Mangrove Lagoon Kayak, Hike & Snorkel Adventure (Cas Cay) — St. Thomas Day Trip
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness for paddling 1–2 miles, a short rocky hike, and swimming while snorkeling; suitable for active beginners.
Overview
Paddle sheltered mangrove channels, hike to volcanic cliffs and a pulsing blowhole, then snorkel clear reefs around Cas Cay on this 5-hour guided tour of St. Thomas’ marine sanctuary. Expect hands-on natural history, wildlife sightings, and an easy-paced outdoor day with lunch included.
Mangrove Lagoon Kayak, Hike & Snorkel Adventure (Cas Cay) — St. Thomas Day Trip
Select participants and date
The paddle begins like a slow conversation between you and the water: narrow channels of mangrove roots frame a strip of sky, sunlight falling in broken beams, and the guide taps the bow to point out a small silver flash — a juvenile tarpon weaving under a prop root. Kayaks slide through the lagoon with a quiet confidence; the mangroves seem to lean in, leaves whispering. Later you trade paddle for trail: a short hike to volcanic cliffs where a blowhole huffs seawater like a distant drum, and then you slip into a reef world, fins slicing into blue, searching for rays and coral gardens.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring reef‑safe sunscreen
Guides emphasize reef protection — choose mineral-based sunscreen and reapply in shaded breaks to protect coral and marine life.
Wear water shoes
Kayak landings and the short cliff hike include sharp coral and rocky sand — closed-toe water shoes protect feet on wet, uneven surfaces.
Take seasickness medicine if needed
Channels are usually calm but the open-water snorkel can be choppy; take anti-nausea meds an hour before departure if sensitive.
Secure small valuables
Bring a waterproof phone case or drybag—pockets and loose items can slip out during launches and snorkeling.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Southern stingray
- Green sea turtle
History
Cas Cay and surrounding reefs have been protected as part of a marine sanctuary to rebuild fish stocks and preserve mangrove nursery habitat crucial to local fisheries.
Conservation
Tours emphasize low-impact practices—use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching coral or animals, and follow guide instructions to minimize reef disturbance.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Red Hook
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef‑safe sunscreen
Protects your skin and the reef; required by most guides.
Water shoes
Protects feet during landings and the short rocky hike.
Light rain shell or windbreaker
Blocks wind on open-water sections and is useful during brief tropical showers.
summer specific
Waterproof phone case/drybag
Keeps valuables dry during kayak launches and snorkeling.