Friends of the Virgin Islands National Park – Events and Guided Tours on St. John

St. John, the smallest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, offers a rich tapestry of natural beauty and cultural history. The Friends of the Virgin Islands National Park (Friends) are dedicated to preserving this paradise, and they invite you to experience it firsthand through a variety of guided tours and events. With 70% of the island being designated as National Park, St John remains a pristine island, yet plenty of space to explore on your next adventure to the U.S. Virgin Islands. Whether you’re an adventurous hiker, a history buff, or a star-gazer, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a detailed look at what’s on offer.

Local Guide Program and FULL CALENDAR OF EVENTS

• Mondays and Tuesdays 8:45am-3pm $75 =  Reef Bay Hike = 3 mile guided hike of Reef Bay Trail with a boat pickup.
• Mondays – Wednesdays 10am-2 = Annaberg Cultural Program = Previously the largest plantation on the island. discover the island’s sugar cane heritage, explore the ruins of the plantation, and engage with interactive exhibits.
• Tuesdays 5:30pm-6:30 = Traditional Music & Crafts = Cinnamon Bay – Raintree Cafe. This event may feature live performances of traditional Virgin Islands music, paired with demonstrations of local crafts.
• Wednesdays 8:15pm-9:15 = Astronomy & Night Sky = Cinnamon Bay Beach. This event offers an awe-inspiring look at the night sky, guided by experts who will help you identify constellations and celestial events. The clear, dark skies of St. John provide a perfect backdrop for stargazing, making this an unmissable experience for astronomy enthusiasts and families alike.
• Tuesday & Thursday from November to the end of May 8:30am-2 = Trails Walk Up Volunteering = clear and clean trails, ensuring they remain accessible and enjoyable for all visitors.
• Thursdays 5:30pm-6:30 = Coral Reef Protection = Cinnamon Bay – Raintree Cafe. With coral reefs being crucial to marine biodiversity, this program offers valuable insights into conservation efforts and how you can help safeguard these vital ecosystems.
• Second Fridays 10am-12 = Annaberg History Tour -= in-depth exploration of the plantation’s history. This guided tour offers a deeper understanding of the site’s historical significance and its impact on the island’s development.
• Second Fridays 9am-12:30 $90 = Turtle Boat Snorkel Experience =2 snorkel stops with sea turtles aboard Ocean Surfari. This experience provides a unique opportunity to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat while exploring the vibrant underwater world of St. John.

Conculusion

St. John VI is renowned for its lush vegetation and scenic views. Along the way, you’ll learn about the island’s rich ecosystem and history from knowledgeable guides. These experiences offer incredible value for nature lovers and hikers alike. Programs are perfect for those eager to understand the historical context of the Virgin Islands and its significance in the Caribbean’s history. If you’re passionate about conservation and history, and want to contribute to preserving the natural beauty of St. John, any of these events is a rewarding way to spend your day. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural richness of St. John through these exceptional experiences.