St John US Virgin Islands Travel Guide
St. John has vacation spots and boutique hotels, mainly located in or near Cruz Bay. These feature smaller, intimate properties with personalized service to big resorts with facilities such as pools, restaurants, and action centers. The Westin St. John Resort Villas is a prominent example.
This is a popular accommodation type on St. John. Villas range from cozy studios to expansive multi-bedroom luxury homes with private pools, panoramic ocean views, and full kitchens. Privacy, space, and meal flexibility are benefits.
Smaller, often family-run establishments, guesthouses and inns offer a more intimate, local experience. They are mainly located in Cruz Bay, with convenient access to town amenities. These options create good value for travelers seeking a simpler, comfortable stay.
St. John supports environmentally conscious lodging. Maho Bay Beach & Eco-Friendly Tent Campground focuses on sustainability, blending nature immersion featuring comfortable, low-impact structures.
Cinnamon Bay Campground, within the Virgin Islands National Park, is the only official campground. It has bare tent sites, pre-set eco-tents, and simple cottages, creating an unique, affordable, and nature-focused way to experience the island.
The prevalence of private villa rentals, often integrated into the island's hillsides offering gorgeous scenery, is a singular feature. These are private homes creating a secluded and personalized experience.
The eco-tents at Cinnamon Bay form an unique blend of nature and comfort, enabling visitors to sleep surrounded by the sounds of the national park.
Formal homestay programs are less common. However, some local guesthouses and smaller inns offer a more personal, community-integrated experience, enabling guests to interact directly with local owners and staff.
St. John's main areas present different atmospheres, guiding your choice of place to fit your travel style.
Accommodation rates vary significantly with seasons. Prices are considerably higher during the high season (mid-December to May) and especially around major holidays. The lowest prices become available during the low season (August to October), which coincides with peak hurricane season. Shoulder seasons bring moderate prices.
Consider your priorities: If you prefer being in the center of activity with walkable access to amenities, choose Cruz Bay. For a rustic, laid-back vibe and good value, explore Coral Bay.
Booking your St. John accommodation calls for planning, especially for popular times.
Lodging in a villa or condo often includes a full kitchen, creating opportunity for self-catering and cost savings on dining.
The full kitchen provides the flexibility to prepare meals at your convenience, which is a fantastic benefit for families or longer stays.
A private kitchen and dining area in a villa or condo contribute to a more private and relaxed vacation experience.
St. John features alternatives for every price range and travel style.
Cinnamon Bay Campground. Basic sites, eco-tents, cottages. Shared facilities.
Smaller, often owner-operated, personal touch. Mainly in Cruz Bay.
Comfortable, good amenities, often with pools.
Widest range of options, often with private pools, kitchens, stunning views.
Cinnamon Bay Campground (tent sites or eco-tents create great value). The Inn at Tamarind Court in Cruz Bay presents clean, basic rooms at a budget price. Hostelworld for more alternatives.
The Westin St. John Resort Villas features extensive amenities, including pools, restaurants, and beach access. For ultimate privacy, private luxury villas cater to high-end travelers. IHG Hotels for premium stays.
Caneel Bay, once a renowned luxury resort, is currently under redevelopment; check its operational status if interested.
Vacation villas with multiple bedrooms, private pools, and kitchens are ideal for families, granting space and flexibility. The Westin St. John Resort Villas has kid-friendly amenities and organized activities. Cinnamon Bay Campground creates a natural, outdoor-focused experience.
Guesthouses like The Inn at Tamarind Court in Cruz Bay has community and accessibility. Eco-tents or bare tent sites at Cinnamon Bay Campground create a nature-focused and social atmosphere during the peak season. Group tours are also good for meeting people. Consider Hostelworld for shared experiences.
Vacation rentals (villas or condos) are optimal for longer stays, with kitchens, living areas, and more space than typical hotel rooms. Many villa owners or property managers present discounted rates for monthly rentals. Look into TrustedHousesitters for unique extended stays.
While St. John does not have many historical hotels, some historic guesthouses in Cruz Bay retain traditional Caribbean architecture and offer a glimpse into the island's past. Annaberg Plantation, a historic sugar mill ruin, is a major site to visit, though it is not an accommodation.
Regardless of your budget, book your St. John accommodation early, especially if traveling during high season or holidays, to find the best selection.
Your preferred area will shape your experience. Cruz The cove for activity, Coral Bay for tranquility.
Important in history vacation spots such as Caneel Bay are undergoing redevelopment; check current status before planning your stay.
Use established platforms or local property managers for reliable booking and support.
Previous guest experiences offer valuable insight into property quality and service.
