35 Awesome Things to Do in St John: Ultimate Guide
Looking for the best things to do in St. John? You’re in the right place! Having visited all of the U.S. Virgin Islands, I can confidently say St. John is my favorite.
It offers the perfect blend of relaxation, excitement, and breathtaking beauty. While St John certainly caters to travelers seeking a romantic getaway, families and friends will find no shortage of activities to make this trip unforgettable.
From hiking trails to my favorite hidden beaches to lunch on a floating taco bar, here are just a few of my favorite things St John has to offer. Let’s get started!
1. Coral Reef Underwater Park Trail
If you’re in St. John, snorkeling at the Coral Reef Underwater Park is a must! The trail is located off of Trunk Bay’s shore, which is arguably one of the best beaches in St John.
Because it’s a great beach as well, it’s easy to spend the day relaxing in the sand. When it gets too hot, jump in and search for the marine life around the trail.
Tip: the trail is a bit outdated and depends on good visibility, so try to go on a clear and clam day.
2. US Virgin Islands National Park
US Virgin Islands National Park is one of the top attractions in St John. The park is known for its amazing hiking trails that lead to some of my favorite views in the US Virgin Islands.
It’s also home to many protected plant and animal species, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. In addition to hiking, you can enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and picnicking.
There are a number of ranger-led programs available to learn about the history and ecology of the US Virgin Islands. It’s absolutely perfect for families! The USVI National Park is an incredible place to explore, and there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Price: Admission to VI National Park is free
3. Cinnamon Bay Hiking Trail
Take this 1.8 miles out and back trail in St John any time of year. It’s mostly uphill, but manageable, even for beginner hikers! At the top, you’ll find a popular attraction on the island – ruins of the old Factory Sugar Mill!
Pro tip: If you plan to stay at the Cinnamon Bay Camping Site, you can access the trail from there!
4. Visit Neptune's Lookout
Neptune's Lookout is an old sugar plantation site dating back to the 1700s! It's now a popular spot for concerts, weddings, and sunset viewings.
Along with the bit of history, there's also disc golf, camping, and a restaurant!
5. Play Disc Golf around Neptune's Lookout Estate
Try out this 9-hole disc golf course starting at the Susannaberg windmill overlook. The best part of this course is the VIEWS - they're insanely awesome. Note: there is a fee to play a round, or a membership if you're a local!
No discs? No problem! Check-in at the Windmill Bar and they'll get you set up with discs and drinks to cool off during your game!
I'm not good at disc golf but I love trying out cool courses like this. Just consider it "hiking with a purpose" as my friends say.
6. Caneel Hill Trail
The views hiking in St John cannot be beaten. This steep, 1-mile hike located near Cruz Bay will take you to an observation deck with views of the whole island!
You can also bring your furry friends on this hike, as long as they are leashed. Be sure to bring plenty of snacks and water for you and the pups.
According to the NPS, you'll find a parking lot by the trailhead just up the hill from Cruz Bay or can be accessed from the Upper Lind Point Trail through the Caneel Spur connector.
7. Take a Snorkeling Tour to Uninhabited Cays
There are plenty of beaches for snorkeling offshore in St John, but there are also some uninhabited cays in the National Park that you can only get to by boat.
If you're on a budget, a tour isn't necessary for great snorkeling, but if you want a day on the water, I would absolutely recommend taking a snorkeling tour in St John. The cays are uninhabited and the coral reefs are out of this world.
🤩View pricing and availability for a snorkeling tour in St John
8. Visit the Peace Hill Windmill Ruins
This overlook is accessible from North Shore Road and offers incredible views of nearby islands. The Peace Hill Windmill is home to an old mill used during sugar production dating back to the 1700s and is a popular historic site in St John.
To get to the Peace Hill Windmill Ruins, you can take the Peace Hill Trail. It's only 0.2 miles out and back trail on easy terrain!
9. Relax at Trunk Bay Beach
Trunk Bay is one of St. John's most famous beaches and a must-visit, even if it's just to stop by for an Instagram-worthy view from the viewpoint overlooking its white sands and offshore cay.
After parking, you’ll pay the national park entry fee and find your perfect spot on the beach.
While the snorkeling is excellent, the underwater trail is just okay. If you have gear, it's worth a trip, but don't worry about it if you're short on time!
Price: $5 / discounts for seniors, military, annual passes
10. Petroglyphs of Reef Bay
The island of St. John in the United States Virgin Islands is home to a ton of historical and cultural attractions. One of the most popular historic attractions are the Petroglyphs of Reef Bay. These ancient carvings were made by the Taíno people, who once inhabited the island.
