Ultimate Guide to the Best Diving in St Thomas

St. Thomas is a hidden gem in the U.S. Virgin Islands, famous for its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life. If you’re a diving enthusiast, you’ll discover a world of magnificent underwater landscapes waiting to be explored. Whether you’re an experienced diver or just starting your diving journey, this tropical paradise has something for everyone.

This guide will take you through the 25 best diving spots in St. Thomas. Each location has unique features and breathtaking beauty. Get ready to explore the incredible aquatic wonders hidden beneath the surface!

ST Thomas Travel Guide

1. Coki Beach

Wide angle view of the vibrant coral reefs at Coki Beach — Coral reefs teeming with life at Coki Beach.

Coki Beach is a favorite for both beginners and seasoned divers. Its shallow waters are perfect for those new to diving, while the lively coral reefs attract more experienced divers. While exploring this area, you might encounter schools of parrotfish and angelfish, making it a vibrant spot for underwater photography.

2. The Wreck of the Pat

Eye-level view of the sunken wreckage of the Pat — Sunken vessel known as the Pat near St. Thomas.

The Wreck of the Pat lies approximately 50 feet underwater, having sunk in the 1980s. This artificial reef is home to a variety of marine life, including schools of snapper and grunts. Divers have reported spotting large groupers and moray eels in the area, adding to the excitement of exploring a shipwreck.

3. Turtle Cove

High angle view of the serene Turtle Cove — Clear waters of Turtle Cove with turtles swimming.

True to its name, Turtle Cove is known for its frequent sea turtle visitors. Calm waters here hold lush coral gardens filled with diverse marine life. Divers often see green and hawksbill turtles gracefully gliding through the water, alongside colorful reef fish such as butterflyfish and clownfish.

4. Cow and Calf

Close-up view of vibrant tropical fish swimming around the Cow and Calf dive site — Tropical fish swimming near the Cow and Calf rocks.

The Cow and Calf dive site features two large rock formations resembling a mother and calf. This relatively shallow spot is packed with vibrant marine life, attracting both beginner and experienced divers. Expect to see an array of tropical fish, making your dive experience lively and colorful.

5. The Caves

Wide angle view of the underwater caves at The Caves dive site — Intricate underwater caves adorned with sea life.

The Caves offer an adventurous diving experience with underwater caverns and tunnels. Divers can swim through these natural formations and explore geological wonders like stalactites and stalagmites, plus residents such as hidden reef fish and the occasional nurse shark.

6. Secret Harbour

Eye-level view of the tranquil waters of Secret Harbour — Secluded diving spot at Secret Harbour with calm waters.

Secret Harbour is perfect for divers looking for peace and tranquility. Its beautiful coral reefs teem with life, allowing divers to catch sights of vibrant parrotfish and elegant stingrays. This calm and scenic spot is ideal for those who want to enjoy a relaxed diving experience.

7. Red Hook

Close-up view of the colorful coral formations at Red Hook — Underwater coral formations thriving in the Red Hook area.

Red Hook is convenient for both snorkeling and diving, appealing particularly to beginners due to its easy access from shore. As you dive, you can explore colorful coral gardens while observing various species of fish, making it a delightful experience.

8. Bolongo Bay

Wide angle view of Bolongo Bay's clear waters featuring coral reefs — Clear blue waters of Bolongo Bay with coral reefs below.

Bolongo Bay features stunning underwater landscapes just a short swim from the shore. Its vibrant coral reefs and diverse fish population provide a fantastic opportunity to experience the beauty of the Caribbean sea life.

9. Lindquist Beach

High angle view of the pristine waters at Lindquist Beach — Lindquist Beach with its clear blue waters perfect for diving.

Lindquist Beach offers a peaceful diving environment, often less crowded than other locations. The shallow reefs host a thriving underwater ecosystem that is perfect for novice divers and experienced ones looking for a serene experience.

10. Saba Rock

Eye-level view of the vibrant marine life at Saba Rock — Saba Rock underwater scene full of colorful fishes.

Saba Rock is known for its incredible underwater visibility. The abundance of marine life, including lionfish and snappers, ensures that divers have a colorful and engaging dive experience.

11. Hassel Island

Close-up view of the underwater rock formations at Hassel Island — Unique underwater rock formations at Hassel Island dive site.

Hassel Island is an excellent choice for those aiming to explore unique diving sites. It features varied underwater structures and rich biodiversity, making it an attractive location for adventurous divers.

12. Flat Cay

Wide angle view of Flat Cay with coral gardens beneath the surface — Coral gardens flourishing in the waters around Flat Cay.

Flat Cay is celebrated for its impressive coral gardens and healthy marine ecosystems. Schooling fish and vibrant coral formations make this a must-visit dive site for underwater enthusiasts.

