Are you planning a vacation to the U.S Virgin Islands but don’t know where to start? Are you torn between spending your time on the lively St Thomas or the serene St John? In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive comparison of both islands, highlighting the benefits of each and offering recommendations on how to divide your time between them. From the best beaches to the tastiest food, we will cover all the important aspects to consider before you embark on your Virgin Islands adventure.
Getting There: St Thomas vs. St John
Before we delve into the details of each island, it’s crucial to understand how to reach them. St Thomas is easily accessible, with affordable flights available. It is often considered the best entry point to the Virgin Islands, as it offers more time for exploration and relaxation. On the other hand, St John is smaller and mountainous, making it possible to reach only by boat. Ferry services operate between St Thomas and St John, with the journey taking around 30 minutes. While passenger ferries are available from both Red Hook and Charlotte Amalie, car ferries only depart from Red Hook. It is important to note that car ferries are more expensive but offer the convenience of taking your vehicle to St John.
Beaches: St Thomas vs. St John
The Virgin Islands are renowned for their stunning beaches, and both St Thomas and St John have their fair share of picturesque coastal areas. Megan’s Bay and Trunk Bay are two of the most popular beaches, with long stretches of soft sand and turquoise waters. While Megan’s Bay tends to be busier due to its popularity amongst cruise passengers, Trunk Bay in St John offers a more serene and less crowded experience, as it is part of a national park. After exploring both islands, we found that St John takes the crown for its clearer water, calmer atmosphere, and breathtaking views. However, it is worth mentioning that the beaches on both islands are exceptional, and you won’t be disappointed regardless of your choice.
Snorkeling and Water Activities
For those seeking underwater adventures, the Virgin Islands offer fantastic snorkeling opportunities. Many beaches, including Megan’s Bay, Coki Point, and Maho Bay, provide snorkeling gear rentals if you don’t have your own. St John’s Maho Bay is especially renowned for its snorkeling, where you may even encounter massive sea turtles. Additionally, Cookie Point in St Thomas is a favorite spot for fish enthusiasts, as schools of fish gather near the reef just a few feet from shore. It is important to note that some of the beaches in the U.S Virgin Islands have entry and parking fees, so be prepared with cash.
Activities and Attractions: St Thomas vs. St John
St Thomas, being the more popular island, offers a wider range of activities and attractions. From exciting excursions like ziplining and scuba diving to vibrant nightlife and shopping opportunities, St Thomas caters more towards tourists. On the other hand, St John showcases its natural beauty through hiking trails, wildlife spotting, and breathtaking views. With 60% of the island designated as protected National Park land, St John is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Whether you prefer organized tours and excursions or immersing yourself in nature, both islands have something unique to offer.
Dining and Nightlife: St Thomas vs. St John
When it comes to dining and nightlife options, St Thomas offers a livelier atmosphere with a wider array of bars, restaurants, and shops. As a popular cruise port, St Thomas has significantly more shopping opportunities compared to St John. Some notable dining establishments in St Thomas include Brooks for local cuisine, while St John’s Coral Bay area offers some delicious burgers and strong drinks. Although St Thomas may have the edge in terms of food options, it is essential to note that our experience in St John was limited, and there may be hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Accommodations and Preferences
While we cannot provide an in-depth analysis of accommodations as we stayed in an Airbnb on St Thomas, it is worth mentioning that both islands offer a variety of choices, catering to different budgets and preferences. Whether you prefer beachfront resorts, cozy villas, or private rentals, you can find suitable options on both St Thomas and St John.
Our Verdict: St John Takes the Crown
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing between St Thomas and St John, it depends on the type of vacation you seek. Both islands boast stunning natural beauty, picturesque beaches, and exciting activities. However, St John’s serene, secluded atmosphere and breathtaking views made it the clear winner for us. If you prefer a more relaxed and secluded experience, St John is the ideal choice. However, we encourage you to make a detour and explore both islands if possible, as they each offer their own unique charm.
Share Your Opinion
We would love to hear about your preferences! Leave a comment and let us know which island you prefer and why. If you enjoyed this article, don’t forget to give it a thumbs up and subscribe to our channel for more travel recommendations and insights. Happy travels!
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