Virgin Islands National Park: A Caribbean Gem
Discover St. John's natural beauty and history: pristine beaches, lush trails, and colonial ruins await in this Caribbean national park.
Virgin Islands National Park, encompassing most of St. John, is a stunning blend of pristine beaches, lush rainforest, and historical ruins. Established in 1956, it offers diverse activities from snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to hiking trails with panoramic views, preserving the island's natural and cultural heritage.
A brief summary to Virgin Islands National Park
- St John, VI
- +1340-776-6201
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early at popular beaches like Trunk Bay and Cinnamon Bay, as parking lots tend to fill up by mid-morning.
- Bring plenty of water and sun protection when hiking, especially during the hotter parts of the day.
- Consider taking a taxi or safari bus to get around the park, as parking is limited and roads can be steep and winding.
- Check the operating hours of the Cruz Bay Visitor Center for ranger programs, maps, and activity schedules.
- Be aware of the potential for strong currents and marine life when snorkeling or diving.
Getting There
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Ferry
The most common way to reach Virgin Islands National Park is by ferry from St. Thomas. From Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on St. Thomas, take a taxi to either Red Hook or Charlotte Amalie. Taxis are readily available at the airport. A taxi to Red Hook costs approximately $15-$20 and the ride is about 30 minutes. A taxi to Charlotte Amalie costs around $20-$25 and takes about 15 minutes. From Red Hook, the passenger ferry to Cruz Bay, St. John, departs hourly and costs $8.15 one way for adults, plus $4 per bag. The ride is approximately 20 minutes. From Charlotte Amalie, the passenger ferry to Cruz Bay has fewer departures and costs $13 one way for adults, plus $4 per bag. The journey takes about 45 minutes. Once in Cruz Bay, the Virgin Islands National Park Visitor Center is a short walk from the ferry dock.
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Taxi
From anywhere on St. John, taxis are a readily available way to reach the Virgin Islands National Park. Taxi stands are located in Cruz Bay and near popular destinations. Taxis on St. John do not have meters; instead, rates are per person and per destination. A taxi from Cruz Bay to Trunk Bay, a popular beach within the park, costs approximately $10-$15 per person. Confirm the rate with the driver before starting your trip. Private taxi or island tours can also be arranged, with rates negotiated directly with the driver. These offer a more personalized experience but are more expensive than shared taxis.
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Car Rental
If you are renting a car on St. Thomas, you can take a car barge from Red Hook to Cruz Bay. Car barge services operate daily and the trip takes approximately 30 minutes. Once on St. John, follow Centerline Road (Route 10) or North Shore Road (Route 20) to access various parts of the Virgin Islands National Park. Parking within the park is limited, especially at popular beaches, so arrive early. Parking is available near the Visitor Center, with a free permit required. Note: A new parking fee of $10 per day has been proposed for Caneel Bay.
Discover more about Virgin Islands National Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Little Thatch
5.6 km
Experience the tranquil beauty and adventure of Little Thatch, a hidden island paradise in the British Virgin Islands, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Lovango Cay, U.S. Virgin Islands
6.0 km
Unwind on Lovango Cay, a pristine island paradise in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where crystal-clear waters and stunning landscapes await your discovery.
Steele Point Estate
6.4 km
Discover the ultimate group getaway at Steele Point Estate, a luxurious retreat in the British Virgin Islands with breathtaking ocean views and top-notch amenities.
Omar's Fusion
6.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean at Omar's Fusion, a top restaurant in Soper's Hole, Tortola, known for its fresh seafood and live music.
VOYAGE Charters
6.9 km
Experience the beauty of the British Virgin Islands with luxury yacht rentals at VOYAGE Charters, your gateway to unforgettable sailing adventures.
Arawak West End
6.9 km
Discover unique island-inspired fashion at Arawak West End in Freshwater Pond, British Virgin Islands, where every piece reflects the vibrant local culture.
Pusser's Landing
6.9 km
Discover Pusser's Landing, a vibrant pub at Soper's Hole Marina, serving Caribbean cuisine and refreshing drinks with stunning waterfront views.
Soper's Hole Wharf & Marina
6.9 km
Experience the vibrant charm of Soper's Hole Wharf & Marina, where stunning views, delicious food, and unique shopping await in the British Virgin Islands.
DAY TRIPS BVI
6.9 km
Experience the best of the British Virgin Islands with unforgettable boat tours from DAY TRIPS BVI, exploring stunning beaches and vibrant marine life.
Omar's Coffee House
6.9 km
Discover Omar's Coffee House in Soper's Hole Marina for a delightful breakfast and brunch experience paired with stunning views in the British Virgin Islands.
