I liked Colombo's Smoothies.....for the most part. It's pretty much a secluded little "mom and pop" stand located right at the junction of the main roads - North Shore Rd. and Centerline Rd. - that navigate throughout the island of Virgin Islands National Park.
For me...yeah, it was quite refreshing to have a frozen drink after venturing around fantastic Hawksnest, Trunk Bay and Cinnamon Bay beaches along with stopping at various overlooks to appreciate how blue the waters were around the island of St. John.
Btw....if you are unsure exactly how to arrive at Colombo's, no worries....since there is fine cell phone reception located all among the island, simply plug Colombo's Smoothies into Google Maps and you'll have pinpoint directions on how to find this place.
When I arrived, it was sort of situated right off the side of the road on a sloped hill. I'll admit...I had some difficulty maneuvering my car and parking along the small and tight shoulder of the road. But alas, I was able to do it.
Colombo's was busy when I came in early afternoon around 2pm.
I guess....it's a good spot to grab a midday refreshment as it was early enough not to spoil people's appetites before dinner. I waited about 15 minutes in line before I could order. I did notice it was just 1 lady behind the stand doing everything. And of course, tourists were in line ordering like - 4 drinks for their entire families (very annoying). Still, the lady moved things quickly along.
While waiting, there was a menu for me to look the choices over. On one side of the menu was Fruity Drinks. Some options included....Berry Blast, Tart n' Tasty, Island Dream, Coconut, Strawberry/Banana, Mango and Lime-in-de-Coconut. For these selections, they all came in one standard size and prices ranged between $8 and $9....obviously....with just enough change to leave for a tip.
On the backside of the menu was Chocolate Lovers Options, Specialty Drinks and Organic Cold Brew Coffees. Just to name a few.....Chocolate, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Chocolate Cookies n' Cream, Funky Monkey, Pineapple Sunset and Iced Coffee Mocha and Vanilla Latte's. And again...prices were the same about $8 - $9ish.
For me, I went with a Pina Colada for $8.50. The lady asked if I wanted rum inside the drink and I responded...."um, I guess however you normally make it!?" I mean, not sure if she was trying to upsell me on the rum? The whole exchange was a little awkward. But, after spending $17 on a daiquiri at Mountain Top, I was just okay with whatever drink I received for the $8.50.
After my order was taken, I waited only a few minutes for the Pina Colada to be prepared. There were a few benches, tables and chairs to sit down on and relax. It was pleasant just taking it easy and this little stand was situated among the lush green vegetation and forest of St. John.
Overall, the Pina Colada was good. Honestly, I'm not even sure if there was rum inside the drink. I guess I was thrown off by her questioning me if I wanted it included. Though I didn't see any option on the menu for an upcharge to have rum added.
Regardless, the drink was tasty and refreshing. I slurped the whole thing down in a few minutes, lol. And while enjoying the Pina Colada....wow, the line at the stand got very long! I guess I was fortunate to have arrived when I did as my 15 minute wait was a "walk in the park" compared to how busy it became.
But I can understand why Colombo's could be so popular. Because....once you venture into the heart of Virgin Islands National Park.....there's not much offered around other than what's featured among the main beaches. For those folks driving and exploring St. John....this tiny refreshment stand would be the ideal break to cool off from the heat, sun and humidity.
Finally, although Colombo's could have used another employee to help speed things along, the wait was worth it as my Pina Colada was a thirst quenching midday beverage. And it was nice to sit down and appreciate a drink after witnessing some stunningly beautiful beaches.
I recommend Colombo's, especially for it's location. Just be prepared as depending on the time of day you stop here.....they could be very busy. read more