About St John

St John, just a 20-minute boat ride from bustling St Thomas, is your gateway to a quieter side of the US Virgin Islands. With lush national parkland covering most of the island, it’s all about laid-back vibes and dreamy sea views here. Hotels range from breezy beach escapes perfect for couples to relaxed, family-friendly stays in Cruz Bay, where shops and dining are on your doorstep. For true seclusion, the southeast coast offers hidden luxury retreats and even adventurous camping spots.

If you’re into snorkelling, Watermelon Cay is a must, and you’ve got a good chance of spotting turtles and eagle rays on trips around the island. The calm, clear waters are also great for sailing, kayaking, or even a bit of water-skiing if you’re feeling adventurous. Away from the shoreline, two-thirds of the island is protected national parkland, hiding remnants of its Danish colonial past. You can wander the ruins of old sugar mills and cotton plantations, with Annaberg Sugar Plantation offering a fascinating glimpse into St John’s history. Hikers will love the island’s lush forests and trails, especially the Reef Bay Trail, where birdwatching, ancient petroglyphs, and long-forgotten sugar mills make every step an adventure. Whether you’re here to unwind on the sand or explore its wild, untamed side, St John serves up a nature-filled Caribbean escape you won’t forget.

The Best Places to Stay on St John

For an eco escape

  • Concordia Eco Resort sits in a secluded location on St John's southeast coast, within the Virgin Islands National Park. Pick this place for the striking seaside setting, charming tents & simple studios, as well as the appealingly laid-back vibe. A rustic hideaway for nature lovers.

For families or groups

  • St John Inn is a colourful guesthouse in the heart of Cruz Bay. The 10 rooms and suites are simple and brightly painted, with space for families or small groups. Kick back in a hammock, take a dip in the pool, or cook fresh seafood on the outdoor grill in the evenings. Close to Cruz Bay's many eateries. A very affordable choice for families.
  • Coconut Coast Villas offers a collection of self-catering waterfront apartments in a quiet part of Cruz Bay. With up to three bedrooms, the larger apartments are perfect for families and groups. There are pretty balconies, as well as a shared swimming pool and hot tub. A relaxed family or group favourite.

For couples

  • Estate Lindholm is perched on a hillside just north of Cruz Bay. Set in the grounds of an old Danish estate, many of the 14 guestrooms have superb sea views, four-poster beds and big balconies. Cool off in the pool before heading into town. A tranquil couples' retreat.
  • Garden by the Sea B&B has just three romantic guestrooms, with characterful furnishings and bold blue and green-painted walls. A gorgeous spot to kick back and relax within sight of the sea.
  • Lovango Resort & Beach Club is a dreamy Caribbean hideaway where luxury tents, treehouses, and villas melt into lush nature. Private terraces, plunge pools, and endless ocean views set the mood for romance, with fine dining and sunset cocktails just steps away.

For beachfront luxury

  • Gallows Point Resort is a luxurious beach property with panoramic views of sparkling blue waters. Spacious rooms and suites feature stylish, Caribbean-inspired interiors, there are great watersports, a swimming pool, sundecks and a lively bar for sundowners. An indulgent choice.
  • Set on St. John’s stunning Great Cruz Bay, The Westin St John Resort Villas is a tropical-chic resort that blends laid-back island vibes with modern luxury. Dine oceanfront, soak up panoramic views, and step straight onto soft white sands for endless adventure and relaxation.

For an apartment or villa

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

  • Fly to St Thomas' Cyril E. King Airport, and take a taxi to the ferry terminal at Red Hook. Regular ferries to St John take around 20 minutes.
  • For the freedom to explore St John in your own rental car, contact our online partner Rentalcars.
  • Expect balmy temperatures of around 25-30°C throughout the year. Peak season is between mid-December and mid-April. Travel between the end of the season and June for great hotel deals!
  • The hurricane season officially lasts from June to November. August and September are the highest risk months and best avoided.

Still not sure?

Weather

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

No spam. Only sweet updates about the latest hotel openings and the best places to stay.

The best hotels in St John

St John Inn

US Virgin Islands

A colourful beach front guesthouse with rainbow rooms and excellent prices. Bright accommodations have all the mod cons and balconies with hammocks. Lovely breakfast and bar area with sea views. Tennis court on site, easy access to golf and beach activities. Ideal for families.

