Caneel Bay, left, is one of many “pristine beaches” on St. John that are “appreciated” by visitors.
Readers of one of the world’s leading travel publication, Travel + Leisure, ranked St. John as one of the World’s Best Islands in the magazine’s World’s Best Awards 2015.
St. John received a Number Four ranking in the list, garnering an 83.37 Travel + Leisure rating. The award is a result of a survey conducted by Travel + Leisure that asks readers to rate islands based on the following criteria: natural attractions/beaches, activities/sights, restaurants/food, people/friendliness and value.
“We are so proud to see St. John recognized by Travel + Leisure for a World’s Best Award,” said Commissioner of Tourism Beverly Nicholson-Doty. “It is clear that St. John’s pristine beaches and natural surroundings are appreciated by our visitors. We value the confidence both travelers and the media have placed in our Territory and along with our partners we will continue striving to create memorable vacation experiences for our visitors to enjoy.”
St. John’s beauty was on full display with events last week. The fourth annual Chaotic Kayak Race occurred Sunday, August 2. The event pits local and visiting kayakers against each other with races from Oppenheimer Beach. Funds raised are donated to Team River Runner’s 2015 Wounded Veterans program.
One of the island’s most popular annual events, the Love City Triathlon, Aquathon and SUPathon, will return Sunday, September 6 at 7 a.m. at Maho Bay. The race runs through Virgin Islands National Park-protected land and water and is open to visitors and locals.