Things to Do in St. Johns in November

November Weather in St. Johns

29°C (84°F) High Temp

24°C (75°F) Low Temp

165 mm (6.5 inches) Rainfall

75% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season begins - rainfall drops 40% from October with only 8 rainy days, mostly brief evening showers lasting 15-20 minutes
Optimal trade wind conditions create 15-20 km/h (9-12 mph) breezes that make 29°C (84°F) feel comfortable for outdoor activities
Crystal clear visibility for snorkeling and diving - underwater visibility reaches 25-30 m (82-98 ft) as sediment settles
Tourist crowds remain 60% below peak season levels while weather conditions are near-perfect, creating ideal price-to-experience ratio

Considerations

Accommodation prices increase 25-30% from October as word spreads about improving conditions, though still 40% below December rates
UV index peaks at 9 requiring constant sun protection - sunburn can occur in just 10-12 minutes of direct exposure
Some restaurants and tour operators begin limiting availability as they prepare for peak season staffing changes

Best Activities in November

Coral World Ocean Park Marine Adventures

November's calm seas and 25-30 m (82-98 ft) underwater visibility create perfect conditions for marine exploration. Water temperature holds steady at 26°C (79°F) with minimal current. Morning tours (8am-12pm) offer the calmest conditions before afternoon trade winds pick up.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead as operators run fewer trips than peak season. Tours typically cost $65-85 USD and include equipment. Choose morning departures for best visibility and calmer seas.

Magens Bay Beach Activities

November's consistent trade winds create ideal conditions for water sports while keeping the 29°C (84°F) temperature comfortable. The protected bay offers calm waters perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. Beach crowds remain light until mid-month.

Booking Tip: Equipment rentals typically cost $25-40 USD per day. Visit weekday mornings (8-11am) for best experience before local school groups arrive. No advance booking needed for equipment.

Paradise Point Skyride and Hiking Trails

November's lower humidity and cooling trade winds make the 213 m (700 ft) elevation gain comfortable for hiking. Clear skies offer spectacular views across the Caribbean Sea. Morning temperatures of 24-26°C (75-79°F) are perfect for outdoor exploration.

Booking Tip: Skyride costs $21 USD roundtrip. Hiking trails are free but bring plenty of water - UV exposure is intense at elevation. Best visited 8-10am or after 4pm to avoid peak sun.

Charlotte Amalie Historic District Walking Tours

November's reduced rainfall and consistent breezes make walking tours comfortable throughout the day. The duty-free shopping season begins with early holiday promotions. Historic sites are less crowded than peak season but fully operational.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours are free with maps available at visitor centers. Guided tours typically cost $25-35 USD per person. Schedule for early morning (8-10am) or late afternoon (4-6pm) to avoid midday heat.

Coral Bay and Virgin Islands National Park

November marks optimal hiking season with comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall. Trail conditions are excellent after the wet season ends. Ferry rides to St. John are smooth with calm sea conditions throughout the month.

Booking Tip: Ferry costs $15-20 USD each way. Park entrance is free but bring $2-3 USD for trail maps. Book ferry tickets same day - services run every 2 hours. Pack 2-3 liters of water per person for hiking.

Blackbeard's Castle Historic Tours

November's excellent weather conditions and moderate crowds make this the ideal time to explore St. Thomas's pirate history. The 30-minute climb to the tower is comfortable in November's cooler morning temperatures of 24-26°C (75-79°F).

Booking Tip: Admission typically costs $8-12 USD. Tours run 9am-5pm daily. Combine with downtown shopping for efficient day planning. No advance booking required but arrive before 10am for best experience.

November Events & Festivals

Mid November

USVI Restaurant Week

Local restaurants offer special prix fixe menus showcasing Caribbean cuisine with fresh November seafood catches. Participating venues create $25-45 USD three-course menus featuring local ingredients.

Mid to Late November

Paradise Jam Basketball Tournament

NCAA basketball tournament brings college teams to the islands. Games held at UVI Sports Complex with tickets available for visitors interested in American college sports.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 9 and reflection off white sand intensifies exposure by 15-20%

Lightweight long-sleeve swim shirt for extended water activities - prevents sunburn during 4-6 hour excursions

Quick-dry hiking shoes with grip - trails can be slippery from morning dew even during dry season

Packable rain jacket - evening showers are brief but intense, lasting 15-20 minutes

Reef-safe sunscreen only - regular sunscreen is banned at marine parks and beaches with $200 USD fines

Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap - trade winds of 15-20 km/h (9-12 mph) will blow off regular hats

Insulated water bottle holding 1 liter (34 oz) minimum - dehydration happens quickly in 75% humidity

Waterproof phone case - essential for boat trips and water activities, waves can splash unexpectedly

Anti-chafing cream - humid conditions and saltwater create friction during water activities and hiking

Electrolyte packets - sweating is constant even with trade winds, regular water isn't sufficient for full-day activities

Insider Knowledge

November is when locals start their own vacation planning - book accommodations before mid-month when islanders reserve spots for visiting family during December holidays

Grocery stores receive fresh produce shipments on Tuesdays and Fridays - shop these days for best selection at markets like Pueblo and Cost-U-Less

The 'Christmas winds' begin in late November, bringing stronger trade winds that make ferry rides to outlying beaches choppy after 2pm - schedule inter-island trips for morning hours

Local fishing is exceptional in November as waters clear - buy fresh mahi-mahi and wahoo directly from fishermen at Frenchtown Marina between 7-9am for half the restaurant price

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking afternoon boat tours after November 15th when trade winds strengthen to 20-25 km/h (12-15 mph) creating choppy conditions and seasickness for sensitive travelers

Underestimating sun exposure during 'comfortable' 29°C (84°F) weather - the combination of altitude, reflection, and UV index 9 causes severe burns in 10-12 minutes

Planning only outdoor activities without indoor backup options - even in dry season, 8 rainy days can disrupt beach and hiking plans if not properly scheduled