3 Incredible Things to Do on St. John — From an Underwater Trail to a Floating Taco Bar

According to experts, these are the best things to do in St. John.

The U.S. Virgin Islands are home to three main islands, each with a surprisingly distinct feel: St. Thomas is thoroughly cosmopolitan, and St. Croix boasts incredible food and laid-back beaches, but what of tiny St. John? Accessible only by boat — or even better, private charter yacht — the tiny island of St. John is sometimes known as the “Must Go To Island of the Caribbean.”

The tongue-in-cheek moniker aside, St. John’s true richness lies in its human-made and natural luxuries. Most of the island is protected as part of the Virgin Islands National Park, hiding white-sand beaches, underwater snorkeling trails, and even age-old petroglyphs among miles of hiking trails and unforgettable scenery.

The Windmill Bar, St. John, USVI

The Best View on St. John Island is from the top!

Nestled on the picturesque island of St. John in the United States Virgin Islands, The Windmill Bar stands as a hidden treasure amid the lush tropical paradise. With its captivating ambiance, breathtaking views, and inviting atmosphere, this establishment has become a must-visit destination for locals and travelers alike.

St. John, known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and untouched natural beauty, is the perfect setting for The Windmill Bar. Situated atop a gentle hill, the bar offers panoramic vistas of the Caribbean Sea, granting patrons an unobstructed view of the horizon beyond the eye’s reach. As the golden sun dips below the azure waters during sunset, the sky transforms into a canvas of warm oranges, purples, and pinks, creating a magical spectacle. The Windmill Bar captures the essence of this island paradise, embracing its natural beauty and incorporating it into every aspect of its identity.

The bar takes its name from a meticulously restored historic windmill that graces its premises. This windmill, a nod to the island’s colonial past, symbolizes continuity and transformation. Once used for grinding sugar cane, it now stands as a beacon of hospitality, offering a unique blend of history and modernity. Its rustic yet elegant presence adds to the overall charm of the place, reminding visitors of the island’s heritage while providing a one-of-a-kind backdrop for memorable experiences.

Additional info on traveling around St. John

Taxis in St. John can be prohibitively expensive, costing up to $30 per passenger for even a short drive, so consider renting a car if you’re looking to explore the island. Take advantage of the freedom and head to North Shore Road for some of St. John’s best scenic views. Vistas overlooking Trunk Bay, Maho Bay, and Caneel Bay make for an unforgettable drive.

Limeout, St. John: Anyone for Tacos?

The #1 spot on St. John for sun, fun, drinks, and Tacos

A Limeout reviewer wrote, “Get here early so you can grab a Lilly pad for lunch! This place is so fun and gets full fast with patrons. The tacos are delish, and the staff is fun and professional. We stopped here for lunch during a private charter catamaran trip, and it did not disappoint! Make this a lunch stop while in the area. Pick up some sweet swag while you are at it.” — Aquanimity Guest.

The hiking is fantastic on St John USVI while on your Yacht Charter

 Head to the island of St. John for a hiking trip

You’re sailing briskly around St John and the US Virgin Islands on your private all-inclusive yacht charter. The trade winds fill your sails, and the rolling waves put you and the charter at ease. As you drift off into a state of relaxation, you gaze upon the steep, rugged shorelines of St John. The island shoots out of the sea and is covered in dense old forests. This island formed thousands of years ago through volcanic action is now calling out your name.

We all know the Virgin Islands has world-class sailing, but St John also has some of the best hiking in the region. With the vast majority of the island a national park, the views you seek are untouched and waiting for your footsteps.

Lind Point Trail:

Let’s start with a simple hike from Cruz Bay, the most happening bay on the island. Begin your morning with a quick breakfast in town. You can then complete this short but beautiful hike to Honeymoon Beach with plenty of time to enjoy the turquoise water you’ll soon discover!

From behind the Cruz Bay Visitor Center, walk up a few steps and find a well-marked trail. After some spectacular views of Cruz Bay, you will reach a fork in the road. There are two ways to reach Honeymoon Beach: a smaller trail to the left that stays low but does not provide any views. Or the trail to the right climbs up to a viewpoint on the way.

Honeymoon Beach is one of the best on the island but also quite popular. On your way, you will pass Salmon Beach, which is hard to access and may provide you with the private getaway you want.

Either way, it’s a great starter hike on St John. Complete the return mile and celebrate with a Painkiller on the beach before returning to sea.

Ram Head

To many, this is the iconic hike on the island—the must-do. That is because of the views that greet you at Ram Head: panoramic views towards St Thomas and the British Virgin Islands and the awe-inspiring sight of nothing but the Atlantic Ocean.

The hike to Ram Head is short but undulating as you head towards the most southern point on St John. It can be rocky in sections and steep in others, but you won’t be slowed down too much overall.

On the return journey, stop for a swim at Cobblestone Beach!