Summary
Introduction
The US Virgin Islands comprise three principal islands, each offering a unique experience. These islands—St Thomas, St John, and St Croix—are distinguished destinations with an array of activities to engage visitors.
For shopping enthusiasts, the islands offer a duty-free environment for US citizens. Those seeking adventure can explore various activities such as hiking, free diving, SCUBA diving, kayaking, parasailing, or zip-lining. Individuals with an interest in history will appreciate delving into the complex legacy of the islands, having been governed under the flags of four different nations, which is reflected in the architecture, art, and culinary landscape. Furthermore, the local folklore encompassing themes of freedom, fortification, rum production, and piracy is abundant.
Whether you are desiring some relaxed leisure time—known locally as “limin'”—or seeking vibrant settings such as mountain pubs or beach bars, the USVI offers numerous spots for tranquility or lively social interaction amongst locals and visitors alike.
Common to all islands are some of the most exquisite sandy shores globally, alongside lush tropical environments, exceptional dining, and alluring turquoise waters. While sun, sand, and sea form the essential allure of many Caribbean destinations, the USVI’s cultural fabric woven from centuries of African, European, and Caribbean influences, combined with its diverse global population, renders a visit to the islands unique.
When Should I Go to the US Virgin Islands?
The US Virgin Islands enjoy a tropical climate marked by continuous sunshine throughout the year, with temperatures consistently ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s.
However, visitors should be aware of the subtle and significant seasonal variations. The trade winds are particularly noticeable from November to March, bringing in cooler breezes and stable wind patterns, thereby creating optimal sailing conditions.
These trade winds are especially vigorous from late December to January, leading locals to refer to them as the “Christmas winds.” This period essentially marks the dry season in the Caribbean, with enhanced comfort due to these winds coinciding with the four busiest travel months of the year.
Conversely, summer months typically see lighter breezes unless disrupted by a tropical disturbance. From June to November, the region enters hurricane season, which can lead to extreme weather and disruptions. Consequently, visitor numbers and cruise ship arrivals tend to decline during this period. However, for budget-minded travelers, this “off-season” presents opportunities to obtain better prices and enjoy less crowded attractions.
Additionally, consider timing your visit with carnival season—each island holds its unique annual celebration, renowned for vibrant color and cultural richness. St Croix extends the holiday spirit with its Crucian Christmas Festival, lively festivities unfold in spring for St Thomas Carnival, and the St. John Celebration takes place in summer. If participating in the festivities is a priority, advance planning is essential to navigate crowds and seasonal pricing effectively.
How Much Time Should I Spend in the US Virgin Islands?
Visitors often select one island for a week-long exploration; however, inter-island travel facilitates a broader experience across the Virgin Islands. A week split between St Thomas and St John, for example, allows for ample enjoyment facilitated by ferry services.
A week on St Croix offers an immersive experience with ample opportunity to unplug and explore. Spending ten days provides the chance to devote a week to a primary island and then take a seaplane or ferry for a few days on another island to diversify your itinerary.
Is It Easy to Get in and Around the US Virgin Islands?
Most flights arrive from the mainland United States into St Thomas or St Croix, with frequent direct flights from major cities including Atlanta, New York, Chicago, Houston, Boston, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale. This accessibility simplifies connections for international travelers. Alternatively, flights are available into San Juan, Puerto Rico, with short commuter flights to the USVI.
The islands are well served by taxis, which serve as an efficient transportation option, especially for cruise passengers. Often, taxi drivers double as informal tour guides. On St Thomas and St John, many taxis are unmetered safari-style vehicles or passenger vans, accommodating numerous passengers.
Taxis charge a per-person fare to each destination; for instance, a family of four heading to dinner might pay between US$36-48 for a round trip. In contrast, St Croix features smaller taxis and often more economical fares, with many hotels and rentals providing reliable driver contacts. Note that most taxi drivers only accept cash.
VITRAN serves as the local public transportation system, with routes covering commercial areas, although it does not encompass the entire islands. This transit option, while economical, typically lacks a strict schedule.
For extended stays on an island, renting a car is advisable as it allows for personalized itineraries and flexibility. It is important to note that in the USVI, driving occurs on the left side of the road. The winding roads in St Thomas and St John seldom see speeds exceeding 30 mph, while St Croix boasts larger expanses allowing for lengthier drives. Once accustomed to navigating the roads, it contributes to the overall adventure.
Top Things to Do in the US Virgin Islands
Duty-Free Shopping Everywhere
St Thomas is renowned as one of the top shopping locales in the Caribbean. For those in search of diamonds, luxury watches, or other jewelry, prices here are notably lower than mainland costs, devoid of sales tax.
This principle extends to various purchases, making it worthwhile to explore the shops and vendors in downtown Charlotte Amalie, Havensight Mall, Red Hook, Crown Bay Center, or Yacht Haven Grande. The duty-free allowance is established at $1600 per person, including children.
Relax on the Iconic Magens Bay Beach
While each island boasts beautiful beaches, the sandy stretch at Magens Bay stands out as the most celebrated among them—its beauty is remarkable, and the typically calm waters enhance its appeal. Visitors can enjoy myriad activities beyond swimming and sunbathing, including hiking on nature trails, kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling.
Magens Bay offers outstanding amenities, potentially the best of any beach on St Thomas, which include water sports, a beach bar, and food concessions.
Indulge in Local Cuisine
The culinary offerings within the USVI reflect the region’s cultural diversity, featuring dishes from local kallaloo to authentic Italian cuisine, alongside fresh local seafood, fungi, burgers, and wings. On St Thomas, many restaurants can be found in Red Hook, Frenchtown, Havensight, or Downtown, with top eateries also located within local resorts.
