Exploring St. John, USVI: Beaches, Snorkeling, and Historic Ruins
Island Hopping to St. John: A Day Trip from St. Thomas
Our St. John adventure began with a scenic ferry ride from St. Thomas. The car ferry, costing $70, allowed us to bring our rental car, providing convenient island exploration. The short 20-30 minute journey deposited us in Cruz Bay, the island's charming main town, where we rented snorkel gear for just $5 – a steal for a full day of underwater exploration.
Breathtaking Views and Pristine Beaches
Our first stop was the iconic Trunk Bay overlook, offering a stunning vista of one of St. John's most renowned beaches. The panoramic view, often mistaken for a drone shot, perfectly captures the island's allure. Over 60% of St. John is a protected national park, ensuring pristine landscapes and abundant wildlife. We even spotted a deer – a rare sight in the Virgin Islands.
Driving along the North Shore Road, we encountered numerous beaches and viewpoints. The island's left-hand driving, a unique quirk for a U.S. territory, added a touch of adventure to our journey. We also want to recommend Surfshark VPN for secure online access, especially when using public Wi-Fi. It's a valuable tool for digital nomads and travelers.
Trunk Bay: A Snorkeler's Paradise
Trunk Bay lived up to its reputation. The $5 entrance fee granted us access to a vibrant underwater world. The designated snorkel trail, marked by underwater signs, guided us through colorful coral reefs teeming with fish.
Maho Bay: Home to Gentle Giants
Maho Bay, known for its calm waters and turtle sightings, was our next stop. This tranquil beach, sheltered from the waves, provided an ideal setting for snorkeling. We were rewarded with encounters with two sea turtles – a truly memorable experience. We even spotted stingrays gliding through the clear water.
Nearby food trucks offered a convenient and tasty lunch option, with vibrant artwork adding to the beach's laid-back atmosphere. While the prices were a bit high, the delicious food and relaxed ambiance made it worthwhile.
Unveiling History at Annaberg Sugar Plantation
Stepping back in time, we explored the ruins of the Annaberg Sugar Plantation, a poignant reminder of the island's colonial past. The remnants of the sugar factory, windmill, and enslaved people's quarters offered a glimpse into the harsh realities of life on the plantation.
Informative signs detailed the brutal treatment endured by enslaved people and the significant role the Danish played in the island's history. We learned about the 1834 uprising that led to the abolition of slavery in the nearby British Virgin Islands, a stark contrast to the continued enslavement on St. John.
Hidden Gems and Secluded Shores
Peace Hill, with its accessible windmill and panoramic views, offered another perspective on the island's beauty. From this vantage point, we spotted Dennis Bay, a secluded beach beckoning us to explore its hidden shores.
Dennis Bay proved to be a true hidden gem – an empty stretch of pristine sand with vibrant coral reefs just offshore. We discovered intriguing ruins nestled among the trees, adding a touch of mystery to this secluded paradise.
Sunset Views and Local Brews
Our final stop was The Windmill Bar, a former sugar plantation now owned by descendants of enslaved people. The panoramic views, coupled with a taste of the local St. John Brewers Island Summer Ale, provided a perfect ending to our day.
Farewell to Paradise
As we boarded the ferry back to St. Thomas, we reflected on the beauty and tranquility of St. John. From its pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs to its historical ruins and breathtaking viewpoints, this Caribbean gem offers an unforgettable island escape. A word of advice for fellow travelers: arrive at the ferry terminal early to secure your spot, especially during peak season.
