Visit fabulous St. John, Virgin Islands
The Virgin Islands are the top Caribbean destination. These beautiful islands offer everything a tropical vacationer could dream of. Although St. John is the smallest of the three islands, it is often regarded as the loveliest. St. Thomas and St. Croix are both bigger than the 28 square miles of St John. Blessed with warm weather, unspoiled beaches, and friendly people, St. John is a relaxing place to visit over and over again. St. John is a popular place for cruise ships to stop while in the Caribbean. Combine great recreation with history and culture to fully enjoy your stay on the island.
Visit the national park
Most of St. John is a national park called the Virgin Islands National Park. This includes more than 5,000 acres of land as well as submerged land and water that contain coral reefs and extensive marine life. The park also includes nearby Hassel Island. More submerged areas are protected by the Virgin Islands Coral Reef Monument. It protects coral reefs and mangrove habitat that is important to preserve the biological balance of the Caribbean.
Not only does this park encompass an underwater paradise, beautiful beaches and abundant forests, it also features historical treasures. There you will find remnants of Amerindians settlements, sugar cane plantations, forts and a marine railway.
There are several interesting sites to see at the National Park. Stop at the visitor's center at Cruz Bay to obtain maps for hiking and visiting historical sites. At the Annaberg Plantation, you can see ruins of the slave quarters and village, the sugar factory, and the windmill. Here, the slaves cut and crushed the cane to make sugar. Learn about sugar production, watch basket weaving, baking bread on coal pits, and gardening demonstrations.
The park also features guided snorkel and hiking tours. There are 22 nature trails in the park to choose from. Take a walk on the beach to learn about the plants and animals. Or take a hike through the tropical forest, and see sugar mill ruins and ancient petroglyphs.
Heavenly beaches
The beaches on St. John are considered outstanding. The beautiful water and white sand make them extremely attractive. All the beaches are open to the public, but it is prohibited to collect shells. They will be confiscated at airport customs when you leave.
Snorkeling is a great sport in this area. Either beginners or experienced divers will discover much variety. Snorkel along the coastline, in the caves and reefs to see stunning marine life and sunken objects. Visibility is good. The water temperature is around 80 degrees year-round with calm seas and little underwater current. Swim with the wildlife, turtles, octopus, moray eels, and all sizes of fish.
Trunk Bay is a very popular beach on St. John. It is famous for its snorkeling trails, 650 miles. You can rent snorkeling gear at the beach. Honeymoon Bay is a quiet beach to visit because it is not accessible by car. It is popular with charter boats and a great place to relax after hiking from Lind Point Hiking Trail. You can enjoy snorkeling at the headland extending out to Salomon and Honeymoon Bay.
Caneel Beach is bordered by rich forest and usually has calm water. This beach can be entered through the Caneel Bay Resort or from the Lind Point Hiking Trail. The longest beach on St. John is about a mile long at Cinnamon Beach. This remarkable beach offers many recreational opportunities. You can snorkel, swim, and rent windsurfing equipment and kayaks. A short swim away is good snorkeling at Cinnamon Bay Cay. You can also take a hiking trail through the nearby Cinnamon Bay Plantation ruins.
More outdoor activities
Cinnamon Bay also houses the public campground for St. John. There are bare tent sites, tent-covered platforms, and cottages. Camping is not permitted on the beach or in the backcountry within the Virgin Islands National Park. There are several roads on the island that have observation points. Stop and see the outstanding views overlooking Caneel Bay, Maho Bay, Trunk Bay, and Coral Bay.
Besides enjoying the wonderful beaches, this is a great place to fish. Enter a tournament and try to win a trophy fish. In the National Park, only handheld rods are permitted. No fishing is allowed in Trunk Bay or swimming areas. Rent a charter boat to take a restful ride through the beautiful waters. You can take a short trip, or day or weeklong cruises.
If you're a bird watcher, you will enjoy walking around St. John. There are about 160 species of birds on the island, including ducks, parrots, egrets, hummingbirds, pelicans, and more. The winter months are the best time to go bird watching. The Francis Bay Trail is one of the best places to observe different types of birds.
Staying on the island
The main towns on St. John are Cruz Bay and Coral Bay. There you will find vacation homes, resorts, hotels, villas, and condos. Many people enjoy the villas - privacy and luxury combined for a great holiday. These are close to the popular restaurants, bars, and shopping areas. It is just a short drive to the beaches from there.
St. John is a fashionable location for weddings and honeymoons. With the variety of lodging available, you can choose the privacy and comfort you wish for. The Westin St. John Resort & Villas is set on the beautiful beach with its own pools and tennis courts to entertain you.
Sapphire Beach Villas and Suites is located on a spectacular beach surrounded by palm and grape trees. You can enjoy the amazing views of St. John, Tortola, and Virgin Gorda. Take part in all the beach activities right there and dine on the beach or at the restaurant. Snorkel in the warm waters and relax in the comfortable year-round temperatures.
Pleasure and satisfaction in St. John
The population on St. John is small, giving it a friendly and inviting atmosphere. The nightlife is low-key, with tourists and locals hanging out together in the small bars. The resorts offer entertainment at their lounges and restaurants.
St. John is a wonderful place to visit for relaxation and fun. There are many opportunities to explore, activities to enjoy, and stunning sites to see. The variety of recreation and outstanding accommodations will bring satisfaction to travelers seeking a memorable holiday.