If you’re traveling to St. Thomas with kids, snorkeling Lindbergh Bay with kids is one of the most convenient and family-friendly options on the island. Located just minutes from the airport and close to the Crown Bay Marina cruise port, it’s a great option for a beach day before a flight or during a cruise layover. With shallow, calm waters, soft sand, and plenty of space to spread out, this beach is ideal for families looking for a safe and enjoyable outing.
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 Love Snorkeling Lindbergh Bay with Kids
Unlike some of the more crowded and tourist-heavy beaches on St. Thomas, Lindbergh Bay Beach offers a more relaxed atmosphere. The beach is often uncrowded—even on weekends—and provides a welcoming environment for families with kids of all ages. The calm waters make it easy for children to swim safely, and there’s a wide stretch of beach that allows for easy supervision and room to play.
Family-Friendly Snorkeling
While Lindbergh Bay Beach doesn’t have the large coral reefs of other top snorkeling destinations, it still offers a fun and accessible snorkeling experience for beginners and young children. Families can expect to see:
- Sea turtles swimming through the bay
- Small schools of fish near the shallows
- Colorful shells and bits of coral along the sandy bottom
- Occasional stingrays gliding near the sea floor
The water is typically clear and calm, providing excellent visibility and a safe space for first-time snorkelers. This makes it an ideal place to introduce kids to snorkeling without strong waves or deep drop-offs. Bring your own gear for the best experience, as rentals are limited at this beach.
To maximize your snorkeling experience with kids:
- Stay closer to the eastern side near the Emerald Beach Resort, where marine activity is more common.
- Snorkel in the morning when the water is clearest and the beach is quieter.
- Look for areas near the rocks or the edges of the bay where sea turtles and fish are often seen.
Video of Snorkeling at Lindbergh Bay Beach
Water Play and Beach Activities
In addition to swimming and snorkeling, Lindbergh Bay Beach features a Splash Zone Aqua Park—a floating inflatable obstacle course that’s a big hit with older kids and teens. It’s operated by CTC Charters and Tubes for an extra fee, and the area is clearly sectioned off with buoys, ensuring swimmers and snorkelers aren’t disturbed.
Other activities available at the beach:
- Jet ski rentals (available on the far west side)
- Paddle board and kayak rentals
- Windsurfing equipment rentals
- Beach volleyball and open space for games
Onsite Amenities for Families
Parents will appreciate that Lindbergh Bay Beach is well-equipped with amenities to support a full day at the beach. Amenities include:
- Free parking along the beach and in a nearby gravel lot
- Restrooms and outdoor showers
- A children’s playground at the far end of the beach
- Concession stands with snacks, soft drinks, and cold treats
- Restaurants and beach bars at the adjacent Emerald Beach Resort
Lounge chairs are available for rent, and while there is no official entrance fee, the beach remains clean and well-maintained. Lifeguard services may be present during peak hours, but parents should always supervise children closely, especially in the water.
Crowd Levels and Beach Conditions
Even on days when cruise ships are in port, Lindbergh Bay Beach is typically less crowded than more popular beaches like Magens Bay or Coki Beach. There’s ample space to set up for the day, and families can find shaded spots under trees or umbrellas (if bringing their own).
The beach has fine sand and gentle slopes into the water, making it easy for young children to wade and swim. The water stays shallow for quite a distance, allowing for safe water play and casual snorkeling.
When to Visit
- Hours: While the beach is technically open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., there is no gate or fee collection, so families can arrive early or stay late.
- Food and rentals: Concession stands and equipment rental services typically close around 5:30 p.m.
- Best time to visit: Weekday mornings offer the quietest conditions and clearest water for snorkeling.
Nearby Attractions
Lindbergh Bay Beach’s location makes it a great stop for families coming from or going to the airport or Crown Bay Marina cruise port. Taxis are readily available, and the beach is only a 5-minute ride from both locations.
Families can also visit:
- Charlotte Amalie, for shopping and dining
- Frenchtown, for casual waterfront restaurants
- The Butterfly Garden, located near the cruise terminal
Final Tips for Families Snorkeling Lindbergh Bay with Kids
- Bring snorkel gear and beach toys, as rental options are limited.
- Arrive early for the calmest conditions and easier parking.
- Pack snacks and sun protection, though food and drinks are available at the resort and stands.
- Watch for iguanas in the garden area of the resort—kids love spotting them!
- Use swim shoes if your kids plan to explore the rocks or search for shells.
Lindbergh Bay Beach is one of the best-kept secrets in St. Thomas for families seeking a mix of water fun, safe snorkeling, and practical amenities. It may not be as flashy as other beaches on the island, but for parents looking for a low-stress, enjoyable beach day with kids, it’s an excellent choice.
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.
