This article will focus on the new wellness programming and events that are being rolled out at The Saint this week. With a focus on holistic well-being, the new programming includes immersive sound healing, yoga and meditation, energy therapies, plant medicine, creative arts, and sacred ceremonies.
Valhalla, a beautifully reimagined villa on St. John, offers a truly special escape for those seeking seclusion, sophistication, and five-star service. Nestled within the verdant Virgin Islands National Park, this secluded haven provides stunning views of Cinnamon Bay and the surrounding islands.
You probably know that St. John is often celebrated for its beaches and national park, but you might not know some of the following facts and stories. Here’s a fresh take with information that could influence your experience on St. John.
St. John is often called the gem of the Caribbean, and for good reason. It’s a beautiful area packed with unforgettable experiences that will leave you longing for more. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler to the island there’s always something new to add to your bucket list. How many of these must-do experiences can you check off?
A lot of tourists come to St. John because they want to enjoy its pristine beaches and hiking trails. You probably already know about spots like Trunk Bay and Cinnamon Bay. But the island has much more to offer people willing to go the extra mile—sometimes literally—to find lesser-known beaches and trails.
Where do you go to find a beach that isn’t crowded? Set some time aside for these destinations.
Oppenheimer Beach: A Quiet Oasis
Oppenheimer Beach (once part of physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer’s estate) is perfect for relaxing away from crowds. You can access the beach by walking down a short path off of North Shore Road. Parking is limited, though, even for this fairly secluded spot. You might need to arrive early, but the beach’s serenity is worth skipping an hour of sleep.
Salt Pond Bay: A Snorkeler’s Paradise
Salt Pond Bay’s snorkeling makes it a favorite among locals. A moderate hike from the parking area leads you to this secluded bay, where the shallow waters teem with marine life. Snorkelers, keep your eyes open to spot colorful fish and rays. If you’re lucky, you might even see a sea turtle.
You don’t feel like getting wet today? No worries! You can always hike the Ram Head Trail to enjoy stunning views of the island.
Little Lameshur Bay: Way Off the Beaten Path
Little Lameshur Bay is only accessible by a rough, unpaved road. But the journey is part of the adventure! Once you arrive, you’ll find calm waters along a stretch of sand.
The nearby Lameshur Bay Trail offers a scenic hike through the Virgin Islands National Park, leading to even more secluded spots like Reef Bay and historic petroglyphs. Indigenous people carved these images into the rock thousands of years ago. You won’t find artifacts like that in many places.
Denis Bay: A Beach Hideaway
Denis Bay is one of St. John’s best-kept secrets, a hidden beach that can only be reached by foot or boat. The short but steep hike from the Peace Hill parking area leads to a deserted beach that’s perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The surrounding foliage provides plenty of shade, making it the ideal place to lay out your picnic blanket and have some snacks.
Haulover Bay: Dual-Side Snorkeling Adventure
Haulover Bay offers a unique experience with its dual bays—one on the north side and one on the south. The north side features rocky shores and excellent snorkeling with a vibrant underwater world. The south side, while less rocky, has great snorkeling options for beginners.
St. John’s Lesser-Known Hiking Trails
St. John is famous for its beaches, but the island also has a network of hiking trails. Put these three options on your list to really explore the island’s beauty:
Bordeaux Mountain Trail is a challenging hike that takes you to the highest point on St. John. The trail is steep and rugged, but the panoramic views are breathtaking.
Maria Hope Trail is a historic trail that winds through dense forest and old plantation ruins. The trail is lightly trafficked, making it a peaceful escape for those interested in nature and history.
Brown Bay Trail leads to the quiet Brown Bay. The hike is perfect for anyone who wants to combine a beach day with a bit of adventure. The trail is moderate in difficulty and offers beautiful views of the East End of the island.
St. John’s hidden gems introduce you to the island’s quieter side. Do you want to relax on a secluded beach? Does exploring the island without a crowd around you sound like the perfect day? Then these spots are right for you!
Good morning St. John, Thanksgiving week on St. John offers a mix of great music, fun activities, and opportunities to gather with friends and family. Here’s a breakdown of the exciting events happening:
Good Morning! St. John is one of the Caribbean’s most ecologically diverse islands, so it’s not surprising that visitors come from all over the world. The popularity comes with a responsibility to preserve the area’s environment.
Sustainable tourism is all about making conscious choices that minimize your impact on the environment and support the local community. Take a moment to learn ways to make your vacation more sustainable!
When you think of St. John, you likely imagine an island paradise — sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and luxurious relaxation and pampering. But this is a place that’s also rich in natural bounty, where people have been cultivating — and enjoying! — fruits and vegetables for generations.
These plants are deeply intertwined with the island’s history and cultural heritage and offer nourishment and enticing flavors to the traditional dishes that define St. John’s culinary scene.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the island’s most iconic fruits and vegetables.
Colombo’s Smoothies, your island stop for refreshing drinks and and quick healthy bites, is excited to offer fresh, locally-grown kale and arugula from Love City Fresh! They are offering kale and arugula for $12 per 4oz bag.
