Best Places to Visit in the US Virgin Islands

The US Virgin Islands are one of the most beautiful island groups in the Caribbean, offering turquoise water, white-sand beaches, coral reefs, historic towns, national parks, sailing, snorkelling, rum culture, local food and relaxed tropical scenery. The main islands for visitors are St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix, each with a distinct personality.

St. Thomas is the busiest and most developed island, known for shopping, nightlife, resorts, harbour views and watersports. St. John is quieter and famous for protected national parkland, hiking trails, beaches and snorkelling. St. Croix is the largest of the three main islands and offers historic towns, food culture, diving, rum heritage, beaches and a more spacious local feel. The official US Virgin Islands tourism site describes the territory as a place of rich culture, history, turquoise waters, natural diversity and pristine beaches. 1

Why Visit the US Virgin Islands?

The US Virgin Islands are ideal for travellers who want a Caribbean holiday with plenty of choice. You can stay in a beachfront resort on St. Thomas, hike through Virgin Islands National Park on St. John, snorkel at Trunk Bay, explore Danish colonial history in Christiansted, take a boat trip to Buck Island, sail between islands, shop in Charlotte Amalie or enjoy a relaxed beach day at Magens Bay.

The islands are also excellent for travellers who enjoy combining beaches with history and nature. Virgin Islands National Park on St. John offers beaches, coral reefs, historic ruins and hiking trails, while St. Croix is home to Christiansted National Historic Site, Buck Island Reef National Monument and Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve. 2

Best Places to Visit in the US Virgin Islands

St. Thomas

St. Thomas is the busiest and most cosmopolitan of the US Virgin Islands. It is the main cruise port, a major shopping hub and one of the easiest islands for first-time visitors because it has many hotels, restaurants, beaches, tours, taxis, ferries and resort facilities.

Top things to do on St. Thomas include exploring Charlotte Amalie, visiting Magens Bay, taking in the view from Mountain Top, riding the Skyride to Paradise Point, snorkelling at Coki Beach, visiting Coral World Ocean Park, relaxing at Sapphire Beach and taking day trips to St. John or Water Island.

Best for: first-time visitors, resorts, shopping, nightlife, harbour views, beach hopping, cruise stops, families and easy island logistics.

Charlotte Amalie

Charlotte Amalie is the capital of the US Virgin Islands and one of the Caribbean’s most historic harbour towns. It is known for colourful buildings, steep streets, old warehouses, duty-free shopping, harbour views, cruise ships, historic churches and Danish colonial architecture.

Visitors can explore Main Street, climb the 99 Steps, visit Fort Christian, walk around the waterfront and enjoy views over one of the most scenic harbours in the Caribbean. Charlotte Amalie is also a practical base for shopping, restaurants, ferry connections and island tours.

Best for: shopping, history, harbour views, walking, cruise visitors, photography and first-time St. Thomas sightseeing.

Magens Bay

Magens Bay is one of the most famous beaches in the US Virgin Islands and one of the signature places to visit on St. Thomas. The official Magens Bay Authority describes it as a white-sand beach suitable for swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding. 3

The beach is set in a broad, calm bay backed by green hills, making it especially good for swimming and relaxing. It is popular, so arrive early if you want a quieter experience, especially when cruise ships are in port.

Best for: swimming, families, beach days, paddleboarding, kayaking, calm water and classic St. Thomas scenery.

Mountain Top

Mountain Top is one of the best viewpoints on St. Thomas. It offers sweeping views over Magens Bay, the British Virgin Islands and surrounding turquoise water.

It is a popular stop on island tours and is especially useful for visitors who want a big scenic view without hiking.

Best for: panoramic views, photography, cruise visitors, island tours and easy sightseeing.

Paradise Point

Paradise Point overlooks Charlotte Amalie Harbour and is one of the best places to see St. Thomas from above. Many visitors reach it by the Skyride, which climbs from near the cruise port area to a hilltop viewpoint.

It is especially attractive in the late afternoon, when the harbour, cruise ships and surrounding hills are lit by warm Caribbean light.

Best for: harbour views, photography, cruise visitors, sunset drinks and easy sightseeing.

Coki Beach

Coki Beach is one of the best-known snorkelling beaches on St. Thomas. It has clear water, colourful fish, beach vendors and easy access to Coral World Ocean Park.

