One Day Itinerary in St. John, USVI
Image: Mauri Elbel
Imagine crystal-clear waters, lush greenery, and an island brimming with charm... welcome to St. John, USVI. With its compact size and rich natural beauty, St. John is perfect for a one-day adventure.
Whether you're visiting from a villa in St. John, catching the ferry from St. Thomas, or arriving by cruise ship, this one-day itinerary for St. John will guide you through the island’s most stunning beaches, historic sites, and vibrant culture.
If your time is limited, don’t worry, we've got you covered!
Let's take a look at how you can visit St. John in 1 day.
Key Takeaways
St. John offers a perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty, making it an ideal one-day trip destination.
Start your morning with coffee and head to Trunk Bay for a world-class beach experience and underwater snorkeling trail.
Explore the historical ruins at Cinnamon Bay Sugar Factory to learn about the island's colonial past.
Savor local cuisine and tropical cocktails during lunch in Cruz Bay for a true taste of the Caribbean.
Snorkel at Maho Bay to encounter sea turtles and enjoy a serene beach setting.
End your day at The Windmill Bar with unforgettable sunset views and a drink in hand.
Morning
Start your day early to make the most of your time on this breathtaking island. The morning is the perfect opportunity to explore St. John’s pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and lush natural landscapes before the day gets too warm.
1. Begin with the Ferry to St. John (if applicable)
Day trip to St. John from St. Thomas
If you’re starting your trip from St. Thomas, take the morning ferry from Red Hook or Charlotte Amalie to St. John. The Red Hook ferry runs hourly and costs around $8.15 per person (one-way).
Book tickets online at St. John Ferry Ticketing to save time. Arrive early to secure prime seating and enjoy a breezy ride across turquoise waters.
If you are bringing a car with you, you can check out our complete guide on how to take a car ferry to St. John (Don't worry, it's not hard).
2. Coffee in Cruz Bay
Kick off your day with a caffeine boost at Cruz Bay Landing Coffee House & Creamery, just steps from the ferry terminal in Cruz Bay. Choose from locally sourced Virgin Islands brews or indulge in a latte with a tropical twist like the Almond Joy (coconut rum, amaretto, and chocolate).
What better way to start your one day St. John trip then with a coffee?
Late Morning
With your morning coffee in hand, it’s time to immerse yourself in the natural splendor of St. John. Whether you’re a beach lover or an avid hiker, there’s something here for everyone!
3. Explore Trunk Bay – A Caribbean Jewel
Next, hop into one of the many open-air taxis waiting near Cruz Bay and head out to Trunk Bay, a must-see destination on St. John. Rated as one of the world’s top beaches, Trunk Bay has everything you need to relax—white sand, turquoise waters, and an iconic underwater snorkeling trail.
Entry usually costs around $5 for adults, but it’s free for children under 16 and National Park Pass holders.
Spend a couple of hours swimming, sunbathing, or snorkeling (snorkel rentals are available on-site). Don’t forget to stop at the Trunk Bay overlook on the way for a photo that’ll make your Instagram followers jealous.
Afternoon
After a morning filled with adventure and relaxation, it’s time to refuel and continue exploring the vibrant offerings of St. John. The afternoon is perfect for savoring local flavors, discovering historical sites, and soaking up even more Caribbean beauty.
4. Visit the Cinnamon Bay Sugar Factory
Take a short taxi ride to Cinnamon Bay to explore the historic ruins of the old sugar plantation. Walk along a shaded boardwalk to see remnants of the factory, a horse mill, and cemeteries that speak to the island’s colonial past.
This is a quick stop, but the serene atmosphere and historical significance make it worth your time.
If you're not sure about this suggestion, you can also check out the top land attractions on St. John to explore something else instead.
5. Lunch and Relaxation in Cruz Bay
Return to Cruz Bay to grab lunch. There’s no shortage of excellent dining spots here, from The Beach Bar (right on the water) to High Tide. Opt for fresh seafood, island specialties, or even a simple burger. And don’t forget a famous Painkiller cocktail—it’s basically a vacation in a glass.
You really can't go wrong here as all of the restaurants offer some amazing local food.
Late Afternoon
After a leisurely lunch, spend the rest of your afternoon exploring more of St. John’s beauty and charm.
6. Maho Bay for a Unique Snorkeling Experience
If you’re up for more adventure, head to Maho Bay, a serene beach known for its calm waters and abundant sea turtles. Snorkel near the shallows and get up close with these gentle giants. There are also food trucks and casual shops nearby, making it an easygoing stop to unwind.
If you're not sure about Maho Bay, don't sweat it, there are more options. Here are the best snorkeling spots on St. John.
Evening
As the day winds down, there are still a few more things to do before leaving this tropical paradise.
7. Sunset Views from The Windmill Bar
End your day on a high note by taking a taxi to The Windmill Bar, located just a short drive from Cruz Bay. This spot offers panoramic views of the island and is one of the best places to watch the sun dip below the horizon.
Sip on a cocktail, take in the breathtaking scenery, and toast to an incredible one day on St. John.
8. Catch the Ferry Back
Wrap up your St. John adventure by catching the ferry back to St. Thomas if you’re not staying overnight. Ferries run until 11 p.m., so you’ll have plenty of time to savor your sunset experience before heading back.
And there you have it, our complete one day itinerary for St. John USVI. Enjoy!
Insider Tips for One Day in St. John
Rent a jeep if you’re comfortable driving on the island. It'll give you more flexibility to explore.
Pack light with beach essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and a quick-dry towel.
Go early to beat the crowds at popular beaches like Trunk Bay and Maho Bay.
Download offline maps, as cell service can be spotty in certain areas.
Book Your Stay in Luxury
Have more than one day to spend? Upgrade your stay by staying at the Finisterre Estate, a premier luxury villa in St. John. With stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and unmatched amenities, you’ll want to extend your visit.
With its iconic beaches, rich history, and laid-back vibe, St. John is the perfect day trip destination for those looking to experience Caribbean paradise. Whether you choose to relax by the sea or explore the island’s natural beauty, your adventure promises to leave lasting impressions.
Plan your trip now and discover why St. John is a must-visit destination. Share your experience with us in the comments, what was your favorite part of St. John?
Happy Planning,
The Team at Finisterre