Salt Pond Bay

Location

Salt Pond Bay is located on the southeastern coast of St John island in the USVI’s. It features a long wide beach and access to beautiful trails. The anchorage sits at the edge of the Virgin Islands National Park, east of Lameshur Bays. Just like most anchorages on the southern coast of St John, it is a bit harder to reach by sea or road. The distance from Coral Bay to the north is a short 15 drive but estimate about an hour if you are coming from Cruz Bay.

Navigation

Approaching Salt Pond Bay is best attempted during good visibility on an NNE heading. Make sure to stay clear of Kittle PT that forms an extensive reef on the west side of the bay near the entrance. A large patch of reef is located in the middle of the bay. Depth varies between 3-5m but anchoring is either way forbidden. According to recent reports, there are five mooring balls available for visitors. Overall, this is a well-sheltered anchorage.

Salt Pond Bay - St John - USVI — credit: Canva Library

General Information

The shallow waters and wide stretch of sand make this an ideal swimming spot. The water clarity is also phenomenal. To reach the bay from the road you will need to take a short 10-minute walk.

Provisioning

Salt Pond Bay is not suitable as a provisioning stop. No organized facilities or amenities onshore. No shade on the beach.

Things to Do

Ram Head Trail

To reach Ram Head Trail, follow the path on the eastern end of the beach and be rewarded with stunning open ocean views. The total length of this coastal trail is just over 2.3 miles and is of moderate difficulty with some challenging parts. A great opportunity to see St John from a different point of view. On a clear day, you may even spot the outline of St Croix island in the distance.

Salt Pond Bay — Source: Facebook credit: Brian Siegel

Snorkelling around the reef

For the best snorkelling head out towards the middle of the bay where marine life gathers around the seagrass beds. Here you will spot rays, sea turtles, giant hermit crabs and plenty of other fish. Since there are no amenities or watersport rentals in the area, you will need to bring your own equipment.