The beach can be lively and busy, but it is a good option for visitors who want an accessible snorkelling experience without needing a boat tour.

Best for: snorkelling, families, beach vendors, colourful fish and easy beach access.

Sapphire Beach

Sapphire Beach is a beautiful beach on the east end of St. Thomas, known for views toward St. John, clear water, reef areas, watersports and resort-style convenience.

It is a good choice for travellers staying on the east side of the island or anyone planning to combine beach time with ferry access toward St. John.

Best for: beach views, snorkelling, watersports, families, couples and east-end stays.

Water Island

Water Island is a small island just off St. Thomas and makes an easy day trip from the Charlotte Amalie area. It is quieter than St. Thomas and is best known for Honeymoon Beach, golf carts, relaxed beach bars and a slower pace.

Water Island is a good option if you want a simple island escape without travelling all the way to St. John or St. Croix.

Best for: quiet beach days, easy ferry trips, Honeymoon Beach, relaxed exploring and short island escapes.

St. John

St. John is the most nature-focused of the three main US Virgin Islands. Much of the island is protected within Virgin Islands National Park, making it ideal for travellers who want beaches, snorkelling, hiking, ruins, scenic drives and a quieter atmosphere than St. Thomas.

Most visitors arrive by ferry at Cruz Bay from St. Thomas. From there, you can explore North Shore beaches, hike park trails, visit historic plantation ruins, snorkel at Trunk Bay or Maho Bay and drive toward Coral Bay for a slower side of the island.

Best for: beaches, snorkelling, hiking, national park scenery, couples, nature lovers and quieter island stays.

Virgin Islands National Park

Virgin Islands National Park is the defining attraction of St. John. The National Park Service describes the park as offering beaches, coral reefs, historic ruins and hiking trails, with activities including swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, camping, hiking, birdwatching and archaeology. 4

Popular places within or near the park include Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, Maho Bay, Annaberg Sugar Plantation, Reef Bay Trail, Ram Head Trail, Hawksnest Bay, Francis Bay and scenic North Shore Road.

Best for: national parks, beaches, snorkelling, hiking, history, coral reefs, photography and peaceful Caribbean scenery.

Trunk Bay

Trunk Bay is one of the most famous beaches in the Caribbean and one of the signature views of St. John. It is known for soft white sand, clear turquoise water, a small offshore cay and an underwater snorkelling trail.

Because it is one of the island’s most popular beaches, it is best to arrive early or later in the afternoon if you want a calmer experience.

Best for: snorkelling, photography, swimming, families, first-time St. John visitors and classic Caribbean beach scenery.

Cinnamon Bay

Cinnamon Bay is one of St. John’s longest and most beautiful beaches. It offers swimming, beach walking, snorkelling in suitable conditions, nearby ruins and access to Virgin Islands National Park scenery.

It is a strong choice for visitors who want a larger beach area with a more open feel than some of the smaller North Shore coves.

Best for: beach walking, swimming, camping nearby, snorkelling, families and national park scenery.

Maho Bay

Maho Bay is one of the best beaches on St. John for calm water and marine life. It is especially popular with snorkellers hoping to see sea turtles, rays and fish in shallow, protected water.

Visitors should never touch turtles or marine life and should keep a respectful distance while snorkelling.

Best for: turtle watching, calm water, families, snorkelling, beginners and relaxed beach days.

Annaberg Sugar Plantation

Annaberg Sugar Plantation is one of the most important historic sites on St. John. The ruins help tell the story of plantation agriculture, colonialism, slavery and the people whose labour shaped the island’s past.

It is a meaningful stop to include with a North Shore drive, especially for travellers who want to understand St. John beyond its beaches.

Best for: history, culture, ruins, national park interpretation, photography and thoughtful travel.

Reef Bay Trail

Reef Bay Trail is one of the classic hikes in Virgin Islands National Park. It descends through tropical forest toward historic ruins, petroglyphs and the south coast area.

The trail can be hot, humid and strenuous on the return climb, so bring water, sturdy footwear and check current conditions before starting.

Best for: hiking, history, rainforest, petroglyphs, ruins and active travellers.

Coral Bay

Coral Bay is the quieter side of St. John. It has a slower pace, local restaurants, boat culture, hillside views and access to scenic drives and beaches on the island’s eastern side.

It is a good base for travellers who prefer a more relaxed and less developed atmosphere than Cruz Bay.

