St. John

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with St. John's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Relaxation at Trunk Bay
morning
:

Start your day with a rejuvenating morning at Trunk Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Virgin Islands. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a beachside café, where local flavors infuse every bite of your meal. Take a stroll along the white sandy shores, feeling the gentle Caribbean breeze against your skin.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon snorkeling at Trunk Bay's underwater snorkeling trail, where vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish await. Rent equipment nearby and explore the stunning marine life, or simply bask in the sun on the beach. As the afternoon progresses, enjoy a refreshing drink from the beach bar, soaking in the breathtaking views.

evening
:

As dusk approaches, take a scenic walk along the beach to witness the sun setting on the horizon. Choose from one of the beachside restaurants for dinner, featuring fresh seafood and local delicacies. End your evening with a peaceful sound of waves lapping against the shore, a perfect start to your St. John adventure.

day 2
Exploring Virgin Islands National Park
morning
:

Begin with a hearty breakfast before setting out to explore Virgin Islands National Park's lush hiking trails. Immerse yourself in the rich tropical flora and fauna, with trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes. The morning light filters through the trees, creating a magical atmosphere as you venture into this natural paradise.

afternoon
:

After your hike, picnic at one of the park's beautiful spots, where you can enjoy the surroundings and recover your energy. Follow up with a visit to the Annaberg Sugar Plantation ruins to learn about the island's history and sugar production. The afternoon is perfect for photography, as the landscape offers stunning vistas.

evening
:

Return to Cruz Bay for a delightful dinner at a local restaurant known for its Caribbean cuisine. Try the signature rum punch while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere that fills the air during the evening hours. After dinner, stroll along the waterfront boardwalk, taking in the sounds and sights of island nightlife.

day 3
Kayaking in Coral Bay
morning
:

Kick off your day with breakfast at a quaint café in Coral Bay, and then prepare for an adventure on the water. Rent a kayak and set out to explore the serene waters, dotted with small cays and gorgeous views. Glide through the calm waves as you appreciate the tranquility of this lesser-traveled area of the island.

afternoon
:

Anchor off at one of the nearby cays for lunch, where you can indulge in a packed picnic while soaking in the sun. The afternoon is perfect for more kayaking, allowing you to discover hidden coves and perhaps encounter some marine life along the way. The crystal-clear waters beckon you to dive in for a refreshing swim.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, return to shore and refresh at your accommodation before heading into town. Experience the local nightlife at one of the fun beach bars, where live music and foot-tapping rhythms bring the venue alive. Share stories and laughs over tropical cocktails as you savor your unforgettable day.

day 4
Cultural Immersion in Cruz Bay
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local eatery known for its delicious banana pancakes. Afterward, spend the morning exploring the charming shops and galleries in Cruz Bay, where local crafts and art tell the stories of the island's heritage. Chat with locals to gain insights about St. John's culture.

afternoon
:

Continue your journey by visiting the Virgin Islands National Park Visitor Center to learn about the island's ecology and history. Take part in a guided tour or join a cultural workshop that allows you to dive deeper into the island's traditions. Enjoy lunch at a waterfront spot, enjoying the ambiance and stunning views.

evening
:

As evening falls, dine at one of Cruz Bay's renowned restaurants offering Caribbean and international cuisines. Take time to savor the flavors and the atmosphere, enjoying the lively spirit of this hub. Finish your day with a moonlit walk on the beach, savoring the sound of the ocean waves in the background.

day 5
Sailing Adventure to the British Virgin Islands
morning
:

Set off early with breakfast aboard a sailboat, ready for a day of adventure in the British Virgin Islands. Sail through pristine waters as your captain shares the secrets of the ocean, and keep an eye out for dolphins joining your journey. Feel the thrill of the wind in your hair as you cruise toward your destination.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon exploring iconic spots like The Baths on Virgin Gorda, known for its stunning rock formations and hidden swimming holes. Enjoy snorkeling in the vibrant waters, discovering colorful marine life in the crystal clear lagoons. Enjoy a beachside lunch at one of the local shacks, savoring fresh ingredients captured from the surrounding waters.

