Location
Maho Bay is a beautiful spot on the northern side of St John’s Island in the Caribbean that is part of the United States Virgin Islands. It is considered one of the best areas of snorkelling in the USVIs and is framed by azure waters and coconut palm trees.
Navigation
The approach is open from the N but make sure to keep clear of Johnson Reef while going past Trunk Bay. Compared to other mooring spots on the northern side, Maho Bay is well protected from winds and swells. There is a limited number of mooring balls available which are priced at $26 per night. Anchoring is not allowed. You can use a dinghy to reach the shore and there is also a marked channel to make things easier. For overnight stays best to stay close to the beach to avoid the swell or tuck in close to Francis Bay northeast. Maho Bay is part of the National Park.
Provisioning
Transportation to and from Cruz Bay where there are more options for stores, supplies as well as restaurants and other amenities. Visitors will find a bar and restrooms on the beach.
General Information
A popular spot for charter boats and day visitors that come here to enjoy the beach and spot some of the three species of turtle: Loggerhead, Leatherback and the green sea turtles that are an endangered species worldwide. The beach was hit hard by Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017 but has since made a comeback. Unfortunately, most of the beautiful palm trees that surrounded the beach are now gone.
*Important to note that there are no marinas on the island of St John but boaters will find plenty of public moorings around the island.
Things to Do
Snorkelling
St John is known for its excellent snorkelling and watersport activities so it would make sense you would want to include this in your itinerary. Plenty of aquatic life to see above and under the water including sea turtles, dolphins, conch and coral.
Annaberg Sugar Plantation
The Annaberg Sugar Plantation ruins are located on the other side of Mary Point at Leinster Bay (also known as Watermelon Bay). While there are plenty of other ruins on the island, these are considered the best-preserved and most well-maintained. You can either hike or secure transport from the beach and explore the area, learning more about the life and working conditions during that time.
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