Best for: quiet stays, local food, boat trips, scenic drives, couples and slow island travel.

St. Croix

St. Croix is the largest of the US Virgin Islands and offers a different experience from St. Thomas and St. John. It is more spread out, with two historic towns, excellent diving, food culture, rum heritage, beaches, national park sites, agriculture, local art and a strong sense of island identity.

Top places to visit include Christiansted, Frederiksted, Buck Island Reef National Monument, Salt River Bay, Point Udall, Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge, Cane Bay, Rainbow Beach and the island’s rum distilleries.

Best for: history, food, diving, rum, beaches, culture, relaxed road trips and longer island stays.

Christiansted

Christiansted is one of the most beautiful historic towns in the Caribbean. It has colourful Danish colonial buildings, waterfront restaurants, old warehouses, galleries, shops, Fort Christiansvaern and easy access to boat trips toward Buck Island.

Christiansted National Historic Site covers more than seven acres and tells stories about Danish colonial life, economy and interactions among people from Europe, Africa, the West Indies and North America during the Danish era of occupation from 1734 to 1917. 5

Best for: history, architecture, waterfront dining, shopping, boat tours, culture and St. Croix first-timers.

Fort Christiansvaern

Fort Christiansvaern is the landmark fort in Christiansted and one of the most important historic buildings in the US Virgin Islands. The National Park Service describes it as one of the best-preserved colonial forts in the Caribbean and the largest structure at Christiansted National Historic Site. 6

Visitors can explore the fort, waterfront area and surrounding historic buildings to better understand St. Croix’s Danish colonial period.

Best for: colonial history, architecture, photography, museums, families and Christiansted sightseeing.

Buck Island Reef National Monument

Buck Island Reef National Monument is one of the best marine experiences in the US Virgin Islands. Located off St. Croix, it protects a small island and surrounding reef environments, and is managed by the National Park Service. 7

Most visitors experience Buck Island on a guided boat trip from Christiansted. Tours often include snorkelling, beach time and reef viewing. Conditions can vary, so choose a licensed operator and follow reef-protection rules carefully.

Best for: snorkelling, boat tours, coral reefs, beaches, families, couples and St. Croix day trips.

Frederiksted

Frederiksted is St. Croix’s quieter west-end town, known for colourful buildings, a waterfront promenade, the Frederiksted Pier, sunset views, cruise visits and a relaxed local atmosphere.

The pier is especially popular with divers and snorkellers, while the west-facing waterfront is one of the best places on St. Croix to watch sunset.

Best for: sunsets, diving, local history, waterfront walks, cruise visitors and relaxed St. Croix evenings.

Cane Bay

Cane Bay is one of St. Croix’s best-known beach and dive areas. It is famous for access to the north shore reef wall, making it popular with scuba divers, snorkellers and beachgoers.

The beach also has nearby restaurants and bars, making it a good place for a laid-back afternoon.

Best for: scuba diving, snorkelling, casual beach days, restaurants, sunsets and north shore exploring.

Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve

Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve on St. Croix protects both cultural history and natural ecosystems. The National Park Service says it uniquely documents the human and natural Caribbean world, from early Indigenous settlements through encounters with European colonial powers to the present day, with activities including scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking and hiking tours. 8

The area is especially interesting for travellers who want history, ecology, mangroves, marine environments and guided outdoor experiences in one place.

Best for: history, kayaking, ecology, mangroves, snorkelling, diving and guided nature tours.

Point Udall

Point Udall is the easternmost point of the United States by travel destination convention and one of St. Croix’s most scenic coastal viewpoints. It is especially popular at sunrise, when visitors gather to watch the first light over the Caribbean Sea.

The surrounding east-end landscape is dry, dramatic and very different from the greener north shore and historic towns.

Best for: sunrise, photography, scenic drives, coastal views and symbolic travel stops.

Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge

Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge is one of St. Croix’s most important protected beach and wildlife areas. It is known for long white sand, clear water and sea turtle nesting habitat.

Access can be seasonal and limited, especially during turtle nesting periods, so check current opening rules before planning a visit.

Best for: protected beaches, wildlife, photography, turtle conservation and quiet coastal scenery.

Waterlemon Cay

Waterlemon Cay is one of St. John’s popular snorkelling areas, reached by hiking along the Leinster Bay Trail and entering the water in suitable conditions.

