St. John is one of the most unique and beautiful islands in the Caribbean, offering visitors the perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant local culture. With most of the island protected as part of the Virgin Islands National Park, St. John provides countless outdoor adventure and exploration opportunities.
For those seeking something beyond the usual beach day, the island’s lesser-known historical sites, hiking trails, and culinary experiences offer a glimpse into the authentic spirit of St. John.
Here are five unique activities that highlight the best of the island and make for a memorable trip. And, of course, you’ll want the perfect home base for your adventures. Our St. John villa rentals at Caribbean Villas offer the ideal balance of luxury and comfort for your stay.
Visit Ruins
St. John’s history is deeply intertwined with its sugar plantation past. Exploring the island’s ruins provides a fascinating window into this chapter of its history, with several well-preserved sites offering visitors a look into what life was like on the island centuries ago. Two of the most notable historical sites are the Cinnamon Bay Ruins and the Annaberg Plantation Ruins.
Cinnamon Bay Ruins
Cinnamon Bay, located on the north shore of St. John, is not just a beautiful beach, but also home to some of the most accessible ruins on the island. The Cinnamon Bay Ruins include remnants of an old sugar factory, Danish colonial structures, and a few estate buildings that have withstood the test of time.
What makes this site particularly special is its proximity to the beach. After learning about the island’s history, you can relax or take a swim in the clear waters of Cinnamon Bay. This makes it a perfect day-trip option, combining cultural enrichment and beach time. The ruins are just a short distance from the parking area, making it one of the most convenient St. John activities for travelers of all ages.
Annaberg Plantation Ruins
For a deeper dive into St. John’s colonial past, the Annaberg Plantation Ruins are a must-visit. Once one of the largest sugar plantations on the island, Annaberg offers a more comprehensive view of the island’s sugar-producing heyday. Visitors can explore the windmill, factory ruins, and more.
In addition to the history, the site offers stunning views of the British Virgin Islands and the surrounding turquoise waters.

Hiking
For nature lovers, the hiking trails of St. John provide access to the island’s diverse ecosystems, ranging from tropical forests to coastal paths with breathtaking ocean views. Many St. John hiking trails are well-marked and suitable for beginners and experienced hikers. One trail in particular stands out for its accessibility, natural beauty, and historical significance: the Peace Hill Trail.
Hike Peace Hill Trail
The Peace Hill Trail is a short, moderate hike that rewards visitors with panoramic views of St. John’s north shore. Located near Hawksnest Bay, the trail is less than half a mile long, making it an easy hike for most visitors. Once at the top, you’ll find the ruins of a windmill, another reminder of St. John’s plantation history.
The real attraction, however, is the stunning vista. From Peace Hill, you can see the surrounding islands and the endless horizon of the Caribbean Sea. This peaceful and serene spot is ideal for photography, picnicking, or simply taking in the island’s beauty. It’s also a perfect way to experience the island’s natural beauty without committing to a long or strenuous hike. For anyone looking for a quick but rewarding hike, Peace Hill is the perfect choice.
Snorkeling
The underwater world surrounding St. John is just as vibrant and intriguing as its landscapes. The island has some of the best snorkeling spots in the Caribbean, offering encounters with coral reefs, tropical fish, sea turtles, and more. Among the various snorkeling locations, Waterlemon Cay stands out as a top choice for both beginner and seasoned snorkelers.
Snorkel Waterlemon Cay
Waterlemon Cay, located in Leinster Bay, is one of the most popular spots for snorkeling on St. John, and for good reason. The clear, calm waters around the cay provide excellent visibility, allowing snorkelers to see a wide array of marine life up close. The journey to the cay involves a short hike along the Leinster Bay Trail, making this adventure a combination of hiking and snorkeling.
Once you’re in the water, you can expect to see coral formations, sea fans, and schools of colorful fish. Many visitors also spot sea turtles and starfish here, making it a memorable vacation experience. The nearby beach is perfect for relaxing after snorkeling, rounding out a day of aquatic exploration. For those seeking a quintessential Caribbean experience, snorkeling at Waterlemon Cay is one of the top St. John activities to add to your itinerary.
Plan Your Visit
Discover your dream getaway with our exceptional St John rentals. Browse today and book your beach vacation to enjoy crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and unforgettable island charm!
Unique Dining
One of the most exciting aspects of traveling is discovering unique local dining experiences. St. John offers many restaurants and bars, but none quite as distinctive as Lime Out Bar—a floating taco bar located in Coral Bay.
Lime Out Bar
Lime Out Bar offers a dining experience like no other. This floating restaurant serves delicious gourmet tacos and refreshing cocktails right in the middle of the bay. Accessible only by boat, visitors can kayak or paddleboard out to Lime Out for a meal or join one of the boat tours that include a stop here.
The bar’s laid-back atmosphere and unique location make it one of the most memorable dining experiences on St. John. Patrons can enjoy their food while floating in the water or relaxing on paddleboards. It’s the perfect way to enjoy St. John’s sunny weather and crystal-clear waters while savoring fresh, flavorful food. For travelers seeking something out of the ordinary, Lime Out is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Stay with Caribbean Villas
After experiencing these unique St. John activities, you’ll need a comfortable place to relax and recharge. Caribbean Villas offers various St. John vacation rentals to suit every traveler’s needs. With over 80 properties available, ranging from luxurious beachfront villas to comfortable and convenient condos, there’s a perfect rental for every group, whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or as a couple.
Our St. John villa rentals are in some of the island’s most sought-after locations, including beachfront properties with stunning ocean views, hillside homes surrounded by tropical foliage, and condos that offer easy access to Cruz Bay’s dining and shopping.
Choosing Caribbean Villas provides you with an unbeatable home base and the opportunity to explore the island at your own pace. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, staying in one of our St. John vacation rentals ensures your island experience will be as unique and memorable as the activities themselves. Book your stay with us and make your dream Caribbean vacation a reality.