Exploring St. John: A Must-See Travel Destination

Why St. John?

St. John is hands-down my favorite place in the world. As soon as we disembark the ferry in Cruz Bay, my heart is lighter. What makes this tiny island so special?

St. John is the smallest of the three main U.S. Virgin Islands, at just 19 square miles. Much of its magic lies in its preservation—over two-thirds of the island is protected as part of the Virgin Islands National Park. With its world-renowned beaches (Trunk Bay is consistently ranked among the most beautiful), scenic elevation, peaceful hiking trails, and laid-back island vibe, St. John is a must-see travel destination.

Getting There

Travel

St. John does not have an airport on the island, and while that helps keep crowds lower, it makes for a few extra steps to get there! Although getting there is a full travel day, it is worth it, because you are ending up on St. John. : )

Fly into St. Thomas Cyril E. King Airport (STT) — then take a 20-minute taxi to Red Hook ferry terminal.
Ferry to Cruz Bay, St. John — runs hourly and costs ~$8 one-way. Car barges are also available for those who wish to rent a car on St. Thomas.

When to Visit

December to April is considered the peak season with ideal weather. May to July is considered the off season with fewer crowds. August to October is hurricane season with many restaurants closed during this time.

Identification

Since St. John is a US Territory, passports are not required for US travelers (however, if you plan to take a day trip to the BVI’s a passport will be necessary).

Where to Stay

Accommodations

While St. John has world-class beaches, all North Shore beaches are protected from development—so don’t expect beachfront hotels.

Resorts– The Westin is the only true resort on the island.

Boutique Hotels– Estate Lindholm is a highly reviewed adults-only stay

Villas and vacation rentals-a very popular option and my personal choice. We stay at an amazing apartment in Fish Bay.

Eco-friendly options-Cinnamon Bay offers eco tents and cottages.

Cruz Bay vs Coral Bay

Cruz Bay is the main hub of the island, it’s lively and busy! It’s where the ferry docks and where you will find the most restaurants and shopping.

On the Eastern side of the island, Coral Bay offers more of a quiet, peaceful beauty. It’s located away from the hustle and bustle of Cruz Bay. It’s truly a hidden gem, with its own style and charm.

Top Things To Do

Relax on Stunning Beaches

With over 30 unique beaches to explore, everyone will have their favorite! Here are a few stand outs:

Trunk Bay– Located within the National Park Service, Trunk Bay is consistently named as one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean and is the most photographed and recognizable beach on the island! With over a quarter mile of white sand beaches, calm turquoise waters, and natural shade from the mangrove and sea grape trees, Trunk Bay lives up to the hype! Trunk Bay also features an underwater snorkeling trail with information about the sea life that you will find there. Facilities include restrooms, equipment rentals, picnic tables and plenty of food options.

Cinnamon Bay– Cinnamon Bay is another North Shore Beach and within the National Park Service. It’s the longest beach on the island (over half a mile) and is named after its distinctive sand color. It has a shallow entry and plenty of space. It also offers incredible snorkeling; you can even see the wreckage of an old prop plane off of Little Cinnamon beach. Numerous artifacts of the indigenous Taino people have been discovered here and it is also home to the 1680 Estate House ruins- the oldest remaining structure on St. John. Facilities include campgrounds, a gift shop, restaurants, restrooms and equipment rentals.

Maho Bay– Maho Bay may be my favorite beach on the island. If I had to describe it in one word, it would be peace. Maho has a calm, laid back vibe that the water matches. Sea turtles and rays feed on the sea grasses making for delightful snorkeling. On our most recent visit, we came at sunset and basically had the beach to ourselves, it was magical and memorable. Facilities include restrooms, rentals and food options.

Salt Pond Bay– Salt Pond is a protected cove located on the south side of the island. It’s popular for its calm waters and snorkeling. It’s another one of my favorite beaches and well worth the drive from Cruz Bay. From the parking lot, a quarter mile hike leads you to the beach. Access to Drunk Bay and Ram Head hiking trails also make this an incredible option.

