Silky white beaches, cactus groves, rolling hills, inland forests and wholesome local rum – that’s the US Virgin Islands (USVI).
Located between Puerto Rico and the British Virgin Islands, this Caribbean archipelago is made up of three main islands of St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas and 50 smaller islands. This fabulous seascape is located within driving distance of Florida, Miami and New York. The United States Virgin Islands is an American paradise where there is no off-season. If you are going to Puerto Rico and want to visit the US Virgin Islands, here is a list of things to do.
Top attractions in the US Virgin Islands
Virgin Islands National Park: This national park covers most of St. John’s territory and acres of underwater. The national park boasts miles of coastline, coral reefs and 26 hiking trails. Here you can watch birds, go hiking, explore the places of rock paintings and much more.
Bays: The US Virgin Islands has many stunning bays, the beauty of which is beyond imagination.
Cane Bay is gorgeous and famous for sunbathing, walking, snorkeling and scuba diving. Cruise Bay is famous among retirees and is a great place for hiking, kayaking, snorkeling and other outdoor activities.
Isaac Bay is a beautiful stretch of sand that is home to hawkcrest turtles. Magens Bay is included in the list of the 5 most beautiful beaches in the world because it is very picturesque. There are picnic tables, food vendors, showers, changing areas and water sports operators.
Leinster Bay is a favorite beach for North Coast visitors. As a rule, there are very few people and strong currents of water. Francis Bay is a great place for bird watching and snorkeling. Other must-see bays include Cinnamon Bay, Hull Bay, Crown Bay, Hawksnest Bay, Salt Pond Bay and Maho Bay.
Christiansted National Historic Site: Several structures are located here, the most prominent being Fort Christiansvern. These yellow-painted buildings are historically significant as they witnessed pirate raids, hurricanes and slavery.
Santa Cruz: This is the largest island in the US Virgin Islands group. The island is surrounded by hills, tropical forests and picturesque towns. Be sure to visit the St. George’s Village Botanical Gardens, Wym Great House, Salt River Bay National Historic Park, and Buck Island Reef National Monument when visiting the island. You can also go scuba diving and fishing here.
St. John: This is the smallest island, but the most beautiful. Two-thirds of Saint John is occupied by the territory of the Virgin Islands National Park. Here you can go scuba diving, as well as amazing hiking. Visit Katrinberg Sugar Mill, Cinnamon Bay Sugar Mill Ruins and Annaberg Sugar Plantation.
St. Thomas: This island has become a hotspot for filmmakers and travellers, thanks to its scenic, one-of-a-kind views. Of interest to tourists are Blackbeard’s Castle, Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge, All Saints Collegiate Church, Fort Christian, Magens Bay Arboretum, Magens Bay, Red Hook, Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral, St. Thomas Synagogue and Coral Ocean Park. world”.
The best beaches, hotels and restaurants in the US Virgin Islands
Beaches
The US Virgin Islands is known for its pristine blue waters, rustling palm trees, hammock-lined beaches and quaint seaside bistros. If you are looking for a holiday coupled with an amazing beach experience, head to these beautiful beaches.
Beaches in the US Virgin Islands
Honeymoon Beach: It has soft white sand and shallow water with lots of shady areas from coconut trees. This beach is great for water activities such as kayaking, snorkeling and SUP.
Magens Bay Beach: This is the gem of St. Thomas. With white sand and gorgeous waters, this beach is a great option for families with kids. Here you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, SUP and sunbathing.
Trunk Bay: Located in Saint John, Trunk Bay features sparkling turquoise waters and soft white sand. Beach lovers enjoy its relaxing atmosphere and good facilities.
The Baths, Virgin Gorda: This is one of the most famous beach destinations. You can relax on its immaculate beach and explore the cave system including grottoes, crevices, colorful coves and boulders.
White Bay, Jost Van Dyke: This pristine beach is good for relaxing and sunbathing. We strongly recommend that you try the new cocktails at the Soggy Dollar Bar.
Smuggler’s Cove in Tortola: If you want to enjoy a quiet beach, come to Smuggler’s Cove. This beach is characterized by an abundance of palm trees, colorful fish and serene surroundings. This bay is also popular with swimmers.
Cane Garden in Tortola: This beach has plenty of water sports and nightlife options.
Anegada Island: This beach boasts a large Horseshoe Reef, the largest coral reef in the Caribbean. Here you will find a quiet and peaceful coast to enjoy your beach holiday.
Hotels: The US Virgin Islands has some of the best hotels in the Caribbean. Some of them have earned gold medals for providing luxury and 5-star services to their customers. Top hotels in the US Virgin Islands include Buccaneer, Cottages by the Sea, Grande Bay Resort, Crystal Cove Villas, Hotel Carvelle, Holger Danske Hotel, Club Comanche Hotel, Estate Lindholm, Secret Harbor Beach Resort, Mafolie Hotel, Galleon House Bed Breakfast Inn and Pools Villa Hotel by Antilles Resorts, just to name a few.
Restaurants: The US Virgin Islands is not only known for its beaches, trade winds and luxury charters. Gastronomic culture is developed here. Here you can find amazing food and drinks – from curry meat to huge shellfish.
For the most delicious food, we recommend you visit Miss Lucy’s on St. John and Midtown Restaurant on Tortola, Gladys’ Cafe on St. Thomas, Ital in Paradise on St. Croix and Nile Valley, La Tapa, Thirteen, Havana Blue on St. -Thomas, Duggan’s Reef, Callwood Rum Distillery, St Croix’s Cruzan Rum Distillery, Ruby Roti Queen Restaurant in Tortola, Singh’s Fast Food in St. Croix, Daylight Bakery & Diamond Barrel, Gary’s Bakery and St Thomas’s Frenchtown Brewing and others.
Things to do in the US Virgin Islands
Snorkeling and Diving: The US Virgin Islands has shallow waters, gentle currents, sandy beaches and plenty of snorkelling spots.
Some of the best diving and snorkeling spots include Cokey Point Beach, Hurricane Hole, Waterlemon Cay, Haulover Bay, Kane Bay, Buck Island, Norman and Indian Island, and Baths.
From huge starfish, sponges to corals and crustaceans, underwater in the US Virgin Islands, you’ll find a variety of flora and fauna.
Fishing: The US Virgin Islands are ideal for both experienced fishermen and beginners. On any given day, you can expect to catch blue marlin, white marlin, barracuda, jackals, stonefish, sailfish, wahoo, alison tuna, dolphin fish, kingfish, tarpon, concha and lobster.
Other Activities: Most beaches have sun lounger rentals, showers and other amenities so you can spend quality time with family and friends. Hiking is quite popular here. SUP and kayaking are two other water sports you can try your hand at.
The US Virgin Islands has a rich cultural and historical heritage, pristine white sand beaches, turquoise waters and beautiful bays. Vacationers love to come to the US Virgin Islands on charter to explore them aboard a yacht.
