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8 Best Things to do in Saint John

8 Best Things to do in Saint John

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Planning a trip to Saint John in the U.S. Virgin Islands? You’ve come to the experts!

From exploring pristine beaches and hiking lush trails to sailing around the island, the tropical paradise of Saint John truly has something for everyone. 

After enjoying Saint John’s natural gems for ourselves, we’ve put together a list of the top 8 activities that the island has to offer. This place is a true bucket list destination, so if you’re lucky enough to visit, then you’ll want to get it right! We created memories to last a lifetime on this incredible island, and our insider guide will help you to do the same. Let’s go!

Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!

A-huge-turtle-swims-through-the-water-on-a-tour-from-Saint John

The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!

Our personal FAVORITE Saint John experience was this sailing around the island trip! We stopped at multiple places to snorkel, including with turtles and at a shipwreck, ate at the famous taco boat, and relaxed in the blue Caribbean waters.

Check out the 650+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!

Things to do in Saint John

1. Go kayaking at night

Night-Kayak-a-turtle-seen-at-night-from-a-kayak-on-a-tour-in-Saint John Virgin-Islands
We saw a turtle! Photo credit: Night Kayak
Night-Kayak-a-manta-ray-seen-at-night-from-a-kayak-on-a-tour-in-Saint John-Virgin-Islands
And manta rays! Photo credit: Night Kayak
  • Duration: 50 minutes 
  • Time: 7 pm or 8:30 pm 
  • Highlights: Paddling under the stars in a clear-bottomed kayak, seeing nocturnal marine life, decorating yourself with glow paint, commentary from an expert guide, friendly small-group tour 
  • Inclusions: Use of kayak and paddles, skin safe glow paint, expert guide, life jacket 
  • Rating: 4.7 stars (check 900+ reviews here)
  • Freecancellation: Yes 
  • Price: Check the price here!

We always love finding unique, one-of-a-kind adventures, and this night kayaking tour is the perfect way to experience the island. I mean, you could head to a bar in the evening, or you could cover yourself in glow paint and explore a nocturnal underwater world in a clear-bottom kayak. I know which one I’d choose! 

And honestly, the clear-bottom kayaks really took the experience to the next level. We could see the marine life glowing beneath our vessel as we glided through the water. We got to see everything from stingrays to prehistoric tarpons, which are huge, by the way! In fact, our guide told us that they can grow to be up to 8 ft (2.4 meters) long. 

At one point, a fish even jumped into our kayak! Our guide, Bernard, told us that it’s a sign of good luck for the year ahead. We hoped he was right because things actually got a little spooky as we paddled into a murkier section of the water – but in a fun way.

The hour flew by ,and Bernard was such a phenomenal guide. He shared lots of insights about the wildlife with us, helped out with photos, and made sure that everyone in our group felt comfortable and safe. 

We would do this tour again in a heartbeat, so don’t miss it if you’re in Saint John. It’s an unforgettable way to see the island! 

2. Visit The Baths rock formation and White Bay

Bath Rock seen on a tour from Saint John
The iconic Bath Rock
Beach near Bath Rock on a tour from Saint John
You can’t beat these views!
  • Duration: 9 hours 
  • Time: 7:30 am 
  • Highlights: Guided tour of The Baths, hiking through Devil’s Bay National Park, visiting White Bay Beach, avoiding the crowds, learning about local history and culture, enjoying unlimited drinks onboard, snorkeling, swimming, sunbathing 
  • Inclusions: Pickup and drop-off in Cruz Bay or Saint Thomas, boat transport, captain, mate, fuel, snorkel gear, light snacks, open bar on the boat 
  • Rating: 4.9 stars (check 400+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: No
  • Price: Check the price here!

Saint John is one of the US Virgin Islands, but you can easily hop on a boat and explore the British Virgin Islands (BVI) while you’re nearby! We’re so glad that we did this full-day tour because it allowed us to discover two of the most iconic destinations in the Caribbean: The Baths and White Bay Beach. Trust me, you don’t want to leave Saint John without experiencing these BVI gems firsthand! 

After we arrived on Virgin Gorda, we took a guided hike through The Baths, where massive boulders create hidden grottos and stunning pools. Our guide, Lacy, took us off the beaten path and showed us some pristine beauty spots. We even hiked past Devil’s Bay and had time for a quick swim in the clear, turquoise waters. 

Next, we cruised to White Bay on Jost Van Dyke, which is famous for its powdery white sand and laid back vibe. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches we have ever seen, and we couldn’t resist the chance to grab Painkillers at the Soggy Dollar Bar. Drinks onshore were on our own account, but the prices were reasonable.

