Are you planning a trip to the Virgin Islands but don’t know where to start? With stunning beaches, delicious food, and plenty of activities, it can be tough to choose between the lively St Thomas and the serene St John. In this article, we’ll give you our expert opinions on each island, the benefits of both, and share our recommendations on how to split your time between the two. Before diving into the details, let’s talk about getting there.
Getting to the Virgin Islands: To get to the Virgin Islands, it’s best to find cheap tickets to St Thomas, as it offers more time to explore and relax. Alternatively, you can choose a cruise that stops at St Thomas. However, reaching St John is only possible by boat. Ferries run to and from St Thomas, making it convenient to hop between the two islands. The ferry ride takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on the port. It’s important to note that car ferries only operate from Red Hook and have specific costs.
Beach Paradise: Both St Thomas and St John boast some of the most stunning beaches in the Caribbean. Megan’s Bay and Trunk Bay are two of the most popular options, offering long stretches of soft sand, turquoise waters, and picturesque backdrops. However, Megan’s Bay tends to be busier due to its popularity among cruise passengers. Trunk Bay, located in the St John National Park, offers a quieter experience with less crowded beaches. Ultimately, St John takes the cake with clearer waters and a more serene atmosphere, making it a favorite among beach enthusiasts. Don’t forget to try snorkeling, as it’s an incredible experience on both islands.
Activities and Excursions: St Thomas, being the more popular and developed island, offers a wide range of activities and excursions. From ziplining to scuba diving, there’s something for everyone. On the other hand, St John, with its protected national park land, provides ample opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting. If you’re a nature lover, St John is the perfect place to explore beautiful parks and observe wildlife. It offers a more secluded and tranquil vacation experience compared to its neighbor.
Driving Experience: When it comes to driving, St John offers a more enjoyable experience. With fewer crowds and well-paved roads, you can drive at your own pace while enjoying the scenic views. You might even spot donkeys, goats, or other wildlife along the way. St Thomas, on the other hand, has winding roads and a faster pace of driving, making it a bit more chaotic.
Shopping and Dining: St Thomas is known for its shopping opportunities, with a variety of stores and boutiques catering to tourists. It offers a livelier atmosphere with numerous options for bars, restaurants, and shops. St John, although less developed, still has some great dining options, including delicious burgers and strong drinks. However, due to limited time, the authors couldn’t fully explore St John’s dining scene, giving St Thomas the upper hand for now.
Accommodations: While accommodations weren’t extensively covered in the transcript, the authors mention staying in an Airbnb on St Thomas with amazing views. Both islands offer a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, ensuring there’s something for every traveler’s preference.
Our Verdict: In the authors’ opinion, the clear winner between the two islands is St John. Its serene and secluded atmosphere makes it perfect for those seeking relaxation and tranquility. However, the beauty of both islands is undeniable, and we encourage you to detour and explore both if possible. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preferences and what you’re looking for in a vacation.
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