As you may imagine, you’ll wanna have at least a minimal plan when visiting Virgin Islands National Park. How to get here? Where to stay? What to bring? Who to bring? When to come? What to drink? Read on my friend, we’ll go over all of this, and more.
Here are some things you’ll want to know when visiting Virgin Islands National Park.
Guide to Virgin Islands
Where is Virgin Islands?
Virgin Islands National Park is located on the island of St. John, in the U.S. Virgin Islands. This small chain of mountainous islands are found in the beautiful waters of the Caribbean Sea, just east of Puerto Rico. The park covers nearly two-thirds of the island, and much of the surrounding water.
Getting to St John
Most visitors arrive by air in the city of Charlotte Amalia on the neighboring island of St. Thomas. From there, a brisk taxi ride whisks guests to the Red Hook Ferry Terminal on the east end of St. Thomas. A quick 20-minute ferry ride delivers guests to the classic port town of Cruz Bay, where the adventure begins.
moreThis is a fun town with a number of bars and a party atmosphere that quickly erases the day’s travel pains. In fact, one of the island’s signature drinks is the “Painkiller”, a powerful rum drink that usually delivers its advertised purpose. Relax, kick back a few… you’re on “island time”…
Most in-town attractions in Cruz Bay are within walking distance and a number of adventures can be arranged from here, including snorkeling and kayaking trips. Food and lodging options abound, and there is a bar around every corner.
Entrance Fee
There is no fee to enter Virgin Islands National Park. However, some areas of the park, such as Trunk Bay, do require an amenity fee, which provides for services such as showers and bathrooms. For a complete explanation and current fees and locations, see the NPS link below.
Virgin Islands Visitor Center
You’ll want to stop by the visitor center to grab your park map and get your passport stamp. It is open daily and is conveniently located in Cruz Bay, just a couple of blocks north of the ferry dock. Check with rangers for current coastal conditions and upcoming events.
NPS – Virgin Islands – Visitor Center
Getting Around Virgin Islands
Many of the park’s attractions are easily accessed, and transportation on the island is a laid back affair. There are Jeep rental options in Cruz Bay, however many of the popular sites around the island offer minimal parking options, so vehicles can feel cumbersome.
moreIt is important to note, the automobiles here are left wheel steering, the same as in the US, however, traffic on the island travels in the left lane, so drivers are on the curb side, rather than the centerline. Yikes…
There also exists the Vitran Bus System which offers rides for a $1 fee. This option too, may prove frustrating as the bus occasionally operates on island time as well. There is no service on the weekend or holidays. If punctuality is one of your vices while in the islands, well, you may just be better served to plan on walking.
Taxi service is available on the island and drivers offer various open air safari-like seats atop the bed of full-size pickup trucks. These trucks often hold up to 12 or 15 passengers and can be found cruising popular routes along the north shore and atop the centerline road.
Park Junkie usually chose to hitchhike, as do many locals. It does not take long to cross the island and rides are very easily obtained. Most people who do leave you standing apologize as they drive past and offer an excuse as to why they cannot assist you.
Such journeys often provide a unique glimpse into the lives of colorful island residents and you’ll likely find someone of notable curiosity this way… Relax… enjoy the vibe… Again, you’re on island time…
Don’t be surprised if your friendly driver is drinking while escorting you along the curvy mountain roads… It is the custom here. That said, this method of travel may not be the best bet for everyone…
There’s always a taxi.
Seasons in Virgin Islands
Of all the national parks, a visit to Virgin Islands National Park may require the least amount of wardrobe planning. Of course, you’ll want to look fine A/F when you hit the bars and restaurants in the evening, but other than that, it’s beach wear for days… year-round… Unless it’s hurricane season, and you can’t really dress appropriately for that anyway.
moreDaily temperatures in the islands don’t really change much. They hover in the mid 70ºs to low 80ºs and may drop about 10ºF at night, all year long… I told you it was paradise…
However, the islands are subject to the Easterlies, or Tradewinds, which blow east to west across the tropical Atlantic. The winters are usually subject to stronger winds, but are dryer, while the summers have lighter winds, but experience significantly more rain. It’s not like you’ll freeze to death if you get wet here, but you may want some rain gear, and a few extra layers are never a bad idea when heading out on the water.
You’ll want to observe weather patterns if you’re entering the island’s norther beaches, as winter cold fronts can present bigger waves than you may expect. While the islands don’t experience the cold temps of these cold fronts, they do reap the rewards.
My last visit to the park was a tumultuous affair, with a few red flag days on the northern beaches, which brought out the surfers en masse.
“All I need are some tasty waves, a cool buzz, & I’m fine…”
Camping in Virgin Islands
There is a campground at Cinnamon Bay, however it is currently out of operation due to damage sustained during Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017. It remains unclear as to when this area will reopen. We’re hoping to hear good news of a timely repair, but who knows… They’re on island time after all…
moreI found the following listing for a private campground on AirBnB, although I have not stayed there.
You can check on the progress of the repair at the Cinnamon Bay Resort on their website:
And the NPS site here:
Lodging in Virgin Islands
You’ll find options available in Cruz Bay and Coral Bay, which is located across the island from Cruz Bay on the opposite end of Centerline Rd. Many home rentals can be acquired as well, and this provides a nice option to get away, as many of these homes are located in the surrounding hills and offer excellent retreats from the world, often with a fabulous view.
moreYou’ll find numerous vacation rental listings on AirBnB.
Caneel Bay Resort
The Caneel Bay Resort is another sad story in the lodging saga on St. John. This once-posh resort was originally owned by Laurence Rockefeller, and offered the best in island style lodging. Unfortunately, the hurricanes of 2017 took their toll on this place as well. The resort was scheduled to be handed over to the NPS in 2022, but now that appears to be in question, as does any form of repair at the resort.
The following story on National Park Traveler uncovers a few of the problems facing the reopening of the resort.
Food and Drink
There are a great number of dining and drinking options in Cruz Bay, and a few in Coral Bay as well. While it is unlikely that you’ll need my suggestions, I’ll tell you where I had a few good times, just cause…
moreThe High Tide Bar & Seafood Grill is the first right when you get off the boat. Stop and see these guys for a Painkiller, or six…
Woodys is a classic, and I personally found the Tap & Still had great hot dogs and burgers, for a surprisingly affordable price. Greengos Cantina offers a nice menu and a massive selection of tacos and tequila, which took good care of me after a long day on the water.
The Dolphin Market, just past the roundabout on Centerline Road is the community grocer. Don’t balk at the prices. Everything on the shelves must come from as far away as you do. Just be glad they have what you need. They probably do.
If you’re cruising the Centerline Road, a pit stop at Shambles is never a bad idea. It’s a small bar at the top of the hill, on your way cross-island. While hitchhiking here, nearly every ride we caught was stopping at Shambles, so my buddy Jonny & I stopped as well. Why not…? I would spend a lot more time there if I lived here… After all, we’re all here cause we’re not all there…
Once you make it to Coral Bay, the laid back side of the island, you’ll be well served to grab a meal and a few drinks at Skinny Legs, which is a staple of the community. Grab a t-shirt or two to prove you’ve been there, or at least a sticker.
Guide to Virgin Islands
Relevant Links
National Park Guides
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