America's Best Idea

Virgin Islands National Park

We needed a change, so we left our hiking boots behind and flew off to St. Thomas in the Caribbean with our flip flops and snorkel gear. I'm a planner, but this time, we decided to go without a plan. I did no research except booking our hotel. It felt good not to obsess over plans. On the plane, we met a couple planning to visit the Virgin Islands National Park in St. John for snorkeling. I thought, 'We've got to check that out!' So out of the blue, Park #13 found its way onto our itinerary—almost like a stroke of luck on the thirteenth!

No airports on St. John meant a ferry ride to Cruz Bay. At the port, we jumped into a unique open-air safari-style taxi for a wild ride. Heading to Cinnamon Bay, I spotted what looked like a white donkey. I quickly snapped a picture. Our driver said these donkeys were once used for sugarcane transportation and labor. When the sugar mills stopped, they roamed freely, blending into the island landscape.

Seeing the park for the first time during our drive was incredible—the water was an unbelievable shade of blue! Cinnamon Bay felt like our private paradise, just Tim and me, reminiscent of 'Cast Away' with Tom Hanks. Being somewhere so beautiful, with your best friend, and no one else around was amazing. Disconnecting from the world lets you reconnect with what matters most—relaxing, nourishing your soul, and creating lasting memories with loved ones.

We wasted no time and dove right into the water. The variety of fish was mind-blowing! Fun fact about Cinnamon Bay—it's the longest beach on the island and offers camping sites, eco tents, and cottages. Mental note: return here for a beach bum experience. Certain places leave a strong impression. Cinnamon Bay was one of them—a spot to connect with nature, feel peaceful, and rejuvenated by the ocean's calming waters. Here, you can truly relax and figure out who you want to be and what you want in life.

Next, Leinster Bay and the trail leading to Watermelon Cay. It's a walk through history with the Annaberg Sugar Mill Ruins, a glimpse into the area's past. Waterlemon Cay is a snorkeler's dream. Exploring from a rocky shoreline, I found things I've never seen before: mustard hill coral, red and yellow sponges, huge purple sea fans, and more. And the fish! Schools of blue Atlantic Tangs, parrotfish, and loads of colorful wrasses made it like a whole underwater world to explore.

Each species seemed to hold a secret with unique colors, patterns, and movements, turning snorkeling into a mesmerizing visual experience. Floating above this vibrant aquatic world captivated our senses, painting an unforgettable picture of life below the waves.

I gave it my all capturing these incredible sights, and while the Olympus underwater camera did its best, I'm excited to step up my game next time. With my recent purchase of the SeaLife Underwater Camera paired with my iPhone, I'm looking forward to capturing truly stunning underwater shots. The beauty beneath the waves awaits on my next adventure, and this setup will do it justice.

We spent hours swimming, resting, and diving back in. Packing up, we bumped into the same couple from the plane! We thanked them for introducing us to this incredible spot. Feeling isolated on that island was the highlight. I'm starting to appreciate serene places more than crowded ones. Just being there, feeling like it's your own world, was amazing.

The Virgin Islands National Park was indeed a gem, nestled amidst lush greenery and crystal-clear waters—a sanctuary of pure tranquility and natural allure. The fragrant tropical flowers and the gentle melody of the waves made it feel like an enchanting haven. There's absolutely no doubt in my mind that we'll return to relive the magic of this paradise once again.