TL;DR
Lime Out, Pizza Pi, and Lovango Resort are the three main on-the-water food stops in St. John USVI — and all three are only accessible by boat.
- Lime Out is on St. John's south side and pairs craft cocktails with what most locals call the best tacos in the USVI.
- Pizza Pi floats in Christmas Cove and serves the best pizza in the Virgin Islands, with a solid gluten-free option.
- Lovango Resort is a private island between St. John and St. Thomas with full-menu waterfront dining, a pool, beach club, and a more upscale pace.
- Dinghies start at $245 for a half-day. Zodiacs start at $495. The Medline seats 10 and is $1,250 for a full day.
- Order Pizza Pi early. Plan a full island loop if Lime Out is on the list. Pack a cooler regardless.
Why Eating by Boat Is Part of the St. John Experience
Three of the best places to eat in St. John are only accessible by water: Lime Out (the famous floating taco bar), Pizza Pi (the #1 rated restaurant in the USVI), and Lovango Resort & Beach Club (waterfront dining on a private island). Lime Out and Pizza Pi aren't on any road. You reach them by boat, whether that's your own rental or one of the daily shuttle boats that run out to Lime Out from Coral Bay. Lovango runs a resort ferry for guests with reservations, but pulling up on your own boat is a completely different experience.
Most guests don't realize this until they get here. They see Lime Out on TripAdvisor or hear about Pizza Pi from a friend of a friend, and then find out there is no way to get there without a boat. Renting one turns lunch into the highlight of the trip, not just because of the food, but because of the ride getting there.
We help guests build food stops into their routes every day. A midday taco run to Lime Out on a south shore loop, a pizza pit stop at Pizza Pi on the way back from snorkeling, or a sit-down meal at Lovango between beach stops. These are the stops guests come back and tell us made the whole day.
Below is everything we tell guests about each food stop, how to reach them, and how to plan a boat day that hits all three.
Planning a boat day with food stops? See dinghy and Zodiac rental availability →
Quick Comparison: Lime Out vs. Pizza Pi vs. Lovango
A quick side-by-side of the three main on-the-water food stops in St. John, USVI:
| Stop | Food Style | Access | Best Boat | Route Commitment | Vibe |
| Lime Out | Tacos, small plates, craft cocktails | Boat-only (anchor or mooring) | Zodiac or Medline | Full-day (south shore loop) | Floating bar energy, crew favorite |
| Pizza Pi | Wood-fired pizza, gluten-free option | Boat-only (anchor or mooring) | Dinghy, Zodiac or Medline |
Half- or full-day | Casual, popular, order early |
| Lovango Resort | Seafood, Caribbean menu, sit-down | Boat-only (dock or mooring) | Dinghy, Zodiac, or Medline | Half- or full-day | Upscale, relaxed, shaded |
- Best for foodies: Lime Out (short rib taco is a religion around here)
- Best for a sit-down meal: Lovango (shade, full menu, private island setting)
- Best for groups + variety: Pizza Pi (everyone agrees on pizza)
- Best for first-time renters: Pizza Pi (closer to Cruz Bay, easier route)
- Best for a full-day adventure: Lime Out (commit to the south shore loop)
See These Stops from the Water
Lime Out: St. John's Floating Taco Bar
Lime Out is a floating taco bar anchored off St. John's south side, accessible only by boat. It is one of the most unique dining experiences in the Caribbean, one of the most talked-about food destinations on the island.
The food is genuinely some of the best you'll find anywhere out here, the cocktails are hand-crafted and worth every penny, and the staff matches the energy perfectly. The music and the vibe can't be beat.
What to Order
Tacos, small plates, and craft cocktails, all made fresh. Scotty's order is the short rib taco every time, and you can't skip the Dielan's Lemonade. Don't overthink it. Show up hungry because you'll want more than one round. For the full Lime Out menu and current pricing, check limeoutvi.com.
Getting There By Boat
Lime Out sits on the south side of St. John. You've got two ways out there: rent your own boat, or catch a shuttle from Coral Bay. Several operators run daily shuttle boats for around $30 per person, so you don't strictly need your own boat to get a taco. But if you rent for the day, you're committing to circumnavigating the island, and that full loop is one of the best days you can have on the water out here.
