Things To Do
in St. John
St. John is a picturesque island located in the United States Virgin Islands in the Caribbean Sea. It is known for its stunning white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush tropical landscapes. St. John is home to the Virgin Islands National Park, which preserves over half of the island's land and offers opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can also explore historic sugar plantations, visit charming beachfront towns, and enjoy the laid-back island vibe of St.
John.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $150 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $60
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike in the Virgin Islands National Park. Explore the scenic trails and enjoy the beautiful views of the lush landscapes.
Discover the vibrant underwater world by snorkeling at Trunk Bay. Spend some time relaxing on the beach after your underwater adventure.
Enjoy a beachside dinner at a local restaurant. Savor Caribbean cuisine while watching the sunset over the ocean.
Visit Cinnamon Bay for a morning swim in its clear waters. Lounge on the soft sands and soak up the sun.
Head to Maho Bay for an afternoon of snorkeling with sea turtles. Capture beautiful photos and enjoy the serene environment.
Dine at a beach bar and experience local nightlife. Delight in fresh seafood while enjoying live music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- St. John is known for its stunning natural beauty, with pristine beaches and lush national parks.
- The island offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and other water activities due to its vibrant marine life.
- St. John has a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, making it a great place for vacationers looking to unwind.
- The local community is welcoming and friendly, providing a cozy, small-town feel.
- There are numerous hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the island and surrounding waters.
- St. John can be relatively expensive compared to other Caribbean destinations, especially in terms of accommodations and dining.
- Access to St. John typically requires a ferry ride from St. Thomas, which can be inconvenient for some travelers.
- The island has limited shopping and entertainment options compared to more developed tourist destinations.
- Infrastructure can be somewhat lacking, with fewer medical facilities and services available.
- Hurricane season can impact travel plans, and the island has experienced damage in the past from storms.
Best Activities in St. John
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush tropical forests and scenic trails in the Virgin Islands National Park, which covers over 60% of St. John. Hikes range from easy strolls to more challenging treks, offering stunning views of the island's natural beauty.
Trunk Bay is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling. Explore the underwater coral gardens and spot colorful fish in this picturesque setting.
Maho Bay offers calm and clear waters, perfect for stand-up paddleboarding. Paddle along the coastline and enjoy the serene views of the surrounding landscape and marine environment.
Tours
Uncover the best of St. John with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in St. John
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its stunning beach and clear blue waters, perfect for scenic photos
Offers panoramic views of the island and great sunset photo opportunities
Hiking trail with breathtaking views of the coastline and Caribbean Sea
Food in St. John
St. John Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved local favorite, these fritters feature tender conch meat mixed with spices, then fried to golden perfection. They are a must-try for seafood enthusiasts. Recommended place: Lime Inn in Cruz Bay.
Must-Try!
This dish perfectly captures the essence of St. John with its fresh mahi mahi fillet topped with a flavorful mango-avocado salsa. It's a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. Recommended place: The Fish Trap in Cruz Bay.
Savor the succulent local lobster, often grilled and served with drawn butter or a zesty citrus sauce. It's a luxurious yet quintessential St. John dining experience. Recommended place: The Lime Inn Restaurant in Cruz Bay.
Unique Experiences
Get to know St. John better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market offers fresh produce, homemade baked goods, prepared foods, and local crafts. Visitors can find delicious snacks and interact with local vendors while exploring the colorful stalls.
A diverse selection of food options awaits at Love City Market, from freshly made sandwiches and smoothies to international street food flavors. The market provides a great opportunity to taste a variety of local and global dishes.
Located in Cruz Bay, D' Coal Pot is a must-visit for authentic Caribbean street food. Visitors can relish dishes like jerk chicken, roti, and fried plantains, all bursting with flavorful island spices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In St. John, it is important to respect the natural environment and to actively preserve its beauty. Littering and harming the local flora and fauna are considered disrespectful.
The pace of life in St. John is often slower and more relaxed than in many mainland locations. Visitors should be patient and embrace the 'island time' mentality.
Greeting others with a friendly 'good morning' or 'good afternoon' is a common practice and a sign of respect. Additionally, being polite and using 'please' and 'thank you' is valued in interactions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of St. John with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in St. John
Ensure a smooth experience
In St. John, United States, tipping is customary and is generally expected in the service industry. A typical tip amount is around 15-20% of the total bill in restaurants, bars, and for tour guides.
The accepted forms of payment in St. John, United States, include cash, credit cards, and mobile payment methods. Most businesses and establishments in St. John accept major credit cards, but it's always recommended to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors and transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into St. John.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit St. John is during the winter season, from December to March. Expect pleasant weather with high temperatures and low humidity. This is the peak tourist season, so be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices.
Spring, from April to June, is also a good time to visit St. John. The weather is warm, and the island is less crowded compared to the winter season. However, be aware that this is the start of the rainy season.
The summer season, from July to September, is the least crowded time to visit St. John. However, this is also the hurricane season, so be prepared for potential storms and heavy rainfall.
Fall, from October to November, is another good time to visit St. John. The weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are thinner compared to the winter season. However, be aware that this is still within the hurricane season.
St. John at Night
Hiking in St. John
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful park featuring over 20 miles of hiking trails with stunning views of the Caribbean, tropical forests, and various historical ruins.
A 4-mile hike that descends through lush vegetation to the Reef Bay, offering views of ancient petroglyphs and ruins of sugar mills.
A scenic hike that connects Cinnamon Bay to the north shore beaches, showcasing breathtaking coastlines and native flora.
An easy trail leading to the historic Annaberg Sugar Plantation ruins, with interpretive signs detailing the history of sugar production in the Virgin Islands.
A moderately difficult hike that leads to a secluded beach, featuring beautiful views and opportunities for birdwatching.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into St. John through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach St. John by plane.
Located in Antigua and Barbuda, approximately 140 miles from St. John, this is the nearest major international airport.
Located in San Juan, Puerto Rico, about 90 miles from St. John. It serves as a hub for flights to and from the Caribbean and beyond.
Situated in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, roughly 5 miles from St. John. It is the closest airport providing international flights.
Located on Beef Island, British Virgin Islands, around 50 miles from St. John. It serves international flights primarily within the Caribbean.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, primarily of European descent.
A significant demographic group with origins in African heritage.
Includes individuals of Spanish or Latin American origin.
Comprises individuals of Asian descent, including East Asian, Southeast Asian, and South Asian.
Includes indigenous peoples of the United States.
Represents individuals from Pacific Island nations, including Hawaii and other Pacific regions.
Individuals who identify as belonging to two or more racial groups.
The Soul of St. John
Discover the essence of St. John through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is gaining popularity in St. John, with local leagues and youth programs encouraging participation.
Basketball is a favorite sport in St. John, with many community courts available for play and organized leagues.
Baseball has a rich history in St. John, with youth teams and summer leagues being a tradition in the community.
Volleyball is popular especially during the summer months, with beach and indoor leagues available for residents.
American football has a strong following in St. John, with local high school teams and community support.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting St. John.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dining establishments in St. John offer thoughtful vegetarian and vegan dishes, often highlighting the island's abundant fresh produce. Look for restaurants like The Terrace, which feature creative plant-based offerings.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find accommodating options at several eateries. Locations like Extra Virgin Bistro provide a dedicated gluten-free menu showcasing innovative culinary creations without compromising on flavor.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of St. John with these cultural adventures.
