Looking for the best areas in St. John for families? St. John may be the smallest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, but it’s one of the most family-friendly destinations in the Caribbean. With two-thirds of the island protected as Virgin Islands National Park, it’s a paradise of hiking trails, calm turquoise bays, and laid-back beach towns. Whether you’re looking for convenient amenities, quiet escapes, or outdoor adventure, each region of St. John offers something unique for families traveling with kids. Here’s a breakdown of the top areas families love to stay in—each one offering a different vibe, but all with easy access to the island’s natural beauty and charm.
Cruz Bay: Best for First-Time Visitors & Convenience
Cruz Bay is the main port and the heart of St. John. If you’re arriving by ferry from St. Thomas, this is where you’ll land. For families, Cruz Bay is a great choice—close to restaurants, grocery stores, jeep rentals, and tour providers. It also has calm, swimmable beaches like Frank Bay and easy access to family excursions like the Virgin Islands National Park Visitor Center. Many villas, condos, and boutique hotels in this area are walkable, making it easy to explore without needing a car every day. If you’re traveling with younger kids or want minimal planning, Cruz Bay delivers.
Coral Bay: Best for a Quiet, Laid-Back Escape
If Cruz Bay feels a bit too busy, head to the island’s other main settlement—Coral Bay. Located on the eastern side of St. John, Coral Bay has a slower pace, a touch of quirky island charm, and fewer crowds. It’s ideal for families looking to unplug and enjoy a more rustic, peaceful experience. You’ll find low-key dining spots, secluded beaches like Salt Pond Bay and Hansen Bay, and scenic trails like the Ram Head Trail. Accommodations here tend to be private villas or eco-lodges nestled in the hills with sweeping views. It’s a great base for adventurous families who don’t mind driving a bit.
North Shore: Best for Beach Lovers
The North Shore of St. John is lined with some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean—Trunk Bay, Maho Bay, Cinnamon Bay—all with soft sand, clear water, and family-friendly facilities. Staying along the North Shore gives you front-row access to these iconic spots, often with fewer crowds early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Lodging options are more limited than in Cruz Bay or Coral Bay, but there are some stunning vacation homes and eco-tents near Cinnamon Bay. This region is perfect for beach-hopping families who want to spend their days snorkeling, paddleboarding, and soaking in the views.
From the convenience of Cruz Bay to the seclusion of Coral Bay and the beachfront bliss of the North Shore, these are the best areas in St. John for families. The island has no shortage of family-friendly regions to explore. Each offers its own rhythm—so whether you’re seeking ease, peace, or sand-between-your-toes adventure, there’s a perfect base for your island stay.
Planning your USVI family trip to St. John? These guides can help you make the most of your time on the island:
- St. John with Kids: Family Travel Guide
- Best Snorkeling and Beaches around St. John for Families
- Best Family Hikes in St. John
- Top Rated Family Restaurants in St. John
For additional information and context for your trip, it might also help to check out our ranked family travel lists for St. John:
- Best Things to Do in St. John with Kids (Ranked)
- Best Family Beaches in St. John (Ranked)
- Best Family Stays in St. John (Ranked)
For more general travel info, visit the Wikivoyage page on St. John.
