Sun, sand, and sea. What more could you want from your tropical vacation? In St. John in the Virgin Islands, you get all of that and far more. From hiking opportunities to discovering the ruins of centuries-old plantations, your vacation here will be as busy or as leisurely as you want. The biodiversity makes it particularly exciting for nature lovers, while interesting ruins and heritage sights please the history lovers in your group. Make the most of your vacation in this tropical paradise with some of the most exciting and memorable things to do in St. John.
01 Virgin Islands National Park
3,000 years of human history can be found in Virgin Islands National Park. From historic plantation sites to ancient petroglyphs that can still be seen, visiting here is both a historical excursion and an outdoor adventure all in one. Discover miles of beautiful hiking trails amid the historic ruins and absolutely breathtaking beaches.
Want to get a new glimpse of the environment? Go snorkeling among coral reefs and see how many marine species you can spot.
Need more information? The Cruz Bay Visitor Center offers details about the environment and ranger-guided tours.
02 Trunk Bay
Walking up to Trunk Bay, you're immediately greeted with white sandy beaches and pristine water that makes it particularly well suited for diving and snorkeling. In fact, Trunk Bay is particularly well-known for its underwater snorkeling trail. As you delve under the water, you'll find all sorts of underwater signs providing more information about what you're likely to see.
This trail takes you along the fragile coral reefs that tons of marine species call home. The entire trail takes around 30 to 60 minutes to complete.
03 Cruz Bay
If you need a break from your excursions into the natural parks and nature preserves, check out Cruz Bay for some more urban fun. Hungry? You won't be when you stop by the collection of local restaurants. Need a drink? Bars will help you enjoy your getaway with delectable libations.
Of course, you're always free to shop around the waterfront stores, where you'll find all sorts of interesting knick-knacks that make the perfect souvenir to remember your vacation.
Because there are no airports on St. John, you'll have to arrive by ferry to Cruz Bay, meaning this is the starting point of your adventure.
04 Cinnamon Bay
Ever wondered what it'd be like to go camping in a tropical environment? Skip the hotel and spend a night immersed in nature at Cinnamon Bay. This national park and campground draws all sorts of people looking to unplug and recharge, surrounded by beautiful sea, vibrant greenery, and clear skies.
The campground offers all sorts of amenities to help make your stay comfortable. You can even rent an eco-tent or cottage here that'll give you direct access to Cinnamon Bay Beach. A restaurant on-site serves meals, and a food truck offers ice cream and cold drinks.
If you need, you can rent all sorts of water sports gear, including snorkels, paddle boards, and kayaks.
Between enjoying the crystal-clear waters, explore the grounds to discover historical ruins of plantations and nature trails.
05 Annaberg Plantation
Learn what plantation life was like at the Annaberg Plantation. This plantation began in 1780 and was one of 25 sugar factories on St. John. Beyond sugar, it also produced molasses and rum.
This plantation has fallen into ruins over the centuries, and now, they're protected by the Virgin Islands National Park. While trees now grow on the hills where sugarcane once grew, you can still explore the factory ruins, slave quarters, and a windmill. Throughout the plantation, signs discuss how sugar was made and other aspects of plantation life.
Tours through the area regularly take place, offering insight into the surroundings.
06 Coral Bay
While you enter St. John in Cruz Bay, there's one more town on this Caribbean island. Coral Bay is filled with sailor residents who call their boats home. While the town is quaint, it's also an enjoyable introduction to a simpler lifestyle. Local shops and dining opportunities can be leisurely rest stops between exploring East End beaches and hiking trails that you'll have access to.
07 Hawksnest Beach
One of the most popular beaches on St. John is Hawksnest Beach. Despite its popularity, you'll often find plenty of parking opportunities and ample room to stretch out and enjoy the summer. The catch is that when the tide is high, the beach becomes very narrow.
This beach tends to be a bit rougher than others, as it's not as protected from ocean waves. However, it's still a fun place to soak in some sun and simply enjoy the beauty of the area. You can find plenty of picnic areas and shaded spots along the way, too.
If you're experienced, you can snorkel here, but the water currents tend to be a bit tough for novices. If you brave it, you'll find all sorts of colorful species, including parrotfish, angelfish, and blue tangs. Sea turtles also occasionally pass by.
08 Maho Bay
Maho Bay is a sliver of sandy paradise. Stunning blue waters sparkle under the sun and warm, white sandy beaches create perfect opportunities for soaking in some rays. It's a particularly popular area on the island for swimming and snorkeling thanks to its beauty and gentle water.
Though narrow, you'll find plenty of shade thanks to coconut palms growing along the beach. With shallow water for about 20 yards out to sea, children love to splash and play. Just be mindful that this beach can get busy!
09 Salt Pond Bay
Housing is yet another of St. John's most popular beaches, Salt Pond Bay, which is a bit further out of the way than other locations. While popular, the hike necessary to reach Salt Pond Bay Beach makes it a bit more secluded than other options. If you make the trek, you'll find a crescent-shaped beach with sun, shade, and comfortable briny breezes.
Snorkeling here takes you into seagrass beds, where sea turtles and rays tend to hang out. You might even see a giant hermit crab hanging out in a queen conch shell.
While you're here, you'll also have access to Ram's Head Trail, which takes you over to Drunk Bay.
10 Leinster Bay
Leinster Bay is the top snorkeling destination on the island. The underwater biodiversity can't be beaten here, as you'll find a blend of seagrasses, coral, sand, and cobblestone areas filled with sea life.
