There’s no better place to visit for an anniversary getaway than St John, USVI, AKA Love City. As in, it will really help you turn up the romance factor! Whether you and your partner want to eat the finest food or spend a week lounging on a beach, St John has got you covered! Plus, you don’t even need to have a passport to visit, making it one of the most seamless Caribbean escapes you could hope for. Read on to find out about the top 8 anniversary getaway ideas in the USVI we’ve collected that are truly special.
USVI Wedding Anniversary Overview
Celebrating a wedding anniversary in the US Virgin Islands, especially on the enchanting island of St. John, promises a blend of anticipation and adventure unlike any other. Here’s an overview to prime you for your trip to your USVI anniversary destination.
How to Get to St. John
The journey to St. John begins with a scenic ferry ride from Cyril E. King Airport on St. Thomas. This ferry journey, lasting anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, offers couples breathtaking views of the Caribbean’s crystalline waters and St. John’s lush greenery.
For a more tailored arrival, private charters and water taxis are available. Opting for a private voyage not only heightens the sense of exclusivity but also complements the romantic essence of the trip with added privacy and personalized service.
The island’s connectivity to St. Thomas, St. Croix, Tortola, and the BVIs via busy ferry routes from Charlotte Amalie and Red Hook underscores the vibrancy and accessibility of this island paradise.
About USVI Beaches
The US Virgin Islands, and St. John in particular, are home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the Caribbean, each offering its unique charm, whether you’re seeking popular spots or secluded shores. From the world-famous Trunk Bay with its picture postcard perfect scenery to the serene and less frequented Honeymoon Beach, there’s a beach to match every couple’s preference.
Amenities vary, with options for snorkeling gear rentals, beach chairs, and facilities ensuring a comfortable day by the sea. Also, planning your beach visit is crucial; researching how to get there, the best times for avoiding crowds, parking availability, and understanding the rules can enhance your experience significantly.
8 of The Best Anniversary Ideas in St. John
St. John has a relaxed, laid-back vibe, which is exactly what you want when you’re celebrating your anniversary. Explore our carefully selected list of eight enchanting experiences, from idyllic beaches to intimate dining, all designed to make your celebration unforgettable.
1. Romance Blooms at Honeymoon Beach
Honeymoon Beach is a popular choice for couples, but maybe its name for the day of your visit should be “Anniversary Beach.” Situated within the Virgin Islands National Park, this destination offers a blend of adventure and tranquility. It’s ideal for couples seeking a memorable mix of calm and excitement.
Nothing beats Honeymoon beach’s soft white sands and easy water access. It’s like a natural pool, with waters brilliantly shimmering like gemstones. The beach’s west side features a patch reef, offering exceptional snorkeling opportunities in shallow waters, where visitors can explore vibrant corals, schools of colorful fish, turtles, and rays.
It’s perfect for days spent lounging under the shade of coconut palms or engaging in water sports. The beach offers chair rentals and has a concession stand that serves alcoholic drinks and snacks. So, pull up a chair and enjoy this brilliant beach, tropical drinks and, of course, each other.
2. Eat an Anniversary Dinner at Extra Virgin Bistro
For most, it isn’t an anniversary celebration without a fancy dinner and drinks. The Extra Virgin Bistro in Cruz Bay, with its extensive wine menu and three course tasting menu, fits the bill nicely.
For your date night, the bistro’s three-course tasting menu features appetizers, salads, and entrees. It highlights St. John’s local produce and seafood, often noting the names of the fishermen on the menu. A glass or bottle of wine and house-crafted cocktails or mocktails let you raise a glass and toast to many more years together.
Fresh flavors, meticulous service, and a cozy atmosphere abound at Extra Virgin Bistro. Together, they create a memorable St. John anniversary dining experience that embodies the spirit of love and festivity.
3. Explore History Together on the Petroglyph Trail
For adventurous couples drawn to the allure of ancient civilizations, hiking the Petroglyph Trail in St. John will mark your anniversary with an exhilarating sense of wonder.
Tucked within a lush, forested path, this moderate 0.46-mile hike takes about 30 minutes and leads adventurers to ancient rock carvings made by the pre-Columbian Taino people that date back to 1400 A.D. Accessible via a 1.5-mile journey down the Reef Bay Trail, the path to the petroglyphs is a captivating experience.
There are two spots to see the fascinating petroglyphs. Here, you’ll find faces and symbols carved into the rock, spring-fed pools, and lots of wildlife. One of the petroglyphs has even been incorporated into the symbol of St. John. The symbol’s likeness is shown USVI retailer Lulee’s sun shirt below.