  • Value chic
  • Sights nearby - Elaine Lone Sprauve Library and Museum.
  • Tennis Court
  • Great walks
from AU$231 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Garden by the Sea B&B

US Virgin Islands (Cruz Bay)

A beach chic B&B with romantic suites in colourful pastels. Four poster beds with attractive muslin drapes, verandahs with dreamy sea views onto white sands, all in a secluded location. Perfect for a romantic beach holiday with a book, lots of sun, and simple accommodation.

  • Views - Beautiful views from verandahs out to sea.
  • Great walks
  • On the beach
  • Fishing
from AU$246 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Concordia Eco Resort

St John

A collection of condos, tents, and studio apartments set in the verdant hillside above a bay. Charming wooden built accommodation, each with private kitchens, balconies, and sea views. Rustic restaurant, beaches to explore, relaxed bar, and plenty of watersports.

  • Views
  • Eco
  • Great walks - Bordeaux Mountain Trail, Ram Head Trail.
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor freshwater pool
from AU$300 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Estate Lindholm

US Virgin Islands (Cruz Bay)

An intimate B&B set amongst the Danish ruins of the estate's original settlers. Stunning views out to sea and towards Cruz Bay. Set on a hillside, back from the beach and walking distance to restaurants and nightlife. Large rooms with balconies and attractive furnishings. Excellently placed.

  • Views - Fabulous sea views from every room.
  • Swimming Pool - Fresh water pool and decking area with views out to sea.
  • Restaurant
  • Great walks
from AU$346 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Coconut Coast Villas

St John

Good-value apartment hotel on the water's edge in a quiet residential area. Each well-designed one, two or three-room apartment comes with ocean-view balconies, spacious living areas and kitchens. Swim in the sea or soak in the waterfront outdoor pool or hot tub. A comfortable and convenient choice.

  • Families - Waterfront Villa Suites come with three ensuite bathrooms, two kitchens and two patios; there's space for all the family
  • Local exploring - Perfect base for exploring the island's many beaches, heading out on day trips or simply relaxing on the water's edge
  • Value chic - Sea-front location, outdoor space with sea views, plenty of space and fully-equipped living areas make this a steal
  • On the beach - Beach chairs, towels and coolers are available for swimming and relaxing at the small pebble beach
from AU$360 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Gallows Point Resort

US Virgin Islands

A stunning setting for a luxurious beach hotel. Large rooms and suites with kitchenettes, balconies, and sea views are nestled into the bay. Wonderful pool and sun deck area, sea views from the verandah of the American restaurant, and a lively bar to enjoy a cocktail from in the evenings.

  • Views - Panoramic island views
  • Beach Life
  • Luxury
  • Romantic Break
from AU$454 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The Westin St John Resort Villas

St John (US Virgin Islands)

A laid-back resort on St. John's Great Cruz Bay, this spot offers a relaxed, tropical vibe with modern island-inspired decor. Expect a variety of dining options, a spacious fitness centre, and a kids' club. Perfect for those seeking both adventure and downtime in a tropical paradise.

  • Active Holiday - Adventure seekers will find endless excitement with nearby hiking trails, water sports, and fitness facilities to stay active
  • Snorkelling - Embark on a guided snorkelling adventure to the floating taco bar, Lime Out, for a unique culinary experience
  • Trekking - Explore the Virgin Islands National Park's hiking trails, offering breathtaking views and rich history
  • Kayaking - Take a night kayak tour, paddling under the stars in clear-bottom kayaks for a mesmerising experience
from AU$691 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on My Luxury Hotel

Lovango Resort & Beach Club

St John (Caribbean)

This secluded Caribbean private resort is nestled between the main islands of St Thomas and St John. The elegant glamping tents, treehouses and villas blend seamlessly into the landscape with stunning ocean views. Guests can enjoy private terraces and pools, a restaurant, and bar. A slice of heaven.

  • Families - Villa Lovango is a private 3-bedroom home with living, dining, and kitchen facilities, a private pool, and views of the ocean
  • Local exploring - Take a boat excursion and get to U.S. Virgin Islands National Park or the charming town of Cruz Bay in mere minutes
  • Great walks - Walk to the north side of the island to secluded Crescent Beach where you can experience a spectacular setting
  • Romantic Break - Opt for a treehouse for a romantic escape with your loved one nestled in nature
from AU$1531 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees