Checklist: St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
Photo below courtesy of National Park Service
Riding the ferry over to St. John, USVI from St. Thomas (the only way to arrive if you’re not on your own boat or a charter), it’s easy to have an out-of-body experience. You’re riding into what looks like a postcard, illustrated with lush green mountains covered in pastel buildings, all surrounded by jewel-toned blue water.
In order to maximize your island time, keep this checklist in your back pocket so you know exactly what to do in between sunbathing and sleeping. Once you’ve checked these musts off your list, the island is yours to explore.
1. Chocolate Hole
With its narrow roads, open-air taxis and steep inclines, St. John’s makeup isn’t designed for driving. Set up camp in Chocolate Hole to minimize your commute without sacrificing stunning elevated views and proximity to downtown Cruz Bay.
2. Starfish Market and Starfish Gourmet & Wines
Starfish Market and Starfish Gourmet & Wines are two separate stores under the same ownership across a breezeway from each other. Start at the market, where prices are low if you avoid name brands, and fill up your basket with tropical fruits, jugs of water and lots of beach snacks. Pop in the shop next door for gourmet cheeses (the beach is better with Brie, right?) and cheap prices on all things alcohol.
3. Virgin Islands National Park
The island of St. John is, of course, a U.S. territory, so 60 percent of the land is preserved as part of the Virgin Islands National Park. Inside this park you will find a lush tropical rainforest, beaches that have been voted some of the most beautiful in the world, ruins of sugar cane plantations, snorkeling spots, and hiking trails. Needless to say, this is where most visitors spend the majority of their time, so start off by getting a lay of the land at the Park’s Visitor Center, where you can view large maps and plan guided excursions.