This is a Zodiac or Medline trip, dinghies are North Shore boats and cannot make the south shore run to Lime Out. A Zodiac handles the route comfortably and the swim ladder makes hopping in the water at lunch easy.
The boys walk through the full route during the morning briefing so guests know exactly what they are signing up for distance-wise. It is an awesome day, it just takes commitment and planning.
The Story
The owners grew up on St. Thomas, a group of friends who were convinced a floating bar could work out here. They sketched the idea out on a bar napkin and made it happen. What they built is impressive for any restaurant, let alone one floating in the Caribbean. The original Lime Out here on St. John landed on TIME's World's Greatest Places list in 2019, and the concept earned the honor again in 2026 with its new Lime Out St. Thomas location, making it one of the rare spots recognized in two separate years. It's been one of the most talked-about stops in the USVI ever since.
Their hours and days can shift based on weather, season, and private events. Check their Instagram or website for current hours before heading out, and confirm with the crew during your morning briefing. They are typically closed during the slowest months of hurricane season.
Anchoring & Mooring
Lime Out is one of the only places around St. John where you can drop your own anchor. Use 20 to 30 feet of line, let the wind settle the boat into position, and don't fight it. One rule: never reverse or back down on the anchor. That's what rips out the sea grass.
The mooring balls here are a little different. They aren't the standard National Park mooring balls you'll see elsewhere around St. John, and some are private, so don't assume an open ball is yours for the taking. If you're not sure where to set up, anchor on a sandy patch or flag down a Lime Out staff member and they'll point you to the right spot. The boys also walk through all of it during your morning briefing.
Snorkeling Nearby
The south shore waters near Lime Out offer some of the best snorkeling on St. John. After your taco run, explore the reef nearby before continuing your loop.Â
Want the official menu and live cam? Visit Lime Out →
Pizza Pi: The Best Pizza in the Virgin Islands, Served on the Water
Pizza Pi is a floating pizza boat anchored in Christmas Cove, off St. Thomas. Pizza Pi serves what most locals will tell you is the best pizza in the Virgin Islands. It's open daily from 11 AM to 5:30 PM during season, and it's been featured everywhere from Atlas Obscura to the top of the USVI's TripAdvisor rankings.
The setup is straightforward: pull up by boat, order from the water, and eat some of the best pizza you'll find anywhere in the USVI. They also serve cocktails and frozen drinks, so it is a real food-and-drink stop, not just a quick slice. Christmas Cove is closer to Cruz Bay than Lime Out, which makes Pizza Pi an easier addition to both half-day and full-day routes.
One of the regulars out there is Pirate Daniel, one of Scotty's right-hand guys, who lives aboard his sailboat right in Christmas Cove. He even lends a hand with our boats when Scotty needs an extra set of hands. Daniel makes jewelry by hand, and we carry his pieces back at the shop in Cruz Bay. Ask about him when you're out there.
Getting There
Pizza Pi is anchored in Christmas Cove, which sits between St. John and St. Thomas. It is a more convenient stop than Lime Out because you don't need to commit to a full island loop to reach it. Both half-day and full-day renters can work it into their route on a dinghy or a Zodiac.
One thing to know: call or text (preferred) your order in the morning at 340-643-4674. Pizza Pi gets busy, especially during peak season, and ordering early means your food is closer to ready when you pull up. The boys mention this during the briefing, and it makes a real difference in how smooth the stop goes.
What to Order
The pizza is wood-fired and made fresh to order. They also offer a really solid gluten-free pizza option, which is worth knowing if anyone in your group needs it. Ask about The Castaway, one of their specialty pies.
Scotty's go-to is the pepperoni pizza with a side of ranch. And most days, if there is pizza left over, it is going home with him. We'd say he is biased, but we've tried it. He's right.
And don't skip the Bushwacker. It's a frozen, boozy chocolate milkshake that was invented on St. Thomas back in the 1970s. Cold, sweet, and always hits the spot after some time in the sun.
