unspoiled beauty uncommon in the Caribbean or anywhere
else in the world. Settled in the early 1700s by Danish
immigrants attracted to the island's potential as
a sugar cane-producing colony, St. John soon blossomed
into a thriving society. The ruins of the Annaberg
Sugar Plantation and other smaller plantations on
the island attest to the island's agricultural history.
The extensive sugar cane farming, however, did little
to affect the natural beauty of St. John. Its unspoiled
forests and stunning beaches attracted the attention
of wealthy families such as the Rockefellers, who
sought privacy and tranquility on the island. In 1956,
Laurence Rockefeller was so moved by the island that
he bought and donated broad expanses of land to the
National Park Service to keep St. John "a thing
of joy forever."
Today, two-thirds of St. John is part of the Virgin
Islands National Park, featuring fascinating trails,
secluded coves, and dazzling white beaches. The Reef
Bay Trail takes hikers through dense forests, plantation
ruins, and rock outcroppings marked by well-preserved
petroglyphs. Trunk Bay, Hawks nest Bay, Cinnamon Bay,
and Maho Bay are just four of the dozens of beaches.
Cruz Bay, the center of activity on St. John, contains
colorful shops, lively bars, and fabulous restaurants.
V.I.P. Rentals, Inc. offers
16 private homes for rent on St. John. Ranging is
size from 1 to 7 bedrooms homes most with private
pools and all with spectacular views. Please call
for availability and rates 1-800-788-4847.
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