West End Ferry Terminal
6.9 km
Discover the beauty of the British Virgin Islands from the West End Ferry Terminal, your gateway to island adventures and breathtaking coastal views.
villa del mar tortola
7.7 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views at Villa del Mar Tortola, your perfect Caribbean retreat in the British Virgin Islands.
Tortola
7.8 km
Explore the stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture of Tortola, the jewel of the British Virgin Islands, perfect for adventure and relaxation.
Smuggler's Cove
7.8 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Smuggler's Cove, a hidden beach paradise in the British Virgin Islands, ideal for relaxation and marine exploration.
Denzil Clyne Jeep & Car Rental - Tortola BVI
7.8 km
Discover Tortola's stunning landscapes and vibrant culture with Denzil Clyne Jeep & Car Rental in the British Virgin Islands.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cinnamon Bay Trail
0.6 km
Hike through history and nature on St. John's Cinnamon Bay Trail, exploring sugar plantation ruins and enjoying panoramic Caribbean views.
Cinnamon Bay Plantation Ruins
1.0 km
Explore the rich history of the Caribbean at Cinnamon Bay Plantation Ruins, where nature and heritage blend seamlessly in St. John, US Virgin Islands.
America Hill Great House Ruins
1.1 km
Discover the rich history and natural beauty of America Hill Great House Ruins in St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands, a captivating historical site surrounded by lush landscapes.
Catherineberg Estate Ruins
1.2 km
Explore the historic Catherineberg Estate Ruins in St. John, US Virgin Islands, where history meets breathtaking Caribbean vistas.
Cinnamon Bay Beach & Campground
1.2 km
Experience the beauty of Cinnamon Bay Beach & Campground, a tropical haven for relaxation and adventure in St. John, US Virgin Islands.
Cinnamon Bay Beach
1.3 km
Discover the stunning beauty and adventure at Cinnamon Bay Beach, a tropical paradise on St. John in the US Virgin Islands, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Petroglyphs
1.4 km
Explore the ancient Petroglyphs of St. John, where history and nature meet in a captivating archaeological site filled with rich cultural stories.
Maho Bay Beach
1.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of Maho Bay Beach in St. John, US Virgin Islands, with its soft sands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life.
Maho Bay
1.6 km
Discover Maho Bay, a breathtaking beach pavilion in St. John, US Virgin Islands, where adventure meets tranquility amidst stunning natural beauty.
Little Maho Bay
2.1 km
Explore Little Maho Bay: A pristine coastal haven in St. John, US Virgin Islands, perfect for relaxation, snorkeling, and breathtaking sunsets.
Trunk Beach
2.2 km
Discover Trunk Beach, a stunning Caribbean paradise on St. John with pristine sands, vibrant reefs, and serene views, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Trunk Bay
2.2 km
Discover Trunk Bay, a pristine beach in the US Virgin Islands, known for its soft white sands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life perfect for snorkeling.
Coral Reef Underwater Park Trail
2.2 km
Explore the vibrant marine life at Coral Reef Underwater Park Trail, a snorkeling and diving paradise in St. John, US Virgin Islands.
Reef Bay Sugar Mill Ruins
2.3 km
Explore the Reef Bay Sugar Mill Ruins, a captivating historical site showcasing the rich sugar plantation heritage of St. John, US Virgin Islands.
Trunk Cay, United States Virgin Islands
2.4 km
Discover an underwater paradise at Trunk Cay, St. John: Snorkeling trails, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life await!
Essential places to dine
Ekaete Pink Corner
3.8 km
Discover the flavors of the Caribbean at Ekaete Pink Corner in Coral Bay - a delightful restaurant serving authentic dishes with stunning views.
Lime Out VI
4.0 km
Discover unforgettable flavors at Lime Out VI, a premier restaurant in Coral Bay offering fresh seafood and stunning ocean views.
Patricias Beach Bar
7.6 km
Discover culinary delights at Patricias Beach Bar - a tropical grill haven in the heart of the British Virgin Islands.
1748 Restaurant
8.9 km
Experience exquisite Caribbean cuisine with stunning views at 1748 Restaurant in Long Bay, British Virgin Islands.
Tropical Fusion Beach Bar And Grill
9.0 km
Experience tropical flavors and breathtaking views at Tropical Fusion Beach Bar And Grill in Long Bay - a culinary gem in the British Virgin Islands.
Nardie's Beach Bar
9.4 km
Experience tropical bliss at Nardie's Beach Bar in Tortola - where delicious cuisine meets stunning ocean views.
