Planning the Ideal Girls’ Trip to St. John
There’s nothing quite like the bond between girlfriends. What better way to celebrate those friendships than on vacation? It’s time to gather up your gal pals and head to St. John, the ideal destination offering a blend of adventure, relaxation and experiences to suit everyone’s taste. Join us as we create a week-long suggested itinerary for the most memorable girls’ trip of your lives!
Day 1: You’re Here, Now Relax
Take it slow on travel day. A member of the Catered To team will meet you at the ferry dock upon arrival to make sure your rental car is ready, then direct you to your private villa. If you haven’t made arrangements for grocery delivery prior to arrival, we will show you where to stock up. Once settled in, you may choose to relax in your new home away from home, or head to town for a tasty dinner and soak up a glorious sunset.
Day 2: North Shore Drive, then Explore on foot
A wonderful introduction to the lay of the land begins with a visit to the National Park Visitor’s Center. Then take a drive along the North Shore, stopping for incredible photo ops at the various overlooks. When you’re ready to stretch your legs, choose from dozens of hiking trails to immerse yourself in nature. Perhaps you’re feeling like an easy stroll to the nearest beach or a more challenging trek for your first excursion. The National Park Service often offers guided hikes and events.
Day 3: Water/Beach Adventures
The crystal-clear waters surrounding St. John are perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving or simply soaking up that healing saltwater. Explore coral reefs and sea beds teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine life either by driving to one of our many beaches or by chartering a sail or powerboat. If you’re feeling especially adventurous, there are several places to rent and captain your own dinghy or kayak. Remember, your Catered To villa has everything you need for a day at the beach including snorkel gear, beach chairs, coolers, beach bag and towels.
Day 4: Let’s go to Town
St. John’s shopping scene offers a delightful mix of local boutiques, art galleries and souvenir shops. Explore the charming streets of Cruz Bay (be sure to include Mongoose Junction and Wharfside Landing) for unique gifts, jewelry, clothing and more. Support local artisans by picking up handcrafted souvenirs that will remind you of your unforgettable girls’ trip. Indulge in the vibrant culinary scene that St. John offers. The island’s restaurants and beachside bars serve up a diverse selection of seafood, Caribbean flavors and international cuisine. Don’t forget to try local specialties such as roti, johnny cakes, jerk chicken, and the famous Painkiller cocktail. There is something for everyone – food trucks, patios, upscale multi-courses, and toes-in-the-sand venues. Check out our amazingly talented resident musicians who perform at various locations nearly every day.
Day 5: Discover St. John Culture
Immerse yourself in our rich culture by visiting sites such as the self-guided Annaberg Sugar Plantation Ruins or the Cinnamon Bay Plantation. These historical sites provide a glimpse into the island’s past and its connection to the sugar trade. You can also attend local events and festivals to experience vibrant Caribbean music and dance traditions.
Day 6: Coral Bay Day
Drive a few miles east to the quiet side of the island for a more laid-back vibe. Our beaches on the East End are second to none and definitely less crowded. It’s customary to mingle with the locals and grab a cheeseburger at the iconic Skinny Legs Bar & Grill, self-described as a funky place known for Same Day Service. Drive slow as you’ll likely be sharing the road with donkeys, cows, goats, sheep and an occasional mongoose. On the way there or back, you’ll find a few mid-island gems like the mountaintop Windmill Bar with incomparable sunset views, and Shambles, a colorful place to find great food and music.
Day 7: Walk of Woe
Ah, that dreaded last day. This is when you realize why the majority of St. John visitors are repeats – there’s just not enough time to experience all the island has to offer. We suggest enjoying a relaxing morning in your luxurious villa, breakfast by the pool or in town before boarding the ferry to the airport.
A girls’ trip is not just about adventure; it’s also a time to reconnect and rejuvenate. So, pack your bags, round up your besties, and head to St. John for unforgettable moments that you will all cherish forever.