Today, the petroglyphs are a protected National Historic Landmark, and visitors can take guided tours to see them up close.
The Petroglyphs of Reef Bay are an important part of the island's history and can be found along the Reef Bay Trail.
Location: Petroglyphs of Reef Bay
11. Snorkel at Watermelon Cay
Waterlemon Cay is located on the eastern end of Leinster Bay, along the north shore of St. John. A bonus here is getting to visit the nearby Annaberg Plantation ruins before or after your trip to the Cay.
The trail to Leinster Bay is flat and easy, making it accessible for families with young children or anyone who may move slowly. Because it is still a bit of a walk, I'd recommend starting earlier in the morning - the sun here can get a bit toasty midday!
Watermelon Cay snorkeling is easily accessible on your own with a rental car and feet! If you'd rather snorkel with someone more knowledgeable about the area, Waterlemon Cay is also a potential stop on this snorkel tour.
12. Beach Hop
Most importantly, you don't to forget to add all of St John's beautiful beaches to your itinerary. Maho Bay is one of my favorites for calm waters, perfect for swimming and spotting sea turtles and rays. The calm waters here make it great for families.
Trunk Bay is iconic for its white sands and snorkeling while Caneel Bay offers a quiet getaway with its electric blue waters and fewer crowds.
For an even quieter experience, try out Hansen Bay Beach or Gibney Beach. There are tons of beaches here, and none of them will disappoint.
Usually, all I do is pack the car and start driving - it's how I've found some of my favorite places on the island.
Beach Tip: The US Virgin Islands require Reef Safe Sunscreen.
🤩View pricing and availability on a 5-star beach hopping tour through St John
13. Rent a Paddle Board
Paddleboarding - one of my favorite ways to spend a day on the water! Companies like Sup St. John and Virgin Island EcoTours offer paddle board and kayak rentals, so you don’t have to worry about your balance if you prefer kayaking.
Don't worry about the idea of paddle boarding in the ocean - the calm waters make it perfect for beginners and advanced paddle boarders.
Plus, the waters are so clear depending on what beach you're at you'll be able to see fish and marine life without even having to get in and snorkel.
14. LIME OUT! Have Lunch on a Floating Taco Bar
LIME OUT! is a floating taco bar in St John accessible only by boat. The lunch menu features fresh, made-to-order tacos by a chef who does not disappoint! They also offer a full bar, with an extensive list of margaritas, cocktails, beers, and wines. I'm not sure how often they change their menu, but I loved the short rib taco last night I went.
This taco bar is so unique - enjoy a casual lunch with friends or family while floating on the sea!
LIME OUT closes for routine maintenance so check their website before planning your visit.
🤿 Book a snorkel tour with lunch at LIME OUT!
15. Swim with Sea Turtles and Rays at Maho Bay Beach
Maho Bay Beach is a favorite snorkeling spot not only on St John but in all of the USVI. The water is crystal clear and there is so much marine life around. If you're lucky, you'll see turtles and rays enjoying lunch near the shore.
There is no better way to experience the beauty of the Caribbean Sea than by snorkeling in its turquoise waters. So put on your bathing suit and dive in! Don't forget to never touch marine life while snorkeling or swimming.
16. Kayak to Whistling Cay
Rent a kayak and snorkel gear on Maho Bay to experience a hidden gem in St John.
Whistling Cay is a small Cay - a cay (pronounced key) is like a small island - off the coast of Maho Bay and located right on an awesome coral reef for snorkeling and viewing marine life!
17. Hike the Ram's Head Trail
Ram's Head Trail is 2.3 miles of incredible views and a great spot for running or walking in the morning or to end your day with an awesome sunset.
There are beaches along the way to cool off but be prepared with snacks and plenty of water to stay hydrated. Dogs are also allowed on this trail, but must be on a leash!
18. Reef Bay Sugar Mill Ruins
The Reef Bay Sugar Mill is part of the Sugar Factory History in St John. The Reef Bay Trail to take to the ruins is about 3 miles but there are plenty of sites to see along the way.
You'll hit the Indian petroglyphs, sugar mill ruins, and lots of wildlife. If you catch it after a rainfall, you might get to see the waterfall on the trail!
19. Private Island Hopping Tour
Spend a day in luxury with a private boat charter and island hop to St Thomas and Little Buck Island.
