Discover the best family hikes in St. John that combine breathtaking views, kid-friendly trails, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re looking for easy coastal strolls perfect for younger kids or moderate adventures for older children and teens, St John offers a variety of scenic hiking trails suited for all ages and skill levels. From hidden beaches and historic ruins to unique wildlife encounters, these hikes provide the perfect way to explore the island’s natural beauty while keeping the whole family engaged and active.
For additional information and context for your trip, it might also help to check out our ranked family travel lists for St. Thomas and St. John:
- Best Things to Do in St. Thomas and St. John with Kids (Ranked)
- Best Family Beaches in St. Thomas and St. John (Ranked)
- Best Family Stays in St. Thomas and St. John (Ranked)
| Trail Name | Distance (mi) | Time | Difficulty | Highlights | Kid Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Salt Pond + Drunk Bay | 1.1 (out & back) | 20–30 min | Easy | Salt Pond Beach, rocky Drunk Bay coast, crashing waves, coral “jumbies” | Younger & Older Kids |
| Ram Head Trail | 2.3 (out & back) | 1.5–2 hrs | Moderate | Dramatic sea views, cactus-lined ridges, rocky beach, view of St. Croix | Older Kids & Teens |
| Lind Point Trail | ~2 (loop or O&B) | 40–60 min | Easy | Cruz Bay overlook, Salomon & Honeymoon Beaches, hermit crabs | Younger & Older Kids |
| Peace Hill Trail | 0.2 (out & back) | ~10 min | Easy | Windmill ruins, panoramic views of North Shore beaches | Younger Kids (Great starter) |
| Denis Bay Trail | 0.4 (out & back) | ~20 min | Easy | Quiet beach, turquoise water, light waves, snorkeling potential | Younger & Older Kids |
| Leinster Bay Trail | 1.9 (out & back) | 50–60 min | Easy | Annaberg ruins, BVI views, Waterlemon Bay snorkeling | Older Kids & Teens |
| Lameshur Bay Trail | 4.9 (out & back) | 2.5–3.5 hrs | Moderate | Petroglyphs, Reef Bay junction, forest scenery, historic ruins | Teens only |
| Reef Bay Trail | 4.4 (one way) | 2–3 hrs downhill | Moderate | Petroglyphs, Reef Bay ruins, seasonal waterfall, ranger-led option | Teens (or older kids w/ guide) |
| Brown Bay Trail | 1.2 (one way) | ~45 min each way | Moderate | Secluded beach, snorkeling, shady forest trail | Older Kids & Teens |
| Francis Bay Trail | 0.6 (loop) | ~20–30 min | Easy | Boardwalk, mangrove wetland, birdwatching, beach | Younger Kids (Very easy) |
| American Hill / Cinnamon Bay Trail | 1.0 (out & back) | ~30–40 min | Easy-Moderate | Ruins, overlook of Cinnamon Bay, shady forest | Older Kids & Teens |
Salt Pond & Drunk Bay – A Short, Scenic Adventure with Tide Pools and Coral Creatures
Distance: 1.1 miles out and back (20–30 minutes)
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Type: Out and Back
Good to Know: Two-in-one hike with calm beach and rocky coast; look for coral “Jumbie” sculptures at the end!
This easy, family-friendly hike on St. John’s quiet south shore is one of the best family hikes in St. John. It starts with a short trail to Salt Pond Beach, a calm and peaceful bay with shallow, clear water—perfect for relaxing or a quick splash.
To reach Drunk Bay, walk across the sandy beach and follow the trail that picks up on the far side. You’ll pass a salt pond (not for swimming!) and end up at a dramatic, rocky coastline facing the open Atlantic Ocean. Waves crash loudly here—kids often love the energy of the wind and surf.
At Drunk Bay, look around for playful little “Jumbie” figures made of coral rocks—travelers have built them over the years, and it’s a fun tradition to make your own. It’s a short and fun hike that feels like two different worlds in one trip!
Ram Head Trail – Epic Views and a Great Challenge for Older Kids
Distance: 2.3 miles out and back (1.5 to 2 hours)
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Out and Back
Good to Know: Hot, sunny trail with incredible views—bring water, hats, and sunscreen
This hike begins at the same Salt Pond trailhead, but instead of turning left to Drunk Bay, you’ll turn right and follow the trail toward Ram Head. The hike is sunny and dry with very little shade, but it rewards your efforts with incredible sea views almost the entire way.
You’ll pass a small pebble beach before climbing up the ridge to reach the dramatic Ram Head bluff. From the top, you’ll get a panoramic view of the Caribbean—and even see the island of St. Croix in the distance on a clear day. Older kids who are used to hiking will love the adventure and open views, but be sure to bring plenty of water and sturdy shoes.
Lind Point Trail – Easy Hike to Secret Beaches Near Cruz Bay
Distance: Approx. 2-mile loop or out and back (40–60 minutes)
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Type: Loop or Out and Back
Good to Know: Access to Honeymoon and Salomon beaches; bring beach gear or snorkel sets!