Anchoring
Like Lime Out, Christmas Cove is one of the few areas around St. John where anchoring is allowed, and it sits inside a designated marine sanctuary. There are also mooring balls available. When you get there, look for deeper water if you're anchoring, and let out about 45 ft of line. Anchoring near reef and seagrass is also regulated by the Virgin Islands National Park, so when in doubt, take the mooring ball if one is available.
If it is your first time, flag down a Pizza Pi staff for guidance on where to set up. It can get crowded in the afternoon, so going earlier gives you better positioning and shorter wait times.
Snorkeling in Christmas Cove
Christmas Cove is also one of the best snorkeling spots near St. John. The cove sits inside a marine sanctuary with clear water, healthy coral, and sea turtles. After picking up your pizza, eat on the boat and then hop in with your gear. Both dinghies and Zodiacs can access Christmas Cove easily from Cruz Bay. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and don't touch the coral. For more snorkeling spots, check our Best Beaches in St. John USVI by Boat guide.
Lovango Resort & Beach Club: Waterfront Dining on a Private Island
Lovango Resort & Beach Club is a private island restaurant and resort between St. John and St. Thomas. It offers full waterfront dining, drinks, and a private island atmosphere that is completely different from the floating food stops. You can get there by renting a boat or by taking Lovango's resort ferry with a reservation, but arriving on your own boat gives you the flexibility to combine it with beaches and other stops on the same day.
Unlike Lime Out and Pizza Pi, Lovango is land-based with actual bathrooms, shade, tables, and a full menu. You step off the boat onto a private island. After a morning on the water, it's the break you didn't know you needed.
The vibe is upscale but relaxed. Seafood and Caribbean dishes, good drinks, and the kind of setting that makes you forget you were on a boat twenty minutes ago.
What to Eat and Do at Lovango
Lovango has a wide variety of food options, with seafood as a standout, including the catch of the day. It is one of the few on-the-water stops where you can actually sit down at a table, order from a full menu, and take your time.
Beyond the food, Lovango is a great place to get off the water for a bit. They host live music and events, and the beach club has a pool, cabanas, and snorkeling right off the shore. It leans upscale, but it's not stuffy or kids-off-limits. There's life-size chess and beach games that keep the kids busy while the adults actually finish a drink. Lovango has been recognized in Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards, Vogue, and the Michelin Guide (2 Keys, 2025). If you've been out on the water all morning and want to stretch your legs and slow the pace down, this is the stop for it.
Getting There
The resort sits between St. John and St. Thomas, making it accessible on most boat routes heading out of Cruz Bay. It works well as a midday stop on a half-day or full-day rental, and the feel is completely different from pulling up to a floating bar. You are docking at a private island, walking up to a real restaurant, and sitting down.
Docking at Lovango
Lovango operates using dock access or moorings depending on availability. When you arrive, look for staff to guide you to the correct spot. They'll direct you based on what is open and what size boat you are on.
Docking details can vary by season and day, so if you are planning to stop here, we recommend checking with our team before heading out. The boys can give you the latest on what to expect when you pull up. You can also call Lovango directly at 340-625-0400.
Want to book a table or check events? Visit Lovango Resort →
Packing Lunch for Your Boat Day: North Shore Deli & More
Not every boat day needs a restaurant stop. If Lime Out or Pizza Pi aren't on the plan, packing a cooler from a Cruz Bay deli before you head out keeps the day flexible.
Best Grab-and-Go Lunch Spots in Cruz Bay
North Shore Deli at Mongoose Junction is the go-to for boat day lunches. Grab subs, wraps, breakfast burritos, or sandwiches in the morning, toss them in your cooler, and you're set for the day. The slow-roasted meats are excellent, and they have solid vegan and gluten-free options too.
Paulie's is another solid option if you are near town before departure. Both spots are easy to hit on the way to the dock.
The key is packing your cooler before you leave. Once you are on the water, your food options are limited to what you brought or a stop at Lime Out, Pizza Pi, or Lovango, and some of the best beaches don't have any food nearby. A loaded cooler gives you full flexibility to stay as long as you want at every stop.
