Attractions & Sightseeing: St John

Iconic Landmarks

These sites showcase the island's unique blend of natural beauty and profound history.

Visitor Information: Virgin Islands National Park Visitor Center in Cruz Bay operates daily (check specific hours). No general entrance fee to most park land or beaches. Trunk Bay has a nominal entrance fee ($5 ages 16+) for facilities. Annaberg Plantation is free.

Attractions

Virgin Islands National Park: This park covers approximately 60% of St. John's land area and 5,600 acres of its submerged lands. It preserves the island's unique natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and historical resources.
Trunk Bay: Often ranked among the world's most beautiful beaches, Trunk Bay is celebrated for its clear turquoise waters, soft white sand, and a distinctive offshore cay. It features an underwater self-guided snorkel trail.
Annaberg Plantation: These well-preserved ruins of a former Danish sugar plantation offer a stark and powerful glimpse into the island's colonial past. The site illustrates the process of sugar production and the profound impact of enslaved labor.
Park rangers sometimes offer demonstrations of traditional sugar or bread-making at Annaberg.

Viewing & Photography Tips

Trunk Bay & Beaches

Arrive early (before 9 AM) or late in the afternoon (after 3 PM) to avoid the largest crowds, especially on days when cruise ships are docked on St. Thomas.
The morning light often creates the best conditions for photography, illuminating the water's clarity.
To find less crowded spots, visit North Shore beaches (Hawksnest, Cinnamon, Maho) early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
For truly secluded experiences, explore the South Shore beaches (e.g., Salt Pond, Lameshur Bay) which often take more effort to reach (longer hikes or a bumpy drive).
Drive or hike along Centerline Road (Route 10) for panoramic views of the island's interior and south shore.
The summit of the Ram Head Trail has dramatic ocean views, especially at sunrise. Peace Hill creates an accessible viewpoint over Denis Bay and Trunk Bay.

Annaberg Plantation

Visit during the cooler morning hours for a comfortable exploration.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the ruins can be uneven.
The site presents a self-guided tour with informative signs. Park rangers are sometimes present to answer questions.
Visit Trunk Bay early in the morning to enjoy its beauty before crowds. The light is often better for photos too.

Find tickets for attractions and tours with GetYourGuide.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

Limited Traditional Museums: St. John has limited traditional museums. The Virgin Islands National Park Visitor Center in Cruz Bay serves as the main interpretive center.
Art Galleries & Exhibition Spaces: Small local art galleries and craft shops in Cruz Bay and Coral Bay showcase the work of island artists. Bajo el Sol Gallery & Art Bar in Cruz Bay is one example.
Cultural Centers & Performance Venues: Occasional local performances, cultural events, or community gatherings are held in Cruz Bay or at community centers. Check local listings or ask residents.
Cultural Festivals: The St. John Festival (Carnival) in late June/early July is the main cultural event, featuring parades, calypso, and soca music.

Historical Sites

Annaberg Plantation:
The most well-known and accessible plantation ruin. Park rangers sometimes offer demonstrations of traditional sugar or bread-making.
Reef Bay Trail & Petroglyphs:
A challenging hike descends through the Virgin Islands National Park to the ruins of a Danish sugar mill and ancient petroglyphs. The return ascent is challenging.
Catherineberg Ruins:
These ruins of a sugar and rum factory feature impressive views of Cinnamon Bay and Francis Bay. Accessible via a short walk off Centerline Road (Route 10).
Historical Districts & Architecture:
Cruz Bay has some surviving historic Danish West Indian architecture, though much of the town has been rebuilt. Historic churches reflect the island's diverse religious heritage.
Religious & Memorial Sites:
Historic churches in Cruz Bay and Coral Bay reflect the island's diverse religious heritage. Various small memorials exist across the island, often related to hurricanes or local figures.

Natural Attractions

St. John's natural environment is its greatest draw.

Parks, Views & Wildlife

Virgin Islands National Park
This park is the island's defining natural attraction. It encompasses vast areas of tropical forest, mountains, coastal areas, and coral reefs. It has extensive hiking trails leading to various points of interest.
Peace Hill
A short, easy hike leads to the ruins of a sugar mill windmill atop Peace Hill, creating panoramic views of Denis Bay, Trunk Bay, and the surrounding islands. A popular spot for photos.
Maho Bay
Known for its calm, shallow waters and abundance of sea turtles and rays. It is an excellent spot for snorkeling, especially for families. Consistently good for sea turtle observation.

