Visiting Saint John in September

Saint John, one of the jewels of the Virgin Islands, offers visitors an unforgettable experience with its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and unique history. While Saint John is a great destination year-round, visiting in September has its own special charm. Let’s dive into why September is an ideal time of year to visit Saint John and explore all it has to offer.

Is September a Good Time to Visit Saint John?

The best thing about traveling in Saint John is that September is considered an off-peak travel season; hence, fewer people are around. Although September is considered as a part of the hurricane season, this should not discourage you. If you are well prepared for your trip and always check on the weather changes you will enjoy your trip. This is one of the best times to visit the island as the weather is warm and there are few tourists, but if you love warm weather then this is the best time to visit the island. 

Reasons to Visit Saint John in September

Great Deals:

September you want to know that it is not in the high season so you can get cheaper accommodation and cheaper tours if you decide to visit St John on a budget. This is due to the fact that most of the accommodations ranging from luxury hotels to bed and breakfasts or vacation rentals offer their specials during this time. 

(Credit: MiguelAngelSanz / Unsplash)

Tranquil Beaches:

There is less tourist traffic in September so it is suggested that places like Trunk Bay and Cruz Bay will not be crowded. This is due to the fact that there are fewer people around and the environment is not too noisy giving one ample time to appreciate these beautiful places. 

Weather:

The weather of Saint John in September is normally warm with average temperatures of 77F-88F. That means you can expect beautiful weather for beach activities and leisurely strolls on hiking trails during the day and pleasant temperatures for dinner and sightseeing at night. Oh yes, do not forget that it is still hurricane season so it might be wise to occasionally check the weather prediction. 

Coral Bay and Cruz Bay:

These are picturesque and charming towns that are perfect for leisure and sightseeing during the relatively non-hectic September days. Coral Bay is a more low-key area with local eateries and stores while Cruz Bay is the lively town on the island of shopping, eating out, and partying. 

Saint John September Weather

The month of September is hot in Saint John and while it is still technically hurricane season don’t let that stop you. It is sunny, ideal for activities such as snorkeling, and hiking as well as enjoying sunbathing on the sandy beaches. The average temperatures of September average between 77°F and 88°F which make the weather ideal for sun tanning and various outdoor activities. But always ensure that you have checked on the climatic conditions of the area before going for the visit. 

Things to Do in Saint John in September

Snorkeling at Trunk Bay 

Trunk Bay is one of the most attractive places on the island thanks to the water with a really blue color and the sea creatures. There are fewer people in September, which means you will be able to try one of the most famous snorkeling underwater trails. Don’t forget to pack your snorkeling equipment because this is a must in order to get to see the various types of corals and fish. 

Hiking Trails in Virgin Islands National Park

It offers some of the most beautiful hiking tracks that are located in the Virgin Islands National Park. Other trails such as the Reef Bay Trail and the Ram Head Trail will provide hikers with awesome views of the ocean, vegetation as well as archaeological sites. But in September, which is considered off-season for tourism, you will get the trails almost to yourself while hiking. Some people forgot their water and sunscreen so make sure to pack lots of both! 

Visit Coral Bay 

If you want to have more of a unique experience, Coral Bay is the right place to go. Situated on the eastern coast of the island, it is as pretty as Cruz Bay but much less crowded. September brings an even more relaxing mood to Coral Bay since there are no crowds of tourists which allows feeling the island life. 

Explore Cruz Bay

Cruz Bay indeed stands as the pulsating central district of Saint John containing several shops, restaurants, and places to have fun. June, July, and August are considered high season, so the best time to visit is in September, walking around the city, and trying the local food. Do not forget to spend a night in some of the local bars and live music joints when you are out for a night out. 

Day Trip to St Thomas and St Croix

If one’s visit to Saint John is not complete without a visit to the neighboring islands of St Thomas and St Croix. St Thomas is also filled with shopping and dining possibilities; the capital of the island is Charlotte Amalie. St Croix has a long history which attracted tourists through the Christiansted National Historic Site and other tourist attractions such as the beautiful beaches. The weather is warm in September and thus you can take a day trip to these islands when the crowds are not many since it is not the peak season. 

Visit Historical Sites 

As history enthusiasts will already know, Saint John is a city with a long past, and there really is no time better to learn about it than in September. A visit to Annaberg Plantation is a must since it will offer one a chance to see some of the island’s history. These are the remains of a nineteenth-century sugar plantation; there are interesting exhibits concerning the history of sugar and its significance for the growth of Saint John. Another historical landmark is the Cinnamon Bay Plantation where it is possible to see the ruin of this sugar factory of the 18th century. 

Snorkel and Sail Around the Island 

Chartering a boat in Saint John is especially suitable in September and gives you a perfect opportunity to navigate the waters. There are many opportunities for water-based activities such as going to nearby cays or snorkeling in some of the less crowded areas around the island. Since the weather is relatively warm and the waters are mostly clear you will not be able to resist going out on the water. 

FAQs

Is September a Good Time to Visit Saint John?

Yes! The month of September also has fewer visitors, cheaper rates, and pleasant weather and hence it makes the best time to visit St John. During the hurricane season, the island is not very active; therefore, it is a perfect place for those tourists who do not like the crowded season. 

What are the average temperatures in Saint John in September?

Summer temperature for the city of Saint John ranges between 77°F and 88°F in September. It is ideal to use while sunbathing on the beach or exploring various trails that are available on the island. 

What’s the best way to experience the island’s history?

Exploring the history of Saint John, many interesting places are worth visiting, for instance, Annaberg Plantation and Cinnamon Bay. These sites will provide you with a historical outlook of the island and they are not very busy in September thus providing you with enough time to visit on your own. 

Are there good deals on accommodations in September?

Absolutely! The weather in September is relatively cooler and can be considered an off-peak season on the island so you will be able to find cheap accommodation, tours, and activities. The USVI is definitely a place to go during the next winter without spending much money. 

What should I pack for my trip to Saint John in September?

For the hot weather, it is better to take as little as possible but light and airy clothing and a jacket for the tropical rain. Do not leave behind your snorkeling equipment, sunblock, and of course enough drinking water for hiking and snorkeling. 

What are some must-do activities on the island in September?

Do not miss snorkeling at Trunk Bay, take a trek at Virgin Island National Park, explore Coral Bay, and take a day trip to St Thomas or St Croix. Since there will be a smaller number of tourists around, tourists will have a better experience in their quest to look for treasures of the island. 

Conclusion

Visiting Saint John in September is an ideal time for travelers looking to escape the high season’s crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience. From the crystal-clear waters of Trunk Bay to the scenic hiking trails in Virgin Islands National Park, there’s something for everyone on this beautiful island. Don’t forget to explore Coral Bay and take a day trip to neighboring islands like St Thomas and St Croix. Whether you’re into snorkeling, hiking, or simply relaxing on the beach, Saint John offers it all in September—minus the crowds and peak-season prices. So, pack your bags, grab your snorkel gear, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!