Mountaintop, St. John's - Things to Do at Mountaintop

Things to Do at Mountaintop

Complete Guide to Mountaintop in St. John's

About Mountaintop

Mountaintop sits at one of the highest accessible points on St. John, offering what's arguably the most spectacular panoramic views in the Virgin Islands. You'll find yourself looking out over a sweeping vista that takes in multiple islands, countless bays, and that impossibly blue Caribbean water that somehow looks even more brilliant from up here. The site has been a popular viewpoint for decades, though it's managed to maintain a relatively low-key atmosphere despite being one of the island's most photographed spots. What makes Mountaintop particularly appealing is that it's not just about the views - though those are genuinely stunning. There's a relaxed, almost timeless quality to the place, with its open-air bar and gift shop that feels authentically Caribbean rather than overly commercialized. You might find yourself lingering longer than planned, especially if you time your visit for sunset when the light transforms the entire seascape into something that looks almost impossibly perfect.

What to See & Do

Panoramic Caribbean Views

The main draw here - sweeping vistas across multiple islands including St. Thomas, Tortola, and on clear days, you can spot several other Caribbean islands dotting the horizon

Famous Banana Daiquiris

The mountaintop bar is known throughout the Virgin Islands for its frozen banana daiquiris - they're surprisingly good and have become something of a local tradition

Sunset Photography

The western exposure makes this one of the best sunset viewing spots on St. John, with unobstructed views as the sun dips below the horizon

Island Shopping

A small but well-curated gift shop with local crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs that tend to be a bit more unique than what you'll find at the cruise ship ports

Coral World Overlook

You can actually spot Coral World Marine Park on St. Thomas from here, along with the cable car system that connects to Paradise Point

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Generally open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though hours can vary seasonally and the bar often stays open later during sunset hours

Tickets & Pricing

No admission fee - it's free to visit and enjoy the views, though you'll likely want to budget for drinks or souvenirs

Best Time to Visit

Late afternoon for sunset views, or mid-morning for clearest visibility and fewer crowds. Avoid midday when it can get quite hot with limited shade

Suggested Duration

Most people spend 30-60 minutes here, though sunset watchers often linger for 2+ hours

Getting There

You can reach Mountaintop via Route 33. The drive from Cruz Bay takes about 20 minutes on paved but winding roads with steep sections-take it slow if island driving feels unfamiliar. Parking is decent-sized but fills fast during cruise ship days and sunset hours. Stay in Cruz Bay? Consider a taxi instead. Most drivers know the spot well and will arrange a pickup time that works for you.

Things to Do Nearby

Coral Bay
The laid-back eastern settlement of St. John, about 15 minutes away, with local restaurants and a more authentic island vibe
Annaberg Sugar Plantation Ruins
Historic plantation ruins with interpretive trails, offering a glimpse into the island's colonial past
Virgin Islands National Park Trails
Several hiking trails branch off from Centerline Road, including paths that lead to secluded beaches and viewpoints
Bordeaux Mountain Trail
A hiking trail that leads to the actual highest point on St. John, for those wanting a more adventurous viewpoint experience
Catherineberg Sugar Mill Ruins
Another set of historical ruins along the north shore road, easily combined with a Mountaintop visit

Tips & Advice

Bring a light jacket or sweater - it's noticeably cooler and breezier up here than at sea level
The banana daiquiris are strong, so pace yourself if you're driving back down the mountain
Check the weather before making the trip - cloudy days can significantly limit visibility
Cruise ship days (usually Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) tend to be more crowded, especially between 11 AM and 3 PM

Plan Your Perfect Trip

Get insider tips and travel guides delivered to your inbox

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe anytime.