Wondering how to travel to St John? This small island in the U.S. Virgin Islands offers a tropical paradise with stunning beaches and lush forests.
Hey everyone! Grab a drink and pull up a chair. So, you’re finally planning that trip to St. John? Smart move. I’ve been half a dozen times, and let me tell you, it’s a different world compared to the busier islands. Figuring out how to travel to St. John is the only tricky part, but once you nail that, you’re in for pure paradise. It’s mostly national park land, with some of the most incredible beaches I’ve ever set foot on. There are no big airports or cruise ship docks, which is exactly why it’s so special. It feels like your own secret discovery. I’m going to walk you through the entire process, from booking your flight to feeling that pristine sand between your toes, based on all my trips and a few lessons learned the hard way.
Why St. John Should Be Your Next Destination
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of ferries and jeep rentals, let’s talk about why this place is worth the extra bit of effort. Over 60% of the island is protected as Virgin Islands National Park. That means untouched hiking trails through ancient ruins, crystal-clear water teeming with life, and beaches that look like they’re straight out of a magazine. There are no high-rise hotels or chain restaurants. The vibe is consistently rustic, eco-conscious, and deeply relaxing. You come here to disconnect, to explore, and to truly unwind. The main towns, Cruz Bay and Coral Bay, are tiny and full of character. It’s the perfect blend of adventure and hammock-time.
Your First Step: Booking the Right Flight
You cannot fly directly into St. John. Your journey will always begin with a flight into a neighboring airport. Getting this part right sets the tone for your entire trip.
Cyril E. King Airport (STT) in St. Thomas
This is, without a doubt, your best and most common option. Virtually every major airline flies into STT. The huge advantage here is proximity. You’ll land on the same island as your ferry connection, which drastically simplifies your ground transportation. I always fly into STT because it cuts down on travel time on arrival day. You’re that much closer to your first beach bar painkiller.
The Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) in Puerto Rico
This is a solid alternative, especially if you find a fantastic deal or want to spend a day in Puerto Rico. The flight from SJU to St. Thomas (STT) is short, around 45 minutes. However, you’re adding an entire extra flight leg to your journey. You also have to factor in collecting your bags in SJU, checking in for your inter-island flight, and then dealing with baggage again in STT. It can eat up most of a day. I’d only recommend this if you’re explicitly planning a multi-destination trip.
The Great Ferry Debate: Your Gateway to the Island
This is the core of your journey. You have two main ferry options, and your choice depends on your appetite for adventure and your flight arrival time.
The Red Hook Ferry (My Personal Go-To)
This is the standard, most frequent route. From the STT airport, you’ll take a taxi to the Red Hook ferry terminal on the east end of St. Thomas. The taxi ride takes about 30-45 minutes and is a beautiful drive along the coast. The ferries from Red Hook to Cruz Bay, St. John, run every hour from early morning until midnight. The ride itself is a breezy 20 minutes across the water. It’s efficient, predictable, and perfect for nailing down a schedule. I always aim for this route.
The Charlotte Amalie Ferry
This ferry departs from downtown Charlotte Amalie, which is much closer to the airport—only a 15-minute taxi ride. The trade-off? The ferry ride is longer (about 45 minutes) and the departures are less frequent, usually only a few times a day. This is a good backup plan if your flight arrives perfectly between its scheduled departures. I’ve used it once when my flight was early, and it worked out fine, but I prefer the frequency of Red Hook.
The Crown Bay Ferry (A Hidden Gem)
This is a newer option that many visitors don’t know about. It leaves from the Crown Bay Marina, which is extremely close to the STT airport (a 5-minute taxi ride). It only runs a few times a day, but if your flight timing aligns, it’s the absolute fastest way to get from the airport to St. John. It’s worth a quick online search to check its current schedule before you land.
Pro Tip: Buy your ferry tickets one-way. The return ticket is best purchased in Cruz Bay before you leave. The lines are manageable, and it gives you flexibility.
Navigating the Taxi Scene from STT Airport
The taxi system in St. Thomas is well-organized but different. As you exit baggage claim, you’ll be directed to a taxi dispatcher. Tell them “Red Hook ferry” or “Charlotte Amalie ferry.” They will assign you to a shared safari-style open-air taxi or a van. It’s not a private car; you’ll share it with other travelers heading the same way. The fare is per person and fixed by the territory, so don’t worry about haggling. It’s safe and efficient. Just have your luggage handy and be ready for a windy, scenic ride!
You Absolutely Need a Rental Jeep. Here’s Why.
I’m just going to say it: you must rent a jeep on St. John. Taxis are available for quick trips, but the real magic of the island is exploring on your own time. The roads are steep, winding, and often rough. A 4×4 is not just a recommendation; it’s a necessity. I book mine months in advance from reputable local agencies like Courtesy Car Rental or St. John Car Rental. They often meet you right at the ferry dock in Cruz Bay with your jeep, which is incredibly convenient. Driving is on the left side, but you get used to it quickly. Trust me, the freedom to chase sunsets at Ram Head or find a secluded beach is worth every penny.
