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I can't wait! We'll be in STJ this coming weekend!! Any recommendations for anything special that our 14-15 year-olds might get a kick out of? We're planning mostly snorkeling to as many beaches as we can get to, and hope to at least get them on the ram's head trail hike. How are the daysails to BVI?
Any input would be appreciated, as well as any other "must-do/see/eats". Thanks!
If they like hiking, reserve a spot on the Parks department Reef Bay Hike. They take you from Cruz by car to the trail head, hike downhill to the Sugar plantation ruins in Reef Bay making side excursion to the ancient Indian Petroglyphs (helps explain the jewelry and t-shirts you see in town). You can swim in Reef Bay waiting for the Parks ferry to take you back to Cruz Bay.
Call early to get reservations. Visitor Center at (340)776-6201, ext. 238
We've taken our kids twice, camping at Maho both times and the second time they were well into their teenage years. They loved the snorking, loved the power boat we rented to the BVI's- Foxy's on Jost Van Dyke was a blast and they enjoyed walking around Cruz Bay. Mostly I think its an attitude thing, just let them absorb the island on island time, its a small island so trying to pack a bunch of stuff in in one day is too much work- just do the beaches, find a relaxed kind of place to eat that mimics a fast food chain if they need that, let them off on their own once in a while- overall, just live on island time and don't expect much but to be relaxed. If they like to hike, do the hikes, whatever. The day trips by charter are probably good, see what others say, we never did that, too easy to just stay on STJ other than the power boat rental which was probably a highlight for them. Have a great time!
I think the Westin has a water trampoline - someone else can confirm. Also, if I recall, White Bay on Jost also had one. These are HUGE fun for teens.
Others have made good suggestions. Any Virgin Gorda trip (private powerboat, charter, public ferry) will be fun for them. They'll love climbing and crawling through the baths and can probably reach the secret "rooms" you and I may not be able (want to) to get to.
Try a trip to Jost and hike to the othe side of the island to visit the naturally formed bubbly pool (bubble pool? bubbling pool?). Legend has it that you'll meet a little red dog on your way, who will try to lead you astray and get you lost - so don't follow him.
Also, while on Jost, walk down to Ivan's Stress Free Bar and see if any of their favorite rock bands are in residence. Seems like this is a favorite "hideaway" for band members looking to chill for a minute.
Have fun.
