Snorkel· Montserrat· Leeward Islands
Woodlands Snorkel
16° 45.8′ N · 62° 13.5′ W · approximate
The fringing reef right off Woodlands Beach is one of the island's best swim-from-the-sand snorkels, with reef fish over volcanic rock and nesting sea turtles in season.
Practical
Position approximate, just off the OpenStreetMap-mapped beach. The Tourism Authority says the reef 'makes for great swimming and snorkeling' but currents can be strong at times, so do not venture far out, especially weaker swimmers; there are no lifeguards. Two barbecue grills at the facilities above the beach and a beach house rentable through the Montserrat National Trust (+1 664 491 3086); toilets and showers 7:00am to 6:00pm. Reach by taxi or minibus from Little Bay (about 10 minutes' drive). Do not disturb nesting turtles May to December.
Best for
Family snorkel and barbecue day ashore
Season
Best in calm Apr–Nov; avoid in northerly swell