St. John is one of the U.S. Virgin Islands, and much of the island is a national park that offers plenty of hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities. Of the three U.S. Virgin Islands, a visit to St. John is the most rewarding for a traveler: you have plenty of hiking trails in the park, plenty of beaches, snorkeling opportunities, delicious and affordable food, and great nightlife.
It is also the most budget-friendly of the Virgin Islands.
There are only about 2,000 people on the island, so almost everyone here knows each other. You will run into people again and again. This place has the most relaxed feel, and you will probably want to spend a lot of time here!
5 Things to See and Do on St. John
Visit the local beaches
If you want to mingle with other travelers, head to Trunk Bay. Snorkel in the crystal clear waters around Honest and Watermelon, soak up the peace and quiet of Maho, or swing on the swings at Oppenheimer Beach. St. John is small enough that you can visit some of these during your trip.
Visit to Annaberg Plantation
This ancient sugar mill is located on the north side of the island (down a great walking trail and past several sparkling coves). You'll find crumbling ruins and drawings of schooners that are over 100 years old. They're small, but give you an idea of what the factories looked like back then.
Go on a hike in a national park
St. John is a national park. The Reef Bay hike consists of a three-mile descent through rainforest and plantation ruins to the swimming beach at Reef Bay. Bring plenty of water.
Set sail
If you want to appreciate the Caribbean Sea around St. John, take a boat trip and spend a day snorkeling and sunbathing. Most will also provide food and unlimited booze (but no half-day sails). Salty Dog and Cruz Bay Watersports have day sails starting at $120.
Visit the ruins of Yekaterinburg
This is the site of an 18th century sugar and rum distillery. It is free to enter and there is not much to see, but it is worth a visit if you are touring the area. The ruins are well preserved, so you will get a good idea of how sugar was collected and refined on the island.
What Else to See and Do in St. John's
- Enjoy water sports.
St. John's has all kinds of water sports. You can windsurf, water ski, kite surf, snorkel, sail or kayak.
- Go diving
The island has numerous dive sites (including Grass Cay and Congo Cay), and the warm, crystal clear waters provide excellent opportunities to spot tropical fish and corals.
- Visit the carnival
The Carnival of St. John takes place at the end of June and traditionally ends with a parade on the 4th of July, as the islanders also celebrate the Independence Day of the United States. It features Jumbies, calypso music, the coronation of Mrs. St. John and the Carnival King. The festival features spectacular fireworks.
- Have a drink at the pub.
St. John's flagship brewery, The Tap Room, is located in Mongoose Junction on Cruz Bay. Choose from the likes of the Tropical Mango Pale Ale and the Sunny Belgian Wheat Ale (my personal favorite). It's the only taproom in the entire Virgin Islands and the best place to grab a beer!
- Explore Coral Bay.
Coral Bay, located at the far end of the island, is a quiet community that was described to me as “St. John’s before the tourists came to Cruz.” It’s a tiny, tiny community where most restaurants and bars close early. Be sure to eat at Skinny Legs while you’re here. Note: Coral Bay is currently recovering from the hurricane. Many businesses and buildings are currently closed.
