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- St John Must do Activities
There is a lot to do on the tropical island of St. John in the United States Virgin Islands, and fittingly, most of the activities are associated with water. The island is surrounded by the crystal clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea and is home to some of the most jaw-dropping beaches in the world. You can watch for the “green flash” at a pristine beach, go on an island hopping adventure, snorkel or scuba dive at a nearby reef and explore centuries old ruins on the island. Finish the day with a delightful meal al fresco while watching the sun go down.
Trunk Bay beach is considered the most breathtaking beach on St. John and has been named by Conde Nast Traveler magazine as one of the best beaches in the world. The beach was donated to the Virgin Islands National Park by Laurance Rockefeller and it remains a well-preserved attraction. The curve of the bay, the color and clarity of the water and scenic views of neighboring islands make Trunk Bay extraordinary. Snorkelers can view colorful sea life along the 225-yard Underwater Trail near the beach. Visitors will find restrooms, a snack bar, showers and a lifeguard as well as watersports rental. Stay for the sunset and you may be lucky enough to see the "green flash" as the sun sinks majestically into the ocean.
Reserve a spot in advance at Virgin Islands Ecotours and join a three-hour guided “multi-eco” experience. You will kayak along the shore and discover colorful coral reefs and sea grass beds in the shallow water surrounding the island. Snorkel in the National Park and learn about marine life as your nature guide explains the natural environment, history and ecology of the area, then hike along a picturesque trail in the tropical forest. For an all day hiking eco tour along Reef Bay Trail, follow a National Park ranger as he explains the tropical forests, petroglyphs and sugar mill ruins on a three-mile hike. Or, you may choose to explore the trails on your own.
Charter a sailboat for a memorable day of island hopping in the American and British Virgin Islands. Do not forget your passport if you go to British islands like Jost Van Dyke. You can sail around St. John, stop off at some of the best beaches and then sail to one of the small cays near the island to snorkel. An all day trip can take you over to Jost Van Dyke, St. Thomas or Tortola where you can have lunch at a beach bar and explore the island. The Soggy Dollar and Foxy’s beach bars on Jost Van Dyke are popular destinations for island hoppers.
Some of the best sport fishing is found just off St. John. Charter a boat and try your hand at offshore fishing for marlin, Dorado, tuna and wahoo or try inshore fishing for snapper, king fish and skip jacks. Whether you are a novice or a seasoned pro, you can find the right charter boat experience for you. Tackle, bait, ice and beverages are generally provided.
For a romantic dining experience, make a reservation at Asolare. The restaurant is perched at the top of Caneel Hill and offers amazing views of the sailboats in the bay below. Asolare is known for its hip staff, inspired cuisine and elegant setting. The building was constructed in the 1950’s as a private home and was host to Laurance Rockefeller and other elite island residents. The interesting menu items are prepared with fresh, locally sourced products. Enjoy dishes like endive salad with gorgonzola, pecans and miso vinaigrette; grilled scallops with stir fry and curry; panko crusted tofu in a sweet chili sauce; lobster tail with mango and buerre blanc; and lamb loin with Basmati rice and herb roasted beets. Top off the meal with a decadent dessert like chocolate pyramid cake.