This is best for confident snorkellers because currents can be present around the cay. Always check conditions and avoid snorkelling alone.

Best for: snorkelling, hiking, marine life, active travellers and St. John national park exploring.

Best Beaches in the US Virgin Islands

• Trunk Bay, St. John: Best for iconic scenery, snorkelling and first-time visitors.
• Maho Bay, St. John: Best for calm water and turtle watching from a respectful distance.
• Cinnamon Bay, St. John: Best for long beach walks, swimming and national park scenery.
• Magens Bay, St. Thomas: Best for calm swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding and classic St. Thomas beach time. 9
• Sapphire Beach, St. Thomas: Best for views toward St. John, snorkelling and east-end stays.
• Coki Beach, St. Thomas: Best for accessible snorkelling and lively local beach energy.
• Honeymoon Beach, Water Island: Best for a quiet day trip from St. Thomas.
• Rainbow Beach, St. Croix: Best for casual beach bars, swimming and west-end sunsets.
• Cane Bay, St. Croix: Best for diving, snorkelling and relaxed north shore dining.
• Sandy Point, St. Croix: Best for protected natural beach scenery when open.

Best Historical and Cultural Places in the US Virgin Islands

• Christiansted National Historic Site: Best for Danish colonial history, Fort Christiansvaern and St. Croix architecture. 10
• Charlotte Amalie: Best for harbour history, old streets, shopping and colonial architecture.
• Annaberg Sugar Plantation: Best for understanding plantation history and the lives of enslaved people on St. John.
• Fort Christian, St. Thomas: Best for colonial-era history and Charlotte Amalie sightseeing.
• Frederiksted, St. Croix: Best for waterfront history, local culture and sunset walks.
• Salt River Bay: Best for Indigenous history, colonial history, ecology and guided outdoor experiences. 11
• Estate Whim Museum, St. Croix: Best for plantation-era history and local heritage.
• St. George Village Botanical Garden, St. Croix: Best for gardens, history and a peaceful inland stop.

Best Outdoor Adventures in the US Virgin Islands

• Snorkel at Trunk Bay: Enjoy one of the most famous snorkelling beaches in the Caribbean.
• Hike in Virgin Islands National Park: Explore trails, beaches, ruins and forested hills on St. John. 12
• Take a boat trip to Buck Island: Visit one of St. Croix’s signature reef and beach destinations. 13
• Kayak at Salt River Bay: Explore mangroves, ecology and history on guided tours. 14
• Beach-hop on St. Thomas: Visit Magens Bay, Sapphire Beach, Coki Beach and Secret Harbour.
• Snorkel with turtles at Maho Bay: Watch quietly and keep a safe, respectful distance.
• Dive the Frederiksted Pier: Explore one of St. Croix’s popular shore-diving areas.
• Drive St. John’s North Shore Road: Stop at overlooks, beaches and national park trailheads.
• Sail between islands: Join a day sail or charter to cays, beaches and snorkelling spots.
• Watch sunrise at Point Udall: Enjoy St. Croix’s dramatic eastern coastline.

Best Scenic Drives in the US Virgin Islands

• St. Thomas mountain viewpoints: Best for Charlotte Amalie Harbour, Magens Bay and island panoramas.
• St. John North Shore Road: Best for Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, Maho Bay, Hawksnest and national park scenery.
• St. John to Coral Bay: Best for quieter island views, hillside roads and local restaurants.
• St. Croix east-end drive: Best for Point Udall, dry coastal landscapes and sunrise views.
• St. Croix north shore route: Best for Cane Bay, beaches, dive sites and coastal restaurants.
• St. Croix west-end route: Best for Frederiksted, Rainbow Beach and sunset views.