Need a dry bag, rashguard, or reef-safe sunscreen for the day? Stop by the shop →
How to Plan a Food-by-Boat Day in St. John
The right boat, the right route, and a little planning ahead of time turn a good Lime Out or Pizza Pi run into a great one. Here is how we help guests set up food-focused boat days.
Step 1: Choose the Right Boat for Your Food Stops
It depends on what is on the menu. Literally.
- Dinghies ($245 half-day, $295 full-day, plus fuel) work well for Pizza Pi and Lovango stops, especially on half-day rentals. Dinghies are North Shore boats, so Lime Out is not an option, but they are easy to maneuver in Christmas Cove and you can pull them up on the beach. No boating experience required.
- Zodiacs ($495 half-day, $750 full-day, fuel separate) are required if Lime Out is on your list. The south shore route means circumnavigating the island, and Zodiacs are built for that. The swim ladder makes water-level stops easier and the bimini provides shade for groups up to 8. Boating experience required.
- The Medline ($1,250 full-day, fuel separate) makes sense for groups up to 10 who want to combine food stops with a full day of beach hopping and snorkeling. Twin 300hp Yamahas, sound system, the works.
Not sure which boat fits your day?
See the full boat comparison →
or get in touch for help choosing  →Â
Step 2: Sample Food-by-Boat Routes
Half-Day Route (Dinghy, Zodiac, or Medline):
Cruz Bay → Scott Beach (swim + snorkel) → Pizza Pi at Christmas Cove (lunch) → Honeymoon Beach (relax) → Cruz Bay
Full-Day Route (Zodiac or Medline Only):
Cruz Bay → North Shore beaches (Maho or Francis Bay) → Lime Out (lunch + drinks) → Salt Pond or south shore snorkeling → Scott Beach (wind down) → Cruz Bay
Full-Day with Lovango (Dinghy, Zodiac, or Medline):
Cruz Bay → Lovango Resort (lunch + explore) → Honeymoon or Scott Beach (afternoon) → Cruz Bay
For more route ideas, check our Best Beaches in St. John USVI by Boat guide. Pair beach stops with food stops and you have a full day mapped without overthinking it.
Step 3: Pre-Order Pizza Pi (If It's on Your Route)
Pizza Pi gets busy on peak days. Texting your order in the morning before you head out is the easiest way to skip the wait. The boys remind every guest of this during the briefing.
Step 4: Check Conditions With the Crew
Wind, swell, and current change which stops make sense on any given day. The Wharfside team checks conditions every morning and helps guests adjust routes before they head out. If a south shore loop to Lime Out is not safe that day, we will steer you toward Pizza Pi or Lovango instead.
Local Tips for Eating on the Water in St. John
- Text your Pizza Pi order in the morning. They get slammed midday. Order before you leave the dock and it'll be closer to ready when you pull up.
- Lime Out means a full island loop. Best day on the water, but getting to Lime Out is a commitment. Plan your fuel and your time.
- Drop anchor the right way. At Lime Out, let out 20 to 30 feet of line; in the deeper water at Christmas Cove, closer to 45. Let the wind settle the boat, and never back down on the anchor or you'll tear up the sea grass.
- When in doubt, ask. Wave down a crew member or another captain (one who doesn't look like they've been drinking all day). People are happy to help.
- Bring a cooler even if you're hitting a restaurant. Plans change. Beaches are better with cold drinks. And if you end up staying somewhere longer than expected, you're covered.
- Dry bag your phone. You're going to be hopping between the boat, the water, and food stops all day. We sell them in the shop if you forgot one.
- Check docking at Lovango before you go. Availability changes by day and season. The boys will have the latest during your briefing.
- Snorkel Christmas Cove while you're there. You're already anchored for Pizza Pi. Bring gear and make the most of the marine sanctuary before you leave.
- End your day at Scott or Honeymoon. Both are close to Cruz Bay. Float, crack a drink, short ride home.
- Pack out what you pack in. Reef-safe sunscreen, leave nothing behind, respect the marine sanctuary.
"We had an incredible day renting a zodiac from Wharfside Watersports. It was the highlight of the trip. With our zodiac we were able to navigate to Lime Out for an early lunch and hit a few snorkel spots that we wouldn't have been able to get to otherwise. The team was great, gave us good recommendations as to where to go and timing, and the boat was in great shape. 5 stars, would definitely do it again!"
