Some 60% of Saint John Island is preserved by the Virgin Islands National Park and as a result, the island is tranquil and covered by dense forest. The park-rangers lead guided hikes into the interior, but there are also about twenty trails that can be explored without guides.

One of the best hikes is the Bordeaux Mountain Trail. It leads up to the 383 m (1,277 ft) high summit of the island's highest peak, which provides marvelous views over Saint John. More rewarding views can be enjoyed from the ridge peaks of Camelberg and Mamey. The trail to the Annaberg Plantation brings you along the interesting ruins of an 18th-century plantation house and sugar mill.

The Virgin Islands National Park also encompasses 2,226 ha (9 sq mi) of oceans around Saint John, including the reefs. They are excellent for snorkeling and scuba diving. The most beautiful marine life can be seen off Trunk Bay and at Reef Bay, Honeymoon Beach and Salt Pond Bay.

Hassel Island is also included in the national park. The visitor center for the Virgin Islands National Park, as well as its gateway, is located in Cruz Bay. It can be reached by ferry from Red Hook and Charlotte Amalie on St. Thomas; West End on Tortola; Jost Van Dyke and Virgin Gorda.

Some animals that roam the park include mongoose and feral donkeys. The Virgin Islands National Park is 15 km east of Charlotte Amalie. It was established in 1956.