Welcome to St John, a tropical paradise located in the Eastern Caribbean Sea, and the smallest of the US Virgin Islands. With its stunning beaches, lush green forests, and vibrant coral reefs, St John is a haven for tourists and adventure seekers alike. In this St John visitors guide, we will explore the best time to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and the top attractions and activities to experience on this beautiful island.

When to Visit St John

The best time to visit St John is from December to April, when the weather is cooler and drier. However, if you’re looking for a more secluded experience, consider visiting during the off-season (May to November), when the prices are lower and the crowds are smaller.

Where to Stay on St John

St John offers a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses and vacation rentals. Some popular areas to stay include:

• Cruz Bay: The island’s main town, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and amenities.
• Trunk Bay: A stunning beach area with several resorts and vacation rentals.
• Coral Bay: A more secluded area on the eastern side of the island, perfect for those looking for a peaceful retreat.

What to Eat on St John

St John is known for its delicious seafood, and you’ll find plenty of restaurants serving fresh fish, lobster, and conch. Some popular local dishes include:

• Conch fritters: A Caribbean classic, made with tender conch meat and spices.
• Fish tacos: A fresh and flavorful dish, often served with mango salsa and coconut rice.
• Coconut shrimp: A sweet and savory appetizer, perfect for snacking on the beach.

Top Attractions and Activities

St John is a nature lover’s paradise, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, and exploring. Some top attractions and activities include:

1. Coral Reef Underwater Park Trail: A snorkeling trail that takes you through the island’s vibrant coral reefs.
2. US Virgin Islands National Park: A stunning park that covers over 60% of the island, with hiking trails, beaches, and historic ruins.
3. Cinnamon Bay Hiking Trail: A scenic trail that takes you through the island’s lush forests and offers breathtaking views of the ocean.
4. Neptunes Lookout: A scenic overlook with stunning views of the surrounding waters and islands.
5. Disc Golf at Neptunes Lookout Estate: A unique and fun activity that combines golf with stunning views and beautiful scenery.

Getting Around St John

St John is a small island, and getting around is relatively easy. You can rent a jeep or 4×4 vehicle to explore the island’s rugged terrain, or take a taxi or shuttle service to get to your destination. The island is also home to several bike rental shops, making it easy to explore the island on two wheels.

Day Trips and Excursions

St John is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding islands and waters. Some popular day trips and excursions include:

• St Thomas: A 20-minute ferry ride away, St Thomas offers a range of attractions, including shopping, dining, and historic sites.
• The British Virgin Islands: A short boat ride away, the BVI offers stunning beaches, snorkeling, and diving opportunities.
• Fish Bay: A secluded beach area on the southern side of the island, perfect for a peaceful day of swimming and snorkeling.