The Ultimate St. Thomas & St. John Family Guide
Planning a trip to St. Thomas and St. John with kids? This St. Thomas and St. John family guide is your one-stop hub for everything family-friendly across both islands—from the best beaches and snorkeling spots to easy hikes, kid-approved restaurants, and where to stay. Whether you’re bringing toddlers or teens, we’ve got you covered.
Jump To:
- Top Things to Do
- Best Beaches
- Snorkeling with Kids
- Family Hikes
- Where to Eat
- Regions Overview
- Top-Ranked Family Stays
- Getting Between Islands
- Local Tips
- Getting Around
- Best Time to Visit
- What to Pack
Top Things to Do
St. Thomas and St. John are packed with family fun, from stunning beaches to historic sites and nature adventures. Kids can ride a sky tram, explore sugar plantation ruins, and snorkel with sea turtles in crystal-clear waters. With two unique islands to explore, there’s something for every age.
- Coral World Ocean Park (St. Thomas): An interactive marine park with an underwater observatory, touch pools, and sea lion encounters.
- Explore Trunk Bay (St. John): Famous for its underwater snorkeling trail and pristine beach, perfect for families.
- Ride the Skyride to Paradise Point (St. Thomas): Offers stunning views of the harbor and is a quick, exciting ride for kids.
- Annaberg Plantation Ruins (St. John): A historical and educational stop where kids can see how sugar was produced.
Best Beaches for Kids
The beaches in St. Thomas and St. John feature calm, turquoise waters, soft sand, and easy access—perfect for families. Whether you want to splash in gentle waves or find a shady spot for a nap, these beaches are top-tier for a stress-free family day.
- Maho Bay Beach (St. John): Known as the go-to spot for swimming with sea turtles in shallow, calm water.
- Magens Bay Beach (St. Thomas): A famous, heart-shaped bay with calm waters, lifeguards, and full facilities.
- Honeymoon Beach (St. John): Offers beach chair rentals, water sports, and a snack shack, all with a relaxed vibe.
- Sapphire Beach (St. Thomas): Great for snorkeling right off the shore and has plenty of shade from sea grape trees.
Top Ranked Family Stays
From beachfront resorts with kids’ clubs to private villas with pools, St. Thomas and St. John offer a range of family-friendly lodging. Many properties provide amenities like kitchens, beach gear, and easy access to calm swimming areas, making your family vacation seamless and comfortable.
- The Westin St. John Resort Villas (St. John): Features a large pool, a kids’ club, and family-sized villas.
- Secret Harbour Beach Resort (St. Thomas): All rooms are beachfront with full kitchens, located on a calm bay perfect for snorkeling.
- Gallows Point Resort (St. John): Offers oceanfront villas within walking distance to Cruz Bay, with a pool and stunning views.
Snorkeling with Kids
St. Thomas and St. John are premier snorkeling destinations. Many of the best spots are accessible right from the shore, with calm, shallow waters where kids can safely discover vibrant coral reefs and swim with turtles and colorful fish. Rentals and guided tours are easy to find on both islands.
- Trunk Bay (St. John): Features a 225-yard-long underwater snorkeling trail with plaques identifying marine life.
- Secret Harbour (St. Thomas): A protected bay with a floating swim platform and calm waters, making it great for beginner snorkelers.
- Maho Bay (St. John): The best place to see sea turtles and rays grazing on seagrass in shallow water.
- Coki Beach (St. Thomas): Known for its clear water and abundance of fish that will swim right up to you (you can buy fish food nearby).
Family-Friendly Hikes
Both islands offer scenic and manageable hikes for families. Trails in the Virgin Islands National Park on St. John are well-maintained, while St. Thomas offers coastal walks with incredible views. These hikes are a great way to explore the islands’ natural beauty beyond the beaches.
- Francis Bay Trail (St. John): A flat, easy, and stroller-friendly boardwalk trail that passes a salt pond and leads to the beach.
- Mermaid’s Chair Trail (St. Thomas): A unique hike to a double-sided beach connecting the Atlantic and Caribbean, best for older kids.
- Peace Hill Trail (St. John): A short, easy uphill walk to sugar mill ruins with panoramic views, perfect for all ages.
Where to Eat
St. Thomas and St. John are filled with casual, open-air restaurants perfect for families. From beachside shacks with kid-friendly menus to food trucks and relaxed eateries in town, you’ll find plenty of spots that welcome children and offer delicious, fuss-free meals.
- Duffy’s Love Shack (St. Thomas): Famous for its fun, quirky parking lot setting and a menu that pleases both adults and kids.
- The Longboard (St. John): Offers a vibrant atmosphere in Cruz Bay with tasty tacos and bowls that kids enjoy.
- Pizza Pi (St. Thomas): A floating pizza boat in Christmas Cove—a unique and memorable experience for the whole family.
- Irie Pops (St. John): The perfect spot for a refreshing, all-natural popsicle after a day at the beach.
Regional Breakdown
Each island and its regions offer a distinct vibe. Knowing the layout can help you choose the best home base for your family’s vacation style.
