Top Places to Swim With Sea Turtles in the U.S. Virgin Islands

If you’re dreaming of swimming alongside sea turtles in crystal-clear Caribbean waters, the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) is the perfect destination. We’ve come up with a list of Top places to see sea turtles in the USVI.

These beautiful creatures can be found in several key locations across the islands, providing incredible opportunities for snorkeling and wildlife encounters. We visited Magens Bay Beach in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, expecting a relaxing day of snorkeling—but we weren’t alone!

Several sea turtles swam right alongside us, and since most beachgoers didn’t know where to look, we had this incredible experience all to ourselves. Here’s some video from our experience.

TIPS FOR SPOTTING SEA TURTLES

CHECK THE CRUISE SHIP SCHEDULE

If you’re staying on the island, CHECK THE CRUISE SHIP SCHEDULE and go on a day when fewer ships will be in port. This will give you better odds of having them to yourself without the crowds.

BE PATIENT, AND OBSERVANT

We had no idea the turtles were near us. I first spotted them sticking their head above water to get air. They can hold their breath for up to an hour, but they usually dive for 4–5 minutes and then surface to breathe for a few seconds.  Once we spotted one, we realized they had brought friends. You won’t see them every time, but they are frequently are spotted in the USVI.

KEEP YOUR DISTANCE

Keep in mind, nearly all seven species of sea turtles are now classified as endangered, so be respectful.

  • Stay at least 10-20 feet away from turtles and out of their line of sight
  • Approach them from the side. This gives them a clear line of sight to swim away
  • Do not swim directly above sea turtles. They need to come to the surface for air
  • Never, every touch the turtles. In fact, it’s illegal in some countries
  • Record respectfully and don’t hang around for more than 30 minutes to reduce stress.

BEST PLACES TO SWIM
WITH SEA TURTLES IN THE
VIRGIN ISLANDS

1. Magens Bay, St. Thomas

A stunning beach known for its calm waters and breathtaking scenery, Magens Bay isn’t just a great place to relax—it’s also home to sea turtles! While it’s a popular tourist spot, early mornings or late afternoons provide the best chance to spot these gentle creatures without the crowds. Our personal encounter with three sea turtles here made it an absolute highlight.

2. Brewers Bay, St. Thomas

A quieter beach near the University of the Virgin Islands, Brewers Bay is one of the best-kept secrets for spotting sea turtles. The grassy seabed provides the perfect feeding ground, making it one of the most reliable locations to snorkel with turtles.

3. Maho Bay, St. John

Maho Bay is arguably the best place in the USVI to see sea turtles. This bay is shallow, calm, and rich with seagrass, which attracts large numbers of green sea turtles. It’s common to snorkel just a few feet offshore and immediately spot turtles gliding beneath you.

4. Buck Island, St. Croix

Buck Island Reef National Monument is a marine sanctuary home to a diverse range of marine life, including endangered sea turtles. The underwater trail here offers a unique snorkeling experience where you can see turtles, colorful coral, and vibrant fish.

5. Turtle Cove, Buck Island (off St. Thomas)

A famous snorkeling site known for—you guessed it—turtles! Many boat tours stop here, making it a great option for those looking for a guided experience with knowledgeable captains who can take you directly to the best turtle-spotting areas.

Must-Have Gear for Snorkeling with Sea Turtles

To make the most of your snorkeling experience, having the right gear is essential. Here are some top recommendations:

WHY THE VIRGIN ISLANDS IS THE BEST

Whether you’re snorkeling in the calm waters of Magens Bay, exploring Maho Bay’s turtle haven, or taking a boat tour to Buck Island, the U.S. Virgin Islands offer some of the best sea turtle experiences in the Caribbean. We also noticed the sargassum seaweed was much lower in the USVI than other locations in the Caribbean.

Types of Sea Turtles & Best Seasons to Spot Them

Several species of sea turtles can be found in the USVI. The most common species include:

  • Green Sea Turtles – Often found in seagrass meadows, these turtles are the most frequently spotted in the USVI. They are known for their smooth, oval shells and herbivorous diet.
  • Hawksbill Turtles – Recognized by their beautifully patterned shells, hawksbill turtles are commonly seen near coral reefs. They are more elusive but can be spotted while snorkeling or diving.
  • Leatherback Turtles – The largest of all sea turtles, leatherbacks are rare but occasionally spotted in deeper waters. They migrate through the Caribbean and nest on some USVI beaches during the nesting season.

The best times to see sea turtles in the USVI vary by species and season:

  • Year-Round: Green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles can be seen year-round, especially in seagrass areas and coral reefs.
  • March to July: Hawksbill turtles are more commonly spotted in the spring and early summer.
  • April to August: Leatherback turtles nest on select beaches in St. Croix, making this the best time to witness these giants.
  • Early Morning & Late Afternoon: Regardless of the season, sea turtles are most active during these times, making early snorkeling sessions ideal.

With the right gear and a bit of patience, you’ll be well on your way to spotting these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat!