Saint John

Saint John is a small island in the Caribbean Sea, part of the American Virgin Islands. Although its area is just over 50 km², it is here that travelers from all over the world come to enjoy the abundance of beautiful corners of unspoiled nature, white sandy beaches, diving, sea fishing or yachting. According to eco-tourism enthusiasts, St. John is the most beautiful of the American Virgin Islands; a tropical paradise with picturesque coral reefs, blue lagoons and secluded bays.

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St. John Island is located 6.4 km from St. Thomas, the main island of the Territory, and 6.4 km from Tortola, part of the British Virgin Islands. Only 4,170 people live on the island, with almost 3,000 of them living in the town of Cruz Bay. St. John is actually just the top of a huge underwater volcano, which accounts for the rocky slopes, heavily exposed headlands, and rich underwater life.

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Climate

The rainiest months are October and November. The driest are February and March. Hurricanes occur in August through September. The best time to travel is from January through April. The beginning of summer is more suitable for snorkeling – during this period there are practically no storms. The average temperature during the year varies slightly: 24-29° C in summer and 28-30° C in winter.

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Tourists

There is no airport on St. John, so you can only get here by sea – by boat or ferry. Fortunately, the ferry service between St. Thomas and St. John is well established.

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Travelers should keep in mind that the main stores, cafes and restaurants are concentrated in Cruz Bay. Another lively spot on St. John is the second largest town of Coral Bay, home to the oldest church on the island, Emmaus-Moravian Church.

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As for beaches, St. John has public beaches. The most popular ones are Fort James and Deep Bay. During the winter months, surfers occupy Gully Bay. And in Hawksbill Bay, one of the beaches belongs to nudists. In total, there are over 40 beaches on the island, many of which have water sports equipment rental centers.

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St. John has no problem with hotels. Here you can book a room in your favorite hotel, which will cost 2.5-7 thousand rubles per night for two people, depending on its “stardom.”

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Attractions

The main attraction of the island is the National Park, which covers a fairly large water area of nearby reef zones. And one of the best excursions on the island of Saint John is the Bordeaux Mountain Trail, which will take travelers to the amazing peaks of Mamie and Kemelberg, as well as to the beautiful summit of the eponymous mountain. The presented tour allows you to see the partially restored ruins of the famous sugar mill, which was erected in the 18th century.

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We also recommend visiting the island’s historical museum and library, the Arawak petroglyphs near the Reef Bay Trail in the park, and the Sinnamon Bay archaeological dig open to tourists.

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