One of our summer stops this year was St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and while it wasn’t my first choice for a family gathering, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed the little island.

Most of St. John is part of a well-maintained National Park, offering public access to amazing hiking trails. The beaches were calm, quiet, and perfect for family time. And I discovered a new appreciation for snorkeling, thanks to the crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and marine life.