5 St. John Vacation Mistakes
Besides the obvious “don’t forget the sunscreen” and “stay hydrated,” here are a few more interesting tips for the first time traveler as well as the repeat St. John visitor.
Mistake 1: Missing Out on Coral Bay
Cruz Bay is home to some of the best beach bars and boutique shops in the Caribbean, however, be sure to wander over to the “quirky” side of the island to Coral Bay. You’re likely to meet a few salty sailors who live on their boats as well as donkeys, goats, sheep, roosters and mongoose. Grab a cheeseburger from Skinny Legs, find your treasure at Tall Ship Trading, snorkel the mangroves or ride horses at the Carolina Corral. There’s much to see so you may want to book Coral Cove for your next visit.
Mistake 2: Staying Landlocked
Many people say that the best day of their St. John vacation was when they chartered a boat. Our local captains would love to treat you to a picnic on a deserted island, show you their favorite dive spots or introduce you to famous Foxy on nearby Jost Van Dyke. If deep sea fishing is your thing, you’re in luck! The Virgin Islands is home to world-renowned sport fishing.
Mistake 3: Being In a Hurry
When you step off the ferry, you’re on island time. No need to wear a watch or set an alarm. With 29 beaches and dozens of hiking trails, you aren’t going to see everything our island has to offer in one trip, or even two or three. So have another painkiller and relax.
Mistake 4: Eating at the Same Places
Yes, we know the shrimp and grits at Asolare is as amazing as the hilltop view, and the Pad Thai at Rhumblines is addicting. Dining is the second most popular activity on St. John (besides lounging on a beach) simply because there are so many culinary delights from which to choose. Maybe it’s time to try some authentic West Indian cuisine next time.
Mistake 5: Not Taking Advantage of the National Park Service
Did you know that the National Park Rangers present cultural demonstrations at the Annaberg Plantation? And host bird watching and night sky tours? Some of the best hikes are guided by our Rangers, and the Visitor’s Center is chock full of local history.
