By Luis and Stacy Gomez

Young Antonio Gomez just finishing his diving certification.

Diving is a sport enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. It’s no secret that St. Croix has some of the best diving offered in the Caribbean. A favorite place for local divers is Cane Bay beach. Here on the North Shore, Cane Bay dive shop is located within walking distance of the beach. Divers can get their gear, walk right into the water and experience a dive of a lifetime. All you have to do is kick out about two hundred yards and descend forty feet. At this point, you will find the beginning of what is known as “the wall.”

The wall drops down to over two thousand feet. It is alive with coral and many types of tropical fish. On any given day, dolphins and reef sharks can be spotted. Even whales have been known to swim along the edge of this wall. For divers visiting the island, this is a must see. It is both the easiest place and one of the most beautiful in the Caribbean. For those less experienced or who may not yet be certified, the dive shop offers “Adventure Dives.” Diving has become so safe and user friendly, that even a ten year old can become a certified diver. Imagine that the memories and adventure that await this newly certified diver!

For those of us who are not interested in spending time forty feet or more underwater, Cane Bay beach is a great place for snorkeling as well. Snorkel gear is also available at the dive shop. With little experience, some sunscreen, and sense of adventure, anyone can enjoy peering into the aquatic world that lives below and all around the island of St. Croix.

For many locals, Sundays in St. Croix means brunch at one of the restaurants at Cane Bay followed by a day relaxing on the beach. Although there is diving within eyesight, many locals and their families choose to spend the day playing on the beach and resting in the shade of the Cane Bay coconut trees. Sundays at Cane Bay means live music, lots of fun and great food. Don’t be surprised if you find a staff member from one of the restaurants on the beach, offering a taste of a new cocktail and service with food and cold drinks delivered right to your chair! Great food, good music and a sunny beach provide the perfect recipe to fall in love with another one of our local treasures! - Luis and Stacy Gomez