Numerous dining establishments line Cruz Bay near the ferry terminal on St John, while Coral Bay presents excellent options worth the drive. St Croix features a vibrant dining scene in Christiansted and Frederiksted along with various locales in between.
Appreciate the Natural Beauty
The stunning landscapes and vistas draw countless visitors to the USVI, with each island offering a range of remarkable hiking trails. Popular choices on St Thomas include Magens Bay Park (if you can resist the allure of the beach). On St Croix, you can explore Buck Island nearby or trek the Jack and Isaac Bay Preserve Trail, while St John features Virgin Islands National Park with scenic hikes along the coast and into secluded coves.
For professional guidance, Virgin Islands Ecotours presents excellent options. You can observe wildlife while paddling through St Thomas’ Mangrove Lagoon or discover a unique geological blowhole and snorkel in a coral-fringed mangrove nursery along the coast of St John. VI Ecotours also provides the rental of watersports equipment on a daily or weekly basis, with delivery available to your accommodations.
Dive into the Waters at Coral World
Coral World remains one of the most distinguished and popular attractions on St Thomas, largely due to its engaging approach to Caribbean marine life. Visitors can observe the coral reef without getting wet in the Undersea Observatory.
For those eager to interact more closely, the Sea Trek offers a guided helmet dive along an underwater trail, allowing participants to breathe through the helmet.
Look out for stingrays, rainbow lorikeets, and enjoy the playful antics of South American sea lions and bottlenose dolphins in their aquatic environment.
Take in the View from Drake’s Seat
Drake’s Seat ranks among the finest viewpoints in St Thomas, providing expansive vistas of Magens Bay along with the US and British Virgin Islands extending to the east.
This location is frequently included in island tours and stands as a convenient stop on the way to Magens Bay, potentially resulting in crowds. Visiting later in the afternoon offers particularly captivating lighting. Legend suggests that British privateer Sir Francis Drake utilized this vantage point to survey for enemy vessels.
Discover the Islands’ Rich History
The trio of islands provides a captivating experience for history enthusiasts. Over the years, the flags of colonial powers Spain, England, France, and Denmark have all flown over this territory. Additionally, Indigenous carvings and remains suggest a settlement in the islands as far back as 1000 BCE.
On St Croix, the historic town of Christiansted features 18th-century buildings adorned with red roofs and charming cobblestone streets. Its counterpart, Frederiksted, is home to a fort that once provided protection against pirates and rival nations.
Located at the island’s eastern tip, Point Udall, features a sundial monument marking the easternmost point within US territory.
Charlotte Amalie, the capital of the USVI, is rich in historical attributes, with the St Thomas Historical Trust providing valuable resources and walking tours.
The Annaberg Sugar Mill Ruins located on St John are a poignant reminder of the transatlantic slave trade that financed colonial governance of the islands; visitors can embark on a self-guided walking tour that also features frequent cultural demonstrations.
The islands are rich in pirate lore, both factual and embellished, which adds a colorful layer to their history.
How Much Money Do I Need for the US Virgin Islands?
The US Virgin Islands represent excellent value within the Caribbean, accommodating a range of budgets from economical to luxury options. Travelers can find accommodations ranging from budget-friendly establishments to all-inclusive resorts and luxury villas.
However, it is worth noting that since most products are transported by boat or plane, prices are generally higher than in the mainland USA.
The currency utilized is the US Dollar, and major credit cards are accepted at most locations. It’s advisable to confirm payment methods before purchasing or ordering food. ATMs can be accessed at banks and other commercial locations, notably near cruise ship docks. The absence of sales tax also enhances financial efficiency.
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Airfare: $300-1000
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Hotel rooms: $200-800 during peak season; off-season rates range from $179-580.
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Private rental (including Airbnb): Availability of condos starting at $150 per night to luxury cliffside villas costing thousands.
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Coffee: $4
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Sandwich: $13
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Dinner for two: $75-$200
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Beer/pint at the bar: $4
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Famous Painkiller cocktail: $12
Frequently Asked Questions
What Language is Spoken on the USVI?
The Virgin Islands officially use English, but you may encounter various West Indian dialects, primarily based on English. Initiating conversations with greetings such as Good Morning, Good Day, or Good Night often leads to prompt and friendly service.
Does US Mail Cover the USVI?
The US Virgin Islands utilize the same postal system and rates as mainland USA, facilitating straightforward mailing of locally acquired souvenirs back to the States.
What’s the Dress Code?
While the USVI is known for its beaches, it is essential to dress appropriately in towns. Wearing swimming attire elsewhere can offend local residents; therefore, modest attire should be worn in public spaces beyond the beach.
Can I Use My US Phone There?
The US Virgin Islands operate under the area code 340, with most major US wireless providers offering domestic cell service. Be mindful that excursions into the British Virgin Islands may incur roaming charges depending on your carrier.
What Kind of Wildlife is Found on the Islands?
The Virgin Islands are free of dangerous snakes, but caution should be exercised regarding local invertebrates. Non-poisonous stings can occur from wasps, centipedes, and scorpions. Green iguanas are commonly found near water, and St John also boasts sightings of mongooses and wild donkeys.
Do US Citizens Need to Go Through Border Control?
The US Virgin Islands have unique security measures in place. Passengers traveling from the USVI to the mainland US and Puerto Rico must undergo clearance by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for admissibility into the United States. Each individual must complete the CBP Declaration Form 6059B.
It is necessary to present your boarding pass and a valid federal or state-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or a passport matching the name on your boarding pass. These items should be shown twice—first to CBP and then again at TSA security.
This article was originally published on December 19, 2014, and was updated on October 29, 2024.
