MileHacker Logo
Essential Planning Information

Essential Planning Information

US Virgin Islands

Climate Patterns Throughout the Year

St. John has a tropical savanna climate, with consistently warm temperatures and variations in rainfall. Average daily temperatures remain stable, typically ranging from 77°F (25°C) to 84°F (29°C) year-round. Evenings feel a few degrees cooler. This consistent warmth makes St. John a destination for visits any time of the year, with a comfortable climate for outdoor activities.

St. John has a drier season and a wetter season. The drier period generally extends from December to June. During these months, rainfall is minimal, and skies are typically clear. The wetter season, with higher humidity and brief, heavy showers, runs from July to November. Annual rainfall averages around 40-50 inches.

Climate Details

  • Average daily temperatures: 77°F (25°C) to 84°F (29°C) year-round.
  • Drier season: December to June (minimal rainfall).
  • Wetter season: July to November (higher humidity, brief heavy showers).
  • Consistent easterly trade winds provide refreshing breezes.

Season Overview

Each season on St. John presents different trade-offs in terms of crowds, prices, and weather conditions.

While showers in the wetter season can be intense, they often pass quickly. Extended periods of rain are uncommon outside of tropical storm activity. Humidity levels remain consistently high throughout the year, averaging 70-80 percent.

High Season

Mid-December to May

Advantages

Ideal weather, less rain, lower humidity, consistent trade winds, calm seas. Lively around holidays.

Considerations

Higher prices for flights, accommodation, tours. Popular attractions experience more visitors.

Shoulder Season

June, July, November, early December

Advantages

Balance of good weather and fewer crowds. Prices for flights and lodging decrease. November can be excellent.

Considerations

Possibility of tropical storms, especially late July. Occasional rain showers. Higher humidity.

Low Season

August to October

Advantages

Lowest prices for flights and accommodation. Fewest crowds, quiet and secluded experience.

Considerations

Peak of hurricane season. Highest risk of storms. Businesses may reduce hours or close for renovations.

Special Weather Considerations

Hurricane Season

The official Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. Peak activity typically occurs from mid-August to late October. While St. John is an U.S. Territory with robust emergency response systems, a direct hurricane strike can cause significant damage and travel disruption for weeks or months.

Extreme Temperatures & Trade Winds

St. John does not experience extreme cold. While temperatures remain consistently warm, high humidity makes the heat feel more intense. Consistent easterly trade winds provide refreshing breezes, especially during the dry season.

Travel Advisories

  • Local authorities monitor weather systems.

    They issue warnings and evacuation orders.

  • Travelers should track weather forecasts.

    Flexible travel plans are advisable.

  • Travel insurance with hurricane coverage is highly recommended.

    Prepare for potential disruptions.

  • Stay hydrated.

    Seek shade during the hottest parts of the day.

  • Sun protection is important.

    Heatstroke and sunburn are risks.

Ideal Timing for Activities

  • Snorkeling and Diving: Best visibility and calmest waters typically during the dry season (December-June). Water temperatures remain warm year-round.
  • Hiking: Cooler temperatures and lower humidity in the dry season (December-June) make hiking more comfortable. Trails can be slippery after heavy rains.
  • Sailing and Boating: Available year-round. Calmer seas during the dry season are preferable for some.

Reliable Good Weather

For reliable good weather and a lively atmosphere, the high season from mid-December to May is optimal.

Visa & Entry Requirements

For St. John, these requirements vary by citizenship.

U.S. Citizens

St. John is an U.S. Territory. U.S. Citizens traveling from the mainland United States or Puerto Rico do not need a passport for entry.

Identification

  • A government-issued photo identification (e.g., driver's license) for air travel suffices.
  • An U.S. Passport is recommended for all air travel to and from the U.S. Virgin Islands.
  • A passport is for travel to neighboring non-U.S. Islands, like the British Virgin Islands.
  • Passport use streamlines the return process to the mainland.

Non-U.S. Citizens

Non-U.S. Citizens must follow the same entry requirements as for entry into the United States mainland. This generally requires a valid passport.

Requirements

  • Valid passport (valid for at least six months beyond departure date).
  • Valid U.S. Visa or approved ESTA authorization (Electronic System for Travel Authorization).
  • Proof of return or onward ticket.
  • Proof of sufficient funds for your stay.

Entry Fees & Immigration

Fees

No specific entry fees for the U.S. Virgin Islands beyond standard U.S. Entry procedures.

All travelers arriving by air clear U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) upon arrival at Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on St. Thomas or at a pre-clearance facility.

Immigration Process

  • Arriving from a foreign country (like BVI) by ferry directly into Cruz Bay, St. John, involves CBP clearance there.
  • The process involves presenting documents and answering travel purpose questions.
  • The process for legitimate tourists is generally straightforward.
  • Proof of accommodation is often needed.

Special Permits

  • Camping: Reservations are necessary for camping at Cinnamon Bay Campground, made through Recreation.gov.
  • Commercial Activities: Any commercial activity within the park requires specific licenses and permits.
  • Research: Research activities within the National Park require specific permits from the National Park Service.
  • For general tourism, no special permits are for most activities or general access to National Park trails or beaches.

Health Entry Requirements

No specific health-related entry requirements currently exist for general entry to St. John. Travelers should consult their healthcare provider for routine vaccinations recommended for travel to the Caribbean.

Vaccinations

  • Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTaP, chickenpox, polio, flu shot) up to date.
  • Hepatitis A and B, and Typhoid vaccines may be recommended.
  • Yellow Fever vaccination may be required if arriving from certain countries.

Resources

  • Consult a healthcare provider at least 4-6 weeks before your trip.
  • Check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.

Document Copies

Carry physical and digital copies of all important documents. Store them separately in case one set becomes lost.