13. Buck Island

High angle view of Buck Island with turquoise waters and coral reefs — Turquoise waters surrounding Buck Island’s pristine dive sites.

Buck Island, a protected marine reserve, offers exceptional diving conditions. With rich marine life and stunning coral formations, it’s an unparalleled place for divers to explore the beauty of the underwater world.

14. Grape Tree Cove

Close-up view of marine life among the corals at Grape Tree Cove — Vibrant marine life in the coral ecosystems of Grape Tree Cove.

Grape Tree Cove is an excellent dive spot known for vibrant coral reefs and a diverse spectrum of marine life. It’s a fantastic location for underwater photographers looking to capture stunning images.

15. Water Island

Wide angle view of Water Island showcasing its lush marine environment — Lush marine environment of Water Island perfect for diving.

Water Island offers a quieter diving experience, ideal for those wanting to escape the crowds. Dive in its pristine waters to encounter a variety of tropical fish and colorful coral species, enhancing your diving adventure.

16. Molasses Reef

Eye-level view of the colorful coral formations at Molasses Reef — Colorful coral formations illuminating the waters of Molasses Reef.

Molasses Reef is famous for its vividly colored coral formations. Its rich marine diversity ensures a captivating experience for divers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros.

17. Turtle Beach

Close-up view of the serene underwater world at Turtle Beach — Underwater scene of the serene Turtle Beach known for its turtles.

Turtle Beach is renowned for its frequent sea turtle sightings. As you dive, you can swim alongside these beautiful creatures while exploring lush coral reefs alive with marine life.

18. The Indians

Wide angle view of coral formations and diverse fish at The Indians — Colorful fish thriving around the coral formations at The Indians dive site.

The Indians dive site offers dramatic underwater landscapes along with vibrant marine life. A favorite for advanced divers, it features underwater cliffs and stunning formations that will leave you in awe.

19. Magens Bay

High angle view of the tranquil waters at Magens Bay decorated with marine life — Clear tranquil waters of Magens Bay near St. Thomas.

Magens Bay is celebrated for its beauty and provides excellent diving opportunities. The shallow reefs are home to a striking variety of fish and coral, perfect for both beginner and seasoned divers.

20. Fishers’ Cove

Eye-level view of Fishers' Cove underwater ecosystem rich in marine life — Rich underwater ecosystem at Fishers’ Cove with various fish species.

Fishers’ Cove is a delightful location known for its diverse marine species and colorful coral gardens. This site is ideal for divers who appreciate both tranquility and vibrant sea life.

21. Salt River Bay

Wide angle view of the tranquil underwater scene at Salt River Bay — Tranquil underwater scene of Salt River Bay and its ecosystems.

Salt River Bay is rich in marine biodiversity, allowing divers to explore stunning coral reef remnants. The sights here promise encounters with various aquatic species, making it a rewarding dive spot.

22. Christmas Cove

Close-up view of the stunning coral ecosystem at Christmas Cove — Vibrant coral ecosystem at Christmas Cove during a clear day.

Christmas Cove is a magical diving location recognized for its crystal-clear waters and healthy coral ecosystems. It’s an excellent site to experience a vibrant array of sea life and immerse yourself in underwater beauty.

23. Northside

High angle view of Northside with rich marine ecosystems — Rich marine ecosystems converging in the Northside waters of St. Thomas.

Northside offers a diverse underwater experience. Here, beautifully preserved reefs teem with tropical fish, providing exciting exploration for divers of all experience levels.

24. Mangrove Lagoon

Wide angle view of Mangrove Lagoon showcasing its unique marine life — Unique marine life thriving in the waters of Mangrove Lagoon.

Mangrove Lagoon is a unique diving spot, offering calm waters and rich biodiversity. This hidden gem invites divers to explore the mesmerizing beauty of mangrove forests and their vibrant aquatic inhabitants.

25. Brewer’s Bay

Close-up view of the underwater life at Brewer's Bay — Underwater life celebrating the vibrancy of Brewer’s Bay.

Brewer’s Bay is popular with beachgoers and divers alike. Its clear waters provide a perfect setting to explore the vibrant marine life and enjoy a refreshing dive.

Your Next Underwater Adventure Awaits

St. Thomas is home to some of the finest diving spots in the Caribbean, catering to divers of all skill levels. From stunning coral reefs to captivating shipwrecks, each dive site offers a unique glimpse into a thriving underwater world.

Whether you seek an action-packed adventure or a peaceful dive, these locations promise unforgettable experiences. So gather your diving gear, dive into the depths, and uncover the incredible secrets waiting just beneath the waves!

KW Adventure Explorer