St. John, a gem in the U.S. Virgin Islands, beckons with its pristine beaches, lush trails, rich history, and, of course, Virgin Islands National Park. Virgin Islands National Park, encompassing a significant portion of this island paradise, offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure seekers alike. Recently, I embarked on a two-day exploration through this breathtaking park, and here is all the information.
Planning Your Virgin Islands Trip
First, if you’re dreaming of your own escape to Virgin Islands National Park, here are a few tips to help you plan your trip:
- Accommodations: Research and book your stay in advance, as options can fill quickly, especially during peak season.
- Transportation: Consider renting a car for maximum flexibility in exploring the island.
- Packing Essentials: Pack light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable hiking shoes, and snorkeling gear.
- Learn the History: Take the time to understand the island’s rich and complex history, including the impact of slavery.
My Visit to the Virgin Islands
My adventure began with a scenic ferry ride to St. John and settling into my hotel. If you want to learn more about getting here, check out this post.
Day 1: Hiking, History, and Underwater Exploration
Virgin Islands Visitor Center
My exploration began at the Virgin Islands Visitor Center. Here, you can delve into the history of St. John, learning about its geological formation, indigenous inhabitants, colonial past, and diverse ecosystem. The exhibits and displays provide valuable context for your journey, and it is a great place to get a map and a stamp for your national parks book.
Reef Bay Trail
Driving into the park, our next stop was the Reef Bay Trail. The trail leads through lush forests, past towering trees draped with vines, and alongside the remnants of a once-thriving sugar mill.
The trail also has an offshoot to a hidden waterfall, a refreshing oasis amidst the tropical heat, with ancient petroglyphs etched into the rocks. The end point is the ruins of a sugar plantation, one of the best preserved on the island. There is also a lovely beach here, but note that the hike back to the car is all uphill.
Jolly Dog for Lunch
After a morning of hiking and exploration, make your way to Coral Bay, a charming harbor town. The Jolly Dog, a local eatery, is a great spot for a well-deserved lunch. Be sure to order the fish tacos.
Ram Head Trail
With renewed energy, tackle the Ram Head Trail, a challenging but rewarding hike that culminates in breathtaking panoramic views and is on this side of the island. The trail starts by crossing two amazing beaches before gradually ascending through diverse vegetation, from dry scrubland to cacti. As you climb, the views open up, revealing the vast expanse of the turquoise ocean, the neighboring islands dotting the horizon, and the rugged coastline of St. John.
Reaching the summit of Ram Head rewards you with a 360-degree vista, a truly unforgettable experience. The panoramic view encompasses the island, showcasing its diverse topography and natural beauty.
Trunk Bay
If time allows, head back to Trunk Bay and do some snorkeling while watching the sunset.
Day 2: Windmills, Plantations, and Turtle Encounters
Peace Hill Windmill
Day two begins with a visit to the Peace Hill Windmill, a historic landmark perched atop a hill offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Trunk Bay
From there, we returned to Trunk Bay to explore the underwater snorkel trail. While the conditions might not always be ideal, Trunk Bay’s beauty is undeniable. The pristine white sand, the crystal-clear turquoise waters, and the lush vegetation lining the shore create a picture-perfect Caribbean scene. Note that it can be difficult to park here if you don’t arrive early though.
Annaberg Plantation
Next, head on to the Annaberg Plantation, which starkly contrasts the beaches’ natural beauty. Exploring the ruins of this former sugar plantation is a sobering yet essential experience. Walking through the remnants of the sugar mill, the slave quarters, and the great house offers a poignant glimpse into the island’s history, including the harsh realities of slavery that shaped its past.
Waterlemon Cay
From there, we hiked to Waterlemon Cay on the Leinster Bay Trail, which leads to a secluded beach, a hidden gem offering tranquility and natural beauty. Here, discover the ruins of a historic guest house on Windy Hill. These ruins, often remnants of former estates or plantations, add another layer to the historical tapestry of the area. Note that the hiking trail can be overgrown and has a lot of stickers that can poke you.
After doing the hike, head down to the cay to snorkel. This is where I saw multiple sea turtles.
Windmill Bar
Your Virgin Islands adventure culminates with a delightful dinner at the Windmill Bar. This establishment, aptly named, offers stunning panoramic views of the island. It is the perfect spot for sunset and often has live music to accompany the views.
Virgin Islands National Park is more than just a beautiful destination; it’s an experience that engages all your senses. From the lush trails and pristine beaches to the historical sites and vibrant marine life, this park offers something for everyone. I hope my journey inspires you to embark on your own adventure to this Caribbean paradise.