This tour epitomizes everything that a vacation to the Virgin Islands should be about, and we cannot recommend it enough. Just remember that since it’s an international excursion, you’ll need to bring your passport and some cash for customs fees. Don’t worry: the stunning scenery and unbeatable island vibes definitely make it worth it!

3. Sail around the entire island 

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We went to some amazing swimming spots
Bailey-snorkeling-on-a-tour-in-Saint John
We saw so many cool fish snorkeling!
  • Duration: 8 hours 
  • Time: 9 am 
  • Highlights: Sailing along the North Shore, two snorkeling sessions, visiting a floating taco bar for lunch, complimentary drinks on board the boat, pizza delivered to the boat 
  • Inclusions: Harbor pickup, boat transport, captain and first mate, alcoholic drinks, pizza snack
  • Rating: 4.9 stars (check 675+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: No 
  • Price: Check the price here!

The best way to experience the beauty of Saint John is by sailing around the island, which is why this full-day tour is our favorite way to explore. From start to finish, this tour delivered a dreamy day out on the water, replete with breathtaking views, vibrant marine life, and some of the best tacos we have ever tasted.

We left Saint John’s Bay at 9 am, and from there, we sailed along the stunning North Shore, soaking in the turquoise waters and lush green hills along the way. The first snorkeling stop of the day was absolutely incredible. We swam alongside sea turtles, stingrays, and schools of colorful fish in the crystal clear water. It was epic!

Next, we headed to Lime Out for lunch, which is a famous floating taco bar. Honestly, tacos really do taste better when you’re floating on a raft in the Caribbean Sea! The vibe here was lively and fun, with music playing and everyone enjoying the laid-back atmosphere.

After lunch, we went snorkeling for a second time at a shipwreck site. Exploring the wreck was so exciting, and we saw a lot of fish darting in and out of the coral. Then, back on board, the crew kept the drinks flowing and ensured that everyone had a great end to the tour. 

If we had to describe our ideal day in the Caribbean, this tour would be it. It sums up everything that we love about Saint John, so don’t hesitate to book! 

4. Enjoy a sunset sail with champagne

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Cheers!
Sunset-seen-from-a-sunset-cruise-in-Saint John-Virgin-Islands
What a sunset
  • Duration: 1.5 hours 
  • Time: 5:30 pm
  • Highlights: Sailing out to the Pillsbury Sound, beautiful sunset, relaxing on board a comfortable 55-foot catamaran, enjoying champagne and hors d’oeuvres 
  • Inclusions: Catamaran ride, champagne and snacks, full open bar, all taxes and fees 
  • Rating: 4.8 stars (check 230+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check the price here!

How dreamy does sailing into a Caribbean sunset with a glass of champagne in hand sound? Well, that became a reality for us when we booked this epic sunset cruise!

We set sail from the Westin aboard a gorgeous 55-foot catamaran. The crew was warm and welcoming, and they made sure that everyone felt comfortable and taken care of throughout the experience.

Oh, and of course, the open bar was a highlight! The wide range of drinks on offer definitely helped to keep the festive vibe going, and the accompanying hors d’oeuvres were fresh and delicious.

The views of Pillsbury Sound at sunset were absolutely breathtaking. The sky moved through a stunning range of oranges, pinks, and purples, and all of these colors were reflected in the calm waters. The crew added to the charm by sharing stories and making sure that everyone got the best view of the sunset, even if it meant moving around the boat. 

This tour is super popular, for good reason. If you’re considering it, we strongly suggest that you book it now. You don’t want to miss out on this incredible blend of luxury, hospitality, and natural beauty. It’s worth every penny and then some! 

Why We Book Tours with Viator

Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:

  • Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
  • Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
  • Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
  • Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
  • Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.

Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.

5. Learn about Saint John on a private island tour

Trunk Bay seen on a tour from Saint John
Trunk Bay offered some amazing views!
Ruins in Annaberg sugar plantation on a tour from Saint John
The ruins of Annaberg sugar plantation
  • Duration: 2.5 hours 
  • Time: 8:30 am – 10 am 
  • Highlights: Customizable experience, learning about the island’s culture and ecology, Oppenheimer Beach, Hawksnest Beach, Annaberg Sugar Plantation, Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay
  • Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, local guide, private driver, bottled water
  • Rating: 5 stars (check 250+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes 
  • Price: Check prices here!

