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Kayaking on St. John

Hidden turquoise bays and remote sandy beaches beckon when you glide over St. John's warm Caribbean Sea in a kayak. It couldn't be easier with rentals available at hotels, campgrounds and water-sports centers in Cruz Bay and Coral Bay. Rent by the hour, the half day or the full day.

Don't forget your sunscreen, hat, plenty of water and lunch if you plan to be gone more than a few hours. Bring a map and remember that the breeze usually blows from the east. Plan accordingly so you won't have to paddle into the wind on your way home when energy sags.

Paddle out from the beach for a turn around the bay if you're kayaking from Great Cruz Bay. Leaving from Caneel Bay? Lovely beaches sit just around the corner. From Cinnamon Bay and Maho Bay Campgrounds, explore St. John's North Shore Bays and even a few remote spots like Whistling Cay. It's about a mile offshore, depending on your departure point. Pull up on the shore for a snorkeling break to see multihued reefs teeming with colorful fish. If you're lucky, a turtle might swim by.

Rent in Cruz Bay to explore offshore islands like Stevens Cay, located less than a mile west of Cruz Bay. Paddle a little farther to Lovango, Mingo and Congo Cays, which sit about two miles away.

From Coral Bay, ask for a drop-off at Hurricane Hole National Monument for a two-mile easy paddle back to Coral Bay. Hurricane Hole's numerous fingers provide sheltered spots perfect for lunch and snorkeling adventures.

If you'd like some professional guidance, book a tour from Cruz Bay beach. Overnight trips with camping on remote beaches and cays also depart from Cruz Bay.

Visiting the United States Virgin Islands and want to go fishing or diving, charter a yacht or sailboat for a week, or rent a boat or sailboat for the day? Check out the Activities Directory for contacts and information.