Whistling Cay

The basics

Snorkelers often spot large fish such as tarpon, which is uncommon at shallower snorkeling spots. In between Whistling Cay and St John is the Fungi Passage, where you can find prime snorkeling. The flow of water through the Fungi Passage attracts a wide variety of colorful fish, and the underwater landscape with its deep canyons, steep grooves, and rock formations is home to coral, sponges, and tunicate. Even if you have your own boat, consider going with a guide or as part of a tour, for the sake of safety.

Things to know before you go

• The area is considered an intermediate dive spot and the waters here can sometimes be choppy.
• Be careful of passing boats in the area.
• There are no bathroom facilities on Whistling Cay.

How to get there

Whistling Cay is located off the north shore of St John, near Mary Cay. The island has small pebble beaches on the east side, while larger cobblestone beaches are commonplace on the western side. It’s only accessible by private boat, kayak, or as part of a boat tour.

When to get there

Weather conditions in the US Virgin Islands are at their most favorable from November through June, while the July through October hurricane season can make snorkeling downright treacherous. You'll often find conditions are better earlier in the day but it's best to defer to your guide or tour provider for recommendations.

The Old Customs House

There is an old stone structure on the east side of the small island that is commonly referred to as the Old Customs House. Some do not believe it is in fact the old customs house for St John, given its location. It has been suggested that perhaps it was actually an old guard house in the 1800s, when slavery was abolished in the British Virgin Islands. Because slavery was still continuing in the Danish West Indies, slaves along St John’s north coast tried to escape to nearby Tortola.