Private 2.5-Hour Island Tour of St. John: Trunk Bay Overlooks & Historic Ruins
Spend 2.5 hours with a native St. Johnian guide driving coastal overlooks from Trunk Bay to Coral Bay — a compact, private primer on the island’s beaches, history, and geology. Perfect for visitors who want a local perspective without the hike.
The Experience
Before You Go
Go early for photos
Start in the morning to avoid harsh midday light and get calmer water views at Trunk Bay and Cinnamon Bay.
Bring reef‑safe sunscreen
You’ll get short beach stops and a lot of sun exposure — choose reef‑safe lotion to protect reefs and your skin.
Wear stable shoes
Stops include short uneven walks and a few steps at overlooks — low-profile trail shoes or sturdy sandals work best.
Confirm pickup if arriving by cruise
Cruise passengers must coordinate transfer times and re‑boarding details when booking; taxis from St. Thomas can add time and cost.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small overlook above Caneel Bay for quieter photos away from the Trunk Bay crowd
- •Historic sugar‑plantation ruins (short stop) offering expansive views toward the British Virgin Islands
Wildlife
- •Brown pelican
- •Green sea turtle (near reefs)
Conservation Note
Visitors are asked to use reef‑safe sunscreen, avoid touching coral or wildlife, and follow park guidelines to minimize erosion and disturbance at overlooks and beaches.
Much of St. John’s coast is protected as Virgin Islands National Park following mid‑20th century land donations that halted large‑scale development and preserved beaches and ruins.
Photographer's Notes
- • Trunk Bay overlook (bird’s‑eye view)
- • Cinnamon Bay shoreline
- • Coral Bay harbor lookout for distant island silhouettes
What to Bring
Reef‑safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the coral ecosystems during sunny stops.
Wide‑brim hat and sunglassesEssential
Shields you from tropical sun during driving and viewpoints.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Bring a bottle to refill — bottled water is provided but a personal bottle keeps you hydrated between stops.
Waterproof phone case or small camera
Useful for photos at overlooks and quick beach stops where waves or spray are possible.
Common Questions
Where does the tour start and end?
The tour departs and returns to the Loredon Boynes Ferry Terminal in Cruz Bay; hotel pickups are offered within a ½‑mile radius of Cruz Bay center.
Can cruise ship passengers join?
Yes, but cruise passengers must provide ship and docking details at booking and plan taxi transfers from St. Thomas to Red Hook; extra transfer time is recommended.
Is the tour suitable for small children and infants?
Yes — infants can ride in strollers and must sit on an adult’s lap; children seven and up are priced as adults.
Are there restroom or swimming opportunities on the tour?
Stops are short and focused on overlooks; Cinnamon Bay is a longer stop where swimming is possible, but most viewpoints are photo stops only.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated if the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist boarding and disembarking.
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time; the tour may be canceled for bad weather.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2–3 hours
Location
Cruz Bay, U.S. Virgin Islands
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short, easy walks and standing at overlooks
Ready to Explore Cruz Bay?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now