St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Are you dreaming of a tropical paradise? Look no further than St. John, the smallest U.S. Virgin Island. It has a small population of over 4,000 people. Two-thirds of the island is the Virgin Islands National Park.

St. John offers amazing adventures. You can enjoy world-class beaches, snorkeling, and hiking. But what makes this island special? Get ready to discover the best things to do and top picks for an unforgettable vacation.

• St. John is the smallest of the three main U.S. Virgin Islands, with a population of just over 4,000 residents.
• Two-thirds of the island is designated as the Virgin Islands National Park, showcasing pristine beaches, lush green hills, and turquoise waters.
• St. John offers an authentic Caribbean experience with no high-rise hotels, highways, or traffic lights.
• The island is known for its world-class white sandy beaches, exceptional snorkeling, and breathtaking hiking trails.
• Trunk Bay on St. John has been ranked as one of the top 10 beaches in the world.

St. John is a natural gem in the Caribbean Sea. Over 60% of the island is the Virgin Islands National Park. It shows off the area’s stunning geography and rich culture.

The Virgin Islands National Park covers a big part of St. John. It keeps the island’s forests, beaches, and marine life safe. It’s perfect for hiking, snorkeling, and seeing wildlife.

St. John is the smallest U.S. Virgin Island. It’s four miles east of St. Thomas. The island’s terrain is rugged, with amazing views of the Caribbean Sea.

The St. John culture is a mix of Taino, European, and African traditions. This mix is seen in the island’s music, food, and festivals. It offers a unique cultural experience to visitors.

St. John is a Caribbean paradise with natural beauty, history, and culture. It’s great for adventure or a peaceful getaway. This island has something for everyone.

To get to St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands, start by flying into Cyril E. King Airport on St. Thomas. From there, you have a few ways to reach St. John’s beautiful shores.

One good option is to take a taxi or rent a car to the Red Hook ferry dock on St. Thomas. The ferry to Cruz Bay, St. John, takes about 20 minutes for people and 30 minutes for cars. Ferries leave every hour. It’s smart to get there early, especially when it’s busy.

• For a more private trip, think about a private powerboat charter or sailboat tour from St. Thomas to St. John. Companies like Bonus Time and Catania offer these. You can enjoy the scenery at your own pace.
• Or, you could use a car barge service like Love City Ferries, Global Marine’s Tug Life, or Big Red Barge Co. They move cars between islands in 20-30 minutes.

Once you’re in St. John, you’ll find many ways to get around. You can rent a car, take a taxi, use the bus, or even walk or bike.

St. John is a beautiful place with lovely towns, green landscapes, and lots of outdoor fun. By planning your trip ahead, you can easily get to this paradise. And make the most of your time there.

St. John is a stunning Caribbean island that welcomes visitors all year. The best time to visit depends on what you want to do. Let’s look at the peak, shoulder, and off-seasons to plan your trip.

The peak season in St. John is from December to April. It’s the driest and mildest time, attracting many visitors. You’ll enjoy warm temperatures, low humidity, and little rain.

This is perfect for beach days, outdoor fun, and exploring the culture. But, be ready for higher prices and more people.

The shoulder season is May to July. It has good weather and fewer crowds. Expect hotter temperatures and a bit more rain.

It’s not as comfortable as the peak season, but you’ll save money and enjoy a calmer vibe.

The off-season is August to November. It’s the Caribbean’s hurricane season. The weather is unpredictable, with more rain and storms.

But, you’ll find lower prices and fewer people. November is especially good for avoiding crowds and enjoying nice weather.

Choosing the best time to visit St. John depends on what you want. Whether it’s perfect weather, savings, or a calm atmosphere, there’s a season for you.

Planning your St. John vacation? You’ll find many places to stay. Choose from St. John hotels like The Westin or Gallows Point Resort. Or pick cozy vacation rentals on Airbnb or VRBO. Cruz Bay is lively, with restaurants, bars, and shops nearby. Coral Bay is quieter, but you might need a car to get around.

Think about what you want when picking your place to stay. Do you want to be close to beaches? Or do you prefer a laid-back vibe? Your choice can make your vacation even better.

St. John has two main areas: Cruz Bay and Coral Bay. Each has its own charm:

• Cruz Bay: This bustling town is the island’s heart. It’s close to places to eat, drink, and shop. It’s a great spot for exploring St. John’s best spots.
• Coral Bay: This quieter area is on the island’s east side. It’s peaceful and perfect for those who want to relax. But, you’ll need a car to get around.

Your choice of where to stay in St. John depends on what you want. Think about what you like and what you want to do. Pick the best spot for your St. John vacation.

“St. John offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and local charm, making it a coveted destination for those seeking a true Caribbean escape.”

The U.S. Virgin Islands’ island of St. John is home to stunning beaches. From Trunk Bay to Honeymoon Beach and Salomon Bay, each beach offers a unique experience. Travelers can enjoy sun, sand, and natural beauty.

