Hurricane Hole

Hurricane Hole is a set of deep narrow bays on the east end of St John, named because boats have sheltered in them from storms for centuries, and what makes them scientifically unusual is that hard corals grow directly on the mangrove roots in the shallows, shaded from heat and light in a way that has let them survive bleaching events better than reefs outside. They lie in the Coral Reef National Monument.

The landscape

• The coral on mangrove roots - hard corals growing directly on the roots in the shallows.
• The deep bays - narrow inlets used as storm shelter for centuries.
• The mangrove fringe - the stands lining the whole shoreline.
• The monument water - protected area with restrictions on use.

When to go

December to April is the dry season and calmest. Anchoring restrictions apply year round. Snorkelling is best on a rising tide with good light.

Good to know

Access is by boat only and anchoring is restricted to protect the site. The snorkelling is in shallow murky water, not clear reef. Mosquitoes in the mangroves are severe.

Nearby

Coral Bay is west, and the East End is beyond.

Key facts