A Caribbean island paradise here in the United States? Who knew! It’s almost hard to bring awareness to my favorite quiet, pristine tropical vacation spot, but sharing these U.S. Virgin Island secrets with you is well worth it. A week on St John sure won’t disappoint!
Two thirds of St John is national park land, which helps keep the island quiet and much less crowded than its neighbor, St Thomas. Only nine miles in length, you can reach one end from the other in 30 minutes. It may be more underdeveloped than other islands, but the unobstructed views are priceless.
Getting There:
First, you’ll need to fly into St Thomas’s Cyril E. King International airport and take a ferry over to St John. Second, I recommend renting a car for your stay on the island. You have two options: catch the person ferry to St John and rent a vehicle there, or rent a car at the STT airport and take the car barge. St John’s car rentals are quick and easy, however, renting from the airport can be more convenient for large groups. Not only will it save you time and money avoiding cabs to and from the ferry docks, you’ll only pay per vehicle on the barge, no matter how many people (and luggage) are inside. Whatever you do, be sure to rent far in advance.
Travel Tip #1: I highly suggest renting a 4WD Jeep, especially if you plan to explore. The steep roads and switchbacks are even tougher than they look! However, you’ll still be able to get around without one.
For further detailed info on getting to St John, download my step-by-step itinerary:
Where to Stay:
The island has two towns: Cruz Bay (west end) and Coral Bay (east end).
Cruz Bay is the larger town where you’ll find most restaurants and shops.
If nightlife and close proximity to restaurants are priorities, book your stay on the west end of the island! Rent a villa or choose a resort in walking distance from Cruz Bay, to avoid the hassle of parking downtown.
Travel Tip #2: If you stay in Cruz Bay, take a drive over to the east end, where you’ll surely be greeted by these furry friends.
If you’re looking for a quiet getaway with more privacy, consider Coral Bay.
The relaxing atmosphere on the east end may still be worth the drive into town on the nights you don’t want to stay in and cook.
Travel Tip #3: If you opt to stay in Coral Bay, rent a villa with a pool. While both ends of the island are just as close to the famous north shore beaches, a pool with a view provides the perfect entertainment for those nights in.
First up, Hit the Beaches!
St John offers some of the top swimmable beaches in the world (not to mention, some of the most picturesque!). The island’s north shore includes continuous stretches of white sand beaches, with clear calm water, and views for miles. You can’t go wrong with any north shore beach, but there are a few that you just can’t miss!
Cinnamon Bay
I always suggest hitting this beach on day 1. Since Cinnamon Bay has a campground on site, it includes bathrooms, shops, food stands, etc. Not only is it a convenient way to start your trip, the views are just stunning!
Travel Tip #4: Follow the west end of the beach and enter the path through the trees until you reach Little Cinnamon. You may just have this secluded mini beach all to yourself!
Maho Bay:
If you’re hoping to “sea” turtles, (see what I did there?), don’t miss this beach! Maho Bay is a smaller beach right off North Shore Road with an easy walk from the parking lot, and plenty of food trucks and rental gear for your day. You’ll want snorkel gear while you swim with the sea turtles here!
Travel Tip #5: Arrive by 9:30am to snag a spot in the parking lot!
Trunk Bay:
As one of the most photographed beaches in the Caribbean, this is an absolutely must-see during your trip to St John. With food stands and multiple rental gear options, it’s easy to spend an entire day at Trunk Bay! The island just off the shore features an underwater snorkel trail that you won’t want to miss. Plus, this beach serves the best frozen daiquiris on the island that will keep you coming back for more!
Travel Tip #6: Don’t forget to stop at the pull-off above this beach for a million dollar view!
Leinster Bay Trail:
Up for some exercise with great reward? This trail is suitable for all ages, as you’ll hike less than an hour on relatively flat ground. In my opinion, this may be the best (and most quiet) view on the island! Start early—while the trail is short, the mid-day Caribbean heat will make it tough. We started at 8am and had this spot all to ourselves.
TT: On the way back down, turn right towards the beach, and swim out to the cay for an amazing snorkel experience. Don’t forget to pack your gear!
Downtown Cruz Bay:
Be sure to save time to explore Cruz Bay. Between outdoor shopping malls, restaurants on the beach, ice cream shops, bars, breweries, wineries, and even a casino, there’s something for everyone! You can’t go wrong with any dining choice here on the island, but don’t miss the Coconut Panko Encrusted Grouper at Morgan’s Mango, or the sunset views at The Beach Bar.
Day Trips to Neighboring Islands:
Consider taking a day trip to another island. There are plenty to choose from that are just a ferry ride away! Whether you have a passport or plan to stay in the U.S., the Caribbean has options for you.
St Thomas, USVI:
Only a 20 minute ferry ride away, St Thomas is loaded with tourist attractions, shops, dining, and of course, more beaches! I always recommend staying on St John and spending one day on St Thomas. Unless you’re used to massive crowds and week-long shopping sprees, one day should do!
Hop on the person ferry in the morning and plan on renting cabs for the day. If you’re up for adventure, book the Tree Limin’ Extreme ziplining tour on the island for a thrilling experience and stunning views! Relax on St Thomas’s most popular beautiful beach, Magen’s Bay, and soak up the afternoon sun. Head over to Charlotte Amalie for dinner and duty-free shopping!
Tortola, BVI:
Grab your passport and book a ferry ride to the island of Tortola. This British Virgin Island is a 90-minute ride from the USVI and is the closest island to offer swimming with dolphins. Not only is this an experience of a lifetime, but the boat ride through the neighboring islands is already worth the ticket price alone.
Lime Out:
Not quite an “island”, but this might just be my favorite excursion on St John. Book a private ride from Flyaway Charters, or rent your own dinghy boat and head out to the floating taco bar in Coral Harbor. Hands down the best tacos I’ve ever tasted. Bring a waterproof lanyard for your phone and credit card—you will get wet!
Lovango Cay:
This private island located one mile from St John has a newly built resort with incredible accommodations. You don’t have to stay the night though, to experience the luxury of Lovango Cay. Consider booking a sunset dinner sail to the island for a nice romantic getaway!
Whether you’re here with friends, family, or on a romantic getaway, St John won’t disappoint.
Don’t forget to download my detailed itinerary to get a head start on your travel planning. From total costs, dining, additional info on the island’s best beaches and more, you’ll have everything you need for your next journey!
Email me at tipsfortravel.blog@gmail.com for quotes on using my travel planning services!
Looking for a shorter, less expensive trip with coastal views? Check out my Acadia National Park itinerary.
Thanks for visiting, and enjoy your trip to paradise!