Discover why St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands is worth the visit!
Secluded St. John Features Mother Nature at Her Best
At 28 square miles, St. John might be the smallest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, but it’s arguably the most beautiful, with 9,500 acres of hilly, lush landscape and underwater reserve designated as a protected U.S. national park. Recently voted one of the best Islands in the Caribbean/Atlantic by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler, you’ll find much to see and do on pristine St. John, especially if you love hiking, snorkeling or simply admiring the wonders of nature’s beauty. Visitors can take a leisurely swim in the crystal clear waters of St. John’s world-renowned beaches including Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay and Maho Bay – recognized as some of the best in the Caribbean.
Adventurous travelers looking to tour the island might consider hiking the Reef Bay Trail, which is dotted with sugar mill ruins and petroglyphs dating back to the island’s pre-Columbian period. Less athletic travelers can easily explore the island’s scenic overlooks and interesting landmarks on horseback or bicycle. To see as much of the island as possible in one day, you might opt for a bus or jeep safari around the island, which features the following attractions:
Virgin Islands National Park
Two-thirds of St. John’s 19 square miles is designated as protected national park land. Laurence Rockefeller deeded approximately 9,500 acres of rolling green hills and underwater preserve to the federal government more than 40 years ago. There are 22 self-guided hiking trails within the Virgin Islands National Park, where visitors can discover ancient petroglyphs and beautiful foliage along the way.
Two Towns, Two Personalities: Cruz Bay & Coral Bay
In downtown Cruz Bay, visitors can enjoy the shops and restaurants at Mongoose Junction or Wharfside Village. Coral Bay is an especially scenic town, boasting the highest point of elevation in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Annaberg Ruins
This former sugar plantation maintains a wealth of history and cultural folklore. Travelers can revisit the remnants of plantation life and the occupation of slaves during the 18th century. Park rangers conduct demonstrations of cultural traditions, including basket weaving, music and dance, each week.
Whatever your preference, there’s an experience in the U.S. Virgin Islands that’s perfect for you and your loved ones. To plan your next visit, or to get more information go to: www.VisitUSVI.com.
Discover Best of All Three of the U.S. Virgin Islands:
– Best of U.S. Virgin Islands: St. Thomas for lots of fun & excitement
– Best of U.S. Virgin Islands: St. John offers nature at its best
– Best of U.S. Virgin Islands: St. Croix for culture, history & architecture