This trail starts right behind the Cruz Bay Visitor Center, making it super convenient for families staying nearby. The trail is shaded and fairly easy, although carrying beach gear can make it feel a bit more challenging.
Along the way, look for hermit crabs, ocean peeks, and maybe even a scenic overlook if you take the Upper Lind Point Trail. The real reward is at the end: Salomon Bay and Honeymoon Beach, two of the most beautiful beaches on St. John.
Salomon Bay is quieter because it’s only accessible by hiking, while Honeymoon Beach is livelier and easier to reach via taxi. Families who want a peaceful beach with great snorkeling often love the walk to Salomon.
Peace Hill Trail – The Quickest Hike with Big Views
Distance: 0.2 miles out and back (about 10 minutes)
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Type: Out and Back
Good to Know: Perfect for little legs; views and ruins in just minutes
This super-short trail is a great stop if you’re driving along North Shore Road. There’s a small parking lot right by the trail, and the path gently climbs up to Peace Hill Windmill, a historic stone ruin with stunning views of the surrounding beaches.
From the top, you can look out over Hawksnest Bay, Trunk Bay, and even Caneel Bay. Kids will enjoy the quick adventure, donkeys sometimes visit the parking area, and the panoramic views are perfect for a family photo stop. Just watch your step—it’s a short hike, but there’s still a little donkey poop to dodge!
Denis Bay Trail – A Hidden Beach with Room to Roam
Distance: 0.4 miles out and back (about 20 minutes)
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Type: Out and Back
Good to Know: Offshoot from Peace Hill trail; shade and solitude; beach is a bit rocky
This hidden-gem trail is a great option and one of the best family hikes in St. John. It starts at the Peace Hill parking area and heads downhill through shady woods to the quiet sands of Denis Bay. The trail is narrow in spots and has a few roots to watch out for, so it’s best for sure-footed kids and parents with good walking shoes.
The beach is wide and rarely crowded, with gentle waves and room to spread out. The water is beautiful, but there are some rocks when you first get in, so bring water shoes if your kids plan to swim or snorkel.
It’s a peaceful place for families who want a break from the crowds—and the hike back uphill is short enough to do without too much fuss.
Leinster Bay Trail
Distance: 1.9 miles out and back
Time: 50–60 minutes (add 1–2 hours for snorkeling or plantation visit)
Difficulty: Easy
This scenic coastal trail on the northeast side of St. John offers nonstop water views and a peaceful, pebbly path. Starting near the Annaberg Plantation ruins, the Leinster Bay Trail is mostly flat and easy, making it a great option for all skill levels and a contender for one of the best family hikes in St. John.
As you walk along the shoreline, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the British Virgin Islands and spot sailboats gliding across the water. The trail leads to Waterlemon Bay, one of St. John’s best snorkeling spots, where clear turquoise water surrounds Waterlemon Cay. It’s not uncommon to spot sea turtles surfacing even before you get in the water.
If you’re here to hike only, set aside about an hour. But if you plan to snorkel or explore the nearby plantation ruins, allow extra time—you won’t regret it.
Lameshur Bay Trail
Distance: 4.9 miles out and back (to Reef Bay Petroglyphs)
Time: 2.5–3.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
The Lameshur Bay Trail is one of the most rewarding hikes on St. John, blending stunning scenery, fascinating history, and a moderate workout. Beginning at Lameshur Bay on the island’s south shore, the trail meanders through dry forest, rocky slopes, and shady groves, giving hikers a beautiful and varied experience.
About halfway in, the trail intersects with the Reef Bay Trail, offering the option to extend your hike all the way to Reef Bay Beach or loop back a different way if you’ve arranged a shuttle. A major highlight of this hike is the short spur to the Petroglyph Trail, where you’ll find ancient Taino rock carvings near a serene freshwater pool—an unforgettable cultural landmark in Virgin Islands National Park.
While the trail has some elevation changes and uneven terrain, it is well-maintained and suitable for most hikers with a reasonable level of fitness. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes, bring plenty of water, and take breaks to soak in the incredible views.
Reef Bay Trail – A Full-Day Family Adventure with Ruins, Petroglyphs, and a Quiet Beach
Distance: 5 miles out and back (Plan for 4–6 hours including stops)
Difficulty: Moderate (out is downhill, return is uphill)
Trail Type: Out and Back
Good to Know: Long trail best for families with older kids or teens; sturdy footwear needed; historic and nature-rich hike; optional guided hike with boat return available
Reef Bay Trail is one of the most iconic hikes on St. John—and while it’s a longer hike, it’s doable for families with older kids who enjoy being active and exploring. The 5-mile out-and-back trail winds through the Virgin Islands National Park and leads to a quiet beach on the island’s south shore.
Families can expect a mix of shaded forest paths, historical ruins, and natural sights. Along the way, hikers pass old sugar plantation ruins and, with a short detour, some fascinating ancient petroglyphs carved into the rock. The Petroglyph Trail is an easy, flat side path about 1.6 miles in—worth the stop for curious kids who love history or nature.
