Island Resources and Events
There is always so much happening on this little island, it's hard to keep pace. We've put together this list of resources to help you enjoy your next visit to the max! Whether you are looking for special events, newspapers to read, places to shop, or fun things to do - we've put some of our favorites together for you to explore on-line:
8 Tuff Miles - Plan for this event in February each year and join locals and visitors alike in a road race like no other in the world. Eight tuff miles across St. John from Cruz Bay to Coral Bay - straight over the mountains. In 2009, the event will be held on 2/28. In 2008, 728 entrants crossed the finish line - running, jogging, walking, prancing, limping, and yes, skipping. Are you up for the challenge? The whole island it seems comes out to cheer the participants on with lots of encouragement.
St. John Blues Festival - This annual event (held in March 2008) is THE event for music lovers on St. John. There are concerts every night leading up to the big one on the last night in the Coral Bay ball field. It is amazing!
Wagapalooza - Benefitting the Animal Care Center on St. John, this annual event is fun for the entire family. Usually held in May, dog lovers show off their pets and compete in many fun contests. Much better than the Westminster Show!
Flavours of St. John - Held traditionally the Saturday before Thanksgiving Week, this annual Rotary International fundraising event is the food festival to end all others in the Virgin Islands. Locals and visitors alike tome together to rais money for a good cause, to sample the best culinary delights from restaurants and caterers alike, to vote for their favorit, and to celebrate the beginning of 'season'.
Jazz In The Moonlight - Every Sunday in Cruz Bay at the Beach Bat and every Wednesday at Shipwreck Landing in Coral Bay.... at least, almost every week! A great St. John tradition. Come and join the crowd.
For many more events, check out our local newspapers. They are the best source for last minute events, or more details on any of the above annual happenings.:
St John Tradewinds St. John Source News of St. John St. John Sun Times
Here are some local businesses that we think are just great! While we don't have the space to list them all, the ones listed are ones that our staff use and enjoy themselves:
St. John Spice Company - one of our favorite places to find that perfect gift for everyone on your list. Located next to the ferry dock so you can sneak in for one last visit before you leave the island. Get on their mailing list - it's very popular.
The Jolly Dog - Fun clothing and accessories with an island twist. Located in the Skinny Legs complex in Coral Bay.
Sloop Jones - For art you can wear, look no further. Sloop Jones line of hand-pained troical clothing is world famous. And watching the artist do his thing is a wonderfully unique St. John thing to do.
Michael Banzhaf Studio - Located in Cruz Bay, near Mongoose Junction, Michael handcrafted designs are made in the traditional goldsmith tradition. Be sure to check out the current artwork on display in the gallery too.
Coral Bay Jewelers - Located in downtown Cruz Bay (and not in Coral Bay), this family run company has lines of handcrafted jewelry inspired by our little island. Located across from First Bank.
Freebird Creations - A sweet place in Wharfside village to jewelry and accessories, where friends buy for friends and there is something for everyone at all price points.
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The following are strictly mail-order, but fun:
Blind Betty- Her hot sauces are legendary. This is a true island business that has a wonderful set of products.
Galleria Del Mar - (mail order only) Remember your St. John favorites with beautiful artwork for your home.
Music and the Arts:
Inner Visions - You'll see them around the island of St. John or even on tour in the United States or Europe. Their reggae will get you moving.
Greg Kinslow - Greg is the consummate musician, playing in a number of bands on-island. Greg is available for weddings, events, or even in-villa special occasions.
George Hollander - Modern sculptural lighting with a St. john twist! Contact the artist for a consultation or see his work at the St. John Artisan's Association in Cruz Bay.
Tropical Focus - Offering reasonably priced professional portraits for family reunions, weddings, vow renewals, or just perfect vacation memories.
Things to Do on St. John:
Be sure to check out our Activities page too for even more ideas, or contact our Guest Services Manager at VIVA for help in booking an excursion.
Wayward Sailor - Take a sail on a small sailboat with the man himself - Captain Phil. Learn how a book inspired the man and changed his life. You will enjoy every minute. Day sails, half-day sails, sunset sails.
Low Key Watersports - a dive shop and much more. Night dives, reef dives, certifications too.
Maho Bay Clayworks - Get creative during your stay on St. John and have fun with clay. Take a class, enjoy some studio time, or watch a demonstration. You're guaranteed to unleash the artist within you.
Vehicle rentals:
L&L Jeep Rental - a small vehicle rental company that will meet you and your party at the St. John Ferry dock.
St. John Car Rental - the oldest and largest vehicle rental agency on St. John.
Caterers and Restaurants:
Katilady Katering - St. John's oldest and most established caterer, providing welcome baskets for many of our villas, villa provisioning, in-villa meals, and many other catering services.
St. John Catering - also known locally as Mathayom - Gourmet Catering. In-villa chef services, villa provisioning, events.
http://www.passionfruitchefs.com
St. John Brewers - St. John does have it's own brew-pub located in Mongoose Junction. The mild brew is perfect for the tropics. So beer lovers, rejoice!
Ship Wreck Landing - Good food, good views and good people, located south of Coral Bay. Live music at times.
Skinny Legs - In the heart of Coral Bay, they call themselves a 'pretty okay place to eat', but the truth is, they are an island icon. This is the place to be seen in Coral Bay while enjoying simple food.
Investing in our Island - Real Estate, Schools, and all that jazz:
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http://www.coralbayschool.org/ http://www.passionflowerstjohn.com/index.htm
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Hurricane Hole from Johny Horn Trail
Cinnamon Bay
Catherinberg Ruin
Francis Bay/Little Maho Bay
Gibney Beach in Hawksnest Bay