Explore Salt Pond and Ram Head: The Perfect Blend of Adventure and Relaxation in St. John 🏝️

Looking South from Concordia (as it was being rebuilt in Oct 2021). Salt Pond Bay on the right, Ram Head center, and Drunk Bay on the left.

Looking for the perfect day trip in the US Virgin Islands that balances beachside lounging with thrilling adventure? Salt Pond and Ram Head on St. John deliver both – and then some. Whether your crew prefers sun-soaked beach naps or scenic hikes with jaw-dropping views, this destination will keep everyone smiling.

Let’s set the scene. Picture this: You’ve just arrived at Salt Pond Bay, a hidden gem that’s equal parts serene and spectacular. The adventure begins with a ½-mile downhill walk (don’t forget – it’s uphill on the way back!) to a crescent-shaped beach with soft sand, gentle waves, and shady spots under sea grape trees. Perfect for dropping a towel, kicking back, and soaking it all in.

But wait – it gets better.

🏖️ Salt Pond Beach: Lounge or Snorkel

If your ideal vacation includes minimal movement and maximum chill, Salt Pond Beach has your name on it. Toss down a towel, crack open a cold drink, and dive into your latest beach read. But if you’re feeling a bit more active, bring your snorkel gear and head toward the left side of the bay, where rocky outcroppings are home to a variety of fish. Glide over seagrass beds and keep your eyes peeled – this is where sea turtles and stingrays love to hang out.

A green sea turtle in the seagrass, St. John USVI

A Southern Stingray and a bar jack in the seagrass, St. John USVI

Green sea turtles and Southern stingrays (with or without a bar jack shadow feeding) can be found in the seagrass flats.

🥾 Ram Head Trail: Hike to Epic Views

Map of the Salt Pond / Ram Head hiking trails

Now for the explorers in your group: Ram Head Trail is calling. Leave the cooler and towels behind (just bring water and comfy shoes) and take off on a 2.6-mile round-trip hike with 375 feet of elevation gain. This isn’t a grueling trek – it’s a fun and scenic mini-adventure.

On your way, you’ll pass:

• Drunk Bay – a quirky, rocky beach adorned with visitor-made “sculptures” from coral and driftwood.

• A Salt Pond – yes, it’s the namesake of the beach!

• Blue Cobblestone Beach – a quick photo-op must.

• Cactus-lined paths – watch for the vibrant Turk' s head cactus fruit – it looks like a hot pink jalapeño.

Turk's head cactus atop the Ram Head Trail

Turk's head cactus in bloom

Once you summit Ram Head, you’ll understand why this spot is a local favorite. The overlook provides sweeping panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea in all directions. On a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of St. Croix far off on the horizon. This is the kind of place that makes you say, “I can’t believe this is real.”

Post-Hike Perks

After your adventure, it’s time to regroup at Salt Pond Beach for a well-earned picnic and a cool-down snorkel or swim. There are a few picnic tables if you're lucky and it’s a great idea to bring your own snacks and drinks. Just remember – whatever you pack in, you pack out.

Packing Smart for a Day at Salt Pond & Ram Head

Keep it light and simple. Here’s your ultimate packing checklist:

• 🥽 Snorkel gear

• 👟 Comfy walking shoes (no flip-flops for the trail!)

• 🧴 Sunscreen

• 📸 Camera or smartphone

• 🧊 Soft cooler or wrap drinks in a towel with a frozen bottle of water

• 🥪 Snacks & lunch

• 📖 A good beach read

• 🏖️ Towel – not a chair

• 💧 Extra cold water (stash some in your car for later)

🛥️ Charter to Salt Pond: Skip the Drive, Dive Right In

Short on time but still want a taste of Salt Pond’s magic? Make it a stop on your private boat charter aboard Beach Bum! Coming in by water means you can jump straight into snorkeling – no hiking, no sweating, and definitely no dodging potholes on St. John’s wild roads. Plus, booking a charter early in your trip is a smart move. You’ll get insider tips from your awesome captain on the best beaches, snorkeling spots, and hikes tailored to your group’s vibe – whether you're all about adventure or strictly here for the beach life.

Stay Tuned for More St. John Gems

From scenic trails to sea turtle sightings, Salt Pond and Ram Head offer the perfect blend of excitement and chill – making them a highlight for any St. John day. It’s an unbeatable stop for families, mixed-activity groups, or anyone wanting to squeeze every drop of magic out of their Virgin Islands vacation.

🧭 This blog is part of our weekly “St. John’s Top Spots for Every Activity Level” series! Be sure to check back next week as we share more epic spots and hidden gems that are perfect for groups with a mix of beach bums and thrill seekers.

Sunset view from Ram Head

Maps adapted from TrailBandit.org – an awesome (and totally free!) resource for St. John hikers. Definitely check them out before you hit the trail!

📸 All photos courtesy of Sara Richter 📸