Things To Do
in U.S. Virgin Islands
The U.S. Virgin Islands comprise three main islands in the Caribbean: St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, each offering pristine beaches and crystalline waters. The islands blend native Caribbean culture with Danish colonial history to create a unique cultural tapestry. Visitors are drawn to world class snorkeling, lush national parks, and vibrant port towns with Danish architecture.
With tropical weather year round and a laid back pace, the USVI makes for a memorable island escape.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Cyril E. King Airport and take in the breathtaking views of the turquoise waters as you make your way to your resort. After checking in, enjoy a leisurely breakfast overlooking the harbor. Spend some time settling in and unwinding before embarking on your island adventure.
Explore the vibrant Charlotte Amalie, the capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Visit the local shops, art galleries, and sample flavors at cafés offering local cuisine. Don’t forget to visit the famous Blackbeard's Castle for a glimpse into the island's storied past.
Dine at a seaside restaurant with incredible views of the sunset over the water. Sample Caribbean dishes and enjoy some live music as you absorb the island’s lively atmosphere. Cap off the night with a stroll along the harbor, feeling the gentle sea breeze.
Start your day with breakfast at the resort before heading to Magens Bay, one of the world's most beautiful beaches. Settle onto the soft white sand and take a refreshing swim in the calm waters. For those feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the bay.
Relax under the palm trees with a good book or enjoy a beachside lunch featuring fresh seafood. Engage in volleyball games or simply soak up the sun on the idyllic beach. Capture the mesmerizing views of the surrounding greenery and blue waters.
Return to your resort to freshen up and prepare for a fun night. Head to a beach bar for cocktails and a taste of local nightlife. Join in the celebrations of rum and reggae under the stars as you dance your evening away.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| ☕Cappuccino | $3-5 |
| 🚖Short taxi ride | $5-15 |
| 🏨One-night stay mid-range hotel | $180-300 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and clear waters ideal for snorkeling and sailing
- Rich cultural blend with historic towns and Danish architecture
- High-quality seafood and a relaxed island atmosphere
- Parks and protected reefs offer excellent nature experiences
- Prices can be high in peak season and around cruise ship port areas
- Limited public transportation and reliance on taxis or rental cars
- Weather can be unpredictable during hurricane season
- Some remote beaches have limited facilities
- "Hello" - Hello
- "Please" - Please
- "Thank you" - Thank you
- "Do you speak English?" - Do you speak English?
- "How much does this cost?" - How much does this cost?
- "Where is the bathroom?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in U.S. Virgin Islands
Visit one of these nice places.
Long crescent beach with turquoise water and soft white sand, ideal for wide-angle ocean photography and sunrise shots.
Colorful colonial architecture and harbor views provide vibrant street and portrait photography opportunities.
World famous for pristine snorkeling and an iconic underwater photo trail; great for vibrant water color shots.
Historic sugar plantation ruins with scenic hillsides and colonial stone architecture.
Dramatic sea cliffs and sweeping sunsets perfect for landscape photography.
Food in U.S. Virgin Islands
U.S. Virgin Islands Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A warming greens dish often made with leafy greens, coconut milk, and spices, commonly served with rice or fried dumplings.
Must-Try!
A staple dish featuring coconut-infused rice cooked with pigeon peas and savory seasonings.
Golden fried conch fritters served with a tangy dipping sauce, a popular beachside street treat.
A cornmeal-based accompaniment often enjoyed with stews or pepperpot, reflecting Caribbean culinary traditions.
flavorful goat dishes influenced by Caribbean spice traditions, commonly found in local eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market district in downtown Charlotte Amalie with fresh produce, spices, and local snacks. Look for conch fritters and ready-to-eat treats from street vendors.
Casual stalls and food trucks offering seafood bites and tropical drinks with harbor views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite formal greetings and please/thank you are appreciated. Be respectful in religious sites and dress modestly when visiting churches or local neighborhoods.
Tipping is customary in service contexts; carrying small bills for quick tips is convenient.
Ask permission before photographing people or private properties; be mindful of local culture during sacred or residential visits.
Safety
Tipping in U.S. Virgin Islands
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15–20% is standard for good service. Bellhops, tour guides, and taxi drivers typically receive small tips, around $1–$5 per service depending on the effort and duration.
US dollars are the official currency and widely accepted. Credit and debit cards are commonly accepted in restaurants, shops, and hotels; ATMs are available in towns. Some small vendors and remote beaches may be cash only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm and sunny weather with lower humidity and calmer seas; peak tourist season. Ideal for outdoor activities, sailing, and island hopping, but expect higher prices and more crowds.
Higher humidity and frequent brief afternoon showers; sea temperatures remain warm. Fewer crowds means quieter beaches, but plan around possible tropical showers.
Increased risk of tropical storms and hurricanes; monitor forecasts and have a plan. Insurance and flexible itineraries are wise during this period.
Late spring (April–May) and late fall (October–November) offer lower crowds and good weather, with room for better rates and more relaxed experiences.
U.S. Virgin Islands at Night
Hiking in U.S. Virgin Islands
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged rainforest hike with petroglyphs and waterfall options; part of Virgin Islands National Park.
Coastal overlook route with dramatic sea views and dramatic sunsets.
Forest and ridge trail offering panoramic island views from the highest point on St. John.
Airports
How to reach U.S. Virgin Islands by plane.
Located on St. Thomas, this is the main gateway for international and domestic flights into the USVI.
Located on St. Croix, this airport provides additional inter-island and U.S. mainland connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A diverse mix of Afro-Caribbean heritage with strong African, European, and Caribbean influences; English is the official language.
Visitors from the mainland U.S. and around the world, drawn to beaches, snorkeling, and cultural experiences.
Communities with deep roots in fishing, tourism, and agriculture, contributing to a vibrant cultural scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A favorite pastime and industry in the USVI, with numerous charter operators and regattas throughout the year.
Crystal-clear waters and vibrant reefs make underwater exploration a staple activity.
Sport fishing for local and migratory species is popular in deeper waters around the islands.
Casual beach games are common on popular beaches, especially on busy weekends.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Seek out dishes with plantains, rice and beans, callaloo, and fresh fruit. Ask for vegetable sides and avoid heavily fish sauce or meat stock; many restaurants can accommodate vegetarian requests with advanced notice.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting U.S. Virgin Islands.