Hiking down to Salt Pond from the parking lot

Explore Hiking Trails

St. John is home to over 20 trails ranging from easy to difficult and wind through tropical forests, leading to plantation ruins, scenic overlooks, and ancient petroglyphs.

Reef Bay Trail– This popular trail descends through lush rainforest, past ancient petroglyphs carved by the Taino people, and ends at a remote beach with the ruins of a historic sugar mill. It’s often hiked downhill with a return shuttle, but round-trip hiking is also an option for the adventurous. (approximately 2.2 miles one way)
Drunk Bay Trail– Branching off from Salt Pond Bay, this short, rugged path leads to the wild and windswept Drunk Bay coastline, known for its dramatic waves and whimsical coral sculptures left by visitors. (approximately 0.5 miles one way)
Ram Head Trail– A scenic and moderately challenging hike, Ram Head offers panoramic views from its dramatic bluff, with vibrant desert vegetation and a breezy cliffside reward at the end. The incredible views at the end of the trail make this hike my favorite! (approximately 1 mile one way)
Leinster Bay & Waterlemon Cay Trail– This easy coastal trail offers access to excellent snorkeling at Waterlemon Cay, with chances to spot sea turtles, rays, and colorful reef fish just off the beach. The trail hugs the shoreline and features ruins along the way. (approximately 0.8 miles one way)
Lind Point Trail– Starting near Cruz Bay, this accessible trail provides a quiet retreat into nature, with views of the harbor and connections to secluded beaches like Honeymoon and Salomon Bay. Multiple trailheads offer flexible hiking options.(approximately 1.1 miles one way to Honeymoon Beach)

Visit Cultural and Historical Sites

Annaberg Sugar Plantation

You can park and take a self-guided tour of the remnants of the Annaberg Sugar Plantation, a sugar mill from the Danish colonization period. You can reflect on the history of the site and also take in amazing views of the BVI’s.

Day Trips & Excursions

Boat Charters: Explore hidden coves, snorkel remote reefs, and visit Lime Out by sea. We loved Palm Tree Charters—an unforgettable day on the water!
Sunset & Dinner Cruises: Cruz Bay Watersports offers a beautiful 1.5-hour sunset sail from the Westin, complete with drinks and appetizers.

Snorkeling near Pelican Rock during our boat charter

Enjoying the sunset during our evening cruise

Dining

St. John Brewers– We have our first night dinner here every time we visit and then come back for at least one more dinner during our stay! It’s a great casual spot for a burger and beer!

Morgan’s Mango-This is a great spot for a nicer dinner. Making reservations in advance is recommended.

Skinny Legs– If you are on the Coral Bay side of the island, this is a must stop! We enjoy lunch here after hiking Ram’s Head and swimming in Salt Pond. They have great drink specials too!

High Tide Bar & Grill– another casual indoor/outdoor spot with views of Cruz Bay just feet from the water.

Lime Out VI– The famous floating taco spot in Coral Bay is only accessible by boat. There are shuttle services that will take you out for about $30 a person round trip.

St. John Scoops – Homemade ice cream and waffle cones. A nightly ritual for us!

Irie Pops– Pop in and cool off with a delicious, all-natural organic ice pop!

Travel Tips

Getting Around

Getting around the island will require a jeep and there are several rental companies on the island. We have personally used Slim Man. If renting a vehicle is not of interest, then a taxi is necessary as the beaches are not walkable

Respecting Local Culture & Nature

It is customary to greet others with a good morning/afternoon/evening.
Acknowledge the island’s history and be respectful when visiting sites like the Annaberg Plantation ruins.
Stay on the designated trails within the park system.
Leave beaches and trails with whatever you came with.
Don’t touch coral or marine life while snorkeling or swimming.
Only wear reef safe sunscreen.

Final Thoughts

For me, St. John isn’t just another beach destination—it’s a sanctuary, a true heaven on earth. From the pristine beaches and lush elevations to the peaceful trails and relaxed pace, this island has a way of staying with you. My memories—and photographs—carry me through until the next visit.

Have you been to St. John? I’d love to hear your thoughts and favorite spots in the comments!

Rigel House