The Best St. John Group Day Trip: Snorkel, Hike, or Chill at Waterlemon Cay ☀️
- Captain Sara
- Jun 24
- 4 min read
Looking for the perfect St. John group day trip that keeps everyone happy – whether they’re beach lovers, hiking enthusiasts, or snorkeling fanatics? You’ve just found it. The trio of Annaberg Ruins, Waterlemon Cay, and Murphy House Estate offers an unbeatable combo of history, outdoor adventure, and relaxing beach vibes – all in one spot on St. John.
🏛 Explore the Historic Annaberg Ruins First
Start your day with a visit to the fascinating Annaberg Sugar Plantation ruins – a preserved glimpse into St. John’s rich colonial past. Wander among the old stone buildings and sugar mill before you hit the trail. It’s a perfect way to get some culture in and stretch your legs before the hike.
Packing tip: Keep it light! Bring a towel, not a chair, and opt for a soft cooler instead of a bulky hard one to make the walk easier. Pack just enough food and drinks for the day’s activities, and if you want, leave a second cooler in your car with extra snacks for later – that way you’re not weighed down on the trail.
🥾 Choose-Your-Own-Hiking-Adventure: From Chill Strolls to Serious Treks
One of the best parts of this St. John group day trip? You can hike as much – or as little – as you like, and still end up somewhere amazing.
Start off easy with a flat and scenic 3/4-mile walk from the historic Annaberg Sugar Plantation ruins to Waterlemon Bay. It’s a gentle path with postcard views the whole way – perfect for those who prefer a relaxed pace (or are carrying the snacks).
Got some folks in your group with extra pep in their step? Have them continue up a short but rewarding 0.3-mile uphill hike to the Murphy House ruins on Windy Hill, where panoramic views of the bay and surrounding islands make every step worth it.
Looking to stretch those legs even more? There’s a 1.6-mile round-trip spur trail to Brown Bay, a more secluded slice of shoreline that’s totally worth the detour.
And for the truly trail-hungry? The Johnny Horn Trail keeps going all the way to Coral Bay – a 3.6-mile round-trip adventure that includes some steep, rugged terrain. Bonus motivation: if you time it right, you can reward yourself at Skinny Legs in Coral Bay with a well-earned burger or a cold drink before heading back.
Whether your group is all in for a mini mountain mission or just wants a chill coastal stroll, this hike has a route for everyone. No one has to sit this one out.
This makes for one of the best St. John hiking and snorkeling combos for groups who want variety and can all rendezvous back at Waterlemon Bay!
🐠 Snorkeling Options for Every Skill Level
Waterlemon Bay is a top spot for Virgin Islands snorkeling, offering calm, clear waters perfect for spotting sea turtles. This shallow bay is ideal for beginners or those who prefer a relaxed swim. For more experienced snorkelers, take the counterclockwise swim around Waterlemon Cay – just be aware currents can pick up here, so confidence in the water (and fins) help.
Along the way, you might even spot starfish – a delightful surprise for underwater explorers.
The non-snorkelers might see goats Green sea turtles graze in the shallows Starfish can be spotted on the way to the Cay
🏖 Chill Zones for the Beach Bums
Not everyone in the group wants to hike or snorkel all day, and that’s what makes this family-friendly day trip on St. John so special. Plenty of shady, sandy spots near Waterlemon Bay provide the perfect place to relax, read, or simply soak up the Caribbean sun. It’s a low-key paradise for those wanting to unwind while still being part of the group.
🧺 Pack a Picnic and Enjoy the Day
One of the best parts of this St. John group day trip? You can bring your own lunch and spread out anywhere you like – beachside or at the Murphy House ruins. Between hiking, snorkeling, and chilling, there are plenty of scenic stops perfect for a picnic that fuels your adventures.
Why This Is the Ultimate St. John Group Day Trip
Whether your group is mixed with different energy levels or interests, this spot checks all the boxes. From easy hikes and historic ruins to some of the best snorkeling with sea turtles in the Virgin Islands, everyone can enjoy the day together – no need to split up (for long) or compromise.
So, if you’re searching for a fun, low-stress, and activity-packed group travel itinerary on St. John, look no further than Annaberg, Waterlemon Cay, and Murphy Estate House. It’s the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation – island style.
Ready to plan your next St. John group day trip? Pack your sunscreen, grab your snorkel gear, and get ready for a day full of memories! Don't forget to charter a boat while you're here, book Beach Bum and let Captain Sara take you out for an amazing day on the water!
Map 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 and Lee Richter 📸
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