Top 15 Attractions in the US Virgin Islands You Must Experience

A collection of stunning tropical islands located between Puerto Rico and the British Virgin Islands, the US Virgin Islands have long been renowned for their pristine white beaches and lush inland hills adorned with rainforests, cacti groves, and banyan trees.

This small territory of the United States is situated in the heart of the Caribbean and is much more than a typical honeymoon destination.

It possesses a rich and captivating history, filled with tales of British colonists, Dutch sugarcane magnates, European conflicts, and possibly the most intriguing of all—pirates.

Indeed, Blackbeard himself is believed to have traversed these waters, with historical castles and plantations still standing on the hillsides, complete with remnants of slave quarters, cannon installations, and more.

Visitors who arrive here (and there are many) can expect a blend of beach relaxation and activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and turtle watching, all accompanied by a generous serving of local rum.

Let us delve into the top activities to enjoy in the US Virgin Islands:

1. Shiver me’ timbers at Blackbeard’s Castle

It may come as a surprise that the tower named Blackbeard’s Castle might not have been utilized by the notorious pirate himself.

The name originates from local lore suggesting that the infamous outlaw once anchored in Charlotte Amalie and employed the dilapidated Danish watchtower as a vantage point to observe potential targets for plunder out at sea!

Regardless of the truth behind the tale, this historic structure on the slopes of upper St. John provides an excellent outing in the USVI, featuring regular tours of the adjacent Skytsborg Historic Park, related exhibitions on piracy in the Caribbean, and even a poolside bar for guests.

2. Walk through history on Hassel Island

A small landmass located at the harbor entrance of St. Thomas, Hassel Island is one of the most historically significant locations in the entire US Virgin Islands.

Initially fortified by the Danish rulers of Charlotte Amalie, who constructed small towers to secure the flow of vessels entering and exiting the port, it was later used by the British who erected Fort Willoughby in the 1800s to protect against French adversaries, and subsequently, it was utilized by American forces during the World Wars.

Today, guests can take a boat from the capital and explore the remnants of old garrison houses and defense structures, immersing themselves in the rich military heritage that defines the USVI.

3. Wake up on the edge of Cinnamon Bay

One of the few idyllic Caribbean beaches offering camping facilities, Cinnamon Bay epitomizes the tropical shoreline typical of the stunning Virgin Islands National Park.

Lauded as the crown jewel of St. John, it features soft, white sands sloping down to a virtually undisturbed landscape of rainforest-covered mountains, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant flora including mangroves and orchids.

Visitors may choose to pitch their tents amidst the palm trees or close to the shoreline, while others might prefer one of the simple beach cottages, featuring terraces graced by trade winds mere meters from the surf!

4. Go wild at the Coral World Ocean Park

Brimming with rare sea turtles, sea lions, coral species in a vibrant array of colors, and lively hermit crabs, the Coral World Ocean Park is located on the headlands that extend toward Thatch Cay from St. Thomas’s eastern shores.

Notable attractions at the park include Stingray Lagoon and Shark Shallows, which provide visitors with a close encounter with two of the Caribbean’s most fascinating marine creatures.

The outdoor pools are continually refreshed with ocean water, bestowing the facility with a more natural ambiance compared to other aquariums worldwide.

5. Go underwater at the Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge

Possibly the most exceptional location for snorkeling or SCUBA diving in the entire US Virgin Islands archipelago, Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge is home to both the critically endangered hawksbill turtle and the equally rare leatherback turtle.

That’s not all.

The refuge also features coral-encrusted shipwrecks and a diverse array of migratory bird species, along with stunning coral gardens that captivate the eyes.

Located south of St. John, the boomerang-shaped refuge can be easily reached via packages departing from Charlotte Amalie.

6. Laze around on Trunk Bay

Awarded titles by the National Geographic Society for Best Beach and accolades from Condé Nast for its picturesque qualities, Trunk Bay’s recognition has been well-earned over the years.

The stretch of cotton-white sand, previously owned by a notable Rockefeller, meanders along the verdant hills of St. John, establishing itself as one of the true gems of the Virgin Islands National Park.

It is bordered by the remnants of a historic plantation and surrounded by rugged islands, making it an ideal location for snorkeling in the shallow waters!

7. Understand the sugar legacy at the Estate Whim Plantation Museum

Spanning 12 acres on the largest and southernmost of the USVIs—St. Croix—this historic plantation provides travelers with insight into the sugarcane industry that once flourished throughout the Caribbean.

Constructed in the 1700s by the Dutch West India Company, the Estate Whim Plantation was the largest of its kind in the archipelago.

