A tiny but mighty island enveloped by the Caribbean Sea: Our St John travel guide

With its breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant culture and rich history, this little patch of paradise is sure to capture your heart. The smallest of the US Virgin Islands, you’ll find some of the world’s most beautiful beaches scattered along the coastline of St John - ideal for anyone craving a dose of Vitamin Sea.

Beaches, bars & boutiques - jump straight into St John​

With two-thirds of the island reserved as a national park, you’ll feel yourself instantly relaxing amidst the lush, unspoiled landscape, leaving the worries of everyday life far behind. Welcome to island life.

Experience St John’s ​breathtaking beaches

Although the isle may be petite, the shores of St John are world-famous. Framed by palm fronds gently waving in the breeze, these serene beaches are visions of warm white sand stretching out into crystalline waters and cerulean skies. Many of our St John vacation rentals are set steps away from the sand, so you can simply stroll down and soak up the sunshine in no time at all.

Mermaid’s Chair Beach

If you’re looking for somewhere more off the beaten track, then Mermaid’s Chair Beach is a great option. This little gem of a beach is harder to reach than some of the other more popular spots, but those who are willing to swim, snorkel or kayak over from the east side of Hawksnest Bay will be rewarded by their own tiny but private pocket of paradise.

Explore the island’s most dazzling destinations

Obviously, a relaxing beach day has to be on the cards during your time on St John, however there’s also plenty to do for those craving a little more action. The island boasts a wealth of hiking trails, scuba diving spots and exhilarating watersports - ideal for those wishing to explore the lush natural beauty of the area. Meanwhile, culture vultures will adore discovering the island’s vibrant arts & crafts scene and any keen foodies in the group will want to tuck straight into the delicious local cuisine. Awash with endless beauty and flavour, everyone will find something they love on this tiny island paradise.

Discover the delights of Cruz Bay and Coral Bay

As well as outdoor activities, you’ll also find plenty of opportunities for retail therapy on St John. The island’s two main towns, Cruz Bay and Coral Bay, are bursting with stores, shacks and stalls selling bright tropical clothing, handmade jewellery and an array of local arts and crafts. What’s more, the quaint buildings and bustling harbour fronts make these towns the perfect places for a spot of people-watching. When you’re done with shopping, spend the rest of your afternoon sipping on rum-based cocktails and watching the world go by.

Uncover the historic ruins of the Cinnamon Bay Plantation

Cinnamon Bay isn’t just renowned for its glorious white sand beach. Less than a mile from the coast lies the historic Cinnamon Bay Plantation - a 300-acre property in which archaeological digs have uncovered activity from indigenous Taíno peoples, dating all the way back to 2000 BC. The ruins that still stand on the grounds today are the bare bones of the sugar plantation buildings, used during the 18th century.

Find your own slice of secluded paradise

We’re certain that your St John villa rental will provide all the peace and seclusion you need. But, if you feel like doing a little island exploration, here are some of St John’s most tranquil spots where you can truly appreciate the wild and wonderful beauty of the Caribbean.

Explore the island’s dense forest along the Reef Bay Trail

For a change of scenery, head a little further inland from the coast and discover the island’s wild, forested heart. The Reef Bay Trail is one of the most scenic hiking routes on St John, winding through dense forests with crashing waterfalls, plantation ruins, and ancient Taíno petroglyph carvings. You’ll eventually end up on the golden sands of Reef Bay Beach, where you can rest up before making an easygoing journey back to your villa.

Where to Eat & Drink in St John

Thanks to its rich cultural heritage, the island of St John is full of fresh local flavours. Feast on succulent seafood, fresh from the boats that day, or fill up on barbecued chicken, served with spicy rice and beans and a side of grilled plantain. Whatever your tastes, you're sure to discover a new favourite dish on St John.

La Tapa Plage

If you are seeking to enjoy an oceanside view paired with a round of mouth-watering contemporary Mediterranean tapas, La Tapa Plage provides the ideal warm ambiance for a fabulous and flavourful meal.

The Tap Room

If you prefer beers and a low-key brewpub vibe, then you’ll find a fantastic selection of local craft beer in The Tap Room by St John Brewers, also in Cruz Bay. The easygoing, relaxed atmosphere of this friendly pub makes it a great spot for evening drinks - and, if you start to feel peckish, there’s a great pub-style menu to browse.