Families visiting St. John and looking for a quiet, nature-filled beach experience will find snorkeling Lameshur Bay with kids to be one of the most rewarding and peaceful destinations. Located on the island’s rugged south shore and part of Virgin Islands National Park, the Lameshur area includes three distinct bays: Europa Bay, Little Lameshur Bay, and Great Lameshur Bay. All offer a sense of escape, natural beauty, and excellent opportunities for snorkeling, hiking, and outdoor family time.
For additional information and context for your trip, it might also help to 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 will Love Snorkeling Lameshur Bay with Kids
Lameshur Bay is known for its calm, clear waters, uncrowded sandy beach, and excellent snorkeling—especially in the morning. With its protected shoreline, soft sand, and abundance of marine life, it’s an ideal spot for families with children who are comfortable in the water and eager to explore. Unlike some beaches on the north shore, Lameshur’s remote location keeps crowds small, making it a relaxing place for parents and kids to enjoy a quieter day together.
How to Get There
Getting to Lameshur Bay requires planning. The road leading to Little Lameshur Bay is unpaved and bumpy, and it’s strongly recommended to use a four-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive vehicle. While some cars do make the trip, it’s not suitable for sedans or rental vehicles without AWD.
From Cruz Bay, families can drive along Centerline Road (Route 10) or North Shore Road (Route 20) toward Coral Bay. At the “T” intersection near Coral Bay, take a right and follow the winding road about five miles past Salt Pond and Concordia. The paved road ends, and the entrance to VIERS and the Lameshur bays begins. Continue just over 1.5 miles past Great Lameshur Bay to reach the beach at Little Lameshur.
What to Bring
Since there are no restaurants or food vendors at Lameshur, families should come prepared with food, snacks, and plenty of water. There are a few picnic tables and barbecue grills available near the beach, as well as a restroom. Shade is limited but available near the trees and at the picnic areas.
Recommended items:
- Snorkeling gear (including kids’ sizes)
- Water shoes or reef-safe sandals (for rocky areas)
- Sun protection (reef-safe sunscreen, rash guards, hats)
- Water and snacks
- Towels and change of clothes
- First-aid basics
- Trash bags (no trash services on-site)
Beach Conditions for Kids
Lameshur Bay has a soft white sand beach with some rocky areas along the shoreline. The easiest and safest entry point for children is at the center of the beach, where the sand gently slopes into the water. The bay is typically calm, especially in the mornings and on days without strong south winds.
The underwater terrain transitions from sandy bottom to patches of seagrass and eventually to deeper coral reefs, which makes it great for kids learning to snorkel, as well as more experienced swimmers. It’s a good idea to have children wear flotation vests or snorkeling safety gear if they are new to open-water swimming.
Snorkeling Highlights
Snorkeling Lameshur Bay with kids is considered one of the top snorkeling options on St. John. Families who arrive early in the morning will find the water especially calm and clear, and marine life more active. The best snorkeling conditions are usually before 10:00 AM.
Beginner-Friendly Snorkeling
- Near the center and western side of the bay, a short swim from shore, is a small rocky outcropping in shallow water. This is ideal for younger snorkelers or those who are just getting started.
- Expect to see tropical fish like parrotfish, blue tangs, angelfish, filefish, and schools of small reef fish.
Eastern Side and Advanced Exploration
- On the eastern side of the bay, the coral and rock formations are more varied. Families with older children or teens who are strong swimmers will find deeper structures and more diverse marine life, including:
- Sea turtles
- Southern stingrays and eagle rays
- Barracuda
- Caribbean spiny lobsters
- Coral-banded shrimp
- Octopus and Queen Angelfish
Always supervise kids closely while snorkeling. The reef closer to shore can be shallow, so instruct children not to stand on or touch the coral.
Video of Snorkeling at Lameshur Bay
Hiking Options Nearby
Families who enjoy hiking will appreciate that Lameshur Bay provides access to several scenic trails. The Lameshur Bay Trail connects to the Reef Bay Trail, allowing a variety of hiking routes depending on your family’s ability and interest.
Highlights Along the Trails:
- Petroglyphs: Ancient rock carvings believed to be left by the island’s early inhabitants. These are a great educational stop for kids.
- Reef Bay Sugar Mill Ruins: Offers a peek into the island’s colonial and agricultural past.
- Yawzi Point Trail: A short hike from the beach that leads to dramatic views and more snorkeling opportunities.
These trails can be hot and exposed, so families should bring plenty of water, wear closed-toe hiking shoes, and plan hikes in the morning or late afternoon.
Is Lameshur Bay Right for Your Family?
Families looking for a structured beach day with amenities might prefer north shore options like Trunk Bay or Maho Bay. But for adventurous families who want a more remote, natural setting with incredible snorkeling, light hiking, and history, Lameshur Bay is one of the best-kept secrets on St. John.
While the road is challenging and the beach is rustic, the rewards include:
- Uncrowded white sand beach
- Fantastic snorkeling with a wide variety of marine life
- Hiking trails with historical and natural highlights
- A peaceful escape from busier parts of the island
Final Tips for Parents
- Safety: No lifeguards are on duty. Always supervise children in the water.
- Timing: Arrive early for the best snorkeling visibility and a more relaxed experience.
- Weather: Avoid visiting right after storms, as the road may be more difficult and the water stirred up.
- Pack Out What You Pack In: There are no trash services, so bring bags to take your garbage with you.
Lameshur Bay offers a unique chance to unplug and connect with nature. For families visiting St. John, it’s a top choice for a mix of adventure, education, and unforgettable underwater experiences—all in one spot.
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
For additional information and context for your trip, it might also help to 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.
