St John, Necker Island Travel Guide

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Discover St. John, USVI: Pristine beaches, national park adventures, and a tranquil Caribbean escape await in this Virgin Islands paradise.

St. John, the smallest of the main US Virgin Islands, is a Caribbean gem renowned for its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and the Virgin Islands National Park, which encompasses over two-thirds of the island. A true nature lover's escape.

A brief summary to St John

St John, VI

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring St John.

Bring cash, as many taxis and smaller establishments operate on a cash-only basis.
Rent a Jeep for exploring the island's hilly terrain and accessing remote beaches.
Pack sunscreen and bug spray to protect yourself from the Caribbean sun and insects.
Watch the ferry schedule if you are day-tripping from St. Thomas.
Arrive early to popular beaches like Trunk Bay, as parking fills up quickly.

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Explore St John on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near St John, mapped for you.

Getting There

Ferry

The most common way to reach St. John is by ferry from St. Thomas. From Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on St. Thomas, take a taxi to either the Charlotte Amalie Ferry Terminal or the Red Hook Ferry Terminal. Taxis from the airport to Red Hook cost approximately $15 per person plus $3 per bag. The ferry from Charlotte Amalie to Cruz Bay, St. John costs $12 per person and takes about 45 minutes. The ferry from Red Hook to Cruz Bay costs $8.15 per person and the ride is approximately 20 minutes. Upon arrival in Cruz Bay, taxis are readily available to take you to your final destination.
Taxi

Once on St. John, taxis are a primary mode of transport. Open-air taxis are common and operate along the North Shore Road, providing access to popular beaches. Taxi rates are fixed per person based on destination, so confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. As an example, taxi from Cruz Bay to Trunk Bay is around $10-$15 per person. Keep in mind that taxis are often cash-only.
Car Rental

If you prefer to explore the island at your own pace, consider renting a car, ideally a Jeep due to the terrain. Several car rental agencies are located in Cruz Bay. Be aware that parking in Cruz Bay can be challenging, especially during peak season. Paid parking lots are available, such as L&L Jeep Rental, Slim Man's, and Wharfside Village, with rates varying. Free parking can be found at the National Park Visitor Center (limited availability) and Mongoose Junction (for customers). Remember to drive on the left side of the road.

Discover more about St John

St. John, a captivating island in the US Virgin Islands, offers an unparalleled Caribbean experience. Unlike its neighbors, St. John remains blissfully low-key, with no airport or cruise-ship docks, preserving its tranquil atmosphere. The island's history is rich, from its early settlement by the Arawak Indians to its time as a Danish colony and its eventual purchase by the United States.Today, St. John is a haven for nature enthusiasts, with over two-thirds of its land protected as part of the Virgin Islands National Park. This allows for exploration of stunning beaches like Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, and Maho Bay, each offering unique snorkeling and swimming opportunities. Beyond the beaches, the park boasts dozens of hiking trails that wind through lush hillsides, leading to breathtaking overlooks and historic plantation ruins.The island's cultural heritage is also evident in the remnants of sugar plantations, such as the Annaberg Sugar Plantation, which provide a glimpse into St. John's past. These ruins stand as silent reminders of the island's complex history, marked by both prosperity and the exploitation of enslaved people. Exploring these sites offers a deeper understanding of St. John's unique character and the resilience of its people.Whether you seek relaxation on pristine beaches, adventure in the national park, or a connection to the island's history, St. John promises an unforgettable escape.