2-Day St. Thomas and St. John Tour — Trunk Bay, Mountain Top & Annaberg Plantation
Two days on St. Thomas and St. John condense panoramic lookouts, a historic sugar plantation and world-class snorkeling into a brisk coastal itinerary. Expect switchback drives, ferry logistics to St. John and prime beach time at Trunk Bay.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring cash for the St. John ferry
Ferry tickets to St. John are not included; bring about $16 in cash or card for a roundtrip fare and small purchases at beach kiosks.
Wear grippy shoes
Uneven plantation ruins and rocky overlooks require sturdy, closed-toe shoes more than flip-flops.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Trunk Bay is within a national park; chemical sunscreens harm coral, so bring mineral-based sunscreen.
Pack a dry change of clothes
Before returning to the vehicle after beach time, change into dry clothes to avoid sand transfer and discomfort.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Drive the less-visited west side overlooks for quieter views of Magens Bay
- •Stop at a roadside bake shop for warm johnnycakes and fresh mango slices before the beach
Wildlife
- •Brown pelicans patrolling the shoreline
- •Reef fish like parrotfish and sergeant majors while snorkeling
Conservation Note
Trunk Bay sits within the Virgin Islands National Park and uses fees to fund reef protection; visitors should use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching coral.
St. John and St. Thomas were shaped by colonial trade and the sugar economy; Annaberg Plantation preserves stonework and terraces from the 18th and 19th centuries.
Photographer's Notes
- • Mountain Top overlook for wide island panoramas
- • Drake's Seat for sweeping views toward Magens Bay
- • Trunk Bay overlook for reef patterns from above
What to Bring
DaypackEssential
Carries water, sunscreen, snacks and a light layer for the drives and short hikes.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the coral ecosystems when snorkeling or swimming at Trunk Bay.
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Required for plantation ruins, overlooks and boardwalks with uneven surfaces.
Swimsuit and quick-dry towelEssential
For beach time at Trunk Bay and swims from shore; quick-dry fabrics speed transitions.
Common Questions
Is ferry transport to St. John included?
No. Ferry tickets to and from St. John are not included and must be purchased at the dock; roundtrip is approximately $16 per person.
Can this tour accommodate cruise passengers?
Yes — the operator offers pickup from cruise docks but requires ship details at booking; coordinate at least 72 hours beforehand.
Are national park fees included?
National park fees for sites like Trunk Bay and Annaberg are included in the tour price according to the itinerary details.
Is lunch provided?
Lunch is not included; there are options to buy food at beach concessions or bring a packed lunch. Notify dietary needs at booking.
Is this suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
Moderate walking is involved and the tour is not recommended for those with severe back or heart problems; children must be accompanied by adults.
What is the cancellation policy if weather is bad?
For a full refund cancel at least 24 hours before departure. The tour may be canceled for bad weather or insufficient travelers, with a full refund offered.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 days (≈8–9 hours per day)
Location
Charlotte Amalie, U.S. Virgin Islands
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with moderate fitness; able to walk short uneven trails and handle stairs and light hikes.
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