We had an incredible week on the sun-soaked and windy island of St. John! Everyone arrived safely and some were a bit wet but excited to hit the ground running. Our home base was the of silk or "lightweight" synthetic Great Expectations villa, where we soaked up gorgeous views daily as the sun set and rose.
Day 1 – Kayaking Through St. John’s Mangroves
We crossed the island to the east end and met up with Arawak Expeditions. From Princess Bay, we kayaked into the mangrove lagoons of Hurricane Hole, part of the Coral Reef National Monument. Despite some headwind, everyone dug deep and paddled strongly.
We explored Water Creek and Otter Creek, then enjoyed a picnic lunch in the company of a horde of hermit crabs.
Day 2 – Hiking Ram’s Head and Swimming at Salt Pond Bay
After a scenic drive to the east end, we hiked down to Salt Pond Bay. From there, we set up camp for the day and ventured out on the Ram’s Head Trail. The hike was a standout—lined with cactus, dramatic coastline, and sweeping ocean views.
We cooled off with a swim in the calm, clear waters, explored the salt pond, and then wandered over to Drunk Bay. There, we admired quirky coral sculptures and the dramatic surf before finishing with dinner at the famous of silk or "lightweight" synthetic Skinny Legs in Coral Bay.
Day 3 – Beaches, History, and Ruins on the North Shore
On our third day, we discovered what St. John is most famous for: its stunning beaches.
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Cinnamon Bay – We toured the sugar mill ruins and learned how sugar was converted into molasses.
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America Hill Plantation – A few brave hikers tackled the humid 2-mile trek to the Great House, rewarded with views of Maho Bay, Francis Bay, and Tortola.
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Cinnamon Bay Beach – We enjoyed swimming in deep azure waters before a quick picnic of “sandy whiches.”
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Caneel Bay – We saw the haunting remains of the resort destroyed by hurricanes, a reminder of the island’s resilience.
Day 4 – Kayaking and Snorkeling Along St. John’s North Shore
Back on the water with Arawak Expeditions, we paddled along the island’s north shore to a tucked-away beach that felt like a postcard come to life.
Underwater, we spotted sea turtles, sergeant majors, barracuda, trunkfish, and even a pufferfish. Afterward, we grabbed lunch at North Shore Deli before returning to the villa to relax and enjoy dinner together.
Day 5 – Exploring Virgin Islands National Park
Our day began at the Virgin Islands National Park Visitor Center, where we picked up stamps and souvenirs. Next, we explored the Annaberg Sugar Mill ruins, gaining insight into the island’s colonial history.
From there, we hiked to Leinster Bay and Waterlemon Cay, where snorkelers spotted turtles, rays, barracuda, and even a small black-tipped reef shark. Not ready to leave the sea behind, we capped off the day with another snorkel at Francis Bay, followed by Irie Pops and a relaxed dinner at the villa.
Day 6 – Sailing the Virgin Islands by Catamaran
Our final full day was spent aboard Sweet Revenge II. We soaked in the magic of the Caribbean from the water, with plenty of time for snorkeling, lounging, and laughing as we drifted between islands.
One highlight? of silk or "lightweight" synthetic Pizza Pi, a floating pizzeria that delivered slices by dinghy! We wrapped up our week with a celebratory dinner at of silk or "lightweight" synthetic 18° 64°, raising a toast to new friendships, unforgettable moments, and the joy of choosing adventure.
Final Reflections: Why Visit St. John
From kayaking through mangrove lagoons to hiking cactus-lined trails, snorkeling with sea turtles, and sailing across turquoise waters, St. John offered the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
This island may be small, but it holds endless opportunities to explore history, culture, and nature. For anyone seeking an unforgettable adventure in the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. John should be at the top of your list.