We think that this private, customizable tour is the perfect way to kick off your Saint John vacation!

It’s a great way to get acquainted with the island, and seeing the highlights through a local’s eyes really makes all of the difference. We learned so much about the history and culture and got to see hidden gems that we otherwise might have missed.

Our guide, Ron, was incredible! He tailored the tour to our preferences and was happy to freestyle. At our request, he took us to some lesser-known spots along with iconic locations like Trunk Bay and Cinnamon Bay. He also shared fascinating stories about island life and gave us lots of insider tips about the best beach bars and restaurants to check out during our stay in Saint John.

We made a history stop at the Annaberg Sugar Plantation, which proved to be a real highlight of our tour. Standing among the ruins and gazing out at the neighboring islands was truly awe-inspiring! 

So whether you want to focus on beaches, history, stunning scenery, or all three, this tour is the perfect way to explore Saint John. The flexibility of this tour allowed us to experience the island in a way that felt uniquely ours, and it set us up nicely for the rest of our time here.

6. Go hiking and snorkeling at Honeymoon Beach 

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Stopping to admire the view!
Bailey snorkels with colorful fish in Saint John
The snorkeling was fantastic
  • Duration: 3 hours 
  • Time: 9 am 
  • Highlights: Hiking along the Lind Point trail, guided snorkeling session at Honeymoon Beach, learning about local flora and fauna, small group tour
  • Inclusions: Local guide, guided hike, snorkeling gear 
  • Rating: 4.8 stars (check reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check prices here!

If you’re looking to get off the beaten track and experience the raw, natural beauty of Saint John, then this guided hiking and snorkel tour is perfect. It was an unforgettable mix of adventure, education, and stunning scenery. In short, we think it’s one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the magic of Saint John! 

We met our guide, CJ, near the National Park Visitor Center, and he instantly made us feel welcome. The hike along the Lind Point Trail was incredible, with lush greenery and sweeping views that made every step worthwhile. Along the way, CJ shared fascinating stories about the island’s history, ecology, and what it’s like actually to live here in the Virgin Islands. We even got lucky and found a Caribbean hermit crab!

The white sand and turquoise waters of Honeymoon Beach were the perfect reward for the hike, and the snorkeling was out of this world. We swam alongside vibrant coral and colorful fish and even spotted two sea turtles! CJ snorkeled with us and was really helpful in ensuring that we got to see as much marine life as possible before we hiked back. 

This entire experience felt so wholesome and well-rounded. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just want a taste of Saint John’s natural beauty, this tour is a fantastic way to make the most of your time here. You don’t want to miss this one!

7. Visit Jost Van Dyke Island on a morning sail

Bailey-sits-ont-he-side-rail-of-the-Catamaran-soaking-up-the-views-and-sun-on-a-tour-from-Saint John
I’ll never turn down the chance to get on a boat!
White Bay Beach, Jost Van Dyke seen on a tour from Saint John
White Bay Beach on Jost Van Dyke Island
  • Duration: 8 hours 
  • Time: 8 am 
  • Highlights: Sailing on a 55 foot catamaran, snorkeling on the  North Shore of Saint John, visiting White Bay, visiting the famous Soggy Dollar Bar, playing Ring Toss on the beach, free time to relax, happy hour on board on the return journey to Saint John
  • Inclusions: Catamaran ride, light continental breakfast, customs fees, use of snorkeling equipment, happy hour open bar 
  • Rating: 4.8 stars (check 100+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: Yes 
  • Price: Check the price here!

This sailing tour to Jost Van Dyke is hands down one of the best experiences we’ve had in the Virgin Islands! It was such a special day thanks to the gorgeous scenery, amazing crew, and visit to the legendary Soggy Dollar Bar. 

As soon as we boarded the spacious catamaran, we knew that we were in for a special day. We enjoyed a light breakfast on board as we cruised along Saint John’s gorgeous North Shore, taking in the stunning views. Then, our first snorkel stop was incredible. We had a blast swimming through the crystal clear waters and spotting fascinating tropical fish.

After snorkeling, we continued on to the Great Harbour to clear customs, so remember to bring your passport! Then, it was a short ride to White Bay, where we headed to the iconic Soggy Dollar Bar. We sipped on their signature Painkiller cocktails while lounging in hammocks and even played Ring Toss on the beach. It was so much fun!

The journey back to Saint John was just as much fun as there was a lively happy hour on board. We took full advantage of the open bar as we enjoyed yet more epic scenery and reflected on an incredible day.

