Saint John Island – U.S. Virgin Island Travel Tourism
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With pristine beaches, turquoise waters, lush vegetation, and exotic wildlife, St. John is no less than a nature’s wonder.
It is one of the most pristine islands in the world, where you can snorkel in crystal-clear water, climb the steep hills or watch the beautiful wildlife; there’s something for everyone on this little island. The island is an epic combination of natural beauty on land and in water.
There’s a reason this small place has earned the reputation of being the most pristine U.S. Virgin island.
Tips for Travellers Visiting Saint John Island
One of the three main islands of the U.S. Virgin Islands, Saint John Island, is located in the Caribbean sea. Because of this location, the Islands have cultural, historical, and geographical significance.
St. John and the islands surrounding it were strategically significant because they served as a trade and commerce hub for Europe, the Americas, and Africa. Due to its strategic location and valuable resources, various European powers fought over the island.
The indigenous Tano people, European colonists, and enslaved Africans all contributed to the island’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. Festivals, music, and cuisine on the island all reflect this diversity of cultures.
Because of its heavenly beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation, St. John’s is a popular tourist destination in the Caribbean. The island is popular to snorkel and dive in because of its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Many unique species of plants and animals can be found on the island’s hilly interior, which is covered in lush tropical forests.
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Things to Pack While Traveling to Saint John Island
If you’re planning to see the heavenly place, these are the few things you must include in your bag.
- Issued I.D. card or passport
Although St. John is a part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, a passport or I.D. will be required for travel purposes and to avoid any legal problems. - Sunscreen
To shield yourself from the sun’s harmful rays, bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen. - Comfortable footwear and clothing
Because St. John is an easy breezy island, bring comfortable, lightweight clothing and footwear for the beach and other outdoor activities. - Swimwear
To take advantage of the island’s numerous beaches and watersports, bring a swimsuit or swim trunks. - Credit cards and cash
Even though most places accept credit cards, it’s a good idea to bring cash with you for small purchases and tips. - Anti-insect spray
Bring insect repellent with you to protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects that may be present. - First aid
Include basic supplies like bandages, painkillers, and any necessary medications in a small first-aid kit. - Camera
Don’t forget to bring your camera for those high-quality, insta-worthy shots. - Bottle of water
Bring a water bottle that can be used again to keep you hydrated throughout your trip.
How to Reach and Get Around Saint John Island
Below are the options for you to reach and get around St. John island:
Hire a taxi
On St. John, the taxi service is well-organized and readily available. There is a taxi waiting area and a taxi dispatcher at popular locations like the ferry dock, Cinnamon Bay, and Trunk Bay.
You can request a taxi to come to pick you up from other places by calling. Taxis in St. John cost per person and by destination. Taxis do not use meters here. Take a taxi to get around St. John because there aren’t many places to park, especially at some smaller beaches and trailheads.
Rent a jeep
On St. John, renting a jeep is a popular option. Most car rental companies in St. John are located in Cruz Bay and are owned by locals.
There are numerous agencies from which you can choose. Because St. John is a mountainous area and various villas on the island have steep driveways and access roads, Jeeps are the most popular vehicle type.
Enjoy the island by hiking and trailing
Hiking is a great activity in St. John! The Virgin Islands National Park, which has more than 22 hiking trails, is located there. The island is covered in trails that range from easy to difficult hikes. However, the main roads on St. John need to be safer for pedestrians.
On the island, there aren’t many roads with sidewalks, and drivers aren’t used to sharing the road with other people. They do, however, slow down in the direction of donkeys and deer, frequent visitors to St. John. Therefore, they should slow down for people as well! However, make sure you stick to the side while walking.
Opt for a reliable ferry
There is a good chance that you will reach St. John by boat. The passenger ferry or the car barge from St. Thomas is the most popular way tourists get to St. John. Frequent and trusty passenger ferry service is available throughout the island.
Additionally, the car barges that transport vehicles and their occupants between St. Thomas and St. John are also reliable. There is no ferry service between St. John and Water Island and a limited one between St. John and St. Croix.
Experience a water taxi
Water taxis are available between the islands of St. John and St. Thomas for people looking for personal service. You can take a water taxi and enjoy your voyage while hopping on the islands.
Best Time to Visit St. John
The best time to visit St. John Island is from mid-December to April, which is considered the high season.
Considering that it is the most eventful time for tourists to visit the island, this time of year is sometimes called “tourist season.” Moreover, this is the time of year when temperatures are pleasant, and there is a lower chance of drizzling.
If you’re looking for the months with the lowest chance of rain, March, February, and June have less than one inch of rain or more. During this time, the daily temperature hovers around 76 degrees Fahrenheit, and it rains between 2 and 3 inches per month.
St. John Lodging Tips
One of the best places you can ever experience is St. John island. Below are the lodging tips that can help you make the most out of your trip:
- Pre-book your trip
As St. John is a popular tourist destination, reservations are recommended in advance to avoid disappointment. - Bear the location in mind
Choose whether you want to stay in Coral Bay or Cruz Bay, as the two locations provide distinct experiences. - Check the facilities
Check if the lodging has the amenities you want, like air conditioning or a kitchen. - Have a look at the reviews
To get a sense of the lodging’s reputation and quality, read previous customer reviews. - Select a reliable resource
Make reservations through a reputable rental company or website to guarantee a pleasant and secure stay.
