Lovango Island: Ferry Guide and Day Trips
Complete guide to visiting Lovango Island including ferry schedules, activities, and dining.
Key Takeaways
Complete guide to visiting Lovango Island including ferry schedules, activities, and dining.

Discover Lovango Island: The USVI's Most Exciting New Destination
Lovango Island, a small private island nestled between St. Thomas and St. John, has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. Once an uninhabited cay, it's now home to a stunning beach club, eco-resort, restaurant, rum bar, and nature trails — making it one of the most exciting new destinations in the US Virgin Islands.
What Is Lovango Island?
Lovango is a 14-acre private island sitting in the Pillsbury Sound, the channel separating St. Thomas and St. John. The island has been developed as an eco-conscious destination that balances luxury amenities with environmental preservation. Solar-powered facilities, rainwater collection, and minimal-impact construction reflect the developers' commitment to sustainability.
Getting to Lovango Island
Ferry Service from Cruz Bay, St. John:
- Travel time: approximately 10 minutes
- Multiple daily departures
- Round-trip cost: approximately $25-35/person
- Reservations strongly recommended (especially weekends and holidays)
By Charter Boat:
- Available from both St. Thomas and St. John
- Many half-day and full-day charters include Lovango as a stop
- Flexible timing — arrive and depart on your schedule
- Can combine with snorkeling, beach hopping, or other island stops
| Getting There | From | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lovango Ferry | Cruz Bay, St. John | 10 min | ~$30/person RT |
| Charter boat | Red Hook, St. Thomas | 20-30 min | Varies by charter |
| Charter boat | Cruz Bay, St. John | 10-15 min | Varies by charter |
| Private boat | Any nearby marina | Varies | Fuel cost only |
What to Do on Lovango Island
Beach Club & Swimming
The beach club offers a curated Caribbean experience with comfortable lounge chairs, umbrellas, and direct access to crystal-clear swimming. Day passes may be required — check availability and pricing in advance.
Dining & Drinks
- The Restaurant: Fresh Caribbean cuisine with ocean views. Grilled seafood, tropical salads, island-inspired cocktails. Farm-to-table concept using locally sourced ingredients where possible.
- Rum Bar: Craft rum cocktails, frozen drinks, local beers, and wine. The sunset views from the bar are spectacular — one of the best sunset spots in the USVI.
- Menu Highlights: Jerk chicken, fresh-caught fish, coconut shrimp, tropical fruit plates, and signature rum punches
Nature Trails & Eco-Tours
- Guided and self-guided hiking trails through native vegetation
- Bird watching — the island is home to several Caribbean species
- Panoramic viewpoints with 360° views of St. Thomas, St. John, and surrounding cays
- Educational eco-tours highlighting the island's flora, fauna, and sustainable practices
Snorkeling
The waters surrounding Lovango offer good snorkeling with healthy coral formations and tropical fish. Sea turtles are regularly spotted in the area.
Planning Your Visit
What to Know Before You Go:
- Make reservations in advance — Especially for ferry and dining. Lovango has limited capacity to preserve the experience.
- Bring cash and cards — The restaurant and bar accept credit cards, but cash is useful for tips
- Wear comfortable shoes — The nature trails have some uneven terrain
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen — Required by USVI law
- Check the ferry schedule — Plan your day around departure and return times
- Bring a swimsuit and towel — Swimming is a highlight
- Don't forget a camera — The views are incredible
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning arrivals: Cooler temperatures for hiking, calmer water for swimming
- Afternoon visits: Perfect for lunch, drinks, and sunset
- Peak season (Dec-Apr): Book ferry and dining reservations well ahead
- Off-season (May-Nov): Fewer crowds, but check for seasonal closures
Pairing Lovango with Other Activities
Lovango works beautifully as part of a bigger USVI day:
Morning Snorkeling + Afternoon Lovango:
Start with a morning snorkeling charter to Waterlemon Cay or Henley Cay, then spend the afternoon relaxing at Lovango's beach club with lunch and cocktails.
Lovango + Cruz Bay Evening:
Take the morning ferry to Lovango, enjoy the beach club and lunch, return to Cruz Bay in the afternoon, and explore the shops and restaurants in town for dinner.
Full-Day Charter with Lovango Stop:
Book a full-day charter that includes Lovango as one of several stops, along with snorkeling, beach time at Honeymoon Beach, and a visit to Lime Out or Pizza Pi.
Why Lovango Is Special
What sets Lovango apart from other USVI experiences is the combination of exclusivity and accessibility. It feels like a private island getaway — because it is — but it's just minutes from Cruz Bay. The eco-conscious development means the island retains its natural beauty while offering genuine comfort and quality dining.
Whether you're looking for a romantic afternoon, a unique lunch spot, or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Lovango Island delivers something you won't find anywhere else in the Virgin Islands.
Plan your Lovango Island visit and browse our charter excursions that include this stunning destination.
Book this trip
St. Thomas Private Sunset Sail with Open Bar
Stormy Pirates Boat Charters · 2.5 Hours
Continue Reading
Related Articles
St. John Day Trip from St. Thomas: Perfect One-Day Itinerary
Plan the perfect St. John day trip from St. Thomas with our hour-by-hour itinerary covering Trunk Bay, Maho Bay turtles, Lime Out floating tacos, and Cruz Bay.
Jost Van Dyke Day Trip: Soggy Dollar Bar and White Bay
Plan your day trip to Jost Van Dyke for the Soggy Dollar Bar and White Bay.
Driving to St. John Beaches: Scenic Routes and Charter Access Points
Navigate St. John's scenic coastal roads to reach the best beaches and charter departure points. Complete driving guide with insider tips for beach access.
Ready to Explore the Virgin Islands?
Turn inspiration into adventure. Browse our curated selection of boat charters, excursions, and island experiences.

