If you’re planning a trip to St. Thomas with your family, snorkeling Coki Beach with kids should be on your list. Known for its soft white sand, calm clear water, and abundance of sea life, this beach is one of the most popular snorkeling spots on the island. It’s especially good for kids and beginners, with easy water access and shallow reefs close to shore.
Check out our ranked family travel lists for St. Thomas and St. John:
- Best Things to Do in St. Thomas and St. John with Kids (Ranked)
- Best Family Beaches in St. Thomas and St. John (Ranked)
- Best Family Stays in St. Thomas and St. John (Ranked)
Why Families Love Snorkeling Coki Beach with Kids
Coki Beach offers one of the easiest snorkeling experiences for children and first-time snorkelers. The water is usually calm and clear, and the shallow reef areas are full of tropical fish that swim right up to you. While this is partly due to the unfortunate habit of visitors feeding the fish (which should be avoided), it means the marine life is easy to spot even close to shore.
The beach is lively but manageable if you’re prepared. The facilities make it comfortable for families to spend a full day here, with food, drinks, rentals, restrooms, and even a playground available.
What to Expect
- Snorkeling Conditions: Calm, clear, and shallow water with plenty of reef life right off the shore. Great for beginners and kids.
- Marine Life: Expect to see colorful fish, rays, crabs, and coral. The best snorkeling is on the rocky sides of the beach—left side or near Coral World.
- Entry: Soft sand and easy beach access make getting in and out of the water simple, even for little kids.
Video of Snorkeling at Coki Beach
Facilities and Amenities
Coki Beach stands out for its family-friendly amenities:
- Snorkel and dive gear rentals
- Beach chairs and umbrellas
- Food and drink service on the beach
- Restrooms and changing areas
- Playground for kids
- Nearby shop for snacks and supplies
You’ll also find a full-service dive center and two SNUBA operators if your kids (ages 8+) are ready to try something new. SNUBA is a cross between snorkeling and scuba diving that lets you breathe through a hose connected to the surface. It’s a unique and safe way to explore deeper water without needing a diving license.
Parking and Access
Parking is limited and costs $5. There’s no fee to enter the beach itself. If you’re planning to visit Coral World Ocean Park first, consider parking closer to the beach to avoid walking with kids in the heat or after a long day.
Pro Tip: Check the cruise ship schedule before visiting. Coki Beach can become very crowded on port days, and the narrow layout makes it feel full quickly. Still, the water experience is often worth dealing with the crowds—especially if you arrive early.
What Parents Should Know when Snorkeling Coki Beach with Kids
- Feeding the fish is common but discouraged. While many fish are used to being fed, this behavior disrupts natural ecosystems. Teach kids to enjoy observing without interacting.
- Shade is limited, so renting an umbrella is highly recommended.
- Waves are usually gentle, but boat traffic nearby can occasionally stir up the water. Stay within the designated swim area.
- The beach gets busy, but locals and families love it for good reason—easy access to sea life and full-day comfort.
Final Tips for Snorkeling Coki Beach with Kids
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen and hats to protect your family from the strong Caribbean sun.
- Arrive early for easier parking and smaller crowds.
- Pack water shoes for kids if they don’t like walking on rocky areas.
- Don’t forget towels and a change of clothes—the bathrooms and showers make it easy to clean up before heading home.
Summary
Coki Beach is one of the best spots for family snorkeling in St. Thomas. The beach offers a rare combination of convenience, calm waters, and excellent underwater views just steps from shore. While it can get crowded, the marine life, rentals, and on-site amenities make it well worth the visit. For families with kids who are ready to snorkel—or just want a safe, exciting beach day—Coki Beach should be your first stop.
Planning your USVI family trip to St. Thomas or St. John? These guides can help you make the most of your time on the islands:
- St. Thomas with Kids: Family Travel Guide
- Best Snorkeling and Beaches around St. Thomas and St. John for Families
- Best Family Hikes in St. Thomas
- Top Rated Family Restaurants in St. Thomas
Check out our ranked family travel lists for St. Thomas and St. John:
- Best Things to Do in St. Thomas and St. John with Kids (Ranked)
- Best Family Beaches in St. Thomas and St. John (Ranked)
- Best Family Stays in St. Thomas and St. John (Ranked)
For more general travel info, visit the Wikivoyage page on St. Thomas. Here is the info on St. John.
