Know Before You Go...®

If you’re looking for an island that offers fantastic opportunities for outdoor activities, then St. John is the place for you. With miles of park land circled by white sand beaches, visitors to St. John will enjoy a variety of activities, like hiking, swimming, snorkeling, and more. There are also tons of shops and entertainment venues in Cruz Bay. A villa here gives you complete access to this relatively undeveloped Caribbean paradise, and with all there is to see and do, you’ll have lasting memories of St. John.

Why Fish Bay, St. John?

  • Fish Bay is a popular snorkeling destination in St. John.
  • It is home to an abundance of marine life, including sea turtles, parrotfish, and stingrays.
  • The bay is located on the south shore of St. John and is accessible by boat or trail.
  • Fish Bay is protected as part of the Virgin Islands National Park.
  • Visitors can explore nearby coral reefs and shallow waters perfect for snorkeling.

Fish Bay, St. John Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
78° F
° F
February
79° F
° F
March
81° F
° F
April
83° F
° F
May
83° F
° F
June
85° F
° F
July
86° F
° F
August
86° F
° F
September
85° F
° F
October
84° F
° F
November
81° F
° F
December
79° F
° F

Average Rainfall

January
1.8 inches
February
1.4 inches
March
1.5 inches
April
2.5 inches
May
3.4 inches
June
2.6 inches
July
2.4 inches
August
3.5 inches
September
4.8 inches
October
5.5 inches
November
5.3 inches
December
2.8 inches

History

St. John is a small island in the Caribbean Sea, located in the United States Virgin Islands. It is known for its beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and lush green forests. The history of this island is a fascinating one, shaped by a mix of indigenous tribes, European colonization, and the transatlantic slave trade.

The island was first inhabited by the indigenous Taino people, who called it “Ciboney,” meaning “rocky land.” These peaceful tribes lived off the land, fishing and farming on the island’s fertile soil. However, in 1493, the Spanish explorer Christopher Columbus arrived on St. John during his second voyage to the New World. He claimed the island for Spain and named it “San Juan,” after the Christian saint.

For the next few centuries, St. John remained relatively untouched by European powers. It wasn’t until the early 17th century that the Dutch and the English began to show interest in the island. In 1625, the Dutch established a small settlement on St. John, but it was soon abandoned due to conflicts with the indigenous tribes.

In the mid-17th century, the English established a permanent settlement on St. John, building a fort and establishing sugar plantations. The island’s fertile land and ideal climate made it an ideal location for sugar production, and the English brought in enslaved Africans to work on the plantations. The island became a hub for the transatlantic slave trade, with thousands of enslaved Africans brought to St. John to work on the sugar plantations.

In 1733, the island was sold to the Danish West India and Guinea Company, and it was renamed “St. John” after the Danish king, King Christian VII. Under Danish rule, the island’s economy continued to thrive, with an increase in sugar production and the establishment of rum distilleries. However, the enslaved Africans on the island faced brutal and inhumane treatment, leading to several slave revolts.

In 1917, the United States purchased St. John, along with the rest of the Virgin Islands, from Denmark. The island’s economy shifted from sugar production to tourism, with the development of luxury resorts and hotels. Today, St. John is a popular destination for tourists seeking a tropical paradise, but its history as a hub for the transatlantic slave trade is not forgotten.

In 1956, the majority of the island was designated as a national park, preserving its natural beauty and protecting the historical ruins of the sugar plantations. The island continues to thrive as a popular tourist destination, offering a mix of Caribbean culture, stunning landscapes, and a rich history.

Transportation on Fish Bay, St. John

Getting to Fish Bay, St. John and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Passport: Valid for the duration of your stay.
  • Visa: Not required for U.S. citizens. Most other nationalities do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
  • Return or Onward Ticket: Proof of departure from St. John is required.
  • Travel Authorization: No pre-arrival authorization is needed for U.S. citizens, but foreign nationals may need to complete a health declaration or entry form depending on current regulations.

Departure Tax

There is no departure tax on St. John, as it is part of the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Driving

  • License: Visitors can drive with a valid foreign driver’s license for up to 90 days.
  • Permit: A temporary driving permit is required, obtainable at the Department of Motor Vehicles.
  • Driving Side: Right-hand side of the road.
  • Road Conditions: Generally good, though some roads may be narrow, winding, and steep in more rural areas.
  • Speed Limits: Typically 25-35 mph (40-56 km/h) in urban areas, and higher speeds on highways.
  • Traffic Rules: Be mindful of local traffic regulations and watch out for pedestrians, especially in popular tourist spots. Always exercise caution when driving on narrow, hilly roads.

