Ranked – Best Things to Do with Kids in St John

If you’re planning a family trip to St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands, get ready for a vacation full of natural beauty, calm beaches, and unforgettable outdoor adventures. While the island is known for its quiet charm and national park landscapes, it’s also a fantastic destination for families with kids. From snorkeling in crystal-clear water to spotting donkeys on a hike, St. John offers a blend of fun, nature, and exploration that’s hard to beat.

To help you make the most of your time, we’ve created a ranked list of the best things to do with kids in St. John. These activities are chosen based on parent feedback and expert travel reviews—so you’ll find options that are tried, tested, and family-approved.

St. John’s beaches are a highlight for most families, and for good reason. Many have calm, shallow waters perfect for young swimmers and first-time snorkelers. Trunk Bay is famous for its underwater snorkeling trail, while Maho Bay is known for frequent sea turtle sightings just steps from shore. The soft sand, clear water, and easy parking make these spots ideal for a relaxing beach day with kids. But St. John isn’t just about the beach. Families can also hike kid-friendly trails in Virgin Islands National Park, like the Lind Point Trail, which offers manageable distances and scenic views. Along the way, kids might spot iguanas, hermit crabs, and even wild deer or donkeys. For something more hands-on, take a guided kayak tour through the mangroves or explore the Annaberg Sugar Plantation ruins to give kids a glimpse into the island’s history.

Many of the best family activities in St. John are low-cost or free, making it easy to balance fun with budget-conscious planning. The slower pace of the island means you won’t feel rushed, and most activities can be tailored to your child’s age and energy level. Whether you’re looking for easy adventures with toddlers or active outings for older kids and teens, St. John has something for every family. From beach days and nature walks to snorkeling with sea turtles and learning about local culture, these experiences create memories that will last long after your trip is over. Scroll down to explore the top-ranked things to do with kids in St. John—and start building the perfect itinerary for your island getaway.

Planning your USVI family trip to St. John? These guides can help you make the most of your time on the island:

For additional information and context for your trip, it might also help to check out our ranked family travel lists for St. John:

For more general travel info, visit the Wikivoyage page on St. John.

Snorkeling at Maho Bay

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Maho Bay is one of the most kid-friendly snorkeling beaches on St. John, with calm, shallow water and a soft sandy entry. Kids can often spot sea turtles, stingrays, and colorful fish just a few feet from shore. There are shaded picnic areas and food trucks nearby, making it easy to spend a whole afternoon here.

Visit Trunk Bay & the Underwater Snorkel Trail

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Trunk Bay is a stunning beach with lifeguards, restrooms, and an underwater snorkeling trail perfect for beginners. Older kids can follow the plaques along the trail to learn about coral and marine life. The beach is part of the Virgin Islands National Park and has a small entrance fee, but it’s well worth it.

Take a Family Boat Charter

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Charter a half-day or full-day boat for snorkeling, swimming, and island hopping—perfect for families with older kids. Many tours offer calm stops at hidden beaches and sea turtle hangouts. It’s a splurge, but one that creates unforgettable memories.

Hike the Lind Point Trail to Honeymoon Beach

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This easy-to-moderate trail starts near Cruz Bay and leads to Honeymoon Beach. The hike is scenic and short enough for older kids and adventurous younger ones. Once you reach the beach, there are restrooms, water sports rentals, and calm water for swimming and relaxing.

Coral Bay Exploration & Lunch Stop

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Take a scenic drive to Coral Bay, the quieter side of St. John, for a relaxed day of wandering and exploring. There are a few family-friendly restaurants where kids can stretch out and eat outdoors. It’s a great spot to escape the crowds and enjoy a slower island vibe.

Play and Picnic at Hawksnest Beach

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Hawksnest is a small, scenic beach with shade trees and easy parking—great for a low-effort beach day. The water is typically calm, making it safe for younger kids to splash around. It’s also a good snorkeling spot, with reefs close to shore.

Visit the Virgin Islands National Park Visitor Center

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Located in Cruz Bay, the visitor center offers maps, kid-friendly exhibits, and ranger tips on what to explore. It’s a good place to stop at the start of your trip to get oriented and let kids pick a “Junior Ranger” booklet for added fun during hikes and beach days.

Explore the Annaberg Sugar Plantation Ruins

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For a bit of local history, visit the Annaberg Plantation ruins. The self-guided walk through the old sugar mill grounds is both educational and scenic, with sweeping views of the water and neighboring islands. Kids can roam freely and explore the stone structures while learning about St. John’s past.

Kayak or Paddleboard in Hurricane Hole

Families with older kids or teens can take a guided kayak or paddleboard tour through the mangroves in Hurricane Hole. It’s a peaceful, shaded area full of marine life, including upside-down jellyfish and juvenile fish. Guides often include ecology lessons along the way.

Watch for Donkeys on Centerline Road

St. John is home to wild donkeys that often roam freely near the roads and trails. Spotting them is always a hit with kids—just drive slowly on Centerline Road, especially around the Coral Bay area. It’s a simple, free thrill for younger travelers.

Reef Bay Trail and Petroglyphs

For families with older children, the Reef Bay Trail on St. John is an exciting hike through the Virgin Islands National Park. The trail leads to a secluded beach and features stops at ancient petroglyphs, carved by the island’s early inhabitants. Kids will enjoy learning about the island’s rich history while hiking through tropical forests and spotting local wildlife. The trek is a great way to introduce children to both nature and history in a hands-on way.