8 Freebies on St. John

Aside from the dozens of beaches, hiking trails, water activities and historical sugar mill ruins to explore, there are even more freebies on St. John. Here’s a few of our favorites.

1. View cultural demonstrations from the plantation era at the Annaberg Historical Site in Leinster Bay such as gardening, cooking, basketry and storytelling by local St. Johnians.

2. The best place for viewing migratory and native birds is along the Francis Bay Trail. This half mile hike is an accessible boardwalk that meanders through mangroves and a salt pond. The National Park Services offers free guided hikes at various times.

3. Dog House Pub, in the heart of Cruz Bay, not only offers large flat screen TVs to watch the game but also free weekly events. Mondays are Team Trivia; Tuesday and Wednesdays are Karaoke and Sunday is Bingo.

4. If you’re feeling adventurous, do a Full Moon Ram Head Hike from Salt Pond Bay to get a spectacular 360 degree view of St. John, the British Virgins Islands, the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.

5. Seaglass and shell hunting is a great way to get exercise while exploring the island. You can find both if you know where to look. Try your luck at Hart Bay, Cruz Bay by the cemetery, Frank Bay, Coral Bay and other areas with preferable conditions.

6. The National Park Service offers astrological Night Sky Watches featuring a slide show and sky tour via telescope.

7. Take a free guided tour of the Educational Center and Archaeology Laboratory at Cinnamon Bay which houses exhibits the Caribbean heritage from 3,000 years ago to the founding of the park in the 1950s. The museum one of the oldest buildings on St. John.

8. A hands-on Water’s Edge Walk along Leinster Bay is offered through the National Park Service. Explore the wildlife and habitat of the area between sea and shore as you learn about seagrass inhabitants.

As with all island activites, schedules are subject to change so be sure to check dates and times during your stay.