Local Transportation

1. Public buses: The VITRAN bus system operates throughout St. John and offers affordable fares and convenient routes around the island.

2. Taxis: Taxis are readily available on St. John and can be found at most popular tourist spots and near the ferry docks. They are a more expensive option but offer convenient door-to-door service.

3. Car rentals: Renting a car is a popular way to get around St. John, as it gives visitors the freedom to explore the island at their own pace. There are several car rental companies on the island.

4. Scooter or bicycle rentals: For a more adventurous option, visitors can rent scooters or bicycles to explore the island. This is a great way to see more of the natural beauty of St. John and avoid traffic.

5. Water taxis: With St. John being surrounded by water, water taxis are a popular and unique mode of transportation. They can take visitors to different parts of the island or to nearby islands for day trips.

6. Walking: St. John is a small island and many of its main attractions and beaches are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to explore the island and take in its scenic views.

7. Jeep tours: There are several companies on St. John that offer Jeep tours, taking visitors to some of the island’s more remote and off-the-beaten-path locations. This is a fun and exciting way to see the island.

8. Private boat charters: For a luxurious and customizable transportation option, visitors can hire a private boat charter to explore the surrounding islands or to take them to specific destinations on St. John.

Know Before You Go...® - Fish Bay, St. John Travel Tips

Before making their way to Fish Bay, St. John , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Fish Bay, St. John even more relaxing.

Capital: 1 wordTortola
Population: 2019Unknown
Size: usApproximate
Electric Current: 110
Official Language: Officially, the primary language spoken in Fish Bay is English. However, there is a significant secondary language spoken by the locals known as Fish Bay Creole. It is a unique blend of African, French, and English influences. It is mainly used in informa
Currency: Fish Bay is a small coastal town located in the Caribbean Sea, known for its vibrant fishing industry and picturesque beaches. As a popular tourist destination, it offers a variety of currency and payment options to cater to the needs of its visitors. The official currency of Fish Bay is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD), which is used in all transactions within the town. This currency is pegged to the US dollar at a fixed rate of 2.70 XCD to 1 USD, making it easy for tourists to understand the value of their purchases. The XCD is available in both coins and banknotes, with denominations ranging from 1 cent to 100 dollars. In addition to the local currency, most businesses in Fish Bay also accept major international currencies such as the US dollar, Canadian dollar, and Euro. However, it is recommended to exchange your currency for XCD at a local bank or currency exchange to avoid any potential discrepancies in exchange rates. Credit cards are widely accepted in Fish Bay, esp
Tipping and Taxes: Fish Bay is a popular tourist destination located on the island of St. John in the United States Virgin Islands. As with many tourist destinations, tipping and taxes play a significant role in the local economy and visitor experience. Tipping is generally expected in Fish Bay, with the standard tip being around 15-20% of the total bill. This applies to restaurants, bars, and other service industries such as taxis, tour guides, and hotel staff. Some establishments may include a service charge, so it's important to check your bill before adding an additional tip. Tipping is seen as a way to show appreciation for good service and is considered a customary practice in Fish Bay. In addition to tipping, visitors to Fish Bay should also be aware of the various taxes that may apply to their purchases. The most common tax is the 10% hotel tax, which is added to the cost of accommodations. This tax is mandated by the government and is used to fund various projects and services on the islan
Dress Code: The dress code in Fish Bay is casual and relaxed.
Topography: Fish Bay is a bay with a diverse topography, featuring a mix of sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and shallow waters, making it a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and boating.
Telephone: Country code: 1 Area code: 340

Fish Bay, St. John Weddings and Honeymoons

In St. John, the process of getting married is relatively simple and popular among destination wedding couples. Couples must apply for a marriage license at the Superior Court of the Virgin Islands. Required documents include:

  • Valid passports for both parties.
  • Birth certificates for both parties.
  • Proof of marital status: If divorced, a final divorce decree; if widowed, a death certificate of the spouse.
  • Proof of residence in St. John (if applicable).
  • Affidavit of no impediment to marriage (a statement affirming both parties are legally eligible to marry).

The marriage license costs approximately US$50. Additional fees for the officiant range from US$100 to US$300, depending on location and ceremony type. It is recommended to apply for the license at least 3 days before the intended wedding date.