“Experience paradise on St. John Island. Book your dream getaway now!“
Food and Shopping Tips While Traveling to St. John
Make the most out of your trip by eating flavorful and mouth watering food at St. John. Below is expert advice to make sure you enjoy every bite of your food.
- Try local foods like sample dishes made with tropical fruits, spices from the Caribbean, and fresh seafood.
- Go to the local markets at Cruz Bay or Coral Bay for souvenirs, spices, and locally made crafts.
- Don’t forget to stop by a food truck, as a number of food trucks in St. John serve tasty snacks at reasonable prices.
- If you want to taste the island’s cuisine and culture, try dining at a local restaurant.
- Specials on food and drinks are offered during happy hours at many eateries, so make sure you check for happy hours.
- Look for stands that sell fresh island-grown vegetables, fruits, and spices.
While traveling to St. John, you don’t want to leave without a local product or something that you can cherish later. Here are a few expert tips for you for shopping in St. John island:
- Shop at local markets and stores to support the local economy.
- Find one-of-a-kind souvenirs with a St. John’s theme, like jewelry, T-shirts, and handmade crafts.
- Considering it is a U.S. Virgin Island and offers duty-free shopping, St. John is an excellent location to purchase luxury goods.
- Stores are a good place to look for deals and discounts, especially during the off-season.
- Don’t be afraid to bargain over prices, especially at markets and street vendors.
- Rum, spices, and artisanal goods made on the island should be your top priorities.
Exotic Fauna to Spot on Saint John Island
St. John is home to many creatures. From birds to reptiles and marine life, the island has it all! Just make sure you are at the right time and the right place to spot nature’s beauty!
Sugar Bird
The bananaquit is a popular species of St. John island. These birds have yellow breasts and stripes all over their faces. These colourful birds will surely lighten your mood if you spot them.
Mongoose
Mongoose is yet another famous wildlife creature of St. John island. It was brought here in the 1800s to control the rat population, which was considered a huge failure later. This creature looks like a mix between a weasel and a squirrel.
White-tailed deer
The white-tailed deer, which was brought to St. John in the late 1700s, is part of the island’s wildlife. These adorable Bambis thrive in the U.S. Virgin Islands when they swim between the islands. Although they are more prevalent in the lush forests that cover St. John, you can see these creatures on the beach and in the ocean.
Iguana
Iguanas are common in St. John’s wildlife. They can be found all over the island! The specific species is the green iguana, which transforms into a variety of colours like a chameleon. During daylight hours, these massive lizards are active. They are vegetarians and can be seen basking on sun-drenched rocks, swimming in the ocean, or high in the trees.
Parrotfish
St. John is home to numerous species of this magnificent fish, including the incredible rainbow parrotfish. Not only are these fish beautiful, but they also make the sand white on St. John’s beaches. Parrotfish transform rock and coral into sand by grinding them with their teeth. Each year, a single parrotfish can produce approximately 200 pounds of sand.
“Explore the captivating wonders of St. John Island! Book your unforgettable adventure today and immerse yourself in thrilling tours and activities. Unleash your wanderlust in paradise!“
Popular Attractions in St. John
St. John is filled with beauty, stunning landscapes, and exotic wildlife. Every sight of this island is, indeed, a sight to behold.
Cinnamon bay
Swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like kayaking and windsurfing are just a few of the many recreational options available in Cinnamon bay, which is surrounded by lush trees.
Additionally, Cinnamon Bay is home to a number of eco-friendly camping grounds, making it possible to experience the island’s natural beauty sustainably. Cinnamon Bay requires a small entrance fee, but this money helps keep the beach and national park in good condition.
The Virgin Islands National park
On St. John Island in the U.S. Virgin Islands, you’ll find the Virgin Islands National Park. It covers more than two-thirds of the island and is well-known for its beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and lush vegetation. Iguanas, mongooses, and a wide variety of bird species are among the park’s many wildlife species.
The Annaberg Plantation, once a sugar plantation, and the Reef Bay Trail, which leads to Taino petroglyphs, are among the park’s other historic attractions. If you want to see St. John’s stunning natural beauty and extensive cultural history, you must visit the Virgin Islands National Park.
Trunk bay
If you want to relax and unwind on the shore of one of the most beautiful beaches ever, Trunk Bay is your way to go. Trunk Bay is surrounded by virgin islands national park’s lush vegetation and features stunning scenery, excellent snorkeling, and a substantial beach that you won’t want to leave.
The beauty of Trunk Bay is truly unparalleled. It’s easy to lose yourself in the scenery with the bright white sand and glistening turquoise sea. The beauty of Trunk Bay is certainly not a secret because it has attracted numerous visitors and publications over the years. But don’t worry; this beach is big enough to accommodate everyone who wants to get away for the day.
KEY TAKEAWAYS ...🛪
People who have visited the Caribbean know that Saint John is the prettiest island ever! This little island is like a tropical paradise known for its serene waters, palm trees, and tropical flowers.
The island is a complete package that has everything from lush vegetation to bewildering forests and exotic creatures. Pack your bags and plan your holiday gateway to Saint John to experience tropical heaven.
