25+ year STJ visitor chiming in -

Is a car an absolute necessity? Depends on what you want to do/see.

It may be hard to find a single day rental during high season. We have rented single days during the summer, winter may be harder. Your best bet would be to call a day or two ahead of time. Any business on island is fine and price differences are minor, go with the first one that has availability. STJ rental companies are best reached via phone, don't frustrate yourself trying to rent on-line or via email. Personally, I like STJ Car Rental.

With Maho Crossroads opening, Maho has become an easy taxi destination. Working east, you can reach any of the North Shore beaches by taxi. Its best to arrange a pick up time but its likely you can flag one down if your group size isn't huge. Maho Crossroads has drinks, food and music and is quite popular by all reports.

If you want to see the island, a rental is your best bet but a taxi ride out the North Shore road is very scenic.

A rental is absolutely necessary for Coral Bay area.

Are you staying overnight? Or just stopping by for a day visit?

Cruz Bay is a nice town for strolling, shopping local stores, eating and drinking. The North Shore beaches are a 5-15 drive out of town depending how far you want to go. Parking can be at a premium during high season as some have just 4-6 spots. Others like Maho, Trunk and Cinnamon have larger lots. Cruz Bay to Coral Bay is 30-40 minute drive. Add another 20+ minute out to the East End.