Where to Hang Your Hat: Choosing Your Base
St. John offers a range of accommodations, but it lacks big resorts. That’s a good thing.
The Vibes of Cruz Bay
This is the main port town. It’s where the ferries arrive, and it’s buzzing with energy. You’ll find the majority of the restaurants, shops, and bars here. Staying in or near Cruz Bay means you can walk to dinner and enjoy the nightlife. It’s incredibly convenient, especially if you don’t plan on cooking. Great for first-timers.
The Serenity of Coral Bay
On the quieter east end, Coral Bay is the “other” town. It’s more rustic, with a fiercely local and bohemian vibe. The restaurants are more low-key, and the views of the Sir Francis Drake Channel are breathtaking. You’ll feel more off-the-grid here. It’s perfect for those seeking absolute peace and don’t mind a 20-minute drive over the hill for a fancy dinner.
Vacation Villas: The True St. John Experience
For me, the best way to experience St. John is to rent a private villa. These homes are perched on hillsides, offering insane panoramic views and total privacy. Most have pools and are designed for outdoor living. Websites like Vrbo and Airbnb are filled with options. It’s ideal for families or groups. Waking up to that view with your own coffee is unbeatable.
Don’t-Miss Experiences: Beyond the Beach Chair
Sure, you’ll spend time on the sand, but make room for these adventures.
- Hike the Reef Bay Trail: A National Park Service guided hike down to ancient petroglyphs and a sugar mill ruin. It’s a stunning piece of history. Book this in advance!
- Snorkel at Waterlemon Cay: It’s a short hike or kayak to this offshore cay, but the snorkeling is arguably the best on the island. The current can be strong, so check conditions.
- Sunset Drinks at The Windmill Bar: An iconic spot on a historic sugar windmill with 360-degree views. It’s the perfect end to any day.
- Day Trip to the Baths on Virgin Gorda: Take a day-sail charter from St. John over to this incredible geological formation in the British Virgin Islands. It’s a full-day commitment but unforgettable.
Packing for a St. John Adventure
Packing here is practical. Leave the fancy clothes at home.
- Luggage: Soft-sided duffels are easier to lug onto ferries and into taxis than hard-shell suitcases.
- Footwear: Hiking sandals (like Tevas or Chacos) are your best friend. You’ll live in them. Bring sneakers for serious hikes and flip-flops for the beach.
- Essentials: Reef-safe sunscreen is a must to protect the fragile coral. A dry bag is crucial for boat trips and keeping your gear safe on beach hops. A reusable water bottle is key for hikes.
FAQs: Your Questions, Answered
Q: Do I need a passport to travel to St. John?
A: If you are a U.S. citizen, no. St. John is part of the U.S. Virgin Islands. A government-issued ID (like a driver’s license) is sufficient. However, you MUST have a passport if your trip includes a side excursion to the British Virgin Islands (like The Baths or Jost Van Dyke).
Q: What is the best time of year to visit St. John?
A: The peak season, with the best weather, is from December through April. However, it’s also the most crowded and expensive. I actually love the shoulder seasons—May-June and November. You get great weather, fewer people, and better rates. The summer and fall are hotter and riskier for hurricanes.
Q: Is St. John expensive?
A: Yes, it can be. Because almost everything is imported, the cost of groceries, dining out, and accommodations is higher than on the mainland. Budget accordingly. The biggest savings come from booking a villa and cooking some of your own meals.
Q: How many days do I need in St. John?
A: I recommend a minimum of five full days to really settle in and explore without feeling rushed. A week is ideal. It takes a full day to travel there and a full day to travel back, so a 7-day trip usually gives you 5 solid days on the island.
Q: Can I use my cell phone on St. John?
A: Most major U.S. carriers include USVI in their domestic plans, but you must double-check with your provider. Service can be spotty in the more remote areas of the island, especially around Coral Bay and on hiking trails. Don’t rely on it for navigation.
Wrapping It Up: Your Paradise Awaits
Look, planning how to travel to St. John requires a few more steps than an all-inclusive in Cancun. But that’s the point. That little bit of effort filters out the crowds and rewards you with an authentic, breathtaking, and genuinely relaxing experience. It’s the island I keep returning to when I need to reset. The process of flying, taxiing, and ferrying becomes part of the adventure—a decompression ritual that slowly strips away the stress of everyday life. Once you finally step off that dock in Cruz Bay, jeep keys in hand, you’ll instantly know it was all worth it. So book that flight, reserve that jeep, and get ready for one of the most incredible trips of your life. You’ve got this. Feel free to hit me up with any other questions!
