From sunrise to sunset, Maho Bay is the bay of turtles—a true gem of St. John where wildlife lovers can experience some of the most spectacular marine encounters in the Caribbean. With calm, crystal-clear waters, abundant sea life, and a laid-back island vibe, it’s no wonder that Maho Bay is a favorite stop on any private charter adventure.
Whether you’re here for an unforgettable snorkeling experience or just to soak in the beauty of the bay, get ready to immerse yourself in one of the most vibrant underwater ecosystems on the island.
Turtle Time: Swim Among St. John’s Gentle Giants 🐢
The warm, shallow waters of Maho Bay provide the perfect grazing ground for green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles, which feed on the lush seagrass meadows year-round. The best part? You’re almost guaranteed to see them!
The moment you slide into the water, you might find yourself eye-to-eye with one of these peaceful marine creatures. Some even have remoras (also known as suckerfish) hitching a free ride on their shells. It’s a mesmerizing sight and a highlight of any snorkeling trip.
Beyond Turtles: Discover More Marine Life 🦈🐟
While the turtles are the stars of the show, Maho Bay is also home to a diverse array of marine life:
- Stingrays – Keep an eye on the sandy bottom, and you might spot a southern stingray gracefully gliding by.
- Tarpon & Bonefish – Head toward the eastern side of the bay, near the rocks, where schools of tarpon and bonefish gather to feed on shimmering clouds of baitfish.
- Nurse Sharks – If you’re lucky, you might even spot a nurse shark cruising through the bay. Don’t be alarmed—these “gummy” sharks are completely harmless and tend to keep to themselves. (Just avoid shouting “shark!”—it tends to cause unnecessary excitement!)
With minimal current and gentle waves, Maho Bay is ideal for snorkelers of all skill levels. Just float, relax, and let the underwater world unfold around you.
Maho Crossroads: A Laid-Back Beachside Escape 🍹🌴
Need a break from the water? Swim ashore to Maho Crossroads, a chill beach bar and gathering spot right on the sand.
- Sip on a frosty beverage from the famous Love Maho Beach Bar
- Cool off with a snow cone—perfect after a long snorkel session
- Enjoy island-style bites while soaking in the scenery
- Play family-friendly games while grooving to a soundtrack of jam bands and Grateful Dead classics swaying through the palm trees
Maho Crossroads is the perfect place to kick back, meet fellow travelers, and soak in the island vibes before heading back out for more adventure.
Ready for More?⛵
Maho Bay is just the beginning. From secluded beaches to hidden snorkeling spots, your day on the island is all about discovery, relaxation, and making lifelong memories.
So dive in, explore, and let the beauty of Maho Bay leave you in awe. 🌊🐢🌞
