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About this guide
Set in the turquoise waters of the northeastern Caribbean, the U.S. Virgin Islands offer a dreamy blend of natural beauty, layered history, and island culture. The three main islands include St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas, and each brings its own rhythm. Travelers can snorkel among colorful coral reefs, hike through lush national parks, or step into the past at historic landmarks like Fort Christian and Estate Whim Plantation Museum. African and Caribbean cultural influences, shaped by the islands’ history of slavery and emancipation, add depth to the destination’s music, cuisine, and traditions. Whether sailing crystal-clear waters or exploring local markets and festivals, visitors will discover an island escape rich in culture, flavor, and adventure.
- Best time to travel: December to April (peak season), March to July (shoulder season), August to November (off-season)
- Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (AST)
- Currency: USD ($)
- Language: English, Spanish, and French Creole
- Noteworthy: St. Thomas International Regatta (March), St. Thomas Carnival (April), Taste of St. Croix (June), Crucian Christmas Festival (December)
- Best For: Island Getaway, Food and Wine Tours, Outdoor Adventures, Family-Friendly Vacation
Parlé: Key Phrases
- Good mawnin’ — Local greeting meaning “good morning”
- Wha’ you sayin’? — Friendly way to ask “How are you?”
- Soon come — It’ll happen soon; a relaxed island sense of timing
- Limin’ — Hanging out, relaxing, or socializing with friends
- Mash up — Broken, damaged, or very tired
- Respect— A warm way to say thanks or show appreciation
Get Away: Getting To and Around The U.S. Virgin Islands
By Air
Most travelers visit the tropical territory of the U.S. Virgin Islands through the Cyril E. King International Airport on the island of St. Thomas. It’s just two miles from the capital city of downtown Charlotte Amalie. After arriving, visitors can travel around the islands by ferry or small plane. Small planes and helicopters are available to travel between islands but can be more expensive and less available than ferries.
By Car
There are several car rental companies located at the airports in St. Thomas and St. Croix. It is important to note that people drive on the left side of the road in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Though it is a U.S. territory, it follows British driving rules.
Public Transit
There are public transit options available in St. Thomas like the VITRAN bus system that provide services to popular destinations, such as Charlotte Amalie and Magens Bay. St. Croix has the Virgin Islands Public Transit System that operates several bus routes to different areas of the island, including Frederiksted and Christiansted. The ferries operate between the islands of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix and are a convenient and affordable way to get around.
Explore The U.S. Virgin Islands On Foot
Exploring any island on foot requires careful planning for safety in understanding the terrain. The U.S. Virgin Islands have a lot of beautiful trails to hike and spots with scenic views. Wear comfortable walking shoes for the many guided tours about the history, culture, and locals. It's a good idea to choose a central location to stay and map out an itinerary for shopping, dining, and other activities.
Quick facts
Good For
Island Getaway
Food and Wine Tours
Outdoor Adventures
Family-Friendly Vacation
Keep in mind
- St. Thomas International Regatta (March)
- St. Thomas Carnival (April)
- Taste of St. Croix (June)
- Crucian Christmas Festival (December)
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places To Eat In The U.S. Virgin Islands
The Caribbean-style barbecue menu at La Reine Chicken Shack features island staples like stew oxtail, conch fritters, and kingfish. The delicious vegetable sides include mashed cassava root, and sweet (Maduro) and toasted (tostones) plantains.
Offering classic breakfast, lunch, drinks, cantina, and fusion specials, The Bistro VI is a charming restaurant. There’s outdoor seating, indoor air-conditioned dining, and quick carry-out services.
Executive Chef David Benjamin leads Blue Eleven, which offers multi-course tasting menus that are well-known around the island. The island-inspired dishes include butter-poached halibut with passionfruit butter and braised Wagyu short ribs with sweet potato puree.
Nestled in the Yacht Haven Grande marina area, Twist 3440 has stunning ocean views with cozy indoor and spacious outdoor seating for a chill ambiance. Their unique approach to traditional island favorites on the brunch, lunch, and dinner menus adds a twist of Caribbean and tapas-style recipes.
Led by Executive Chef Faheem Maolud, the upscale oceanfront AMA at Cane Bay commits to sustainable locally sourced seafood dishes. The menu includes artisanal cheese boards, slow-roasted pork belly and spiced prawns, and Cruzan Rum chocolate chip bread pudding.
Led by Chef Alexandra Ewald for over 20 years, La Tapa Plage offers Spanish flavors with a contemporary Mediterranean twist. This elegant beachside restaurant in Cruz Bay serves seasonal dishes like sautéed Portuguese octopus and signature paella.
Play
Play: Things To Do In The U.S. Virgin Islands
Experience authentic St. Croix cuisine from multiple locally owned restaurants for the price of one. Guests try local favorites on the Virgin Island Food Tours as they are guided through Downtown Christiansted. St. Croix's diverse history dates back to the early 1400s with customs rooted in sustainability and agriculture.
With the Tan Tan Tours, visitors get a day of off-roading fun and Instagrammable vacation photos rolled into one on colorful Jeeps. This individual or group island tour goes from East to the West End to the Annaly Bay Tide Pool.
Guests explore Turtle Cove on this beautiful St. Thomas cruise from Buck Island on this Half-Day Sail And Snorkel Trip with an onboard bar and gear included. Guests see beautiful sea turtles in their natural habitat at the breathtaking National Wildlife Marine Refuge.
The two-hour Cocktail Sunset Cruise has breathtaking views of St. Thomas with cocktails and delicious appetizers on the boat deck. The professional tour guide shares the island's rich history as the sun sets on the stunning island backdrop.
Indulge in the Black woman-owned and operated Tropical Bliss Spa and Beauty Bar for affordable spa and natural skincare services. End this island getaway with a range of luxury services, such as deep cleansing facials, soothing saunas, and relaxing massages.
The Parasailing Experience in St. Thomas takes people of all skill levels sailing above the Caribbean Sea. After a safety briefing from the instructor, visitors can enjoy a refreshing dip at the easily accessible Sapphire Beach Marina.
For an extraordinary journey through lush wildlife, navigating rocky terrain, scenic trails, and awe-inspiring views, this Key N Go Two-Hour UTV/ ATV Adventure is perfect. Expert guides deliver the ultimate ride, making this premier St. Thomas tour a thrilling experience with great photo opportunities.
Book a day at the Tree Limin' Extreme Zipline to soar through the Caribbean rainforest at speeds up to 35 mph with stunning ocean views from eight different platforms. This unforgettable excursion includes entertaining guides to show you the unique Yo-Yo zipline and fascinating history of the Virgin Islands' culture, flora, and fauna.