They'll customize the tour for you, but I'd recommend taking advantage of the boat to go to LIME OUT, snorkel in Turtle Cove at Little Buck Island, and hit some of the uninhabited cays in the Virgin Islands National Park.
🤩View pricing and availability for a private island hop
20. Hike the Lind Point Trail
The Lind Point Trail is a 2.3 miles trail with access to the popular beaches - Honeymoon Beach and Salomon Bay - both great spots for snorkeling.
You can also access the Cruz Bay Overlook which is a great spot to start your morning or end your evening.
Stop by the visitors center for an NPS parking pass if you drive to this trailhead.
21. Take a Ferry to St Thomas, USVI
Ferries travel from St John to St Thomas frequently throughout the week. They have ferries you can hop on or car ferries if you're looking to tour more of St Thomas.
St Thomas is home to the capital of the US Virgin Islands, Charlotte Amalie. It's filled with fun things to do - shop at Yacht Haven Grande, climb the 99 steps, have a drink at Duffy's Love Shack, and hit even more amazing beaches.
Being so close to St John, taking a short ferry ride to St Thomas is a no-brainer!
22. Cruz Bay Picnic Snorkel
Hop on a luxury catamaran for a picnic snorkel sailing adventure!
Cruz Bay Watersports will take you to some of the best coral reefs for snorkeling, and refueling with lunch onboard. Enjoy 5 hours of fun for families or adults (open bar included!)
🤩View pricing and availability for a picnic snorkel
23. Do Some Local Shopping Mall
Wharfside Landing Shopping Mall is the perfect place to enjoy some local shopping. The mall offers a variety of local shops, vendors, and restaurants. There is something for everyone at Wharfside Landing Shopping Mall.
The mall is also conveniently located near the ferry port. Whether you are looking for a new outfit, art to bring home to your loved ones, or simply want to grab a bite to eat, Wharfside Landing Shopping Mall is the perfect place to spend an afternoon.
Mongoose Junction is located in Cruz Bay next to a ton of awesome North Shore beaches. Here you'll find local shops to search for jewelry, artwork, and beach essentials.
This is also a great shopping center for bars and restaurants for a night out.
24. Spend the Day in the British Virgin Islands
Take advantage of the nearby islands by spending a day in the British Virgin Islands! A ferry ride from St. John will take you to the island of Tortola, where you can enjoy a day of exploring and relaxing.
Start your day by taking a hike to the top of Mount Sage National Park. Take in the stunning views of the Caribbean Sea as you make your way to the summit. Then, head down to the beach for a refreshing swim.
After working up an appetite, enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the many restaurants in town. Be sure to try the famous fish tacos! Then, catch a ferry back to St. John and enjoy a beautiful sunset over the water.
25. Snorkel at Salomon Beach
Perfect, Caribbean white sand and turquoise waters attract visitors and locals alike to Salomon Beach. Salomon Beach's coral reef is known for the best snorkeling in St John and highly recommend as a stop during your trip!
You can get to Salomon Beach by driving, or if you're feeling adventurous, hiking a short distance from Lind Point and cooling off when you get to the beach! Honeymoon Bay Beach is just around the corner if you need rentals or a drink/snack break!
26. Eat at La Tapa St John
La Tapa is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal while exploring all that the island has to offer. The restaurant is located in the heart of Cruz Bay, and its outdoor patio provides the perfect setting for diners to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
The menu features a variety of tapas and entrees, and thanks to its convenient location, La Tapa is the perfect place to enjoy a meal before heading out for an evening of exploring all that Cruz Bay has to offer. This is a great spot for a date night or night out with friends.
27. Sailing Lessons in Cruz Bay
Plan a hands-on day of fun with Morningstar Sailing and Power Charter. This private day-tour will give you the option of learning to sail like a Caribbean Captain, just enjoying the ride throughout the day, or a little bit of both!
🌊 Captain your own ship with Morningstar Sailing ➡️
This is a great way to spend some time on the water and also learn a new skill!
28. Hit the Parrot Club Casino
There's nothing like a night out at the casino, and the Parrot Club Casino definitely delivers. With a wide variety of games to choose from, there's something for everyone at the Parrot Club. Whether you're a slots fan or you prefer table games, you'll find plenty to keep you entertained. And of course, plenty of chances to win big!
They also take pride in their craft cocktails, so don't forget to order a drink before you get to playing.
29. Spend the Day at Hawksnest Beach
Hawksnest Beach is located next to Caneel Bay. The waters can get rougher out here than some of the other beaches on the island, so you probably won't run into many people or families swimming around here.
