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Top 5 Things to Do on St. John

By Joanne Curcio-Quiñones

1. Take a trek through the Virgin Islands National Park. This nature lovers' haven has more than 22 designated trails, including the Reef Bay Trail that leads hikers to a spur and past mysterious petroglyphs (ancient rock carvings) that are believed to have been carved by the Arawak or Carib Indians many moons ago. Even if you are unable or unwilling to hike, treat yourself to a taxi or safari bus tour of this ecological treasure of a park.
2. Snorkel at Trunk Bay, where there's an underwater snorkeling trail that's perfect for beginners and has 15 markers that identify the coral and marine life that call the area home. If you're looking to jazz up your snorkel experience, this is a good place to try out snuba, which is a cross between snorkeling and scuba diving.
3. Visit the Annaberg Sugar Mill. Take a self-guided tour or a National Park ranger-guided tour of the well-preserved ruins of an 18th-century sugar plantation. Back in its heyday, the mill produced sugar, molasses and rum. Today the historic estate consists of remnants of a windmill, a horse mill, a rum still, a dungeon and slave quarters. Several times a week the staff put on interesting demonstrations such as basket weaving, bread making and cooking on coal pots.
4. Take in the view or a photo from Bordeaux Mountain. At 1,277 feet above sea level, this ranks as St. John's highest point as well as a high point for the many visitors who stop there and take in the incredible panoramic view that includes the stunning Coral Bay and outlying British Virgin Islands.
5. Go horseback riding in Coral Bay. This lovely Caribbean beach is a joy to behold, but even more so on horseback. This once-in-a-lifetime experience will leave you feeling as if you're dreaming. Once you get your feet back on the sugary white sand, wander around the little shops, bars and restaurants and enjoy the laid-back St. John charm.