Salt Pond Bay
A calm bay on the south side, popular for snorkeling and as the starting point for the scenic Salt Pond and Ram Head Trails. The salt pond itself is an unique ecological feature.
Bordeaux Mountain
The highest point on St. John, possessing panoramic views of the entire island, St. Thomas, and the British Virgin Islands on clear days.
Ram Head Trail
A dramatic coastal hike on the southeastern tip. The trail ends at a rocky bluff with stunning, windswept ocean views and dramatic cliffs. A rewarding hike, especially at sunrise.

Wildlife Viewing

Boat trips sometimes create encounters with dolphins. Snorkeling and diving are the main ways to encounter marine life like sea turtles and rays.

Terrestrial Wildlife

Visitors can spot wild donkeys (descendants of plantation animals), goats, iguanas, various lizard species, and numerous bird species, including hummingbirds, pelicans, and frigatebirds. Birdwatching is common along trails.

Geological Features

St. John features dramatic volcanic hills, characterized by steep slopes and valleys. Its coastlines vary from rugged, rocky cliffs to soft, white sand beaches formed from fragmented coral and shells.

Beaches & Waterways

St. John is renowned for its pristine beaches, consistently ranked among the best in the world. The island has no significant freshwater lakes or rivers, relying on rainwater and desalination.

North Shore Beaches (e.g., Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, Maho Bay, Hawksnest Beach) are famous for their white sand, clear, calm waters, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. These are the most popular and often have facilities.
South Shore Beaches (e.g., Salt Pond Bay, Lameshur Bay) are generally more rugged, quieter, and call for more effort to reach. They often feature excellent snorkeling and diving for more experienced enthusiasts.
The main "waterways" are the numerous bays, coves, and the surrounding Caribbean Sea.

Hidden Gems

Beyond the well-known spots, St. John holds many lesser-known treasures.

Venturing beyond the most popular spots creates quiet discoveries and authentic moments on St. John.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions

Discover secluded spots away from the main crowds for a more intimate island experience.

Secluded Trails & Beaches

Johnny Horn Trail: A less-trafficked hiking trail leading to the remote and beautiful Waterlemon Cay. This creates a more solitary hiking and snorkeling experience away from the main tourist hubs.
Brown Bay: A secluded beach on the northeast side of the island, often calling for a hike or boat access. It brings forth a quiet escape and good snorkeling.
Francis Bay Beach: Often a quieter alternative to the more popular Maho Bay, Francis Bay has calm waters, good snorkeling, and sometimes fewer crowds. It is accessible via a short trail from the parking area.

Local Favorites & Emerging Spots

Explore spots favored by locals and note that St. John's appeal centers on preservation.

Hidden Local Beaches

Many smaller beaches, like Little Lameshur Bay or Grootpan Bay, are local favorites for their tranquility and natural beauty.
Emerging Destinations: St. John itself does not have distinct "emerging destinations" within its borders; its appeal remains centered on the established national park and its natural beauty.
The focus is on preserving its existing character rather than developing new areas.

Unique Photo Opportunities

Capture the island's charm through its most picturesque scenes.

Iconic Views

The panoramic views from Peace Hill, with the iconic sugar mill ruin in the foreground.
The dramatic, windswept coastline and rocky bluff at the end of the Ram Head Trail.
The famous "Trunk Bay" sign, an iconic photo spot for visitors.

These spots provide excellent photographic opportunities, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset.

Historical & Wildlife Shots

Document the island's rich past and unique inhabitants.

Historical Settings

The historical ruins at Annaberg, notably the archways and structures framed against the ocean.
Views of wild donkeys or goats on the side of the road, offering a glimpse of the island's unique inhabitants.

These elements add a cultural and natural dimension to your photo collection.

Underwater Photography

Capture the marine life and clear waters.

Snorkeling & Diving

The clear waters and abundant marine life at popular snorkeling spots like Trunk Bay and Maho Bay.
The coral formations and diverse fish species create stunning underwater shots.
Consider a waterproof camera for these spectacular underwater opportunities.

The underwater world presents a different perspective of St. John's beauty.

Insider Tip

Maximize Your Sightseeing

Consider renting a jeep for exploring the island’s varied terrain and accessing remote viewpoints and beaches.

Guided Tours

Local tour operators offer guided hikes and boat tours, providing historical context and access to unique locations. Book tours with GetYourGuide.

Visit the National Park Visitor Center

Begin your exploration here for maps, trail information, and ranger-led programs.

Explore Beyond the Usual