Day Trip to St. John from St. Thomas

How to take the ferry from Red Hook and what to see on St. John

St. John is a short ferry ride from St. Thomas, and much of the island is protected as Virgin Islands National Park. Its beaches are some of the most beautiful in the Caribbean. Staying on the East End of St. Thomas makes a St. John day trip easy, because the ferry leaves from Red Hook, a few minutes from our condo.

Taking the ferry from Red Hook

• Passenger ferry: ferries run from Red Hook to Cruz Bay roughly every hour, from early morning until late evening. The crossing takes about 20 minutes. At the time of writing, adult fares were about $8 each way, plus a small fee per bag. You can buy tickets at the terminal, but booking ahead is recommended in peak season.
• Car barge: to bring a car, take a car barge from Red Hook (about 30 minutes). Reserve ahead and check that your rental company allows its cars on the barge. Many visitors simply rent a car or take a taxi in Cruz Bay instead.

Beaches to see on St. John

• Trunk Bay: famous for its underwater snorkeling trail. The National Park Service charges a small entrance fee here.
• Cinnamon Bay: a long beach with paddleboard and kayak rentals.
• Maho Bay: calm, shallow water where sea turtles are often spotted grazing on sea grass.
• Honeymoon Beach: reached by a short hike or from Caneel Bay, with clear water for snorkeling.

A simple St. John itinerary

1. Catch a morning ferry from Red Hook to beat the crowds.
2. Pick up a rental jeep or taxi in Cruz Bay and head to the North Shore beaches.
3. Snorkel at Trunk Bay or Maho Bay, then have lunch at a beach bar.
4. Stop at a scenic overlook on North Shore Road for photos.
5. Browse the shops and restaurants of Cruz Bay before the ferry back to Red Hook.

Tips

• Bring cash, reef-safe sunscreen, water and snacks. Facilities at some beaches are limited.
• Roads on St. John are steep and winding, and traffic drives on the left.
• Check the latest ferry schedule before you go, as times and fares can change.

Want more ideas? See the best beaches near Red Hook and our St. Thomas guide.

Stay with the Flynn family

Our oceanfront condo at Cabrita Point is a few minutes from the Red Hook ferry dock. See availability and book direct for our best rates, or contact us with any questions.