St John in the U.S. Virgin Islands is a prime spot for full-day adventures. With its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and scenic landscapes, it offers a perfect backdrop for memorable tours. Whether you’re into snorkeling, exploring secluded grottos, or simply relaxing with good food and drinks, St John has options that fit. We’re particularly fond of trips like the Lime Out snorkel cruise for its lively atmosphere and delicious floating tacos, as well as the Virgin Gorda Baths & Caves adventure that combines natural beauty with easy planning. Both showcase the island’s diverse appeal, from underwater life to geological wonders.
Below, we’ll explore two top-rated full-day tours in detail. Each offers a unique way to experience St John and the surrounding islands—whether through snorkeling, exploring caves, or just relaxing with a drink in hand. Keep reading to find the one that best matches your vacation style.
1. St. John Full-Day Lime Out Snorkel Taco Lunch & Open Bar – Westin
For around $179, the St. John Full-Day Lime Out Snorkel Taco Lunch & Open Bar offers a lively, all-inclusive day on the water. This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a mix of snorkeling, tasty food, and a laid-back atmosphere. The tour begins with a continental breakfast served on board, giving you a good start before heading out. The boat then stops at a coral reef where loaner snorkel equipment makes it easy for everyone to jump in and explore vibrant fish and maybe even a turtle or two.
The highlight is the floating taco bar by Lime Out, where you can indulge in freshly made tacos while bobbing on the water—no need to hunt for a beachside restaurant. After lunch, there’s more snorkeling and relaxing before heading back to port. The crew receives rave reviews for their attentiveness, and the open bar keeps the mood festive. This trip is perfect if you want a day filled with fun, good food, and underwater sights without breaking the bank.
Key highlights include the included lunch, open bar, and loaner snorkel gear. The reviews emphasize the friendly crew, delicious tacos, and plentiful fish sightings. One guest noted, “The tacos were delicious, and the crew took great care of us.” This tour is best for active travelers who want a social, easygoing day with plenty of snorkeling and beverages.
Bottom line: Great value for a fun, relaxed day with excellent snorkel spots and tasty food. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a social, all-inclusive experience on the water.
2. Discover The Baths of Virgin Gorda Full Day Adventure – Westin St. John
At the top of our list is the Discover The Baths of Virgin Gorda Full Day Adventure, valued at $329 per person. This tour is perfect for those who want a more adventurous day exploring geological marvels and natural caves. Starting with a continental breakfast, the trip takes you to the famous Baths—massive granite boulders formed over millions of years creating tunnels, grottos, and secluded swimming spots. The scenery is unlike anything else in the Caribbean.
The tour includes a stop at Top of the Baths for a scenic lunch, with spectacular coastal views. Then, you venture to Treasure Point Caves, where local legend speaks of hidden gold doubloons from a Spanish galleon. This part of the tour involves some light hiking over rocky terrain, with snorkel gear provided to explore the crystal-clear waters. The reviews commend the excellent staff and the well-organized itinerary, noting that the boat ride alone is worth the price. Some mention that the trails can be steep and slippery, so good shoes and a bit of fitness help.
This tour is best suited for active travelers interested in geology, history, and caves, with a willingness to hike and explore. The included lunch, scenic stops, and hassle-free planning make it a top choice for families or groups who want an all-in-one adventure.
Bottom line: A captivating combination of natural beauty and history, ideal for those who enjoy physical activity and exploring unique landscapes.
How to Choose
When selecting between these two tours, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. The Lime Out snorkel cruise is perfect if you want a fun, casual day with snorkeling and good eats. It’s less expensive and more relaxed. Conversely, the Virgin Gorda Baths adventure offers a more active day with geological wonders and caves, but at a higher price.
Think about whether you prefer a straightforward water-based day or an exploration-heavy outing. Booking early is highly recommended, especially for the popular Virgin Gorda tour, as it tends to fill up quickly. Consider your fitness level—if hiking and exploring caves sound appealing, this tour is worth the extra effort.
In summary, whether you want a lively snorkeling adventure with tacos or an immersive natural exploration of Virgin Gorda’s Baths and caves, St John has excellent options. For a laid-back, affordable day, the Lime Out cruise delivers plenty of fun and underwater sights. If your idea of a perfect day involves hiking, caves, and geological marvels, the Virgin Gorda tour offers a comprehensive experience. Both are well-reviewed and offer superb value for a full day on these beautiful islands. Book early, and prepare for a memorable Caribbean adventure.