Trunk Bay is called the “jewel of the Virgin Islands.” It has white sand and clear turquoise waters. It’s great for snorkeling and is a popular spot, but it can get busy.

Maho Bay is famous for its calm waters and sea turtles. You can see these creatures swimming. Arrive early to find a good spot. Rent clear-bottom kayaks for $30 to see turtles up close.

St. John has hidden beaches like Honeymoon Beach and Salomon Bay. They’re peaceful and away from crowds. Other beaches like Cinnamon Bay and Francis Bay offer great snorkeling.

St. John has beaches for everyone. Whether you want excitement or peace, you’ll find it here. The island’s beauty and activities will make your visit unforgettable.

St. John, the smallest U.S. Virgin Island, is a nature lover’s dream. It has over 7,000 acres of protected lands in the Virgin Islands National Park. Visitors can enjoy unforgettable outdoor adventures and explore different ecosystems.

For thrill-seekers, a two-hour ATV tour by Gecko’s Island Adventures covers 14 miles. You can also try parasailing with Parasail Virgin Islands, reaching up to 400 feet high.

Water sports lovers will find plenty to do. Cruz Bay Watersports has five top-notch vessels for activities like snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and SNUBA diving. SNUBA lets you see the underwater world without scuba gear.

The hiking trails in the Virgin Islands National Park offer a peaceful way to see the island. The Reef Bay Trail takes you through a forest, past ancient ruins. The Ram Head Trail gives you stunning views of North Shore beaches.

St. John is great for eco-tourism, with many ways to see its plants and animals. You can meet local donkeys on the Peace Hill Windmill hike. Or swim with sea turtles at Maho Bay.

“St. John is a nature lover’s paradise, offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and eco-tourism exploration.”

St. John has something for everyone, from exciting adventures to peaceful nature walks. Its wide range of outdoor activities and adventures will make your trip unforgettable.

The island of St. John is a hidden gem in the Caribbean. It offers a mix of outdoor adventures and natural wonders. From snorkeling to hiking, it’s a paradise for the adventurous.

St. John’s waters are clear and full of life, perfect for snorkeling. At Trunk Bay, you’ll find one of the Caribbean’s most stunning beaches. Sea turtles are common at Maho Bay, known for its calm waters.

For a secret spot, visit Denis Bay. It’s only reachable by foot or boat, offering a quiet snorkeling experience.

Put on your hiking boots to explore St. John’s interior. The Reef Bay Trail is a 6-mile round trip with a 900-foot climb. You’ll see the ruins of the Annaberg Sugar Plantation along the way.

The Lind Point Trail is a bit easier. It offers views of Virgin Islands National Park, which covers most of the island.

For those who love water sports, St. John has plenty to offer. Cinnamon Bay Beach is great for snorkeling. Hurricane Hole near Coral Bay is perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding.

Take a boat tour to see the cays and British Virgin Islands. It’s a unique way to explore the area.

St. John is perfect for those who love nature, history, or just relaxing on beautiful beaches. With its many outdoor activities, it’s a top spot for a memorable tropical trip.

St. John, the smallest U.S. Virgin Island, has a wide range of dining spots. You can enjoy Caribbean lobster at Morgan’s Mango on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Or, try juicy burgers at Skinny Legs in Coral Bay for a relaxed vibe.

For a casual meal, beach bars like High Tide are perfect. They offer tropical drinks and fresh seafood. Be sure to try local dishes like conch fritters and johnny cakes.

Looking for something different? Check out the island’s floating food places. Lime-Out in Coral Bay serves tasty tacos, while PizzaPi offers New York-style pizzas with gluten-free options.

For a fancy meal, visit the Bajo el Sol Gallery, Art Bar and Rum Room. They have over 175 rum brands for tasting. Or, enjoy modern Caribbean food at Lovango Resort & Beach Club with amazing sunset views.

St. John has something for everyone, from beach snacks to fine dining. Its diverse food scene will delight your taste buds and create unforgettable memories.

Exploring St. John’s lush landscapes and pristine beaches is best done by Jeep. The island’s mountainous terrain makes Jeeps a top choice. Several local agencies in Cruz Bay offer Jeep rentals.

Driving on St. John is on the left side of the road. This is different from driving in the mainland United States. So, be careful and adjust to the local traffic flow.

Top Jeep rental companies in St. John include Sunshine’s Jeep Rental and L&L Jeep Rental. Renting a Jeep or similar 4×4 is recommended. This is because many beaches and trails require a vehicle with high clearance.

Make sure to choose a rental that fits your planned activities and where you’re staying.

Taxis are available on St. John, but they can be pricey for many trips. Taxi fares are based on the number of people and the destination. There are no metered taxis.

For a cheaper option, try the VITRAN public transit system. It offers $1 fares, with discounts for seniors and students with ID. But, VITRAN buses can be late and don’t cover the whole island.