If you want to immerse yourself in the beauty truly and laid back charm of the Virgin Islands, this tour is an absolute must! From snorkeling vibrant coral reefs to basking on one of the most breathtaking beaches in the world, every moment felt like a dream. 

8. Book a private charter and customize your day of exploring

A-large-turtle-swims-to-the-surface-while-snorkeling-off of Saint John
This sea turtle swam right up next to me!
Lime Out VI floating taco bar visited on a tour from Saint John
The tacos at the floating Lime Out bar were amazing! Photo credit: Lime Out VI
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Time: 8:45 am 
  • Highlights: Private boat charter, personalized itinerary, opportunities for beach hopping and snorkeling, chance to bring your own drinks and play your own music, swimming with turtles in Maho Bay, visiting the floating Lime Out restaurant, seeing NASA’s underwater research laboratory
  • Inclusions: Private boat, captain and crew, cooler box stocked with ice and water, Bluetooth speaker, use of snorkeling equipment, ladder and swim platform 
  • Rating: 5 stars (check 550+ reviews here)
  • Free Cancellation: Yes
  • Price: Check the price here!

If you’re looking for the ultimate luxury experience in the US Virgin Islands, this private boat charter is a dream come true. We felt like VIPs, and every detail was designed to make the day unforgettable. This is the perfect experience for families or groups of friends looking to share an adventure! 

What we loved about this tour was that we had the freedom to customize our itinerary! Our captain was knowledgeable and super attentive. He listened to everything we wanted to do and ensured we got to go snorkeling at secluded reefs, swim alongside sea turtles at Maho Bay, and learn some fascinating local history at Tektite, NASA’s underwater research station.

Another highlight of the day was floating up to Lime Out VI, where we indulged in fresh tacos and craft cocktails while soaking in the turquoise waters. Talk about surreal! 

The boat itself was spotless and spacious, not to mention stocked with everything we needed. We could play our own tunes on the Bluetooth speaker, use the snorkeling gear, and stop for a swim whenever we felt like it. 

This tour is a splurge, but hey, you come to Saint John’s to treat yourself! For us, it was worth every penny, and we can’t wait to book it again.

Where to Stay in Saint John

Westin St. John Resort & Villas, U.S. Virgin Islands in Saint John
Photo credit: Westin St. John Resort & Villas

We were surprised to learn that there are few hotels in Saint John, as the entire island is only 7 miles across! Many of the accommodations are privately owned and rented out. If you have a large budget, there are a few good options, but if you are trying to keep costs down, you might struggle to find a suitable place to stay. Here are a few recommendations for where to stay in Saint John:

Gallows Point Resort – $$$

Gallows Point Resort is a true slice of paradise! Situated on Cruz Bay, you can enjoy ocean views from all over the resort – even from the pool. They offer suite style rooms that can fit up to five people, as well as family style rooms. It’s close to the best bars and restaurants in Cruz Bay, as well as Saint John’s best activities.

Rooms go for about $900 to $1,000 USD per night and sell out quickly, so don’t wait to book your stay on Booking.com.

The Westin – $$

The Westin St. John Resort Villas are probably the most popular place to stay in Saint John. Located right on Cruz Bay, you’ll be near Saint John’s top sights and can enjoy the private beach at the resort. This is also one of the more budget friendly options, as they are condo style rooms and can accommodate four or more people. You’ll also have access to the luxury pool, onsite restaurants, and airport shuttle.

Prices start around $400 USD per night and can be booked on Booking.com.

Coconut Breeze Villa – $$

On the other side of the island, the Coconut Breeze Villa offers full, private houses. This is ideal if you’re traveling with a bigger group, as you can get two or three bedroom houses with a private pool, full kitchen, and gorgeous sea views. 

It must be booked for a minimum of 5 nights, which is priced at around $4,100+ USD per night. But it can accommodate a larger group, which helps split up the cost!

Check prices and book this private house here on Booking.com.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.

SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.

SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.

Book your travel insurance with SafetyWing here!

Thanks for reading!

Daniel-and-Bailey-take-a-selfie-on-a-catamaran-cruise-in-Saint John
Thanks for reading!

Saint John was on my travel bucket list for years, and I’m happy to report that it lived up to the hype! If you’re looking for a place to chill out and truly enjoy island life, this is the place to go. There are tons more things to do here, but these top activities will show you the best of Saint John!

Before you take off, check out our other travel blogs! We’ve been all over the world and love sharing our favorite places and experiences with readers. Here are a few blogs that will be helpful as you plan your next adventure – cheers!

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