Self-Guided Kayak Tour in St. Thomas Mangrove Lagoon

Summary

Kayaking Through St. Thomas Mangrove Waterways

If you want real freedom on the water, this self-guided kayak tour lets you explore St. Thomas’ mangrove lagoon at your own pace. You’ll paddle through winding channels, spot local wildlife, and maybe even find a hidden blowhole—all without a crowd or schedule holding you back.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the quiet—just the soft splash of my paddle and the rustle of leaves overhead. The Mangrove Lagoon isn’t far from Red Hook, but once you’re out there, it feels like another world. I set off mid-morning, when the sun was warm but not too harsh, and the breeze carried a salty tang that stuck to my skin.

There’s no guide on this trip, so you can drift wherever you want. I followed a narrow channel lined with tangled roots, ducking under low branches. A small heron watched me from the mud, barely blinking. At one point, I heard a splash behind me—probably a fish or maybe a crab scuttling off. The water’s shallow here, so you can see right down to the sandy bottom in places.

I paddled out toward Bird Island, where pelicans circled overhead and the air smelled faintly of seaweed. If you’re lucky, you might spot iguanas sunning themselves on the branches or even catch sight of a nurse shark gliding by. There’s a spot near the edge of the lagoon where water shoots up through a blowhole—easy to miss unless you know to look for it (our rental guy mentioned it as we checked in). I stopped there for a bit, just listening to the wind and watching tiny fish dart around my kayak.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Self-Guided Kayak Tour

• Explore Mangrove Lagoon by kayak
• Paddle through mangrove waterways
• Visit secluded cays and islands
• See rare geological blow-hole
• Encounter local wildlife

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s great for all skill levels. The waters are calm and staff give basic instructions before you head out.

Can children join?

Kids aged 5 and up are welcome but must be with an adult in the kayak.

Do I need to bring my own gear?

Nope! Kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and snorkel gear are all included in your rental.

Are there restrooms or places to get snacks nearby?

There are facilities at the launch area but not out on the lagoon itself, so plan ahead for snacks or drinks.

What’s included

You’ll get use of single or double kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and snorkel gear—all cleaned regularly for safety. Staff are around to answer questions before you set off.