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St. John's Safety Guide

St. John's Safety Guide

Health, security, and travel safety information

Home › Safety Guide
Safe with Precautions
St. John's, US Virgin Islands, is a generally safe and welcoming Caribbean destination for tourists. The city and its surrounding natural attractions have a strong focus on tourism, and most visits are trouble-free. Violent crime against tourists is relatively rare, and the local community is typically friendly and helpful to visitors exploring the island's beaches, historic sites, and living culture. However, like any popular tourist destination, St. John's is not without its risks. Practical precautions are necessary to ensure a safe trip. The primary concerns for travelers tend to be opportunistic petty crimes such as theft from vehicles or unattended belongings, in less populated areas or on isolated beaches. Staying aware of your surroundings and securing valuables is key. It's also important to respect the island's natural environment, which presents its own set of hazards, from strong sun and sea currents to occasional severe weather. By combining common sense with local knowledge, travelers can fully enjoy the beauty and relaxation St. John's has to offer while minimizing potential risks.

St. John's is a generally safe tourist destination where standard travel precautions regarding property security and situational awareness are sufficient for a trouble-free visit.

Emergency Numbers

Save these numbers before your trip.

Police
911
For all emergencies. Also, the non-emergency line for the Virgin Islands Police Department can be found through directory assistance.
Ambulance
911
Emergency medical services are dispatched through 911. Response times can vary, in remote areas of the island.
Fire
911
For fire emergencies.
Tourist Police
N/A
There is no dedicated tourist police force; all emergencies and reports should be directed to the Virgin Islands Police Department via 911.

Healthcare

What to know about medical care in St. John's.

Healthcare System

Healthcare in St. John's, USVI, is limited. The island has a small community health center but no full-service hospital. For serious medical emergencies, patients must be transported via ambulance boat or helicopter to neighboring St. Thomas or to the mainland United States.

Hospitals

There is no hospital on St. John. The nearest hospital is Schneider Regional Medical Center on St. Thomas, accessible only by boat (ferry or private medical transport) or air ambulance. Travelers with serious pre-existing conditions should consider this limitation.

Pharmacies

There are a few pharmacies in Cruz Bay. They carry standard over-the-counter medications and can fill prescriptions from U.S. doctors. It is important to bring an adequate supply of all prescription medications for your entire trip.

Insurance

While not legally required for U.S. citizens, complete travel medical insurance with emergency medical evacuation coverage is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. Medical evacuation from the island is extremely expensive.

Healthcare Tips

  • Carry a copy of your prescription and the generic drug names for any medications.
  • Ensure your insurance covers medical evacuation (medevac) from a remote island to a mainland U.S. facility.

Common Risks

Be aware of these potential issues.

Petty Theft
Medium Risk

Theft of unattended bags, phones, and wallets, from vehicles, beaches, and restaurant tables.

Never leave valuables unattended on the beach or in a rental car, even if hidden. Use hotel safes. Keep bags closed and in front of you in crowded areas like ferry docks.
Vehicle Break-ins
Medium Risk

Rental Jeeps and cars are targets for smash-and-grab thefts, if any items are visible inside.

Leave absolutely nothing in the vehicle, not even in the glove box or under seats. Leave doors unlocked to avoid broken windows (a common local practice). Park in well-lit, busy areas when possible.
Marine & Sun Hazards
Medium Risk

Strong currents, sharp coral, sea urchins, and intense UV exposure are significant risks.

Swim at lifeguarded beaches when possible (few exist), heed warning flags, wear reef-safe sunscreen liberally, and use swim shoes for protection.
Road Safety
Medium Risk

Narrow, winding, steep, and often poorly maintained roads. Driving is on the left side, but in left-hand drive vehicles.

Drive slowly and defensively, use your horn on blind curves, be cautious of pedestrians, cyclists, and free-roaming animals (donkeys, goats). Avoid driving at night if unfamiliar.

Scams to Avoid

Watch out for these common tourist scams.

Fake Tour Guides/Services

Individuals at the ferry terminal or popular spots may offer unofficial taxi, tour, or charter services at inflated prices or for non-existent trips.

Use only licensed taxis (clearly marked) and book tours/charters through reputable companies, your hotel, or the official visitor's center. Agree on prices before getting in a vehicle.
Overcharging/Price Gouging

Some vendors, for activities or in less-regulated markets, may quote one price to tourists and another to locals, or add hidden fees.

Get quotes and what's included in writing. Research standard prices for activities beforehand. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.

Safety Tips

Practical advice to stay safe.

General

  • Carry a photocopy of your passport and leave the original in the hotel safe.
  • Inform your hotel or a trusted person of your hiking or snorkeling plans and expected return time.
  • Use a waterproof case or bag for phones, money, and keys when at the beach.

Transportation

  • Use official taxi stands, at the Cruz Bay ferry terminal.
  • If renting a vehicle, opt for full insurance coverage given road conditions and theft risk.
  • Be extremely cautious when driving; roads are challenging.

Money & Valuables

  • Carry only the cash you need for the day.
  • Use credit cards at established businesses; notify your bank of travel plans.
  • Avoid flashing expensive jewelry, cameras, or electronics.

Information for Specific Travelers

Safety considerations for different traveler groups.

Women Travelers

St. John's is generally safe for women travelers, including those traveling solo. Standard precautions apply. Unwanted attention or catcalling can occasionally occur, but serious harassment is not common.

  • Trust your instincts. If a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself from it.
  • Be cautious accepting drinks from strangers in bars.
  • When hiking, consider going with a partner or group, on less-traveled trails.
  • Use reputable taxi services at night rather than walking alone in poorly lit areas.

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Same-sex marriage is legal in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and discrimination based on sexual orientation is prohibited in certain contexts (as per U.S. federal law).

  • Exercise the same discretion you would in many parts of the mainland U.S. outside major metropolitan areas.
  • Research accommodations in advance; some smaller, locally-owned guesthouses may have varying levels of openness.
  • Couples may feel more comfortable in upscale resorts and mainstream tourist establishments.

Travel Insurance

CRITICAL due to the limited medical facilities on St. John and the exorbitant cost of medical evacuation to St. Thomas or the mainland.

Emergency Medical Evacuation (Medevac) Complete Medical Coverage Trip Cancellation/Interruption (for hurricanes) Coverage for Adventure Activities (if planning to snorkel, hike, etc.) Lost/Stolen Baggage (given theft risk)
Get a Quote from World Nomads

Travel insurance for adventurous travelers • Coverage in 200+ countries

Continue Planning Your Trip

Entry Requirements

Visa and customs information for St. John's

Stay Connected

Internet and phone options for St. John's

Getting Around

Transport options and tips for St. John's

Budget Guide

Trip costs and money tips for St. John's

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