Once at Reef Bay Beach, it’s a great spot to relax and enjoy a packed lunch. The beach is peaceful and not crowded, making it a nice reward after the hike in. Keep in mind that the return hike is all uphill, so be prepared with water, snacks, and proper shoes (no flip-flops). The trail has uneven ground in places and is not suitable for strollers.
Families who want the experience without hiking back uphill can book a guided hike with the National Park Service. For a fee, a ranger leads the hike one-way downhill while sharing information about the area, and a boat picks everyone up at the beach for a scenic return to Cruz Bay—great for families who want to avoid the tough return climb.
This trail is a good choice for families with school-age kids and teens who are used to longer walks and want to mix in history, culture, and nature all in one day.
Brown Bay Trail – Secluded Beach Hike with Shallow Snorkeling
Distance: 1.6 miles out and back (Approx. 60 minutes)
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Out and Back
Good to Know: Narrow trail with rough terrain; best for older kids or families with hiking experience; bring snorkel gear; best in winter
For families with adventurous older kids, the Brown Bay Trail offers a scenic and remote beach experience. The trailhead begins off East End Road with limited parking available at a dirt pull-off. Although only 0.8 miles each way, the trail can be rough underfoot and occasionally overgrown, requiring good shoes and careful footing.
The trail crosses a small hill, offering beautiful views over Coral Bay and the British Virgin Islands. At the end, families reach Brown Bay Beach—quiet, shady, and ideal for a private picnic or snorkeling. The water is shallow and clear, making it manageable for confident swimmers or older children with snorkel experience. This is also a great spot to spot starfish and small schools of fish.
Brown Bay is best visited during the winter months when the beach is clearer of sargassum seaweed. While it may be less suitable for young children due to the rugged path, families looking for a quiet, off-the-beaten-path destination will find this trail a rewarding escape.
Francis Bay Trail – Easy Nature Walk Ending at a Calm Family Beach
Distance: 0.7-mile loop (Approx. 15–20 minutes)
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Type: Loop
Good to Know: Flat dirt trail with a short boardwalk; ideal for younger children and strollers; beach is quiet and great for swimming/snorkeling
The Francis Bay Trail is one of the best family hikes in St. John. This short, flat loop is suitable for young kids and even strollers, making it a great option for families with toddlers or early walkers. The trail starts on a dirt path and passes the ruins of an old estate house before leading to Francis Bay Beach.
Families can stop at the beach or continue the trail over a boardwalk through a salt pond. This section offers birdwatching opportunities and wildlife sightings, making it educational and fun for kids. Francis Bay Beach itself is calm and quiet, ideal for swimming and snorkeling, especially for beginners. Unlike nearby Maho Beach, Francis is less crowded and offers a peaceful end to a short walk.
America Hill via Cinnamon Bay Trail – Plantation Ruins with a View
Distance: 1.2 miles out and back (Approx. 30 minutes)
Difficulty: Moderate (some steep climbing)
Trail Type: Out and Back
Good to Know: Shaded trail with steep sections; best for school-age kids and teens who can handle uphill hikes
Families looking for a bit more challenge can try the America Hill Trail via Cinnamon Bay. The trailhead starts across from the Cinnamon Bay campground and beach, making parking and facilities easily accessible.
The first section (Cinnamon Bay Trail) is a shaded forest path with a steady uphill climb. After about 10 minutes, hikers reach the turnoff to America Hill. The climb from here is short but steep, so it’s best for older kids or younger ones used to hiking.
The reward at the top includes striking pink plantation ruins and panoramic views over the Maho and Francis beaches. On clear days, you can even spot the British Virgin Islands. The return trip is downhill and much easier, offering a relaxed way to end the hike. It’s a scenic and historical adventure that’s both challenging and memorable for families with active kids.
Final Thoughts on the Best Family Hikes in St John
Exploring the best family hikes in St. John is an ideal way to create lasting memories with your loved ones while staying active outdoors. With options ranging from gentle, shaded trails to moderate paths featuring stunning ocean views and cultural landmarks, St John has something to offer every family. Pack your hiking shoes, sunscreen, and plenty of water, and get ready to embark on adventures that your kids will cherish. Happy hiking!
Planning your USVI family trip to St. Thomas or St. John? These guides can help you make the most of your time on the islands:
- St. Thomas with Kids: Family Travel Guide
- Best Snorkeling and Beaches around St. Thomas and St. John for Families
- Best Family Hikes in St. Thomas
- Top Rated Family Restaurants in St. Thomas
For additional information and context for your trip, it might also help to check out our ranked family travel lists for St. Thomas and St. John:
- Best Things to Do in St. Thomas and St. John with Kids (Ranked)
- Best Family Beaches in St. Thomas and St. John (Ranked)
- Best Family Stays in St. Thomas and St. John (Ranked)
For more general travel info, visit the Wikivoyage page on St. Thomas. Here is the info on St. John.
