St. Thomas and St. John Two Day Tour

Exploring the Virgin Islands in Just Two Days: A Review of the St. Thomas and St. John Tour

If you’re looking to see the highlights of the Virgin Islands without dedicating an entire week, this St. Thomas and St. John two-day tour might just fit the bill. Priced at around $198 per person, it offers a compact but satisfying look at some of the most iconic sights on these beautiful Caribbean islands. With a typical booking window of about 17 days in advance, this experience is popular among travelers eager to maximize their limited time—and for good reason.

The tour is structured to give you a taste of both stunning vistas and historical insights, starting from the panoramic viewpoints of Charlotte Amalie to the white sands of Trunk Bay. What we particularly like is how the tour combines scenic drives, photo stops, and beach relaxation, offering a well-rounded experience. Plus, the inclusion of local guides who know the ins and outs of the islands makes the journey more engaging.

A minor consideration is that this tour is quite condensed, and some might feel it’s a bit rushed—especially at the beaches where you’ll want to linger longer. Also, the price doesn’t include ferry tickets or beach entry fees, which can add up. Still, if you’re a traveler who enjoys a structured itinerary with insider tips, this tour will serve you well. It’s especially suitable for cruise passengers or those visiting for a short stay who want a guided overview of the Virgin Islands’ best sights.

Key Points

• Efficient two-day schedule covers top sights on both St. Thomas and St. John.
• Includes scenic viewpoints like Mountain Top and Drake’s Seat for incredible island views.
• Historic sites and beaches like Annaberg Sugar Plantation and Trunk Bay are core stops.
• Local guides provide inside knowledge and make the experience more lively.
• Additional costs such as ferry tickets, beach fees, and lunch should be budgeted for.
• Limited time at beaches means you’ll need to be ready to take quick dips or photo ops.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

This two-day tour is designed to give a snapshot of the Virgin Islands’ most memorable sights, blending natural beauty, history, and leisure.

Day 1: From Skyline Drive to Magens Bay

The adventure begins in Charlotte Amalie, where the Skyline Drive offers sweeping views of the city and harbor. It’s a quick stop—just about 10 minutes—but an excellent opportunity to snap some photos of the bustling port and shimmering sea below. We liked how the guide pointed out specific landmarks and helped us appreciate the island’s geography from this vantage point.

Next, you’ll visit Drake’s Seat, a historic lookout where Sir Francis Drake is said to have once gazed over the harbor. Here, panoramic views of Magens Bay are particularly stunning. Expect about 10 minutes here, but don’t forget your camera—this is one of those “Instagram-worthy” spots that will make your friends jealous.

The highlight of the day is a trip up Mountain Top, reaching nearly 1,547 feet above sea level. This is where you’ll truly feel the sense of elevation and see some of the best panoramic views the islands have to offer. The guide often shares fun facts about the area, making this stop more than just a photo op.

The day wraps up with a visit to Magens Bay Beach, often ranked among the world’s top beaches. You get plenty of time—about three hours—to enjoy the soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and perhaps grab lunch (which is at your own expense). While the tour doesn’t include the beach entrance fee, it’s a small price for such a renowned spot.

Day 2: History and Natural Beauty of St. John

Day two takes you to Annaberg Sugar Plantation, where you’ll learn about the island’s colonial past and how sugar shaped its history. The restored plantation buildings and interpretive signs make this a worthwhile stop for anyone interested in local heritage. Expect around an hour and a half here, and be prepared for some walking over uneven terrain. The guide’s insights help bring the history alive, giving context to the site’s importance.

Next, you’ll stop at Caneel Bay for a quick photo—the view overlooking this lush bay is spectacular, even if you don’t spend much time there. Then, a short stop at the Trunk Bay Overlook provides a chance to admire the famous beach, known for its crystal waters and pristine sands.

Finally, the tour’s crown jewel is a visit to Trunk Bay Beach, often rated as one of the world’s top beaches. Here, you’ll have about two hours to swim, relax, and maybe grab a bite (lunch is extra). The beach’s photo-worthy landscape and excellent snorkeling opportunities make it a perfect place to end your tour.