evening
:

As the day winds down, return to St. John with the sunset painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Land back at Cruz Bay, where you can unwind and discuss your day with fellow travelers over drinks. Find a serene spot to explore the stars shining brightly in the Caribbean sky before heading back to your accommodations.

day 6
Beach Hopping on the North Shore
morning
:

After breakfast, spend your morning beach hopping along the North Shore, starting at Cinnamon Bay. Each beach has its charm, so take your time swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the surroundings. Bring your camera to capture the breathtaking views and unique features of each sandy escape.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a beach bar before continuing your beach-hopping adventure, with options to snorkel or rent paddleboards. Visit the picturesque Hawksnest Beach, where you can marvel at the natural beauty and find shaded spots under palm trees. The afternoon is ideal for relaxing or engaging in water activities.

evening
:

Consider ending your beach-hopping day with a sunset picnic on the sand at one of your favorite locations. Afterward, find a local event or music performance to experience the vibrant culture of St. John. Let the music carry you into the night as you reflect on your beach-filled day.

day 7
Exploring the East End
morning
:

Fuel your day with breakfast at a coastal café before heading to the East End, an area rich in natural beauty and serenity. Visit the beautiful Maho Bay, known for its calm waters and gentle waves, making it an ideal spot for relaxation. Spend your morning swimming and sunbathing while enjoying the views across the coast.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, check out the nearby Francis Bay and enjoy a picnic by the shore, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning scenery. Engage in some snorkeling, where you'll be delighted by the diverse sea life and mesmerizing coral formations. Take a leisurely hike along the shoreline to further connect with the natural landscape.

evening
:

Return to Cruz Bay to freshen up, then venture out for a delicious dinner at a local favorite, where you can indulge in island-style dishes. As you unwind, engage with other travelers and locals, sharing tales of your day's adventures. The night ends on a high note, filled with laughter and good memories.

day 8
Adventurous Hiking on Bordeaux Mountain
morning
:

Rise early to enjoy breakfast and prepare for a hike up Bordeaux Mountain, the highest point on St. John. The trail offers breathtaking views and a rewarding sense of accomplishment as you make your way up through lush tropical forest. The morning air is fresh and invigorating, enhancing your hiking experience.

afternoon
:

Upon reaching the summit, enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding islands. Spend the afternoon exploring the various trail options, discovering hidden gems and breathtaking sights along the way. A sense of tranquility engulfs you as you immerse yourself in the quiet beauty of nature.

evening
:

After descending, return to Cruz Bay for an evening of relaxation and comfort food after your adventure. Dine at a charming café or restaurant that captures the essence of St. John's flavors while enjoying the warm evening air. Reflect on your hiking journey under the stars, feeling fulfilled by the day’s achievements.

day 9
Farewell Day at Hawksnest Beach
morning
:

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, savoring the last moment of your trip as you get ready for a final day at the beach. Spend your morning reclining on the sands of Hawksnest Beach, soaking in the relaxed atmosphere and stunning views. Take a dip in the calm waters or read a book while nestled under the shade of palm trees.

afternoon
:

As the afternoon sun shines, engage in water sports like paddleboarding or windsurfing, making the most of your last day in paradise. Enjoy a casual lunch at a beachfront bar that serves delicious local dishes, reminiscing about your adventures over the past days. Capture memories with photographs as you explore the vibrant scenery one last time.

evening
:

Wrap up your St. John adventure with a farewell dinner at a memorable restaurant, where you can indulge in a special meal to celebrate your journey. Toast to new friends and experiences as you watch the sun dip below the horizon one last time. As the night settles, spend time reflecting on the beauty of St. John before saying goodbye to this tropical paradise.

Discover St. John

Read more in our St. John 2025 Travel Guide.

St. John Travel Guide