St Thomas is a fantastic place for canoeing and kayaking — thanks to its calm waters, lush mangroves, and vibrant marine life. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful paddle through mangroves or an energetic snorkel adventure with sea turtles, the island offers options for every type of water enthusiast. Personally, we’re fond of tours that blend wildlife encounters with scenic views, such as the Sea Turtle Snorkel Kayak Adventure, which combines the thrill of spotting these gentle creatures with the serenity of paddling. The variety of tours here means you can choose a quick, family-friendly trip or a full-day exploration, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Caribbean.
What makes St Thomas stand out for canoeing and kayaking? Its calm, protected waters, like those in Mangrove Lagoon and the Marine Sanctuary, are perfect for both beginners and seasoned paddlers. Plus, many tours include snorkeling, wildlife spotting, and even sunset or night adventures, ensuring there’s something unique for every traveler. We’ve picked out the top 15 experiences—some focusing on eco-education, others on fun and relaxation—each with its own special appeal.
Quick Overview
This list covers a broad spectrum of kayak and canoe tours in St Thomas. Whether you’re interested in guided eco-adventures, such as the Cas Cay – Kayak Hike and Snorkel Adventure with its island hike and underwater world, or prefer independent exploration, like the Mangrove Lagoon Kayak Rental, there’s something for your style. Other highlights include sunset paddles, night kayaking, and tours centered around marine life encounters like sea turtles and stingrays. Let’s dive into each top experience.
1. Cas Cay – Kayak Hike and Snorkel Adventure
At number 1, this 3-hour tour combines kayaking, hiking, and snorkeling in the Mangrove Lagoon, a rich ecological area. The tour starts with paddling through Cas Kay and nearby islands, where your guide shares insights about the hermit crabs and local wildlife. After the kayak portion, you’ll hike over sandy bluffs and enjoy scenic views, then don snorkel gear to explore waters inhabited by stingrays and colorful fish. The all-inclusive experience includes equipment, safety briefings, lockers, snacks, and drinks, making it perfect for families or first-timers. Visitors consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the variety of activities, with one saying, “Great experience” and “Javonte and Perez were amazing.”
Bottom Line: A well-rounded adventure for those wanting a bit of everything—nature, wildlife, and undersea discovery—packed into just three hours.
2. St Thomas Mangrove Lagoon Kayak and Snorkel Tour
Coming in at number 2, this 2.5-hour tour offers a peaceful exploration of St Thomas’ serpentine mangrove channels. The calm waters are ideal for beginners, and the guide enriches the experience with engaging stories about local flora and fauna. You’ll paddle through a marine sanctuary, marvel at the lush environment, and snorkel in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. Some opt to extend their trip with a hike on Cas Cay, which adds an extra dimension. Visitors rave about how educational and relaxing it is, with comments like, “Incredible experience” and “wonderful wildlife sightings.”
Bottom Line: Perfect for those looking for an educational, tranquil trip with excellent wildlife viewing and snorkeling.
3. Best of Mangrove Lagoon Kayak, Hike and Snorkel Adventure with Picnic Lunch
For around $159, this full-day experience offers a comprehensive look at St Thomas’ mangroves and volcanic cliffs. Starting with kayaking, you’ll thread through narrow waterways, then hike to a geological blowhole, and snorkel amid coral reefs searching for stingrays and other marine life. The guides tailor the experience for beginners, and a picnic lunch is included. Tourists who love nature and active pursuits find this tour a highlight, praising the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see wildlife up close. One reviewer mentioned, “This was the highlight of our trip.”
Bottom Line: An immersive, all-in-one eco-adventure suited for active travelers eager to explore land and sea.
4. St Thomas Night Kayak Tour
This 1.5-hour night tour is for explorers wanting a different perspective. Paddling through Mangrove Lagoon after sunset, you’ll spot nocturnal wildlife and enjoy a starry sky. The guide points out birds, tarpon, and stingrays while sharing stories of pirate lore. The tour’s intimate size and gentle pace make it accessible even for beginners. Reviewers highlight how fun and atmospheric the experience is, with one saying, “Loved kayaking in the dark.”
Bottom Line: Perfect for night owls and those curious about the island’s nocturnal marine life.
5. Glow Boats LED Night Kayak, Marriott Frenchman’s Cove Dock
For a truly unique experience, this LED-lit kayaking tour at sunset or night offers views of glowing marine life. The illuminated kayaks let you see turtles, fish, stingrays after sunset, creating a magical atmosphere. The tour is beginner-friendly, with a quick safety briefing and equipment provided. Reviewers mention this as “an experience unlike any other” and praise the warm waters and peaceful setting.
Bottom Line: A memorable, Instagram-worthy adventure suitable for all ages, especially if you love a bit of glow-in-the-dark fun.
6. Sunset Kayak Tour in the Mangrove Lagoon
This 1.5-hour tour combines paddling with birdwatching during the island’s most stunning time of day—sunset. You’ll glide through calm waters, spotting herons, pelicans, and perhaps a hummingbird or two. The focus on birding and scenic views makes it ideal for nature lovers. One reviewer loved that “Perez kept us informed and entertained,” making it both relaxing and educational. Snacks and drinks are available at the marina afterward.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for sunset lovers and birdwatchers who want a peaceful, scenic paddle.
