Island Hopping in the USVI: A Guide to Getting Around St. John

Island hopping is an essential part of any Caribbean vacation. The United States Virgin Islands (USVI) are no exception. With three main islands to choose from - St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John - each island offers a unique experience for visitors. In this guide, we’ll focus on getting around St. John, one of the most beautiful and secluded islands in the USVI.

Getting to St. John

Before you can start exploring St. John, you need to get there. The easiest way is by flying into Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on St. Thomas. From there, you’ll take a ferry to St. John. There are two main ferry services: VITRANS and Speedy’s.

VITRANS

VITRANS is the official government-run ferry service in the USVI. It operates daily from St. Thomas to St. John, with multiple departures throughout the day. The journey takes around 45 minutes, depending on sea conditions. Tickets can be purchased online or at the dock.

Speedy’s

Speedy’s is a private ferry service that offers faster and more frequent trips between St. Thomas and St. John. They operate from 6:30 am to 8:00 pm, Monday through Saturday, with Sunday departures starting at 9:00 am. The journey takes around 30 minutes.

Getting Around St. John

Once you’ve arrived on St. John, there are several ways to get around the island.

Renting a Car

The best way to explore St. John is by renting a car. There are several rental agencies on the island, including Avis, Hertz, and Budget. Make sure to book in advance, especially during peak season (December to April).

Practical Tips for Renting a Car

Before you start driving around the island, here are some practical tips to keep in mind:

  • Always drive on the left side of the road.
  • Be aware that some roads are unpaved and may be rough.
  • There is no public transportation system on St. John, so you’ll need to rent a car or take taxis.

Using Public Transportation

If you don’t want to rent a car, there are other options for getting around the island.

Taxis

Taxis are widely available on St. John. You can hail one on the street or book in advance through companies like St. John Taxi and Island Taxi.

Using Shuttle Services

There are also several shuttle services that operate on the island, including St. John Shuttle and Island Shuttle. These services offer fixed routes and fares, making them a more affordable option than taxis.

Cycling

Another way to get around St. John is by bike. There are several rental shops on the island, such as St. John Bike Rentals, where you can rent a bike for the day.

Walking

Finally, there’s no better way to explore St. John than on foot. The island is small enough that you can easily walk between beaches and attractions.

Beaches

St. John is famous for its beautiful beaches, including Trunk Bay, Hawksnest Bay, and Cinnamon Bay. Each beach offers something unique - from snorkeling to swimming to simply relaxing in the sun.

Attractions

In addition to its beaches, St. John has a rich history and culture that’s worth exploring.

National Park Service Sites

The USVI National Park Service operates several sites on St. John, including Trunk Bay, Hawksnest Bay, and Cinnamon Bay. These sites offer hiking trails, historic ruins, and stunning views of the surrounding waters.

Accommodations

St. John has a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. From luxury resorts like The Westin St. John Resort Villas to vacation rentals like VRBO, there’s something for everyone.

Conclusion

Island hopping in the USVI is an adventure that requires some planning, but it’s well worth the effort. With this guide on getting around St. John, you’ll be able to explore the island at your own pace and enjoy all its beauty and charm. Whether you choose to rent a car, use public transportation, or simply walk, there are plenty of options for getting around this stunning island.