10. St. Thomas Mangrove Kayak, Hike, & Snorkel Tour with Lunch
Treat yourself to a uniquely themed 5-hour eco tour in St. Thomas' Inner Mangrove Lagoon Sanctuary and at the Island of Cas Cay. You will explore the beauty of this outdoor paradise as you kayak, hike, and snorkel.
Begin by kayaking among the many small islands of the Mangrove Lagoon to Long Point and Patricia Cay. Enjoy breathtaking scenic views from the coral rubble barrier reef that divides Long Point, the southernmost tip of St. Thomas, from the deserted island of Patricia Cay. Here you will find a multitude of coral and shells, as well as interesting marine life including bristle stars, sea urchins, chitons, and perhaps even octopi in very shallow, clear waters.
From this tranquil setting, enjoy a 10-minute paddle through romantic mangrove alleyways, looking out for nesting pelicans and eagle rays swimming in the shallow waters below. Be sure to paddle slowly as you pass over several shipwrecks en route to Cas Cay.
Upon arriving at the wildlife sanctuary of Cas Cay, a deserted tropical island consisting of 15 acres of mangrove forest to the south and volcanic cliffs to the north, enjoy a hermit crab race. You will learn about the importance of the mangrove ecosystem, and how to identify the various tropical plants, as well as their edible and medicinal uses.
Then, enjoy a 15-minute leisurely stroll along a scenic coral and shell rubble beach. Once reaching the south side of Cas Cay, explore the boulders flanked with volcanic cliffs. This spot is home to the famous Red Point Blow Hole. Here you will enjoy a picnic lunch from a local market with your guide and group.
Hike the pristine, deserted 15-acre island of Cas Cay, which is a part of the Virgin Islands Park System. Enjoy the many breathtaking views from the shell-laden beaches. Snorkel a coral-fringed mangrove nursery with an easy beach entry in the clear protected waters.
While snorkeling, you will continue to explore the waters around Cas Cay. Your guide will lead you on a 45-minute tour through a shallow marine habitat. Explore the sea grass and mangrove nursery habitats in calm, warm, and shallow waters teeming with colorful and abundant sea life.
Complete your day kayaking through the mangroves back to the marina.