Things To Do, Learn, And Experience
Welcome to the Friends Seminar Program! Explore and learn about Virgin Islands National Park through a series of hikes, nature & culture seminars, boat trips, turtle talks, and more from November to June. Join us!
PLEASE NOTE: Most of these seminars are free with a suggested donation at the end should you wish to support the work we do. Participants must register where indicated as space is limited.
Reef Bay Hike
Mondays and Tuesdays | 8:45AM to 3PM | $75
This popular three mile guided hike of Reef Bay Trail with a boat pickup at the bottom is back! The hike which is in partnership with the National Park Service, takes about three and a half hours from the trailhead to the beach and ends with a 40-minute boat ride back to the Cruz Bay Visitor Center.
Let's Talk Turtles Virtual Seminar
Recorded Thursday May 25
Join the Virgin Islands National Park Sea Turtle Program team for an update on the program and the challenges our sea turtle population face as we kick off the 2023/24 nesting season. This presentation includes a review of the 2022 season report.
Turtle Boat & Snorkel Experience
Second Fridays | 9:00AM to 12:30PM with pick ups/drop offs in both St.Thomas and St.John | $90
This unique experience on an Ocean Surfari boat is hosted by a sea turtle and coral ecosystem expert. Learn about these majestic endangered species and make two stops to snorkel with sea turtles.
Annaberg Cultural Program
Mondays - Wednesdays | 10AM to 2PM
At one time, Annaberg was the largest plantation on the island and is well worth a visit for anyone interested in the history and culture. Learn from a bread maker and gardener about some of the rich heritage on St. John.
Cinnamon Campground Chats
Monday to Friday | Free
Monday: Sea Turtle Talk | 5:30PM to 6:30PM | Cinnamon Raintree Cafe
Tuesday: Traditional Music & Crafts | 5:30PM to 6:30PM | Cinnamon Raintree Cafe
Wednesday: Astronomy: Night Sky | 8:15PM to 9:15PM | Cinnamon Bay Beach
Thursday: Coral Reef Protection | 5:30PM to 6:30PM | Cinnamon Raintree Cafe
Friday: Archaeology: Exploring The Past | 5:30PM to 6:30PM | Cinnamon Raintree Cafe
These events are free and open to all. Donations are welcome. Enjoy.
Hike Leinster Bay
Third Friday Of The Month | 9AM to 11AM | Free
Learn about the natural and historical resources of this beautiful area recently designated as part of the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom. This guided hike with retired ranger Laurel Brannick showcases panoramic views, diverse flora and fauna, and three different historic sites.
Hike Ram Head
Last Friday Of The Month | 9AM to 11AM | Free
Ram Head is the southernmost point of St. John and one of the most unforgettable hikes in Virgin Islands National Park. Enjoy this guided hike with Friends Trails Manager, Taylor White that begins and ends at Salt Pond.
Sea Turtles At Maho
Tuesdays | 9AM to 11AM
Stop by the sea turtle info table on the beach at Maho Bay to chat about turtles and marine life in the bay with the VINP Sea Turtle Monitoring and Protection Program Team and volunteers.
Annaberg History Tour
Second Fridays Of The Month | 10AM to Noon | Free
Join a guided tour by park docent Mark Mahowald and learn about the history of the Annaberg plantation ruins, the colonial history of St John, and the process of sugar production. There will be demonstrations from a traditional bread baker and gardener.
Traditional Uses Of Plants In The VI
First Fridays Of The Month | 10AM to Noon | Free
Delroy “Ital” Anthony will talk about the culture and history of St. John, especially focused on the relationship between plants and culture.