Private St. John Beach-Hopping Safari — Customize Your Day from Cruz Bay
An open-air safari across St. John’s shorelines—this private, customizable beach-hopping tour lets you pick the coves you want to see, from snorkel-rich Hawksnest to the iconic Trunk Bay. Local drivers lead the way and handle logistics so you can focus on sun, surf, and shoreline stories.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring reef‑safe sunscreen
Many stops are inside Virgin Islands National Park—use reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral and marine life.
Wear water shoes
Rocky approaches and hot sand are common at quieter beaches; water shoes make entry and exit easier.
Pack a small dry bag
A lightweight waterproof pouch keeps your phone, wallet, and keys safe on the beach and during quick stops.
Confirm pickup details
Request pickup location ahead of time—there may be an extra fee outside central Cruz Bay; be ready 10 minutes before your scheduled time.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Ram Head viewpoint and small Salt Pond access for dramatic coastal views and fewer crowds
- •Leinster Bay/Waterlemon Cay for a quieter, coral-rich snorkel away from main beaches
Wildlife
- •Green sea turtles
- •Brown pelicans
Conservation Note
Most beaches on this route are inside Virgin Islands National Park—stick to marked paths, use reef-safe sunblock, and avoid touching coral to protect fragile ecosystems.
Much of St. John was once sugar-plantation land; Annaberg and other ruins on the north shore are visible reminders of colonial-era agriculture.
Photographer's Notes
- • Trunk Bay overlook
- • Maho Bay shoreline near the Contiki Bar
- • Ram Head ridge for dramatic coastlines
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects your skin and the coral reefs that make St. John’s snorkeling special.
Water shoesEssential
Helpful for rocky entries, slippery rocks, and walking on hot sand.
Personal snorkel set
Better fit and hygiene than rentals—and perfect for the island’s clear, shallow reefs.
Light waterproof bagEssential
Keeps valuables dry during beach stops and sudden squalls.
Common Questions
Can I customize which beaches we visit?
Yes—this is a private tour designed around your preferences; you can pick specific beaches or let the driver suggest an itinerary.
Are entrance fees included?
No—some beaches (like Trunk Bay) charge small entrance fees that aren’t included in the tour price.
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Snorkel gear is not included; some beaches offer rentals but bringing your own ensures the best fit.
Do you offer pickup from hotels and the port?
Yes—pickup from Cruz Bay hotels and the port is available; pickup outside the half‑mile radius of central Cruz Bay may incur an additional fee.
Is the tour suitable for children and infants?
Yes—infants can ride in strollers and must sit on an adult’s lap; the tour is family-friendly but supervise kids near water and roads.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours are canceled for bad weather and fully refundable if canceled at least 24 hours prior; operators monitor conditions and may reschedule.]
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Cruz Bay, U.S. Virgin Islands
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be comfortable stepping on and off an open-air vehicle and walking short distances on sand and uneven rock.
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