While the other US Virgin Islands may hustle and bustle, St. John is a laid-back bit of Caribbean paradise. Two-thirds of the island was donated in 1956 to the United States by Laurance Rockefeller for use as a National Park. The result of his generosity created an unspoiled get-away offering tranquil beaches, sleepy lagoons, underwater coral gardens, scenic roads, well-maintained walking trails, lush foliage and fascinating plantation ruins.

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Click the icon to download and print our handy PDF version St. John Dining Guide "Tastes of St. John" with cuisine type, phone numbers, locations, price ranges and credit card acceptance information.

No visit to St. John would be complete without visiting historic and elegant Mongoose Junction. With a design inspired by our 18th Century Danish Sugar Mills, and built by local stone masons and artisans, Mongoose Junction is a world class venue that hosts a variety of offerings and amenities in a setting that is a stunning blend of the island's natural beauty and the best efforts of its dedicated craftsmen.

Explore the shady tropical garden setting as you shop for designer or locally made jewelry and gifts, swimwear and clothing. Bamboula, Big Planet, Bougainvillea, Fabric Mill, Just Beach, Made in St. John, Nest and Shade, all feature clothing & accessories quite different from what you find on St. Thomas. Find beautiful jewelry, that special gift, home accessories and art at The Best of Both Worlds (voted Best Home Decor by Daily News Readers), Caravan Gallery (home to Kenny Chesney's signature hook bracelet), Island Fancy, Portico, R&I Patton Goldsmiths, Royal Caribbean Jewelers, Sugar Birds and Bajo el Sol Gallery, featuring artwork by some of St. John's finest artists. This year, we welcome Nest, with home essentials to adorn and inspire. Friends of the Park Store carries unique gift items--many of which are locally made-- from recycled materials & sustainable goods. Proceeds support programs in the VI National Park. You'll find artisans at work in many of our locations, and oftentimes the owner is on hand to assist you in any way.

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340-779-2155 • CORAL BAY, ST. JOHN

A professional Nature Guide-Photographer will lead you on a two person, easy to paddle kayak into Hurricane Hole and teach you how to photograph a unique mangrove ecosystem for a spectacular variety of unusual corals, fishes & anemones. Easy to use point-and-shoot underwater cameras are provided. Bring home priceless memories! Small Groups. Reservations Required. Virgin Islands Ecotours (340) 779-2155, info@viecotours.com, www.viecotours.com (St. John Island Map)

340-779-2155 • CANEEL BAY, ST. JOHN

A unique 3 hour guided multi-eco experience awaits you! Kayak along fabulous turquoise waters and sandy beaches. Paddle over the colorful coral reefs in shallow, crystal clear waters and over sea grass bed areas frequented by sea turtles, rays and dolphins. Hike a picturesque wooded tropical forest trail. Snorkel a coral reef in clear waters of the Virgin Islands National Park. A nature guide interprets the marine life. Fun for the Entire family! No experience necessary. Reservations Required. Virgin Islands Ecotours www.viecotours.com (St. John Island Map)

340-693-5778 • CORAL BAY, ST. JOHN

A ride with the Carolina Corral offers you a unique view of the BVI without a passport. Horses for every skill level travel into the hills of St. John on country roads and trails culminating with a ride along the water. No beach. Some trot/canter allowed. The corral began in '93 with two formerly wild donkeys. Every animal at the corral was in need of a better home. Stop by the corral to visit with the donkeys, goats, sheep, chickens, "Ready or Not" the dog and our three friendly cats. Look for us in Coral Bay! (St. John island map)

You have got to do St. John. You hear that from everyone who has visited the Island and from those who live here. But, what does it mean to do St. John? Well, there are the wonderful hiking trails that meander through the island that can take you from the "bustling" town of Cruz Bay to secluded beaches and pristine Caribbean forests. How about touring the island on a two-hour tour of the National Park or just go shopping in Cruz Bay? And don't forget the plethora of beaches.

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(340) 693-7046 • DOCKSIDE

Whether you're looking for a meaningful souvenir or a gift that's "more than a postcard," St. John Spice is the place to visit. Sample Caribbean food products including barbeque grill rubs and the largest collection of hot sauces in the Caribbean. Home of the world-famous Cruz Bay Grill Rub. Hit the beach with our sarongs, beach bags, hats and t-shirts for all ages. Open 9-9 every day. We ship. See the web cam at www.stjohnspicecam.com (Cruz Bay map)(Cruz Bay map)

776-6922 / 779-4994 • CRUZ BAY / CORAL BAY

Pick up your copy of "St. Thomas St. John This Week" at Connections, your on-island communications center. Stop in for tourist information; sailing and fishing charters; Internet access; long distance calls; Western Union; fax, photocopying and secretarial services. Cruz Bay St. John: phone - 776-6922, FAX -776-6902. Coral Bay: phone - 779-4994, FAX -776-6136. (Cruz Bay map)

(340) 776-6774 and (340) 998-8388 • CRUZ BAY, ST. JOHN

"Perfect place to feel human again". Overlooking Cruz Bay. Minutes away from Trunk Bay Beach, supermarkets, bank and taxis. Each suite has a kitchenette, private bath and air conditioning. Cool breezes are experienced here. Free Wi-Fi, liquor and food. To Book thru Expedia On-Line: www.expedia.com or Bed and Breakfast.com. www.bedandbreakfast.com
Rates begin at $165/day.
www.HillcrestStJohn.com
(340) 776-6774 and (340) 998-8388.
(Cruz Bay map)