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St. John National Park

© Carol O'Donnell

Tranquil beaches, water sport activities, hiking, bird watching, historical appreciation and intellectual contemplation are just a few of the activities one can experience within the St. John National Park. The park covers ¾ of the island of St. John in the US Virgin Islands and is a very popular site to all who visit and inhabit the Caribbean.

As much of the island is designated a national park, the area is both maintained and virtually untouched by commercial operations. This does not mean there are no activities. To the contrary, there are all manner of things to do to satisfy any traveling soul.

The most popular beach on St. John by far is Trunk Bay. The legendary self-guided snorkeling trail, water toy rentals, food concession, gift shop, showers and rest rooms enable visitors to enjoy the white sandy beach for hours on end. The 225-yard self-guided snorkeling trail contains engraved plaques, which are placed near the natural ocean life for easy identification. Other popular beaches are considered the most beautiful in the world; Hawksnest Bay, Cinnamon Bay and Saltpond Bay, just to name a few.

There are many hidden harbors and beaches that one cannot experience except by water. One can hire a bare boat or crewed charter boat to enjoy the more tranquil and isolated coves. If you bareboat, do heed the National Park regulations as there are heavy fines for violations. Please do not anchor in areas that are prohibited. The coral reefs are extremely fragile and take many years to replenish.

Cruz Bay and Coral Bay are two townships (the only townships) on the island. One can book all manner of water sports activities from scuba diving to snorkeling and two-hour island tours via safari buses. All activities are plentiful and the choices are many. For those who are the independent type, car rentals are available - be sure to remember to drive on the left and take care on the narrow and winding roads.

Nature lovers and active visitors will especially enjoy the variety of hiking trails that are etched throughout the island. Trails range from easy to difficult and from well maintained to very bushy. Many choose to trek on their own but guided tours are available through the National Park Service led by a knowledgeable guide. One of the most popular guided hikes is the Reef Bay Valley Tour. This tour lasts approximately 5 hours and features the petroglyphs (unique and unusual rock carvings). The origins of the petroglyphs are unknown even to this day. Comfortable clothes are recommended. Wear light colored cotton garments, good walking shoes and sunscreen. Bottled water and incest repellent make life on the trails much easier also.