I’ve traveled all over the world, but there’s just something about St. John, USVI, that keeps pulling me back. Out of all the places I’ve seen, St. John is hands down my favorite. It has this perfect mix of raw beauty and adventure (while not being too crowded) that you just don’t find anywhere else. From the pristine beaches and amazing snorkeling spots to the friendly, laid-back atmosphere, this island has a magic to it that never gets old. No matter how many times I go, I always find myself planning my next trip back.
Top 10 Reasons to Visit St. John, USVI, plus some Expert Tips
- Killer Beaches: St. John’s beaches are next-level awesome, each bringing its own uniqueness. Trunk Bay is famous for its soft, white sands and crystal-clear waters, making it a must-hit spot. Maho Bay? You’re almost guaranteed to swim with sea turtles. Hawksnest Beach is close to Trunk Bay with great parking and fewer crowds. If you want a beach to yourself, check out Gibney/Oppenheimer. And don’t miss Cinnamon Bay and Salt Pond Bay—both are gems worth discovering.
- Awesome Hikes: If you’re into hiking, St. John has some fantastic trails. The Reef Bay Trail is a personal favorite, offering everything from ancient petroglyphs and a small (but cool) waterfall to an old sugar mill and a scenic beach at the end. Don’t miss out on the Annaberg Sugar Plantation for a bit of history and great views.
- Epic Snorkeling: The underwater life around St. John is amazing! Maho Bay is the go-to spot for seeing sea turtles up close, and you might even spot a stingray. Over at Trunk Bay, there’s an underwater snorkeling trail loaded with colorful fish—perfect for anyone looking to explore beneath the surface.
- Top-Notch Stays: The Westin St. John is all about luxury and relaxation. You’ve got everything from tennis and pickleball courts to basketball and a great gym. The pools are picturesque, and the beachside restaurant hits the spot. Plus, your stay includes unlimited paddleboarding and kayaking, perfect for exploring the bay.
- Foodie Paradise: When it comes to food, St. John doesn’t disappoint. Sam & Jack’s Deli is the spot for grabbing a killer sandwich for the beach. The Longboard serves up great dishes that’ll hit the spot after a day in the sun. And for more options, Mongoose Junction has you covered with places like The Tap Room, Sun Dog Café, North Shore Deli, and Greengo’s.
- Easy Car Rentals: For those who like to explore, renting a car on St. Thomas before hopping on the car ferry to St. John is the way to go. More options on St. Thomas mean you’re sure to find the right ride for your adventure. Plus, the car ferry makes it a breeze to get to St. John.
- Island Hopping: Start your journey on St. Thomas and make the most of two stunning islands in one trip. Grab a bite at The Dog House Pub before heading over to St. John for a great meal.
- Gear Up for the Beach: No need to lug around beach gear. You can rent everything from beach chairs to snorkel equipment at the Westin St. John or spots like St. John Beach Bum. Rent for the week and you’re set for some serious beach time.
- Shopping Opportunities: Mongoose Junction isn’t just about food; it’s a cool spot for shopping too. You can find unique local crafts and souvenirs to take home.
- Rich History and Untouched Nature: Over two-thirds of St. John is a national park, keeping the island’s natural beauty intact and offering an uncrowded paradise for visitors. The island’s history is rich, dating back to the Taíno people and later as a Danish colony. Check out the ruins at the Annaberg Sugar Plantation to soak up some of this history while enjoying incredible views.
Tips for Your St. John Adventure
- Beach Smarts: Check the cruise ship schedule for St. Thomas before hitting popular beaches like Trunk Bay to avoid the crowds.
- Snorkel Like a Pro: Bring your own gear if you’re into snorkeling—no need to rent, and it’ll fit just right.
- Pack Smart for Hikes: Keep it light when hitting trails like the Reef Bay Trail. Load up on water, sunscreen, and bug spray.
- Bring a Blow-Up Raft: If you want to take your beach day to the next level, pack a blow-up raft. The calm waters of St. John’s beaches are perfect for floating around and soaking up the sun. It’s a game-changer. Easy to pack and inflate, a raft adds to the fun and relaxation.
- Go with the Flow: The weather and conditions can change, depending on the season, so stay flexible and be ready to hit different beaches or try new activities.
With these tips and reasons in mind, get ready for an epic adventure in St. John!