Best Places in the US Virgin Islands for Families

• St. Thomas: Best for resorts, easy transport, family beaches, boat trips and shopping.
• Magens Bay: Best for calm water, swimming, kayaking and a relaxed beach day. 15
• Coral World Ocean Park: Best for marine life experiences and family-friendly activities on St. Thomas.
• St. John: Best for national park beaches, snorkelling and gentle scenic drives.
• Trunk Bay: Best for a memorable beach and snorkelling stop.
• St. Croix: Best for families who want more space, history, food and outdoor activities.
• Buck Island: Best for a guided boat-and-snorkel day from St. Croix. 16
• Christiansted: Best for history, colourful streets, waterfront meals and easy walking. 17

Best Places in the US Virgin Islands for Food Lovers

• St. Croix: Best for local food, farm-to-table dining, rum culture, food festivals, seafood and Crucian flavours.
• Christiansted: Best for waterfront restaurants, cafes, rum cocktails and boat-trip dining.
• Frederiksted: Best for sunset meals, casual bars and relaxed local restaurants.
• St. Thomas: Best for international dining, resort restaurants, harbour-view meals and nightlife.
• Charlotte Amalie: Best for casual lunches, shopping breaks and cruise-day dining.
• Cruz Bay, St. John: Best for beach-town restaurants, bars, casual seafood and ferry-friendly meals.
• Coral Bay, St. John: Best for relaxed local restaurants and quieter island dining.

US Virgin Islands Foods and Drinks to Try

• Fish and fungi: A traditional Virgin Islands dish often made with fish and a cornmeal-based side.
• Johnny cakes: Fried bread often served with breakfast, seafood or local meals.
• Pates: Savoury fried pastries filled with meat, saltfish, chicken or vegetables.
• Conch: Served in fritters, stews, salads or local seafood dishes.
• Saltfish: Often used in breakfast dishes, pates and traditional meals.
• Callaloo: A leafy green stew with African and Caribbean roots.
• Roti: A Caribbean favourite filled with curried meat, seafood or vegetables.
• Rum cocktails: The islands have a strong rum tradition, especially on St. Croix.
• Bush tea: A local herbal drink with island roots.
• Tamarind and guava sweets: Popular local flavours in drinks, desserts and snacks.

Best Time to Visit the US Virgin Islands

The US Virgin Islands are warm year-round, but the best time to visit depends on weather, budget, crowds and your tolerance for tropical rain. Winter and early spring are the most popular periods, while late spring and early summer can offer a good balance of warm weather and fewer peak-season crowds.

• December to April: Most popular for warm, drier weather and winter sun, but prices and crowds are often higher.
• May to June: Often a good shoulder season for beach holidays, sailing and lower crowds.
• July to November: Hotter and more humid, with higher awareness needed for tropical storms and hurricane-season conditions.
• Year-round: Beaches, snorkelling, history, food and island-hopping can be enjoyed with flexible planning.

Suggested 7-Day US Virgin Islands Itinerary

Day 1: St. Thomas and Charlotte Amalie

Start on St. Thomas. Explore Charlotte Amalie, walk the waterfront, shop along Main Street, visit historic sites and enjoy a harbour-view dinner.

Day 2: Magens Bay and St. Thomas Viewpoints

Spend the morning at Magens Bay, then visit Mountain Top or Paradise Point for island views. In the afternoon, relax at Sapphire Beach, Secret Harbour or Coki Beach.

Day 3: Ferry to St. John

Take the ferry to St. John. Explore Cruz Bay, then drive or taxi along North Shore Road to Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay and Maho Bay.

Day 4: Virgin Islands National Park

Spend a full day in Virgin Islands National Park. Choose a hike such as Reef Bay Trail or Ram Head, visit Annaberg Sugar Plantation and finish with a snorkel or sunset stop.

Day 5: Travel to St. Croix

Fly or ferry depending on available connections and schedules. Settle into Christiansted or Frederiksted and enjoy a relaxed evening meal.

Day 6: Christiansted and Buck Island

Explore Christiansted National Historic Site and Fort Christiansvaern, then take a guided boat trip to Buck Island Reef National Monument if conditions and availability suit. 18

Day 7: St. Croix Scenic Drive

Drive to Point Udall for sunrise, visit Cane Bay or Rainbow Beach, explore Frederiksted and finish with sunset on the west coast.

Longer 10-Day US Virgin Islands Itinerary

• Days 1 to 3: St. Thomas, including Charlotte Amalie, Magens Bay, Paradise Point, Coki Beach, Sapphire Beach and Water Island.
• Days 4 to 6: St. John, including Cruz Bay, Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, Maho Bay, Annaberg, Coral Bay and Virgin Islands National Park hikes.
• Days 7 to 10: St. Croix, including Christiansted, Buck Island, Frederiksted, Cane Bay, Salt River Bay, Point Udall, Sandy Point and local food stops.

