TexasAggieCruiser

I consider us the lucky ones at South Friars, as the other couple went to Cockleshell to snorkel and he got hives real bad all over his body and had to go to sick bay once back to the ship and be on steroids and iv. In looking at the photos, I think both beaches are pretty. I liked South Friars cuz they drop you off at a beach club and you can use the facilities, chairs, etc. It is a beach club atmosphere or you can walk one way or the other and have more remoteness. Cockleshell photos looked like maybe Nevis Island is closer or something. Either way, you feel like you are in some sort of dreamland.

So when you caught the cab, did you ask for South Friars or Carambola? Did you rent chairs or just snorkel in the rocky lagoon to the right? How long did y'all snorkel/stay? Any recommendations for food in that area? Thanks for all the info--getting excited for our trip in March!

For goodness sake - yes, very safe!

 

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The beach is the same as the Boatyard/Harbour Lights - they're just further along the beach. I wouldn't necessarily describe it as beautiful but the sand is soft and quite white and the sea is nice, with gentle shelving into it.

 

We walked to Pirates Cove and it took about 10-15 minutes. Basically head out of the port and just keep walking with the sea to your right, along the seafront (this may be what another poster refers to as a 'park'). Eventually you pass a market on your right and come to a bridge which you cross over by turning right. Keep straight after crossing the bridge and walk around 50 yards then take a right onto the beach - just remember to keep on the road which hugs the beach which is always to your right, Pirates Cove is directly on your right as you walk down the small side street onto the beach.

 

If you turn left on the beach you will come to the Boatyard, then a bit further on to Harbour Lights - both of which are visible from Pirates Cove.

Does it feel like a safe area to walk? Does anyone have a link to a map of the area?

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We booked through Viator for the Pirates Coves plus Snorkeling. It included short, easy snorkeling trip to see "baby" (2 foot) turtles and a sunken ship. The turtle part was actually in a marina anchorage area. Water was perhaps 12m; but completely flat. Gear was excellent. They had snorkeling vests or life vests. Second snorkeling stop had tons of fish over shipwreck in 5-10m water.

 

There's a separate thread on Pirates' Cove -- a number of ways to get there. Whatever you choose, both their snorkeling trip and the beach break are excellent.

How long was this excursion and can you give a price point? Thanks

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Yes, this is the lagoon I speak of. You can enter from a little sandy area and stay to the right going out along the rocks. I couldn't believe how beautiful it was! Grand Turks and Antigua paled in comparison.

When were you there? How much was a cab from the cruise port? Also have you been to Cockleshell for comparison purposes? Thanks[emoji4]

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Any advise on snorkeling at these locations? Also What is the sand like at Cockleshell? How much does it cost for taxi to each place?

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Thanks for the review

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Bump...I would like to know about the snorkeling post hurricane as well

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Me too

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What does is cost to visit Magen's Bay? Coki?

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