Virgin Islands National Park: A Caribbean Gem
Discover pristine beaches, lush forests, and historical ruins in this Caribbean paradise. Explore the natural and cultural wonders of St. John.
Virgin Islands National Park, encompassing roughly two-thirds of St. John, is a stunning blend of pristine beaches, lush forests, and vibrant marine ecosystems. Established in 1956, the park offers a unique opportunity to explore historical ruins, hike scenic trails, and discover the natural beauty of the Caribbean.
A brief summary to Virgin Islands National Park
- St John, VI
- +1340-776-6201
- Visit website
Local tips
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, as the Caribbean sun can be intense.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking, as the terrain can be steep and uneven.
- Snorkel at Trunk Bay to experience the underwater trail and vibrant coral reefs.
- Visit the Annaberg Plantation ruins to learn about the island's history.
- Take a taxi or rent a car to explore the park's many beaches and trails.
Getting There
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Ferry
To reach Virgin Islands National Park, fly into Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on St. Thomas. From the airport, take a taxi to either the Red Hook or Charlotte Amalie ferry dock. The Red Hook ferry is more frequent (approximately hourly) and takes about 20 minutes to Cruz Bay, St. John. The Charlotte Amalie ferry runs less often and takes about 45 minutes. Ferry tickets cost a few dollars per person each way. From Cruz Bay, taxis and safari buses are readily available to access various points within the national park. Taxi rates are fixed per person based on destination. For example, a taxi to Trunk Bay or Cinnamon Bay might cost $8-$10 per person.
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Public Transport
From Cruz Bay, the Vitran bus system provides public transportation along Centerline Road, connecting Cruz Bay with Coral Bay and Salt Pond Bay. The bus runs approximately once an hour. The fare is around $1 per adult. However, the bus schedule can be unreliable, so it's best to allow for extra time.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available at the Cruz Bay ferry dock and can take you to various locations within the national park. Taxis on St. John are typically shared safari trucks or vans with fixed rates per person based on the destination. A taxi from Cruz Bay to Trunk Bay might cost around $8-$10 per person. Confirm the rate with the driver before starting your trip.
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
Step back in time at Cinnamon Bay Plantation Ruins, exploring St. John's captivating history and the echoes of its sugar plantation era.
America Hill Great House Ruins
1.1 km
Discover St. John's history at America Hill Great House Ruins, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's colonial past.
Catherineberg Estate Ruins
1.2 km
Explore the historic Catherineberg Estate Ruins in St. John, offering a glimpse into the island's colonial past and stunning Caribbean views.
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
Discover ancient Taíno carvings, sugar mill ruins, and a pristine beach on St. John's iconic Reef Bay Trail in Virgin Islands National Park.
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 St. John's Coral Reef Underwater Park Trail: a mesmerizing snorkeling adventure in a vibrant, protected marine ecosystem.
Reef Bay Sugar Mill Ruins
2.3 km
Discover St. John's history at the Reef Bay Sugar Mill Ruins, a preserved landmark offering a glimpse into the island's plantation past within a stunning natural setting.
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.
