Last updated: April 12th, 2023
Looking for a real “Off the Beaten Track” beach and great snorkeling? Frustrated when trying to find parking at a North Shore National Park beach? Are the waves breaking in the north, making for difficult swimming or snorkeling?
If you don’t mind sacrificing a sand beach for a cobblestone and coral rubble beach, an ideal alternative might be Kiddel Bay on the South Shore, located just west of Salt Pond Bay.
Park under the two huge tamarind trees, and it’s just steps to the beach. There are no facilities, but you can string up a hammock, bring a picnic and enjoy fine snorkeling in the bay.
Rock Scrambling – Rock scramblers can walk out to the point on the west coast from where there are spectacular views of the bay, the reef, and the rocky cliffs of the southern coast.
The Salt Pond – There’s a beautiful salt pond just behind the beach that’s easy to explore. Great for birdwatchers, especially in the early morning. Look for Pintail ducks in the winter.
Snorkeling At Kiddel Bay
If you snorkel out to the western shore of Kiddel Bay, you will come to a reef that extends out off the point. A series of rocks rises above the waterline. Below the surface, you’ll find deep depressions, grooves, arches, and tunnels full of colorful corals and sponges, as well as a vast array of tropical reef fish and sea creatures.
The arches and tunnels are about 10-15 feet deep and are usually full of small fish. It’s a great challenge for free divers, who can swim through one or a series of tunnels depending on their skill.
For less skilled snorkelers, the rock-lined coasts on both sides of the bay still offer plenty to see and enjoy.
Another cool snorkel option is to continue the snorkel from Kiddel Bay to Grootpan Bay. Starting from Kiddel Bay, snorkel around the point, proceeding west along the rocky coastline to Grootpan Bay. Bring waterproof footwear with you, and you can enjoy a nice walk back to Kiddel.
sounds amazing