Trip report to St. John

[Grinder]

Just a heads up that we have a (what has been called) entertaining trip report on our first island adventure.

http://webpages.charter.net/grinder2/StJohn.htm

St. John was WONDERFUL and actually better then we had expected even after 1 year in the planning.

Rod

[caribbean don]

Hey Grinder, did you get to visit Hawksnest beach while you were in St. John?

[Grinder]

Yea - we were there. It's a nice beach, very narrow but beautiful sand, like Trunk. The waves were pretty high but I snorkeled some and followed a large sting ray around for a while that was close to the shore.

When ever the waves are to big on the Northern side go to the southern side for calm water.

[Carib Mark]

Great reading your diary! A lot I can relate to. You're right about the southside beaches on wave days. Salt Pond Bay doesn't sound attractive but it's a great place. Also, Hawksnest is great but closed to cars in the are (they're towing on the road) while a new parking lot and facilities are being installed. I have other favorites but, I can't give away all of my secret places!!

[Grinder]

We could have stayed on the East end the entire trip and not missed Cruz bay. Way more relaxed. We're afraid to go back. Will the magic be the same??? Looks like we're going to try Antigua 2007.

[caribbean don]

Hey Grinder, I am glad you went to Hawksnest, sorry the waves were highbut Ive been through that too, you are spot on about the south end of the islands being smooth. Ive seen waves in Wilderness beach on Puerto North Shore in Aguadilla 30-40 feet high and on the South side in POnce the water in as calm as glass. St. Thomas is like that too. If you want smooth water in moest of the islands the south end is always smooth.

[caribbean don]

Hey Grinder, Im glad you r going to Antigua!! That islands is a well kept beautiful Caribbean secret. Here is a suggestion for a wonderful place to stay that will save you a lot of money. try the JOLLY ROGER BEACH RESORT. You can get a very good room for around $140 per night and they have a beautiful pool and are right on a super beautiful beach. Great for kids too. The number for the JOLLY ROGER is 1-268-562-2302