Snorkeling Secret Harbor Beach with kids on the east end of St. Thomas is one of the best places on the island for family-friendly snorkeling. It offers calm waters, easy access, and a variety of marine life that appeals to both kids and adults. Despite its popularity with locals and experienced snorkelers, Secret Harbor remains relatively uncrowded compared to other beaches frequented by cruise passengers.
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 Snorkeling Secret Harbor Beach with Kids is Great for Families
Secret Harbor is a protected bay with calm waters, making it ideal for children, beginner snorkelers, and families looking for a safe and relaxing beach day. The clear water and easy entry from the sandy shoreline allow for stress-free exploration.
Snorkeling options are versatile, with something for every level. The rocky right side of the bay and the double reef on the left side offer varied underwater environments. The middle of the bay also has interesting coral structures and fish activity. There’s a floating swim platform about 30 yards from shore for kids who want to take a break from snorkeling.
Marine Life to Expect
Families can expect to see a wide range of marine species, including:
- Colorful tropical fish
- Sea turtles
- Octopuses
- Squid
- Sea urchins
- Rays (especially in the nearby seagrass meadows)
Snorkeling along the right side reveals a rockier underwater habitat, while the left side offers a double reef, starting just past the concrete dock and followed by a drop-off to the second reef. Seagrass beds in the shallows often attract turtles and rays.
The waters are part of the St. Thomas East End Reserve, which helps support the biodiversity and makes it a great educational spot for kids.
Video of Snorkeling at Secret Harbor Beach
Parking and Beach Access
Accessing the beach requires a little planning:
- Restaurant Parking (Closest): Free but limited to those dining at the on-site Sunset Grille restaurant.
- Public Parking (More Available): Located up the steep hill near the tennis courts. Free but marked for public use (spots 21-24). Look for signs.
- From the upper lot, a short staircase leads down to the beach beside the resort condos.
The entrance can be easy to miss from the main road, especially when arriving from Red Hook. Look for signage mentioning the restaurant or bar.
Facilities and Amenities
Secret Harbor Beach is part of the Secret Harbor Resort, which provides useful amenities for families:
- Restrooms (inside Sunset Grille)
- Dive shop with snorkel rentals and up-to-date info on conditions
- Chair rentals (subject to availability)
- On-site restaurant and beach bar (Sunset Grille) with a full menu and shaded deck
- Swim platform for water play
Note: There are no public showers or changing rooms.
Tips for Snorkeling Secret Harbor Beach with Kids
- Visit earlier in the day for more parking options and fewer crowds.
- The left side of the beach has stronger currents, so supervise young swimmers and snorkelers closely.
- Ask the dive shop staff for the latest snorkeling tips and sightings.
- Bring your own snorkel gear if possible; rentals are available but may be limited.
- Stay until sunset—Secret Harbor is known for some of the best views in St. Thomas.
What to Watch For
- Boats: Be aware of boat traffic, especially near the second reef farther from shore.
- Currents: The left side can have stronger currents. Stick to the middle or right with young children.
Summary
Snorkeling Secret Harbor Beach with kids is one of St. Thomas’s most family-friendly snorkeling activities. It’s quiet, scenic, and well-suited to beginners and experienced snorkelers alike. With calm waters, varied marine life, and convenient amenities, this beach is a solid choice for families spending the day exploring the underwater world.
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.