Travel Tips for Visiting the US Virgin Islands

• Choose your island carefully: St. Thomas is best for convenience and resorts, St. John for nature and beaches, and St. Croix for history, food and a more spacious feel.
• Use ferries wisely: Ferries make St. Thomas and St. John easy to combine, but St. Croix usually requires more planning.
• Rent a car if exploring: A car is useful on St. John and St. Croix, but remember that traffic drives on the left.
• Book boat trips early: Buck Island, sailing trips and popular snorkelling tours can fill during busy periods.
• Protect the reef: Use reef-safe sunscreen, never stand on coral and keep distance from turtles and marine life.
• Check beach conditions: Currents, swell and visibility can change quickly, especially on exposed beaches.
• Bring cash: Cards are widely used, but cash is useful for taxis, small vendors, tips and beach services.
• Pack sun protection: The Caribbean sun is strong, especially on boats, beaches and hikes.
• Respect historic sites: Plantation ruins, forts and memorial places are part of complex Caribbean history.
• Slow down: Island time is real, and the USVI is best enjoyed with flexible plans.

Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Visit in the US Virgin Islands

The US Virgin Islands offer a beautiful mix of Caribbean beaches, historic towns, coral reefs, national parks, sailing, rum culture and relaxed island life. St. Thomas is the easiest choice for convenience and first-time visitors, St. John is ideal for national park scenery and snorkelling, and St. Croix is perfect for travellers who want history, food, diving and a deeper local feel.

For a first visit, consider Charlotte Amalie, Magens Bay, Paradise Point, Trunk Bay, Maho Bay, Virgin Islands National Park, Christiansted, Buck Island, Frederiksted and Cane Bay. With more time, add Water Island, Coral Bay, Annaberg Sugar Plantation, Reef Bay Trail, Salt River Bay, Point Udall and Sandy Point.

Whether you are planning a family beach holiday, romantic island escape, snorkelling trip, sailing adventure, historic itinerary or relaxed Caribbean road trip, the US Virgin Islands offer memorable places to visit across all three main islands.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting the US Virgin Islands

What is the prettiest place in the US Virgin Islands?

Some of the prettiest places in the US Virgin Islands include Trunk Bay, Maho Bay and Cinnamon Bay on St. John, Magens Bay and Sapphire Beach on St. Thomas, and Buck Island, Cane Bay and Sandy Point on St. Croix.

What are the US Virgin Islands best known for?

The US Virgin Islands are best known for St. Thomas, St. John, St. Croix, white-sand beaches, snorkelling, sailing, Virgin Islands National Park, Charlotte Amalie, Christiansted, Buck Island, rum, Caribbean food and turquoise water.

Which US Virgin Island is best for first-time visitors?

St. Thomas is often the easiest island for first-time visitors because it has the most direct travel connections, hotels, shopping, restaurants, tours and ferry access to St. John.

Which US Virgin Island is best for beaches?

St. John is often considered the best for natural beaches because of Virgin Islands National Park and beaches such as Trunk Bay, Maho Bay and Cinnamon Bay. St. Thomas and St. Croix also have excellent beaches.

How many days do you need in the US Virgin Islands?

Five to seven days is enough for St. Thomas and St. John. Ten days is better if you want to add St. Croix and enjoy all three main islands without rushing.

What is the best time to visit the US Virgin Islands?

December to April is the most popular period for warm, drier weather, but it is also the busiest and often most expensive. May and June can be a good shoulder season. Late summer and autumn require more awareness of storm-season conditions.

Is St. John worth visiting?

Yes, St. John is one of the best places in the US Virgin Islands for beaches, snorkelling, hiking and national park scenery. Virgin Islands National Park offers beaches, coral reefs, historic ruins and hiking trails. 19

Is St. Croix worth visiting?

Yes, St. Croix is worth visiting for Christiansted, Frederiksted, Buck Island, diving, food, rum heritage, history and a more spacious island feel. It is especially good for travellers who want more than a resort-style holiday.

Do you need a car in the US Virgin Islands?

You do not need a car if you are staying in one resort area and taking taxis or tours. A rental car is useful on St. John and St. Croix if you want to explore beaches, viewpoints, historic sites and local restaurants independently.

What should I pack for the US Virgin Islands?

Pack lightweight clothing, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, sandals, comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, a refillable water bottle and smart-casual clothes for restaurants. For snorkelling, bring reef-safe gear if you prefer your own mask and fins.