LOCAL + TRAVEL | TOP DESTINATIONS
St. John Island
Photos & Article by Lauren Johnson
If you desire crystal blue waters, stunning sunsets, and a place to just “be as you are”, then St. John in the US Virgin Islands is your place!
You don’t even need a passport to visit! Just hop on a direct flight from Miami to St. Thomas, St. John’s sister island, where you can choose one of two ferry options to get you to St John and on island time.
Steps from the ferry boat is the brand new boutique hotel, Wharfside Village. This 15-room barefoot chic inn, with meticulously designed interiors, is right on the sand and offers 6 different styles of rooms for your getaway. The King Master Suite is my personal favorite as it offers stunning views over Cruz Bay. Here you can watch boats slide in and out of the harbor, day or night. The beds envelop you into a peaceful night of sleep thanks to their sumptuous bedding and hurricane-grade glass. Although you are steps from wonderful restaurants and bars, you hear nothing at all as you fall into a restful slumber. The real bonus is the shower! It offers a peekaboo window that has you gazing out at the views of Cruz Bay from your suite.
Once you are well rested, it’s time to explore all that St John has to offer. 2/3 of the island is a designated National Park, so beauty is everywhere on this lush island. If you are looking to be active, you can hike one of the many trails that lead to historic ruins, old sugar plantations, and also trails that lead to stunning views or secluded beaches.
Speaking of beaches, St John has some of the best that I have ever seen! Many of which can be reached by car or one of the many Island taxis. One of my favorites is Trunk Bay, which has consistently been voted as one of the top beaches in the world. One visit and you will see why. Even the overlook on your approach to Trunk Bay will leave you saying, “WOW”! It offers not only breathtaking beach vistas but also an underwater snorkel trail, full-bathroom facilities and beachside food and beverage options.
In my opinion, the best way to see St John is by water. There are a plethora of boat charter companies available on the island. You can rent a dinghy for the day to explore North Area beaches, hop aboard the Kekoa for a snorkel or a sunset cruise, or have a charter boat bring you to the infamous “Lime Out” which is a floating taco bar.
If a longer-term charter is what you’d prefer I highly recommend Stray Shower charters with Captain Bill and Tamii! Their beautiful catamaran offers 4 cabins and a boat full of memories! They can help you build your ideal itinerary to hidden gems and popular spots all around St John! It is perfect for a family vacation, girl’s getaway, guy’s trip or couples retreat!
St John has a way of stealing your heart. So it is appropriate that its nickname is “Love City.” Once you visit there, you too will fall in love with this wonderful island in the sun.