— Ginny W, Google
"Amazing experience! This is a must do when traveling to St. John USVI! The staff at Wharfside Watersports are so friendly and helpful and will get you set up for a day on the water quickly and efficiently. Scotty the owner is the nicest guy and also hilarious. We rented the Zodiac style dinghy that seats 6 for the full day and cruised around St. John. The boat handles the water well and provides plenty of shade under the Bimini. We went down the north shore to Waterlemon Bay for some snorkeling, stopped at Moho Beach and swam on shore for a drink at the beach bar and more snorkeling, ended the day by going over to Christmas Cove to enjoy some delicious pizza on the water! Thank you everyone at Wharfside Watersports for making this possible, we will be back soon!"
— Rachel S, Google
Frequently Asked Questions About Eating by Boat in St. John
Where can you eat on the water in St. John USVI?
The three main on-the-water food stops in St. John are Lime Out (a floating taco bar), Pizza Pi (a floating pizza boat in Christmas Cove), and Lovango Resort & Beach Club (a private island restaurant with full waterfront dining). All three are accessible by boat from Cruz Bay.
Do you need a boat to get to Lime Out?
You need to be on the water one way or another. Lime Out is anchored offshore on St. John's south side, so you either rent your own boat (a Zodiac or Medline, since dinghies can't make the south shore run) or catch a shuttle boat from Coral Bay. Renting your own means committing to a full island loop, which is a great day in itself.
Can you anchor at Lime Out and Pizza Pi?
Yes. Lime Out and Christmas Cove (Pizza Pi) are two of the only spots around St. John where anchoring is allowed, and mooring balls are available at both. Drop anchor on a sandy patch, let out enough line (about 20 to 30 feet at Lime Out, and around 45 feet at Pizza Pi), and let the wind settle your boat. Never back down on the anchor or you'll tear up the sea grass.
Is Pizza Pi worth the stop on a boat day?
Absolutely! Pizza Pi serves some of the best pizza in the Virgin Islands, including a strong gluten-free option. It sits in Christmas Cove between St. John and St. Thomas, which makes it an easy addition to half-day and full-day routes without committing to a full island loop like Lime Out requires.
What should I bring for a food-by-boat day in St. John?
Pack a cooler with drinks and snacks, a dry bag for your phone and wallet, snorkel gear if you plan to swim at stops like Christmas Cove, reef-safe sunscreen or a rashguard, and towels. Even with a Lime Out or Pizza Pi stop planned, having your own food keeps the day flexible.
Which boat is best for visiting floating restaurants in St. John?
Dinghies work well for Pizza Pi and Lovango since both are accessible from the North Shore. Lime Out requires a Zodiac or Medline because it sits on the south side and dinghies cannot make that run. For larger groups, the Medline covers all stops with extra space and comfort.
Can you visit Lime Out and Pizza Pi in the same day?
Yes, on a full-day Zodiac or Medline rental. Lime Out and Pizza Pi are on different sides of the island, so hitting both requires a longer loop. It is doable and makes for an incredible day. This is not a dinghy route. Talk to our team about the best route order based on conditions.
Does Lovango have a dock for boats?
Yes. Lovango operates using dock access or moorings depending on availability. Staff guide you to the correct spot when you arrive. Check with the Wharfside team before heading out for the latest on docking procedures and what to expect when you pull up.
How much does a boat rental in St. John cost for a food-by-boat day?
Dinghy rentals start at $245 for a half-day and $295 for a full-day, plus fuel. Zodiac rentals start at $495 for a half-day and $750 for a full-day, with fuel separate. The Medline is full-day only at $1,250 plus fuel and seats up to 10 people.
Do you need reservations for Lime Out, Pizza Pi, or Lovango?
Lime Out and Pizza Pi do not take traditional reservations, but Pizza Pi takes pre-orders by text or phone, and we strongly recommend ordering in the morning. Lovango Resort & Beach Club takes reservations for dining and is the best option if you want a guaranteed table.
What is the vibe at Lovango Resort?