Budgeting & Costs

St. John can accommodate various budgets, but it is generally a more expensive Caribbean destination than some others.

Detailed Cost Breakdown

Budget Traveler Daily Costs $100-$200 USD

Accommodation: Camping at Cinnamon Bay Campground ($35-$70) or a budget guesthouse ($80-$150). Meals: Self-catering (groceries from Starfish Market), street food, local food trucks. Transportation: Safari taxis ($10-$30). Activities: Free beaches, hiking trails. Example Day: Breakfast at campground, safari taxi to Cinnamon Bay ($7), hike, snorkel, picnic lunch, safari taxi back ($7), local dinner ($20), shared guesthouse ($37.50). Total: ~$71.50.

Mid-range Traveler Daily Costs $250-$500 USD

Accommodation: Mid-range hotel, comfortable condo, or smaller villa ($200-$400). Meals: Mix of self-catering, casual restaurants, nicer dinners ($60-$120). Transportation: Shared rental car (Jeep) ($50-$80 per person if split) or frequent safari taxis ($20-$50). Activities: Guided snorkeling tours, kayak/paddleboard rentals, boat excursions ($50-$100). Example Day: Hotel breakfast ($20), shared Jeep rental ($50), drive to Maho Bay, paddleboard ($30), casual lunch ($25), mid-range dinner ($50), drinks ($15). Total: ~$190.

Luxury Traveler Daily Costs $600+ USD

  • Accommodation:

    High-end resort or private luxury villa ($500-$1500+).

  • Meals:

    Fine dining, private chef services ($150-$300+).

  • Transportation:

    Private car service, luxury rentals, private boat charters ($100-$300+).

  • Activities:

    Private guided excursions, full-day boat charters, spa treatments ($100-$300+).

  • Example Day (upper range):

    Luxury villa ($500), private chef breakfast ($50), private boat charter ($600), gourmet lunch ($40), spa ($150), fine dining dinner ($100), high-end drinks ($50). Total: ~$1490.

Price Ranges Approximate

  • Accommodations (per night): Camping $35-$70, Budget $80-$150, Mid-range $200-$450, Luxury $500-$2000+.
  • Meals: Breakfast $10-$25, Lunch $15-$35, Dinner $30-$80+, Local Street Food $8-$20.
  • Transportation: Safari Taxi $5-$10 per person, Rental Car $80-$150 per day, Ferry $8.50 per person.

Budgeting Insight

Budgeting for a St. John trip considers your travel style and preferences. Informed choices create a memorable experience.

Health & Safety Considerations

While St. John generally presents a safe environment, awareness and preparation are important.

Vaccinations

No specific vaccinations for entry to St. John from the U.S. Mainland. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends routine vaccinations are up to date.

Recommendations

  • Routine immunizations (MMR, DTaP, chickenpox, polio, annual flu shot) up to date.
  • Hepatitis A and B, and Typhoid vaccines may be for some travel styles.
  • Yellow Fever vaccination may be for arrivals from certain risk countries.
  • Consult a healthcare provider 4-6 weeks before your trip.

Health Concerns

St. John's tropical sun is strong. The UV index is high. Heatstroke and sunburn are risks.

Prevention Strategies

  • Apply high-SPF reef-safe sunscreen (mineral-based, non-oxybenzone, non-octinoxate).
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Carry a reusable insulated water bottle.
  • Wear protective clothing like a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and an UPF 50+ rash guard.
  • Use insect repellent with Picaridin or DEET for mosquito-borne illnesses.

Healthcare Access

Emergency Services

  • For police, fire, or ambulance, dial 911 (standard in U.S. Virgin Islands).
  • Morris F. DeCastro Clinic in Cruz Bay handles minor emergencies.
  • Serious emergencies: patients transport by ambulance and ferry to Roy Lester Schneider Hospital on St. Thomas.
  • Ensure travel insurance covers medical evacuation.

Water & Food Safety

  • Tap water in St. John is generally safe to drink (desalination or treated rainwater).
  • Bottled water is widely available.
  • Food hygiene standards are similar to the U.S. Mainland.
  • For street food, choose vendors with good reputations and visible hygiene.

Safety & Crime

  • St. John is generally very safe, especially compared to St. Thomas or many mainland U.S. Cities. Violent crime is rare.
  • Petty theft can occur: lock accommodation doors, do not leave valuables unattended in vehicles or on beaches.
  • Avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night.
  • Cruz Bay is the most populated area, generally safe. Coral Bay is smaller, quieter, and very safe.

Natural Disaster Risks

Awareness of natural disaster risks is for preparation.

Hurricanes

  • Peak hurricane season runs from August to October.
  • Direct hits are infrequent but can be severe.
  • Monitor weather forecasts closely.
  • Have an evacuation plan.

Other Risks

  • Tsunamis: Risk is low, but distant earthquakes could affect coastal areas.
  • Earthquakes: Minor tremors occur periodically, rarely cause significant damage.
  • Stay informed through local authorities and hotel staff.
  • Consider travel insurance with hurricane coverage.

Travel Insurance

Recommended Coverage

  • Medical Emergencies:Doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions.
  • Emergency Evacuation:Transport to St. Thomas or mainland U.S.
  • Trip Interruption:Useful during hurricane season or emergencies.
  • Lost/Delayed Luggage:Coverage for essential items.

Important Notes

  • Rental Car Coverage:Check personal insurance or credit card coverage.
  • Policy Details:Keep policy number and emergency contact line accessible.
  • For Non-U.S. Citizens:Know your country's embassy/consulate contact.
  • Share Itinerary:Share your plans with someone at home.

Emergency Action

In an emergency, remain calm. Contact 911 first for immediate needs. Inform your accommodation staff or tour operator, and your travel insurance provider as soon as it is safe.