Named after the patron saint of white sand beaches, St John is a paradise awaiting. Known for some of the world’s top beaches, St. John has a surprising night life, great hiking, water sports of all types and great culinary culture. Whether you simply want to escape it all, or dive right in, St John is a magical place to do both.

St. John is the smallest of the three U.S. Virgin Islands at just under 20 square miles. The island is 60% National Park which protects both forest and ocean from commercial development. There are essentially two main roads on the island, Center Line, and the Beach Road. Driving is conducted on the left hand side of the road and is the only U.S. territory where this is still the custom. There are approximate 4,000 residents who are both full time and part time inhabitants of the island.

Beaches

St. John boasts some of the best beaches in the world including Cinnamon, Trunk and Maho Bays, the latter two consistently showing up amongst the world’s best. However, the island actually boasts over 3 dozen beaches, most easily accessible by car or by foot. The North Shore beaches in the National Park are only a 15 minute drive from Twilight Villa, so an easy car or taxi ride away. Several beaches have on-site parking and a few, including Maho, have bathrooms, food, and snorkel gear.

Towns

Cruz Bay is the largest town on the island and will have all amenities you may need from groceries, to beach items, to shopping, to restaurants, to night life, etc. Cruz Bay is a 2 minute drive from Twilight Villa and, for the adventurous, a 10 to 15 min walk. Cruz Bay is also the ferry terminal for trips back to St. Thomas or the very near by British Virgin Islands.

Coral Bay is on the opposite side of St. John and is a 30 minute drive over Center Line Road. Coral Bay is a sleepy community of small shops, art galleries, and restaurants including Skinny Legs, a local favorite.

Restaurants and Bars

Restaurants and Bars are located throughout the island, but most are found in Cruz Bay, Coral Bay, or along Center Line Road. Cruz Bay boasts some of the best food in the Caribbean with spots such as Extra Virgin Bistro, Morgan’s Mango, and La Tapa. Great bars can also be found at Mongoose Junction, The Beach Bar, or our favorite, the Windmill on Center Line.

Shopping

If shopping is your thing, Cruz Bay is the place for you. Mongoose Junction is the largest single shopping district as it has nearly 20 shops to choose from. You’ll love the style as the entire outdoor space is designed to resemble an old island sugar mill. Cruz Bay also features many jewelry stores, art galleries, and other gift boutiques for your shopping pleasure. Be sure to get a St John hook bracelet with the distinctive “J”.