Photo of St John

About St John

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.

The Best Places to Stay on St John

For an Eco Escape

  • Concordia Eco Resort sits in a secluded location on St John's southeast coast, within the Virgin Islands National Park. Pick this place for the striking seaside setting, charming tents & simple studios, as well as the appealingly laid-back vibe. A rustic hideaway for nature lovers.

For Families or Groups

  • St John Inn is a colourful guesthouse in the heart of Cruz Bay. The 10 rooms and suites are simple and brightly painted, with space for families or small groups. Kick back in a hammock, take a dip in the pool, or cook fresh seafood on the outdoor grill in the evenings. Close to Cruz Bay's many eateries. A very affordable choice for families.
  • Coconut Coast Villas offers a collection of self-catering waterfront apartments in a quiet part of Cruz Bay. With up to three bedrooms, the larger apartments are perfect for families and groups. There are pretty balconies, as well as a shared swimming pool and hot tub. A relaxed family or group favourite.

For Couples

  • Estate Lindholm is perched on a hillside just north of Cruz Bay. Set in the grounds of an old Danish estate, many of the 14 guestrooms have superb sea views, four-poster beds and big balconies. Cool off in the pool before heading into town. A tranquil couples' retreat.
  • Garden by the Sea B&B has just three romantic guestrooms, with characterful furnishings and bold blue and green-painted walls. A gorgeous spot to kick back and relax within sight of the sea.

For Beachfront Luxury

  • Gallows Point Resort is a luxurious beach property with panoramic views of sparkling blue waters. Spacious rooms and suites feature stylish, Caribbean-inspired interiors, there are great watersports, a swimming pool, sundecks and a lively bar for sundowners. An indulgent choice.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Fly to St Thomas' Cyril E. King Airport, and take a taxi to the ferry terminal at Red Hook. Regular ferries to St John take around 20 minutes.
  • For the freedom to explore St John in your own rental car, contact our online partner Rentalcars.
  • Expect balmy temperatures of around 25-30°C throughout the year. Peak season is between mid-December and mid-April. Travel between the end of the season and June for great hotel deals!
  • The hurricane season officially lasts from June to November. August and September are the highest risk months and best avoided.

Still not sure?

    Weather

    Monthly Weather in St John

    Best Hotels in St John

    • St John Inn St John, US Virgin Islands 10 rooms from €135

      Value chic
      Sights nearby  -  Elaine Lone Sprauve Library and Museum.
      Views  -  Great views from hotel
      Sailing  -  Can be booked nearby.
      Air conditioningTennisSwimming PoolGardenViews

      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. See More

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    • Garden by the Sea B&B St John, US Virgin Islands 3 rooms from €144

      Views  -  Beautiful views from verandahs out to sea.
      Four poster beds  -  For romantics.
      Remote  -  Off the beaten track.
      Sailing  -  Can be booked nearby.
      Air conditioningGardenViews
      Recommended by  -  Fodors, Frommers

      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. See More

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    • Concordia Eco Resort St John 48 rooms from €175

      Views  -  Great views from hotel
      Eco
      Great walks  -  Bordeaux Mountain Trail, Ram Head Trail.
      Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor freshwater pool
      RestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViews
      Recommended by  -  Fodors

      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. See More

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    • Estate Lindholm St John, US Virgin Islands 14 rooms from €202

      Views  -  Fabulous sea views from every room.
      Swimming Pool  -  Fresh water pool and decking area with views out to sea.
      Four poster beds  -  For romantics.
      Sailing  -  Can be booked nearby.
      Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViews
      Recommended by  -  Fodors, Frommers

      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. See More

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    • Coconut Coast Villas St John VI 11 rooms from €210

      Families  -  Waterfront Villa Suites come with three ensuite bathrooms, two kitchens and two patios; there's space for all the family
      Local exploring  -  Perfect base for exploring the island's many beaches, heading out on day trips or simply relaxing on the water's edge
      Value chic  -  Sea-front location, outdoor space with sea views, plenty of space and fully-equipped living areas make this a steal
      On the beach  -  Beach chairs, towels and coolers are available for swimming and relaxing at the small pebble beach
      Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

      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. See More

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    • Gallows Point Resort St John, US Virgin Islands 60 rooms from €265

      Views  -  Panoramic island views
      Luxury
      Beach Life
      Romantic Break
      Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViews

      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. See More

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    • Lovango Resort & Beach Club Cruz Bay, St John 12 rooms from €895

      Families  -  Villa Lovango is a private 3-bedroom home with living, dining, and kitchen facilities, a private pool, and views of the ocean
      Local exploring  -  Take a boat excursion and get to U.S. Virgin Islands National Park or the charming town of Cruz Bay in mere minutes
      Great walks  -  Walk to the north side of the island to secluded Crescent Beach where you can experience a spectacular setting
      Romantic Break  -  Opt for a treehouse for a romantic escape with your loved one nestled in nature
      Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolViewsNo pets

      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. See More

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