La Flaca
9.4 km
Discover La Flaca: A charming fast food gem in Freshwater Pond serving delicious local flavors and international favorites amidst stunning island scenery.
Tramonti Restaurant
10.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Tramonti Restaurant in the British Virgin Islands—where flavor meets paradise.
Harris' Place
10.7 km
Discover authentic Caribbean flavors at Harris' Place in Jost Van Dyke—where every meal is a celebration of local culture and cuisine.
Sidney's Peace & Love
10.8 km
Discover Sidney's Peace & Love: A charming family-run restaurant in the British Virgin Islands offering fresh local cuisine in an inviting atmosphere.
Alice's Restaurant
11.0 km
Discover Alice's Restaurant: A vibrant dining experience in Jost Van Dyke offering Caribbean flavors and breathtaking views.
Abes By The Sea Restaurant & Bar
11.0 km
Experience exquisite Caribbean flavors with stunning ocean views at Abes By The Sea on Jost Van Dyke.
D'CoalPot BVI Restaurant Bar & Grill
11.0 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors at D'CoalPot BVI Restaurant Bar & Grill in Tortola - where every meal is a celebration.
North Shore Shell Museum & Restaurant
11.2 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors at North Shore Shell Museum & Restaurant - where culinary excellence meets island charm.
Claude’s Big Stop Restaurant & Bar
11.2 km
Discover authentic Caribbean flavors at Claude's Big Stop Restaurant & Bar in Belle Vue - a true gem for food enthusiasts visiting the British Virgin Islands.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
VI National Park Store
4.7 km
Shop for unique souvenirs and support conservation efforts at the charming VI National Park Store in St. John.
Riteway Harbour Market
6.8 km
Experience the vibrant local flavors and fresh produce at Riteway Harbour Market in Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands.
BVI Island Surf and Sail
6.9 km
Experience the thrill of water sports at BVI Island Surf and Sail in the breathtaking British Virgin Islands, where adventure meets paradise.
Harbor Market
7.0 km
Discover local flavors and essential supplies at Harbor Market in Soper's Hole, your go-to supermarket in the British Virgin Islands.
Pink House Villas
10.9 km
Experience luxury and tranquility at Pink House Villas, your perfect Caribbean getaway in the British Virgin Islands.
Ivan’s Stress Free Bar, Villas & Beach Bungalows
11.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and stunning beach views at Ivan’s Stress Free Bar, Villas & Beach Bungalows in the British Virgin Islands.
BVI Adenture
11.2 km
Explore the best sporting goods in the British Virgin Islands at BVI Adventure, your one-stop shop for outdoor gear and equipment.
Hendo's Hideout
11.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing drinks at Hendo's Hideout in the beautiful British Virgin Islands, your ultimate tropical getaway.
Sugar & Spice Snack Bar
11.2 km
Experience the taste of the Caribbean at Sugar & Spice Snack Bar in Belle Vue, offering a delightful grill menu with stunning coastal views.
Gertrude’s Beach Bar and Grill
11.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean at Gertrude’s Beach Bar and Grill, where stunning views meet delicious grilled delights.
Soggy Dollar Bar
11.2 km
Experience the essence of Caribbean paradise at Soggy Dollar Bar on Jost Van Dyke, where vibrant cocktails and stunning ocean views await.
Coco Loco
11.2 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Coco Loco, the ultimate beach bar in the British Virgin Islands offering stunning views and refreshing drinks.
Foxy's Giftshop
11.2 km
Explore the vibrant culture of the British Virgin Islands at Foxy's Giftshop, where unique souvenirs and delicious Caribbean cuisine await.
Foxy's, Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands
11.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and Caribbean culture at Foxy's, the quintessential beachfront bar in Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands.
JVD Grocery
11.3 km
Explore JVD Grocery in Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke for an unforgettable shopping experience with local flavors and essentials.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Windmill Bar
2.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and relaxing ambiance of The Windmill Bar in Cruz Bay, a perfect stop for grill lovers and tropical drink enthusiasts alike.
West End
6.3 km
Explore the natural beauty and vibrant culture of West End, a serene peninsula in the British Virgin Islands perfect for beach lovers and adventure seekers.
Admiral's Bar
7.0 km
Experience the lively spirit of Admiral's Bar in the British Virgin Islands, where exceptional drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.
Nigel’s Boom Boom Beach Bar & Grill
7.6 km
Discover the vibrant taste of the British Virgin Islands at Nigel’s Boom Boom Beach Bar & Grill, where delicious food and stunning views await.
Coco Locos
10.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Coco Locos Beach Bar in White Bay, British Virgin Islands, where refreshing cocktails meet stunning ocean views.
