Twenty years ago, the pristine shores of Trunk Bay in St. John, USVI, witnessed a personal milestone – my wedding. This small Caribbean island, our home for the early years of marriage, holds a special place in our hearts. This summer, we revisited our cherished haven for a month-long anniversary celebration, bringing along our three children to reconnect, recharge, and embrace the island’s tranquil rhythm. St. John remains our happy place, a home away from home, and a frequent escape for our family.
Trunk Bay's acclaim as a top global beach is well-deserved, captured beautifully in this photograph.
St. John, a gem within the US Virgin Islands, distinguishes itself with unspoiled beauty, largely thanks to the Virgin Islands National Park, which protects two-thirds of its land. Unlike many Caribbean destinations, St. John eschews overdevelopment, boasting lush green hills, untouched beaches, and crystal-clear waters. On this 19-square-mile island, home to approximately 4,000 residents, you won’t find towering resorts or traffic lights. Instead, you’ll navigate narrow roads on the left side, sharing the space with the island’s charming wildlife – donkeys, goats, mongoose, chickens, deer, and iguanas.
Donkeys, a common and beloved sight on St. John, are pictured relaxing on the sands of Honeymoon Beach.
As the smallest and most unspoiled of the main US Virgin Islands, St. John offers a true escape. Days here begin with vibrant sunrises and the sound of roosters, and conclude with breathtaking sunsets and gentle trade winds. The essence of St. John is found in its natural beauty and the soothing rhythm of island life.
Reaching St. John from Austin is an adventure in itself. The absence of an airport on St. John necessitates a journey involving multiple flights to St. Thomas, followed by a taxi and ferry to Cruz Bay. Despite the 16-hour travel day, the reward is immense. Our children, seasoned St. John travelers, understand the journey is a worthwhile prelude to paradise.
My personal connection with St. John began during a college trip. Captivated by its charm, I returned after graduation to participate in a work-exchange program, trading housekeeping duties at an eco-resort for the chance to immerse myself in the island’s beauty. This initial six-week stay extended into years as I embraced a role at the island’s newspaper, documenting island life and exploring its hidden corners.
Over two decades, my affection for St. John has deepened, transforming from a personal haven into a cherished family escape. For those considering a trip to St. John, USVI, this insider’s guide unveils the best beaches, hikes, activities, and accommodations this Caribbean jewel has to offer.
Trunk Bay's stunning shoreline, famed for its soft white sands and incredibly clear water, is showcased in this image.
Beaches of St. John: A Bay for Every Day
On St. John, every day is beach day. The island’s North Shore is particularly renowned for its collection of stunning, unspoiled bays.
Trunk Bay, with its iconic crescent of soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water, consistently ranks among the world’s top beaches. While it is St. John’s most popular beach, arriving early or visiting during the off-season (late August to mid-November) offers a more secluded experience.
Maho Bay is highlighted as the prime location in St. John for observing sea turtles in their natural habitat.
Maho Bay, known for its calm, shallow waters, is perfect for families with young children and those eager to encounter sea turtles. The seagrass beds just offshore provide a rich habitat for these gentle creatures. Remember to observe these animals respectfully from a distance.
For a quieter beach experience, Francis Bay, located further down the North Shore, offers tranquility and excellent swimming and snorkeling conditions in its clear, calm waters. Keep an eye out for sea turtles, stingrays, and schools of fish, as well as occasional sightings of octopus, starfish, and even reef sharks.
Gibney Beach, a hidden gem with limited parking, is shown, emphasizing its secluded and pristine nature.
Gibney Beach, also known as Oppenheimer Beach, is a true hidden gem and a family favorite. Its secluded, sugar-sand beach, framed by lush greenery and turquoise waters, offers a postcard-perfect Caribbean scene. Limited parking ensures it remains less crowded, offering a more private beach experience.
Hiking Trails with Rewarding Views and Refreshing Dips
St. John’s Virgin Islands National Park boasts over 20 hiking trails, blending exercise with exploration of the island’s history and natural beauty. Many trails culminate at secluded beaches, offering a refreshing cooldown after your hike.
The Reef Bay Trail, a 6-mile roundtrip journey, takes you through diverse landscapes and historical sites. Explore ancient petroglyphs carved by the Taino people and the ruins of the Reef Bay Sugar Mill before reaching the secluded Reef Bay for a swim. Be prepared for a challenging uphill return hike.
The panoramic vistas of Maho and Francis Bays are showcased from the vantage point of America Hill.
The Cinnamon Bay Trail offers a hike past the Cinnamon Bay Sugar Plantation ruins to the America Hill Great House Ruins. The uphill trail winds through a shaded forest, rewarding hikers with stunning views of Maho and Francis Bays. Cinnamon Bay beach provides a perfect spot to relax and cool down afterwards.
For an easier hike, the Lind Point Trail leads to Honeymoon Beach and Salomon Beach. Accessible from the National Park Visitor Center in Cruz Bay, this less than 2-mile round trip trail is suitable for families. These beaches, accessible only by foot or boat, offer more seclusion, especially in the early morning.
Honeymoon Beach, pictured here, is highlighted as being accessible via the Lind Point Trail, along with its sister beach, Salomon.
Venture to the southern side of the island to hike Ram Head Trail. Starting at Salt Pond Bay, this trail leads to the southernmost point of St. John, offering 360-degree ocean views. Afterward, enjoy a swim in Salt Pond Bay or explore the unique Drunk Bay, known for its beach rock art.
Calichi at Picture Point is presented as a luxurious and eco-friendly accommodation option on St. John with breathtaking views.
Accommodation Options: Cruz Bay vs. Coral Bay
St. John’s charm lies in its unspoiled nature, offering a range of accommodations from boutique hotels to private villas. Consider splitting your stay between Cruz Bay and Coral Bay to experience different facets of the island.
Cruz Bay, the main town, is bustling with shops and restaurants, offering easy access to the ferry and North Shore beaches. Coral Bay, on the quieter East End, provides a more secluded and laid-back atmosphere.
The stunning vista from Out of the Blue villa on St. John is captured, showcasing the luxurious villa and its breathtaking surroundings.
For eco-luxury accommodations with panoramic views, Calichi at Picture Point, located high above Coral Bay, is an excellent choice. Out of the Blue villa, near Cruz Bay, offers stunning views of Rendezvous Bay and Ditliff Point.
Island Roots Boat Charters on St. John is recommended for an unforgettable day of boating and exploring the Virgin Islands.
Explore Beyond: Boating to the British Virgin Islands (BVI)
A St. John vacation offers the bonus of proximity to the British Virgin Islands. Island hopping to the BVIs is a must-do if your itinerary allows.
Consider booking a private charter with Island Roots Charters, a local company offering customized BVI itineraries. Explore destinations like Sandy Spit, a picturesque islet, and The Baths at Virgin Gorda, known for its unique granite boulder formations. Snorkel at The Indians and unwind at Jost Van Dyke’s White Bay.
Sandy Spit, a tiny uninhabited island near Jost Van Dyke, is pictured, highlighting its idyllic and secluded nature.
A day trip to the BVI adds an unforgettable dimension to your St. John vacation, creating lasting memories of the Caribbean’s unparalleled beauty. St. John, USVI, offers a unique blend of natural splendor, tranquility, and adventure, making it an exceptional Caribbean destination.