Part of what makes this area so popular is the access to Waterlemon Cay. To get there, you need to head west from Cruz Bay and go up Rte 20. Follow the road around 5 miles past Caneel Bay Resort and Maho Bay Beach. Turn Right at the Y intersection, and you should see signs for both Annaberg and Leinster/Waterlemon Cay.
11 Reef Bay Trail
If you're an avid and experienced hiker, you won't want to miss Reef Bay Trail. This hike takes you through the oldest growth on the island and all sorts of sugar plantation ruins. You'll even find some stunning petroglyphs carved into the stone.
Regular guided hikes can be found through the Friends of Virgin Islands National Park, offering guidance through the rugged backcountry trails. Just be mindful that the trials are rocky, uneven, and steep.
12 Jumbie Bay
On the northern shore of St. John, you'll find Jumbie Bay, a small, secluded beach. Its idyllic appearance makes it particularly beloved. You'll find a narrow strip of sand leading up to the gorgeous tropical waters with lush greenery behind you.
This hidden gem has limited parking, so you'll want to arrive early to secure your spot. But once you're there, you'll be tempted to stay all day long. Since there are so few spots, there will be less competition once you're there.
Snorkeling can be a bit rough here due to the surf, but if you brave the waters, you'll find interesting coral structures brimming with fish.
13 Bordeaux Mountain
If you're ready to experience panoramic views unlike any other, make the trek up Bordeaux Mountain. The Bordeaux Mountain Trail is a 2-mile backcountry trail near Reef Bay that poses some challenges if you're not used to hiking, but the view at the top is absolutely worth it. You'll find yourself on the highest point on the island, with views of the surrounding bays and beaches.
14 Gallows Point Resort
Experience the beauty of St. John in luxury at Gallows Point Resort, an idyllic destination surrounded by lush landscaping and unbelievable oceanfront views. Your one-bedroom oceanfront villa comes with access to fine dining, a gourmet coffee shop, concierge services, and an unforgettable time.
Its convenient location just five minutes from Cruz Bay means you'll be near shopping in town or activities. Have some unexpected free time? The concierge team can help you book local activities, including island hopping to the nearby St. Thomas and British Virgin Islands.
15 Elaine Ione Sprauve Library and Museum
At the Eliane Ione Sprauve Library and Museum, you'll discover all sorts of local history and numerous cultural exhibits. While you'll find your typical library books here in all genres, you'll also find plenty of interesting sights in the museum area. Prepare to learn all sorts of information about St. John and the Virgin Islands, or settle in for a good book to get out of the sun.
16 Virgin Islands EcoTours
There's so much to see and do in St. John. If you're not sure where to start, consider diving into one of the several eco-tours that'll take you out into the wilderness alongside knowledgeable guides. Whether you're ready to explore historical sights, lush forests, or the surrounding seas, you'll find the perfect choice.
Go snorkeling with sea turtles or spend time exploring the North Shore's Maho Beach. Need a little more adventure? A boat charter gets you out to sea under the guidance of an expert captain who can take you to all the best snorkeling and paddle boarding spots.
17 Lime Out
Al fresco dining takes a whole new twist at Lime Out. Here, you won't enjoy your food at a table. Rather, you'll be dining in a giant floatation device. Eat tacos to your heart's content as you sip at handcrafted cocktails or fresh juice prepared from local fruits. The flavors here are as vibrant and memorable as the setting you'll enjoy your meal.
18 Windmill Bar
If you're looking for one of the best bars in St. John, you're in the right spot. The Windmill Bar is a hidden gem with stunning sunset views over the sea.
Indulge in delectable burgers, seafood, and salads for lunch or dinner, but don't forget to pick up one of the best drinks you'll find. Even better, you'll get to enjoy live music while you enjoy your meal and drink.
The bar is particularly known for its Windmill Breeze, which has either rum or vodka, which includes alcohol plus orange juice and cranberry-mango juice so your taste buds can join in on the tropical adventure.
19 Drunk Bay
Drunk Bay is a stunning beach in its own right, but don't expect to find soft sand here. The beach is covered in rocks that can be sharp, so you'll want to wear closed-toed shoes as you adventure.
However, there's a special beauty in the rocky beach that attracts people looking for some stunning photography thanks to the unique rock and coral formations. You'll also find plenty of interesting shells if you decide to go beachcombing. Seashells, coral, and interesting rocks can be found just about everywhere.
20 Francis Bay
On the northern part of the island, you'll find Francis Bay. Its beach is particularly popular thanks to excellent swimming and snorkeling conditions paired with the soft white sand and plenty of shade.
Despite its ideal conditions, this beach doesn't see a lot of crowding issues. Even better, since the beach is wide, it's still just as fun to experience when the tide is high. If you head to the eastern part of the bay, you'll find some amazing snorkeling opportunities with hard and soft corals, turtles, and rays.
If you prefer to stay dry, birds also can be found flocking to the salt pond. It's a great opportunity for bird watchers to discover some new native species.
Wrapping it up
St. John is a tropical paradise worth exploring. This beautiful oasis has just about everything you could want from your tropical vacation, from beaches and bars to snorkeling and hiking. Whether you want to explore lush forests, visit ancient petroglyphs, or try your luck to see a manta ray or sea turtle drifting lazily through the seagrass, this is a phenomenal place to check out.
If you've already been to St. John, let us know what you think and what your favorite excursions were. Feel free to ask questions about the locations listed as well for more information.
Scroll Down
for the Next Article
