Located just east of St. Thomas is St. John, one of the three main islands that comprise the US Virgin Islands. Being the smallest among the others makes St. John the most unspoiled, as two-thirds of it is designated as a national park. Most people simply visit St. John with a day tour, but it’s a great destination for extended visits, too, especially for yacht charterers who are looking to do a plethora of outdoor activities.

Cruz Bay is the main entry point for those arriving on a yacht. This harbor town on the west coast welcomes vessels up to 60 meters long and offers a selection of restaurants, bars, shops, and provisioning stores for all your yachting needs. While the bay has a picturesque sandy shoreline, more secluded beaches are just a short cruise away.

One such hidden gem is Hart Bay, a quiet stretch of sand on the south coast that doubles as a fantastic snorkeling spot. Its rocky outcrop provides a habitat for vibrant Caribbean marine life, including parrotfish, bluehead wrasse, angelfish, and stunning complex coral formations. For those who prefer a more iconic beach experience, Trunk Bay on the north coast is a must-visit, too, as it is the most photographed place in St. John. It is also consistently ranked among the world’s best beaches; it boasts powdery white sand and the famous underwater trail – Coral Reef Underwater Park Trail. If you want to see beautiful scenery without the crowds, visit Salt Pond Beach, the local’s favorite.

Further along the north coast, Waterlemon Cay is a favorite among snorkelers thanks to its exceptional water clarity and diverse sea life. Spot rays, conches, and even small reef sharks as you explore this marine wonderland. Another one on the north shore of St. John is Maho Bay Beach, best known for its abundance of sea turtles. For those seeking underwater adventure, Carval Rock, off the north coast, offers a thrilling dive site with depths reaching 24 meters, ideal for experienced scuba divers looking to discover dramatic rock formations and vibrant marine ecosystems.

On the eastern side of St. John is Hurricane Hole, close to Coral Bay, known to be the best spot to kayak in St. John. The waters in this area are known to be calm, so it’s an excellent place for beginner kayakers and children alike. There are many mangroves in the area, so aside from kayaking, you can also enjoy snorkeling. Another beautiful place for snorkeling in St. John is Henley Cay and Caneel Bay, located in the heart of the Virgin Islands National Park.

View all yachts available for Virgin Island charters to plan your next luxury escape in St. John.