Paddle a self-guided route through St. Thomas’s mangrove waterways, where narrow tunnels, Bird Island, and a rare blow-hole await. This flexible, equipment-included tour lets you set the pace—ideal for families and experienced kayakers alike.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The paddle begins in silence. You push off from a small wooden dock and the lagoon takes you—water glinting through a roof of mangrove branches, narrow channels folding and unfolding like pages. The trees lean in, their prop roots knitting a lattice beneath the surface; fish flash in the shallows and a lone heron tilts its head, watching your bright kayak as if it were another island.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
7 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with basic fitness and mobility; expect intermittent paddling with rest stops.
Wildlife
History
The lagoon area is part of a protected Wildlife Sanctuary and Marine Reserve—efforts in recent decades have focused on restoring mangrove systems that once supported local fisheries.
Conservation
Stay in channels, avoid trampling roots or seagrass, and use reef-safe sunscreen to protect nursery habitat and coral reefs.
Reserve your spot on the On Your Own: Kayak in the Mangrove Lagoon today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Check tides before you launch
Tide affects which channels are passable—plan low-tide exploration for exposed flats and high-tide for easier tunnel travel.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Mangrove lagoons feed adjacent reefs—choose mineral-based sunscreen to reduce chemical runoff.
Bring a dry bag and map
Phone and keys should be dry; a waterproof map or GPS track helps you navigate the maze of channels.
Wear water shoes
Some cays and shore entries are sharp; shoes protect feet during short beach exits and re-entries.
Dry bag
Keeps phone, wallet, and sunscreen dry during long lagoon outings.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects both your skin and fragile marine life in the reserve.
summer
Water shoes
Protect feet on rocky shorelines and while scrambling onto small cays.
summer
Light waterproof layer or rashguard
Shields from sun and wind during early morning or late afternoon paddles.
spring