Upscale but relaxed. Lovango is a private island with waterfront dining, a pool, beach club, and live music. It leans more toward a polished adult atmosphere, but families do well here too. Life-size chess and beach games keep kids busy while the adults eat and drink. If you have younger kids who want something more interactive, Lime Out and Pizza Pi tend to be bigger hits since they can eat right on the water and watch boats come and go.
Where can I pack lunch for a boat day in St. John?
North Shore Deli at Mongoose Junction in Cruz Bay is the local favorite for grab-and-go subs, wraps, and breakfast sandwiches. Paulie's is another solid option near town. Pick up your order in the morning, load the cooler, and you are set for the day.
Are floating restaurants in St. John open year-round?
Lime Out, Pizza Pi, and Lovango all operate during the main season but hours and days can shift based on weather, season, and private events. Check each restaurant's official site or social before heading out, and confirm with the Wharfside crew during your morning briefing.
What is the best time to arrive at Pizza Pi or Lime Out?
Arrive before the midday rush, ideally between 11:00 AM and 12:30 PM. Both Pizza Pi and Lime Out get crowded on peak days, and arriving early means better anchoring positions, shorter waits, and more time to enjoy the food and the swim.
Is there a shuttle or ferry to Lime Out St. John?
There's no public passenger ferry, but you don't need your own boat to get out there. Several operators run daily shuttle boats to Lime Out from Coral Bay for around $30 per person, and you can also book a captained charter. If you'd rather run your own day, we rent self-guided Zodiacs and Medlines that make the south shore trip on your own schedule. Dinghies are North Shore boats and can't reach Lime Out, and going by your own boat means circumnavigating the island, a full-day commitment. We give you the route, conditions briefing, and anchoring guidance before you head out.
Where is Lime Out located in St. John?
Lime Out is anchored off St. John's south shore, near Coral Bay. It is only accessible by boat. From Cruz Bay, reaching Lime Out typically means circumnavigating the island, which is best done as a full-day Zodiac rental. The Wharfside team maps routes to Lime Out during the morning briefing.
Ready to Get on the Water?
Some of the best food in St. John is not on the main road. It's on the water.
We'll help you pick the right boat, map a route that hits Lime Out, Pizza Pi, Lovango, or all three, and go over anchoring, docking, and conditions before you head out. That's what it comes down to. The right route and a crew that's done it before.
Explore available rentals:
- Dinghy Boats — Easy to maneuver at food stops. Great for half-day Pizza Pi and Lovango runs. From $245.
- Zodiac Boats — Built for full-day routes, Lime Out loops, and longer adventures with food stops. From $495.
- Medline Boat — Premium comfort and space for groups up to 10. $1,250 full day.
Ready to lock it in? Reserve your boat day →
Want to talk through it first? Talk to a local →Â
(We'll help you pick the right boat for your food-by-boat day)
Wharfside Watersports · Cruz Bay, St. John, USVI · (340) 201-6881
Quick Recap
Lime Out is a floating taco bar with craft cocktails, located on St. John's south side. Reaching it usually means a full island loop, and it is worth every mile.
Pizza Pi serves the best pizza in the Virgin Islands out of Christmas Cove. It is closer to Cruz Bay and works with half-day and full-day routes. Order in the morning to skip the wait.
Lovango Resort offers full waterfront dining on a private island with dockside access, a pool, shade, and a beach club.
North Shore Deli and Paulie's are the best grab-and-go options for packing a cooler before departure.
Dinghies are great for Pizza Pi and Lovango (North Shore accessible). Zodiacs and the Medline are required for Lime Out since dinghies cannot make the south shore run.
Anchoring is permitted at Lime Out and Pizza Pi, two of the only places around St. John where it is allowed.
Planning ahead matters. We check conditions daily and help build routes that make the most of your time on the water.
Follow Along
See what a day on the water actually looks like. We post boat days, food stops, and beach conditions regularly.
Wharfside Watersports
We are a locally owned and operated boat rental company based in Cruz Bay, St. John. Our team spends every day on the water helping visitors explore the island’s beaches, reefs, and hidden coves safely and confidently. From beach hopping and snorkeling to full-day adventures, we’re passionate about sharing the best of St. John from the water.
