Peace Hill Windmill
Explore historic windmill ruins atop a hill for breathtaking panoramic views of St. John and the Caribbean Sea. A short, rewarding hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & best light
Peace Hill Windmill
Best Time
Beat the crowds & best light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore historic windmill ruins atop a hill for breathtaking panoramic views of St. John and the Caribbean Sea. A short, rewarding hike.
"Amazing views and just a short walk up a wooded trail with easy to moderate rocky terrain."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Sneakers are recommended over flip-flops for the rocky, wooded trail to the windmill. :athletic_shoe:
⏰ Go Early for Solitude
Arrive early to have the windmill and views all to yourself. 10/10 recommend! :sunrise:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Peace Hill Windmill Ruins
Summit of Peace Hill
Explore the historic stone structure offering panoramic island and ocean vistas. A quick, rewarding climb.
Panoramic Island Views
From the windmill summit
Breathtaking 360-degree views of St. John's lush landscape and the surrounding turquoise waters.
Wildlife Encounters
On the trail and surrounding area
Keep an eye out for hermit crabs and geckos along the wooded trail. A delight for nature lovers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Combine with Beach Bliss
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Itinerary Feedback - St. John
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Sneakers are recommended over flip-flops for the rocky, wooded trail to the windmill. :athletic_shoe:
⏰ Go Early for Solitude
Arrive early to have the windmill and views all to yourself. 10/10 recommend! :sunrise:
St John Honeymoon - Any Tips?
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are stunning, especially in the morning light. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
🏖️ Combine with Beach Time
This spot is a great starting point for a longer hike to a secluded beach. :beachwithumbrella:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Sneakers are recommended over flip-flops for the rocky, wooded trail to the windmill. :athletic_shoe:
⏰ Go Early for Solitude
Arrive early to have the windmill and views all to yourself. 10/10 recommend! :sunrise:
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are stunning, especially in the morning light. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
🏖️ Combine with Beach Time
This spot is a great starting point for a longer hike to a secluded beach. :beachwithumbrella:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Peace Hill Windmill for its stunning panoramic views and the rewarding, short hike to the historic ruins. It's often described as a must-do for its scenic beauty and the chance to explore a piece of St. John's past. Some note the rocky terrain, recommending appropriate footwear.
"Easy hike up, we went early and no one was there! 10/10 recommend!"
Hannah Young
"Amazing views and just a short walk up a wooded trail with easy to moderate rocky terrain. The view was worth it even if it was 10x further."
colin bonfield
"This was a short little hike that had great views and an Old Stone structure. Highly recommend this quick walking tour."
Robert Arsenault
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Peace Hill Windmill is accessible by car. It's a short drive from Cruz Bay. Parking is available near the trailhead, and the hike up is relatively short but rocky. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring St. John.
Yes, it's generally well-marked. Look for signs for Peace Hill. The trail is a short walk off the road, making it a convenient stop.
Renting a car is the most popular and convenient way to get around St. John, allowing you to easily access various sites like Peace Hill Windmill and different beaches.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit Peace Hill Windmill. It's a public access area.
Peace Hill Windmill is an outdoor historical site and is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hike to the windmill is quite short, typically taking only about 10-15 minutes. The terrain is wooded and can be rocky, so allow a little extra time if needed.
The hike is considered easy to moderate. It's a short walk up a wooded trail with some rocky sections. Comfortable footwear is advised.
You can explore the historic stone ruins of the windmill and enjoy spectacular panoramic views of St. John and the surrounding Caribbean Sea. You might also spot local wildlife.
There are no specific facilities like restrooms directly at the Peace Hill Windmill site. It's advisable to use facilities before you arrive or plan to use them at a nearby beach or town.
Absolutely! The ruins themselves are photogenic, and the sweeping views offer incredible opportunities for landscape and scenic photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at Peace Hill Windmill. You'll need to drive to nearby areas like Cruz Bay or other popular spots on St. John for food options.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Ruins
Exploring the ruins is a quick but impactful experience. The easy to moderate hike leading up to it is part of the charm, winding through a wooded trail that offers glimpses of the surrounding landscape. The contrast between the rugged stone of the windmill and the vibrant green of the tropical foliage is visually striking. It’s a place where you can pause, reflect, and imagine the lives of those who once worked and lived in this picturesque setting.
Capturing the Views: Photography Tips
When composing your shots, consider framing the windmill ruins with the expansive ocean backdrop. The contrast between the man-made structure and the natural beauty is a recurring theme. Don't forget to look for interesting details within the ruins themselves – the texture of the stone, the way light filters through the openings. For those interested in wildlife, keep your camera ready for any hermit crabs or geckos that might scurry across the path or rocks.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit