A mere 20 minutes from St Thomas by boat, St John feels a world away. With the Virgin Islands National Park covering the vast majority of the island, this little slice of the US Virgin Islands is famously tranquil and underdeveloped. Accommodation options range from intimate B&Bs to beautiful beachfront hotels, fit for a range of tastes and budgets. Many of the best places to stay on St John are in friendly Cruz Bay, but one of our favourite spots is tucked away on the southeast coast — and some parts of the island are open to intrepid campers!
St John is lined with picturesque beaches, and the sandy stretches of Maho Beach, Trunk Bay and Cinnamon Bay are particular favourites. Watermelon Cay is brilliant for snorkelling, whilst there are turtles and eagle rays to be spotted on diving or snorkelling trips at various locations. There are opportunities for sailing, kayaking and water-skiing, too.
Whilst two-thirds of St John is now national park land, the island was previously home to Danish-owned sugar mills and cotton plantations, some of which are open to visitors. Annaberg Sugar Plantation is well worth exploring for an insight into St John’s turbulent history — tour the property with a knowledgeable guide if you can. Beyond the ruins of previous settlements are virgin forests and jungles, with fantastic hiking trails for outdoorsy travellers to follow. The Reef Bay Trail is a highlight, with birdwatching opportunities aplenty, as well as ancient petroglyphs and disappearing sugar mills to spot en route.
Whether you’re dreaming of laid-back beach days or spectacular hikes, the best places to stay in St John promise a quiet, nature-focused Caribbean getaway to remember for friends, families or couples.
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US Virgin Islands
A colourful beach front guesthouse with rainbow rooms and excellent prices. Bright accommodations have all the mod cons and balconies with hammocks. Lovely breakfast and bar area with sea views. Tennis court on site, easy access to golf and beach activities. Ideal for families.
US Virgin Islands (Cruz Bay)
A beach chic B&B with romantic suites in colourful pastels. Four poster beds with attractive muslin drapes, verandahs with dreamy sea views onto white sands, all in a secluded location. Perfect for a romantic beach holiday with a book, lots of sun, and simple accommodation.
St John
A collection of condos, tents, and studio apartments set in the verdant hillside above a bay. Charming wooden built accommodation, each with private kitchens, balconies, and sea views. Rustic restaurant, beaches to explore, relaxed bar, and plenty of watersports.
US Virgin Islands (Cruz Bay)
An intimate B&B set amongst the Danish ruins of the estate's original settlers. Stunning views out to sea and towards Cruz Bay. Set on a hillside, back from the beach and walking distance to restaurants and nightlife. Large rooms with balconies and attractive furnishings. Excellently placed.
St John
Good-value apartment hotel on the water's edge in a quiet residential area. Each well-designed one, two or three-room apartment comes with ocean-view balconies, spacious living areas and kitchens. Swim in the sea or soak in the waterfront outdoor pool or hot tub. A comfortable and convenient choice.
US Virgin Islands
A stunning setting for a luxurious beach hotel. Large rooms and suites with kitchenettes, balconies, and sea views are nestled into the bay. Wonderful pool and sun deck area, sea views from the verandah of the American restaurant, and a lively bar to enjoy a cocktail from in the evenings.
St John (Caribbean)
This secluded Caribbean private resort is nestled between the main islands of St Thomas and St John. The elegant glamping tents, treehouses and villas blend seamlessly into the landscape with stunning ocean views. Guests can enjoy private terraces and pools, a restaurant, and bar. A slice of heaven.