When the water is safe, there's an incredible coral roof offshore filled with colorful fish for snorkeling and a bit of shade around the beach to cool off.
Parking is easily accessible off the beach. You won't find amenities here. Caneel Bay Resort is right off the beach (which just reopened!) but I'd still recommend bringing food and water to get you through the day.
30. Sunset Sail Around St John
One of the most romantic things to do on St John is to sail around at sunset!
There is no better way to set the tone for a vacation with your loved one than with a romantic, champagne-filled sunset sail.
The sunsets around the USVI are some of the best in the Caribbean, and enjoying them from the water makes it even better.
🤩View pricing and availability for a sunset sail
31. Grab a Drink at "Drink"
Drink's specialty cocktails with waterfront views and island vibes are the perfect spot to hit to cool down after a long day of excursions and sun.
For a cool Caribbean drink, try their "Mule Punch" with ginger-infused vodka and ginger beer, topped with fresh lime and mint!
32. Spend the Day at Famous Honeymoon Beach
Honeymoon Beach is a popular, white-sand beach in Caneel Bay, and one of the most famous beaches in the US Virgin Islands. It's not only one of the most romantic things to do in St John
, but people from all over the USVI come to enjoy this spot.
You can only get to Honeymoon with a short, 1-mile walk from Lind Point, or by boat! You'll see lots of boats and tours anchored offshore, but you'll likely have most of the shoreline to yourself.
Honeymoon beach has great coral reefs for snorkeling, some coconut trees for shade, and beautiful water for swimming or relaxing.
33. Tasting Menu at Lime Inn
Enjoy a tasting experience in the courtyard of Lime Inn located in downtown Cruz Bay. Choose from four courses or six courses.
This family-owned bar offers unique, Caribbean flavors and is a great spot for date night or a nice dinner out.
34. Dinner at Morgan's Mango
Morgan's Mango is a great option for places to eat in St John. They offer frozen drinks for hanging out, delicious course options, wines, and desserts! Check out their "famous key lime pie" or after-dinner liquors for a romantic evening!
35. Annaberg Sugar Plantation Ruins
If you've been researching USVI, you'll know they are well-known for their historic sugar mills. The Annaberg Sugar Plantation are the best preserved on the island and located on a stunning hill, perfect for watching the sun rise in the morning.
You can take drive right to the ruins, or, take the Leinster Bay Trail for sweeping views of Watermelon Cay on your way to the ruins.
Where to Stay in St John
Cruz Bay and Coral Bay are the two most popular places to stay in St John. Here are our top choices if you're looking for accommodations on the island.
Cruz Bay offers a few hotels and resorts, whereas Coral Bay is home to most of the villa rentals on the island.
| ⭐BEST OVERALL STAY | Gallows Point Resort - Cruz Bay |
| ⭐BEST LUXURY HOTEL | Westin St John - Cruz Bay |
| ⭐BEST LUXURY VILLA | Sunset Serenade Suites - outside of Cruz Bay |
| ⭐BEST BUDGET STAY | Budget Apartment Stay - near USVI National Park |
How to Get Around St John
Rental Cars ✅
St John is a relatively small island, and the best way to get around is by rental car. There are a number of companies that offer car rentals, and most hotels and resorts can also arrange for a rental car.
If you're planning on exploring the island's many beaches and hidden gems, it's best to have your own transportation. There are no gas stations on Coral Bay, so fill up before you head to the other side of the island.
Get around St John by booking your rental car through Expedia early! ➡️
St John is a small island and rental cars will sell out during high season
Taxis ✅
Taxis in St John will charge per person; they are not metered. A Taxi from Cruz Bay to Coral Bay will cost about $9/person.
Around Cruz Bay, and popular beach spots around the island (like Trunk Bay and Cinnamon Bay), taxis are easy to find. The farther you get from Cruz Bay, however, they can be more difficult to find.
If you are relying on taxis, keep a few taxi service numbers on your phone to schedule a pickup or drop-off when going to more secluded areas of the island.
Note that there is no Uber in the US Virgin Islands.
Summary: Best Things to Do in St John for Your Next Trip
There you have it! Some of my favorite and the best activities all around the island. From snorkeling and relaxing on some of the best beaches in the Caribbean to hiking and learning about the history of the island, I promise the entire family and every couple with differing interests will love the opportunities to explore on St John.
The US Virgin Islands is one of my favorites for a reason. Start planning your trip ASAP - you won't regret it!!
