is great and you'll be sure to see many amazing things.

MattR224

The .8 mile walk is not a problem, just be aware of it, bring water and probably wear something other than flops. The snorkeling was great. Green sea turtle was our highlight. Beware baby sea urchins at many of the entry points closest to the cay. Basically keep walking the coast for as long as it resembles a trail to get closest to the cay. There is also a beach part way that you could hang out at as well but there are no services so bring water, etc.

AnnabellaChicago

This is not a beach where you can just park and walk across the street like Maho. It is probably a mile walk in and my kids told me superb snorkeling. The beach itself is more pebbly than sandy so if you just want to swim there are better ones.

BurtSueH

Waterlemon Cay is reached via a mile hike (mostly flat) along the shores of Leinster Bay. At the far end of the beach, enter the water and snorkel out along the point for some fabulous fish watching. If you are a strong swimmer, at the end of the point swim across to the cay itself. You will not be disappointed!!

erikssonod

Amazing snorkeling! Beach is nothing to write home about, but the best snorkeling around the island.

JillConnecticut

But this year the waves were too rough and we could not get out there. About a 25 minute walk from parking and then a 15 minute swim to the cay but worth it. Home to many angel fish, sometimes starfish and many species.

gjcooke

Good snorkeling. No real beach, so this is a place to go for snorkeling. Be very careful of sea urchins. They are all around as you enter the water, both on shore and at the Cay. On this day we were advised to travel around the Cay counter clockwise. Lots of fish on the first side. VERY strong currents as you turn the corner. My wife had to help a struggling swimmer. Not a place I would bring young children. It's about a 15 minute hike from the road.

ShaylaL5287

This is an amazing beach...so secluded and the walk to it is really something special and beautiful.. I think it was a half mile walk maybe?Most of the walk is along the beach line which makes for some great photo opportunities, and once we got to the beach we were alone with my family the entire time! The snorkeling wasnt the best on the island , but the beach itself was stunning and the water felt great. Still some great snorkeling , by far my favorite photo opts. This is a must for anyone who loves photography and gorgeous waters! P.S. The pictures I added to this review are unedited pictures...so beautiful

triciag955

A great place to snorkel, but be sure to have a floatation device as the currents are strong. We took our young children and it was a bit harrowing.

LiteT_13

What can I say? Just do it! Clear waters; beautiful fish; gorgeous sands; warm waters; even a cute little island to snorkel about! Try doing this Cay and at least one more on your visit. Hint: can't find a "bad" beach on Ste Johns; everything is gorgeous : )

lawbarb

This snorkeling requires a hike and strong swimming skills. You will swim out to a small island, and then snorkel around the island. Depending on the currents, you should be a strong swimmer. The snorkeling is wonderful.