Practical Insights: What to Expect and How to Prepare

This tour includes pick-up at cruise ports and hotels, which is a huge time-saver. Transportation is likely comfortable, but remember you’ll be on a group setting with up to 99 travelers, so flexibility is limited. The tour is guided by locals who are knowledgeable, making the experience more engaging, especially when they share stories about the islands’ history and culture.

Since the itinerary involves moderate walking and some scenic drives, wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. The beach stops are the most relaxed parts, but note that beach entry fees and ferry tickets to St. John are not included and should be budgeted separately.

The tour starts promptly at 9:00 am, so arriving on time is crucial. It’s suitable for travelers of moderate physical fitness, and children are welcome when accompanied by adults. However, those with mobility issues might find some stops challenging.

The reviews indicate that guides are generally praised for their knowledge and kindness, with some travelers mentioning they appreciated local tips and personalized attention. Conversely, one reviewer expressed disappointment, feeling it was mostly a taxi service rather than a guided experience. That highlights the importance of choosing a tour with a good reputation and clear expectations.

Is This Tour Worth It? We Think So—With Caveats

For travelers who want a fast-paced overview of the Virgin Islands’ most iconic sights, this tour offers solid value. The chance to see viewpoints like Drake’s Seat and Mountain Top, combined with relaxing at Trunk Bay, makes it a well-rounded trip. The inclusion of guided commentary enriches the experience, turning simple sightseeing into an informative journey.

However, it’s important to recognize that time is limited—you’ll be moving quickly between sights, and beach time is constrained. If you’re someone who prefers to linger longer at beaches or explore sites at your own pace, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, since costs such as ferry tickets and beach fees aren’t included, ensure your budget reflects those extra expenses.

This tour suits travelers craving a comprehensive day-by-day snapshot rather than an in-depth exploration. It’s especially appealing for those on a cruise or tight schedule, looking to maximize their time with the help of knowledgeable guides who can point out the best photo spots and share local insights.

The Sum Up: Who is This Tour Best For?

If you’re short on time but want to experience some signature sights of St. Thomas and St. John, this tour is a practical choice. It’s ideal for cruise passengers, first-time visitors, or anyone eager to see the highlights without a lot of planning. The guided format ensures you get context and commentary, making even a brief visit meaningful.

Travelers who appreciate stunning views, historical sites, and beaches in a structured package will find this tour offers good value. Yet, if you prefer to explore more slowly or seek a private, customizable experience, you might want to consider other options.

Despite some minor drawbacks, this tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, history, and relaxation—perfect for a quick, enriching taste of the Virgin Islands. It can serve as a memorable highlight of your Caribbean trip, especially if you’re prepared for the quick pace and extra costs.

FAQ

Will I see the best views on this tour?
Yes, stops like Skyline Drive, Drake’s Seat, and Mountain Top are renowned for their panoramic views, providing excellent photo opportunities and a true sense of the island’s landscape.

Are the beaches included in the tour?
You’ll visit Magens Bay and Trunk Bay, but note that entrance fees and lunch are not included. You’ll have a few hours at each beach to swim and relax.

Is transportation comfortable?
The tour includes pickup at cruise ports and hotels, typically with group transportation. While comfortable, it’s a shared ride, so expect some level of bus or van seating.

How much extra should I budget?
Consider additional costs like ferry tickets to St. John ($16.30), beach entry fees ($7 for Magens Bay), and meals. These aren’t included in the tour price.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome if accompanied by adults, but be prepared for some walking and a potentially fast-paced schedule.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour is weather-dependent, and cancellations due to poor weather will be rescheduled or refunded.

This guided tour offers an efficient way to see the Virgin Islands’ highlights, blending scenic viewpoints, historic sites, and beaches. If you value insightful guides and a structured schedule, it’s a solid choice—just remember it’s a quick look, not an in-depth exploration.