- St. Thomas East End – Home to Red Hook, with lots of restaurants, resorts, and the ferry to St. John.
- St. Thomas South Shore – Close to Charlotte Amalie, great for shopping, dining, and harbor views.
- St. John’s North Shore – Famous for its stunning National Park beaches like Trunk and Maho Bay.
- St. John’s Cruz Bay – The main town with shops, restaurants, and ferry access.
- St. John’s Coral Bay – A quieter, more laid-back area with a rustic feel and local charm.
Getting Between Islands
Traveling between St. Thomas and St. John is easy and a fun part of the adventure. The passenger ferry runs hourly from Red Hook (St. Thomas) to Cruz Bay (St. John) and takes about 20 minutes. There is also a less frequent ferry from downtown Charlotte Amalie. For those with a rental car, a car barge is available from Red Hook, which takes about 30 minutes.
Local Tips
- Drive on the left—it’s the most important rule to remember.
- Currency is the USD, and most places accept credit cards.
- Standard U.S. power plugs and voltage are used.
- Greetings like “Good Morning” and “Good Afternoon” are culturally important and appreciated.
Unique Local Experiences & Hidden Gems:
- Explore Frenchtown: This charming fishing village offers a glimpse into the island’s unique French heritage. Stroll through the colorful streets, admire the traditional architecture, and grab a delicious meal at one of the many local restaurants known for their fresh seafood. The French Heritage Museum is a small, fascinating stop for a dose of local history.
- Kayak the Mangrove Lagoon & Cas Cay: This is a real insider’s tip for nature lovers and adventurers! Take a guided kayak tour through the intricate mangrove waterways on the south side of the island. You’ll learn about the vital ecosystem and paddle out to Cas Cay, a small, uninhabited island. Kids (and adults!) love exploring the tidal pools, volcanic cliffs, and even a natural blowhole on Cas Cay. Local Tip: Virgin Islands Ecotours is a popular choice for these types of excursions and is very family-friendly.
- Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden: Escape the bustle and discover a serene oasis filled with thousands of orchids, bromeliads, and other tropical flora. It’s naturally air-conditioned by the lush canopy, making it a pleasant escape on a warm day. You’ll find winding pathways, benches, and even resident parrots, tortoises, and peacocks.
- Pizza Pi: This is as unique as it gets! Imagine a floating pizza boat serving up delicious pies in a calm bay off the coast of St. Thomas. You can swim or dinghy right up to it. It’s a truly memorable and delicious experience for families looking for something quirky and fun.
- The Virgin Islands Children’s Museum: Located in Charlotte Amalie, this museum is a fantastic option for younger kids, especially on a rainy day or when they need a break from the sun. It features interactive, hands-on exhibits focused on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) principles.
- Tree Limin’ Extreme Zipline: For adventurous families with older kids (check age/weight limits, usually 5+ and 70lbs+ for tandem), this zipline adventure offers incredible panoramic views of Magens Bay and the surrounding islands as you soar through the rainforest. It’s an adrenaline rush with stunning scenery.
Got it. No conversational fillers or encouraging statements. Here’s direct content for your Kiddometer blog post on St. John, focusing on unique local advice and tips beyond the beaches:
St. John with Kids: Embrace the Wild Side – Local Tips for Nature & Adventure!
St. John is truly the “Nature Island” of the USVI, with over 60% of its land protected as a national park. To fully experience the island like a local, focusing on its natural beauty and outdoor adventure beyond the famous beaches, use these insider tips:
Unique Local Experiences & Natural Wonders:
- Hiking in Virgin Islands National Park: The national park offers incredible hiking trails for various ages and fitness levels.
- Reef Bay Trail: This is a classic, but challenging, hike. Consider doing it downhill and arranging a boat pickup at the bottom to avoid the uphill return. The trail leads to the ruins of an old sugar mill and ancient petroglyphs (rock carvings). Tip: This is a demanding hike; pack plenty of water and snacks. Guided tours with boat return are available.
- Lind Point Trail: An easier, family-friendly option starting near the National Park Visitor Center in Cruz Bay. It leads to Honeymoon Beach and Solomon Beach.
- Caneel Hill Trail: Offers fantastic panoramic views of Cruz Bay and the surrounding islands.
- Petroglyphs at Reef Bay: A unique cultural and historical stop within the National Park. These ancient rock carvings by the indigenous Taino people are accessible via the Reef Bay Trail.
- Annaberg Sugar Plantation Ruins: Easily accessible by car, these well-preserved ruins provide a fascinating glimpse into St. John’s history of sugar production and slavery. Walk through the remains of the windmill, factory, and slave quarters. The National Park Service often has rangers on-site for interpretations.
- Salt Pond Bay & Drunk Bay (East End): Salt Pond Bay is a calm, shallow bay. From here, take a short, easy hike over to Drunk Bay, a rocky, windswept beach famous for its “voodoo dolls” – unique figures made by visitors from coral and shells washed ashore. Tip: Bring bug spray for the Salt Pond area, especially around dusk.