7. St Thomas Sea Turtle Snorkel Kayak Adventure Tour
At 4 hours, this tour is a marine highlight. It combines kayaking with snorkeling to see sea turtles, often in clear, protected water. The small group size ensures personal attention, and the guide takes photos during the outing. Reviewers often mention how many turtles they saw—“We saw five sea turtles,” says one. The included lunch and drinks make for a relaxed day on the water.
Bottom Line: Ideal for animal lovers wanting close encounters with sea turtles in a comfortable, guided setting.
8. Kayak and Sea Turtle Snorkel Excursion
This 4-hour guided trip offers a chance to kayak to a quiet bay and snorkel with sea turtles. It’s perfect for those wanting a personalized experience, with all equipment provided. The guide, Sven, is highly praised for sharing knowledge and stories. Reviewers note plentiful wildlife sightings and the great combination of paddling and snorkeling. The included lunch and the small group size enhance the experience.
Bottom Line: Great for first-timers and those wanting both kayaking and turtle encounters in a relaxed atmosphere.
9. Mangrove Lagoon Kayak Rental in St Thomas
Looking for independent exploration? This full-day rental allows you to paddle at your own pace through mangrove tunnels and along scenic cays. With single or double kayaks, plus snorkeling gear included, you can craft your own adventure. Reviewers appreciate the flexibility and the chance to see eagle rays and pelicans. It’s best for experienced paddlers or those eager to set their own schedule.
Bottom Line: Perfect for confident paddlers wanting a flexible, self-guided day on the water.
10. Kayak and Sea Turtle Snorkel with Beach Break
This 4-hour tour combines kayaking with snorkeling in a protected bay, where sea turtles are common. The group is limited to six, providing a personal touch. Reviewers highlight the fun paddling and abundant marine life, including turtles and fish. The included snacks and water keep you energized.
Bottom Line: A great choice for small groups seeking a relaxed day with guaranteed turtle sightings.
11. Reef and Turtle Adventure – Kayak and Snorkel Tour
This 5-hour tour takes you to two snorkeling spots, including a coral reef and a sea turtle habitat. The tour emphasizes marine ecology and includes lunch and underwater photos. It’s ideal for those who want a more comprehensive experience. Reviewers love the personalized attention and the chance to see diverse marine life.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting an in-depth, full-day marine adventure.
12. Coral Reef and Turtle Discovery Kayak and Snorkel Tour
This 5-hour small-group tour offers a guided experience at two prime snorkeling spots. It’s perfect for nature lovers wanting to see turtles and colorful reefs without crowds. The guide’s knowledge and photography skills stand out—many reviews mention great photos and plenty of sea turtle sightings.
Bottom Line: Excellent for eco-minded explorers seeking intimate, wildlife-rich experiences.
13. Illuminated Night Kayaking at the Elysian Resort
A favorite for night adventurers, this 1 hour 15-minute kayak trip offers glowing waters and a chance to see marine creatures after dark. The illuminated kayaks create a magical experience, and post-tour drinks are a bonus. Reviewers describe it as “really fun and relaxing,” and suitable for all ages.
Bottom Line: An enchanting night paddle, ideal for those wanting a different view of the island’s marine life.
14. On Your Own: Kayak in the Mangrove Lagoon
If you prefer independence, this 7-hour rental provides kayaks, paddles, snorkel gear, and the freedom to explore at your own pace. It’s great for experienced paddlers and those comfortable navigating alone. Reviews highlight the peaceful environment and wildlife sightings like hermit crabs and stingrays.
Bottom Line: Best suited for confident, self-directed paddlers eager for freedom on the water.
15. Coral Reef and Turtle Kayak Excursion
Finally, this 5-hour small-group tour features kayaking to a secluded coral reef and snorkeling with sea turtles. Led by a professional photographer, it promises beautiful photos and a chance to see multiple turtles during your trip. It’s perfect for travelers who value photo opportunities and a personalized tour experience. Reviewers mention how knowledgeable Sven, the guide, is and how many sea turtles they encountered.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a scenic, photography-friendly day with close wildlife encounters.
How to Choose the Best Canoe & Kayak Experience in St Thomas
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, interest level, and physical fitness. If you’re after a quick, fun introduction, the Night Kayak Tour or Glow Boats LED Night Kayak are excellent choices. For a full-day eco-experience, the Best of Mangrove Lagoon with snorkeling, hiking, and a picnic offers great value.
Those wanting to see sea turtles up close should opt for tours like Sea Turtle Snorkel Kayak Adventure or Kayak and Sea Turtle Snorkel with Beach Break. If you prefer independent exploration, renting a Mangrove Lagoon Kayak offers flexibility for a self-guided day.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date and ensure a spot on these popular tours.
To sum it up, St Thomas offers an impressive array of canoe and kayak experiences. From relaxing sunset paddles to wildlife-rich snorkels with sea turtles, there’s something to match every style. For families, guided tours with educational components work well, while adventurous travelers might prefer full-day explorations or self-guided rentals. Whichever you choose, these tours promise a memorable way to see the island from the water. Book early, bring your sense of adventure, and enjoy exploring the stunning waters of St Thomas.