After centuries of neglect, the US government acquired and restored it to reflect its former glory, with original stone walls and manicured gardens.

Today, visitors can explore the historical slave quarters, the elegant Great House at the plantation’s center, and tour the factory remains as well.

8. Taste the tipples of the Cruzan Rum Distillery

For those desiring to sample the Caribbean’s most celebrated alcoholic export, a visit to St. Croix to the hospitable Cruzan Rum Distillery is highly recommended.

Touring the facility allows individuals to delve into the rich history of rum production on the islands, where they can wander through the brewing and distilling areas, surrounded by towering stacks of charred wooden barrels.

The delightful aroma of boiling sugarcane fills the air, and the tour concludes with tastings of several Cruzan flavors, ranging from zesty lemon and lime rum to luscious banana-infused varieties.

9. Shop around Vendors Plaza

As the name suggests, Vendors Plaza is the primary destination for classic island souvenir shopping on St. Thomas.

Each day, it comes alive with local market vendors offering everything from handcrafted shell jewelry and leather bags to playful reggae-themed t-shirts and novelty island hats (consider acquiring a pirate hat if you wish to embrace the Blackbeard atmosphere!).

Additionally, food is also plentiful here, with several stalls offering regional specialties such as saltfish dishes and okra cornmeal creations, alongside a few spots to enjoy ice cream and cool off under the sun!

10. Have a round at the Mahogany Run Golf Course

Established in the 1980s by esteemed course designers George and Tom Fazio, Mahogany Run is the premier location for golfing in the United States Virgin Islands.

Nestled on the verdant hills of the northern edge of St. John Island, it is adjacent to cliffs offering spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea.

This elevated landscape provides stunning vistas while diverse wildlife such as pelicans and mongooses, kestrels, and iguanas roam the course.

On-site, there are two venues for refreshments: the relaxed Coconuts Snack Shack for casual drinks in the ocean breeze, and The Grille, which serves an exquisite selection of steaks and Caribbean seafood.

11. Tour the red walls of Fort Frederik

Exuding a striking blood-red hue just meters from the shore on St. Croix, this impressive fortress complex stands as one of the most notable reminders of Danish and Norwegian influence in the United States Virgin Islands.

Recognized as a National Landmark, the fortifications here were constructed to reinforce Scandinavian authority in the archipelago and later played a significant role in repelling marauding pirate forces in the Caribbean Sea.

Key points of interest include the formidable cannons in the Cannon Battery, the vibrant Commanders Quarters, and beautifully landscaped palm-lined gardens.

12. Enjoy the views from Drake’s Seat

Perched above the tranquil waters of Magen’s Bay, where the lush vegetation of St. Thomas Island culminates at a cliffside lookout, guests can find a simple green chair to sit and enjoy perhaps the most breathtaking vistas in the entire USVI. This spot, known as Drake’s Seat, is named in honor of the English naval commander Francis Drake, who is believed to have anchored in the waters below.

The panoramic views extend across the green hills of St. Thomas, leading to Thatch Cay rising from the sea, with wild St. John visible on the horizon.

It is indeed a stunning sight!

13. Get a taste of the rainforest at the St. George Village Botanical Garden

Amidst the swaying tamarind and fig trees, jungle vines, and the lustrous blooms of orchids that adorn the paths of the St. George Village Botanical Garden on St. Croix, there exist countless opportunities to appreciate the wild essence of the USVI. The grounds feature thousands of distinct plant species, highlighting the diverse climatic zones and habitats of the islands, including everything from blooming ferns to spiny cacti and aloe plants.

14. Explore the Carambola Tide Pools

Situated away from the more frequented coastal areas of St. Croix, the Carambola Tide Pools are accessible only through a challenging hike over rugged rocks and cliffs to the north of Annaly.

Due to the demanding terrain, first-time visitors are advised to hire a guide for the trek.

The destination features a series of coastal pools, carved out of the rocks and composed of fascinating plunge pools and unique rock formations.

Intrepid explorers can often be observed enjoying a swim in the pools, reveling in the salt spray as waves cascade over the cliffs and into the protected lagoons.

15. Kick-back at Dinghy’s Beach Bar and Grill

Positioned beside the picturesque Honeymoon Beach on St. John, Dinghy’s Beach Bar and Grill serves as the ideal location to unwind with a cocktail and enjoy a sunset following a relaxing day on the sands of the Virgin Islands National Park.

Laid-back and casual, the establishment is represented by a small beach cart painted in vibrant Caribbean hues of turquoise and blue.

The menu features classic offerings of jerk chicken and freshly prepared fish dishes, along with hammocks for leisure and ample shaded areas to relish in the atmosphere.