- Paddleboarding/Kayaking from Cruz Bay or Coral Bay: Rent paddleboards or kayaks directly from town to explore the calm waters of the bays. This offers a different perspective of the coastline, with opportunities to spot turtles and rays.
- Mongoose Junction (Cruz Bay): This complex features unique boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. It’s a pleasant place to stroll, dine, and find St. John-made souvenirs.
Local Flavors & Laid-Back Vibe:
- Eat Local, Support Local: Seek out local “roti” (a flavorful wrap), fresh fish tacos, or a “patty” from a small bakery for authentic Crucian dishes.
- Live Music in Cruz Bay or Coral Bay: Many restaurants and bars, particularly in Cruz Bay, feature live local music in the evenings. Check local listings for family-friendly venues or early evening performances.
- Embrace “Island Time”: St. John operates at a slower, more relaxed pace. Expect a less rigid schedule for activities and services.
- Pack for Adventure: Pack sturdy hiking sandals or shoes, reusable water bottles, light quick-dry clothing, sun protection (hats, rash guards, reef-safe sunscreen), and bug spray.
- Respect the National Park: Practice “leave no trace” principles. Stay on marked trails, do not disturb wildlife, and pack out everything you pack in.
- Grocery Shopping Strategy: Groceries on St. John can be expensive and options are limited. Many locals and regular visitors grocery shop on St. Thomas (at larger stores like Cost-U-Less or Pueblo near Red Hook) before taking the car barge to St. John.
Cultural & Historical Insights:
- Charlotte Amalie Walking Tour & 99 Steps: Immerse yourselves in the island’s rich history by exploring the capital city on foot. Walk the historic 99 Steps (actual count is 103!) which are ancient Danish brick staircases, leading to Blackbeard’s Castle. While the castle itself has mixed reviews, the views from the top are spectacular, and the history and pirate lore are captivating for kids.
- Fort Christian: The oldest standing structure in the U.S. Virgin Islands, this historic Danish fort offers a glimpse into colonial life. Explore the cannons, prison cells, and a small museum. It’s a great spot for kids to imagine life long ago.
- Local Food Exploration (Beyond Restaurants): Encourage families to try local food trucks and small, informal eateries for authentic Crucian dishes. Look for places selling “roti” (a Caribbean wrap), “patties” (savory pastries), or fresh local fish. Trying a “bush tea” is also a unique cultural experience.
- Island Hop to Water Island: Just a short, inexpensive ferry ride from Crown Bay Marina, Water Island offers a relaxed, local vibe. Rent a golf cart to explore the small island at your own pace, find hidden spots, and enjoy the views. It feels like a world away, even though it’s so close.
Smart Travel Tips from Locals:
- Traffic & Timing: St. Thomas, especially Charlotte Amalie, can get very busy when cruise ships are in port. Locals often adjust their schedules to avoid peak times. If you’re planning to visit popular attractions or do downtown shopping, consider going early in the morning or later in the afternoon on cruise ship days. You can often find cruise ship schedules online.
- Safari Taxis: While rental cars offer flexibility, open-air “safari taxis” (public transportation vans) are a fun and inexpensive way to get around the main routes, especially for short distances or to get to popular spots. They offer a more local experience.
- Stay Hydrated & Use Sunscreen: The Caribbean sun is strong! Families should drink plenty of water and reapply sunscreen frequently, especially when out and about exploring.
- Support Local Artisans: Look for local craft markets and small shops to find unique, handmade souvenirs that directly support the island’s economy.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit St. Thomas and St. John is during the peak season from December to April, which offers dry weather and pleasant temperatures. The shoulder season (May-June) can be a great value with fewer crowds. Hurricane season runs from June to November, with the highest risk in August and September.
Getting Around
A rental car (preferably a Jeep or SUV for St. John’s hilly terrain) is highly recommended for families to explore freely. Taxis are widely available but can be expensive, and there is no Uber or Lyft. Remember, driving is on the left side of the road on both islands.
Vehicle Rental is Key (but challenging): To fully explore the national park trails and more remote areas, a Jeep or 4×4 rental is highly recommended. Parking can be limited in Cruz Bay and at popular trailheads. Book your vehicle well in advance.
Ferry from St. Thomas: St. John does not have an airport; visitors arrive via ferry from St. Thomas (Red Hook or Charlotte Amalie). Plan ferry logistics carefully, especially with luggage or car rental pick-ups.
What to Pack
- Reef-safe sunscreen is required by law in the USVI to protect the coral.
- Rash guards for sun protection during long hours of snorkeling.
- Water shoes for exploring rocky shorelines or tide pools.
- Insect repellent, especially for evenings and jungle hikes.
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Light hiking shoes or sturdy sandals for trails.
We hope you found this St. Thomas & St. John family guide useful. Enjoy your trip to these beautiful islands!
For more general travel info, visit the Wikivoyage page on St. Thomas. Here is the info on St. John.