4. Go Snorkeling Together at Hawksnest Bay Beach
Snorkeling enthusiasts looking for anniversary destinations should try out the underwater adventures in St. John. Hawksnest Bay Beach offers a unique snorkeling opportunity among its crystal-clear waters.
A shallow reef just off the beach’s center, presents a hidden and vibrant snorkeling spot. Snorkelers are advised to explore this mesmerizing area, where marine life flourishes. Eels, blue tangs, harlequin bass, rainbow parrotfish, three types of sea turtles, and more await your visit.
Additionally, if you want to swim after snorkeling, Hawksnest Bay’s white sandy beach is one of the top St. John activities. It offers places to change, plenty of shade, and warm, shallow waters. Lastly, the scenic drive from Cruz Bay adds to the day’s enjoyment and leisure.
5. Take a Days End Sunset Sail with Cruz Bay Watersports
Anniversaries celebrate your time together. So, the magical ambiance of a sunset cruise is a brilliant way of commemorating your date celebrations.
The already breathtaking waters of St. John take on an enchanting glow as the sun sets. You and your loved one can immerse yourselves in this magical moment with a beautiful 1.5-hour sunset excursion courtesy of Cruz Bay Watersports. Their Sunset Sail Tour showcases where the Caribbean sunsets are not just seen but truly experienced.
The journey embarks from the Westin Resort, St. John, aboard a 65′ luxury sailing catamaran. It’s the perfect scene for unwinding as you’re treated to a spread of hors d’oeuvres and your choice from a full open bar. With champagne aplenty, you’ll toast to the day’s end and maybe even to love, all before heading back in time for dinner.
6. Watch the Sunrise at Cruz Bay
Since sunrises are just as gorgeous as the sunset in the USVI, you can begin your anniversary day at The Hills St. John in Cruz Bay with a special early day moment. Enjoy breakfast and morning coffee as the sunrise illuminates the horizon, visible through your luxury villa’s oversized windows.
You can elevate the experience with panoramic views from your private pool or the community villa pool, each offering a stunning 180° vista. This setting creates the perfect beginning to an anniversary filled with exploration and indulgence in Cruz Bay’s vibrant offerings.
After indulging in the peaceful start to your day, Cruz Bay awaits with its array of activities and experiences. Step out from the luxury of The Hills and vibrant life of Cruz Bay, where duty-free shopping offers a treasure trove of fine jewelry, spirits, and luxury goods.
7. Check Out Peace Hill
At Peace Hill, anniversary celebrators will find themselves in a quiet haven that also offers a glimpse into history. Located on the North Shore of St. John, it’s a scenic grassy knoll located between Denis bays and Hawksnest.
What really spices up the visit is Peace Hill’s closeness to Denis Bay, a sugar plantation with roots stretching back to 1718. It stands out as one of the few wind-powered plantations on St. John, adding a fascinating historical dimension to the tranquil surroundings.
The combination of breathtaking scenery, a peaceful ambiance, and a touch of intriguing history makes Peace Hill an ideal spot for marking anniversaries. Additionally, the sweeping views from the hill, capturing crystal-clear waters and lush landscapes, create the perfect backdrop for those unforgettable photo moments or peaceful reflections.
8. Take Amazing Photos of Trunk Bay
Trunk Bay, with its clear, azure waters and stunning white sand, make it one of the most visited and photographed places in St. John. It’s even snagged a spot in Condé Nast Traveler’s top ten beaches in the world!
The bay’s captivating scenery offers an opportunity to capture and cherish shared moments, whether showcased on social media or preserved in a scrapbook for future reminiscing about your special USVI anniversary moment.
As a testament to the preserved natural beauty by the National Park Service, Trunk Bay presents an enchanting setting for couples to honor their love. Amenities available include a snack bar/grill, beach chair rentals, showers, restrooms, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit.
Choose a Romantic Place to Stay
During your anniversary planning, don’t forget about the importance of booking the right place to stay. The Hills, St. John, is a luxury 22-villa destination. Booking a stay with us ensures the romance continues at the end of each day. It’s tailor-made for any romantic getaway you’re thinking of, including St John weddings and anniversaries.
This exclusive retreat offers breathtaking views from private balconies, high-end amenities, and personalized services designed for unforgettable romantic experiences. Immerse yourself in the elegance and intimacy that caters to moments of reconnection and cherished memories.
Choose The Hills St. John as the setting for your love story, where every detail is crafted to prolong the magic of your celebration. Book your villa today and step into a world where luxury meets love in every way.
