US Virgin Islands Vacation Ideas: Top Ten things to do while in the
Virgin Islands
1. Go sailing!
Sailors all over the world regard the Virgin Islands as some of the best sailing on the planet.
Consistent trade winds, short hops between islands,
and gorgeous scenery are what make our islands a sailor’s paradise. There is no
shortage of sailboats that can take you out for a day or a week.
the Virgin Islands as some of the
best sailing on the planet. Consistent trade winds, short hops between islands,
and gorgeous scenery are what make our islands a sailor’s paradise. There is no
shortage of sailboats that can take you out for a day or a week.
2. Go snorkel or dive!
The Virgin Islands have some great
reefs to explore. While many resorts and public beaches have impressive
snorkeling, most sailing charter boats also stop for a snorkel and provide
masks and fins free of charge. There, you can find quieter, more secluded spots
where you are apt to find a greater variety of sea life such as turtles, rays,
and sea stars. Diving is mostly accomplished via dedicated dive power boats.
3. Go to another island!
If staying in St. Thomas, go to
St. John or Water Island for the day. It’s a quick ferry ride each way. When in
St. Croix, check out Buck Island. Many sailboat charters can take you to lesser
known cays where the snorkeling and views are outstanding. If you’re more
adventurous, take a slightly longer ferry ride or rent a power boat to bounce
around the British Virgin Islands (Don’t forget your passport!).
4. Explore nature!
Did you know there are salt ponds
and a natural arboretum in St. Thomas? Did you know you can hike through the
woods to several different incredible beaches right from Cruz Bay in St. John?
Renting a kayak or stand up paddle board are fun ways to slowly explore local
waters up close. Ask around St. Thomas and St. Croix for tips on checking out
the (sort of) rain forests we have. St. John is known for its fantastic hiking
in the National Parks, and the eco camping grounds there offer a fun
alternative to resort vacationing. While you’re at it, keep an eye out for
iguanas, geckos, mongoose, hummingbirds, agave, frangipani caterpillars,
turtles, and so much more.
5. Eat local food!
Um, be careful about fish you see
on the side of the road (that’s a blog unto itself), but by all means order a
nice Mahi Mahi dinner topped with mango salsa and served with a side of rice
and peas or fungi. Do stop on the road when you see a Rasta with a cutlass and
pile of green coconuts so he can set you up with some refreshing coconut water.
Farmers markets are on the rise, so ask around to see when the next one is. The
VIs are not necessarily known for our plethora of fresh fruits like Jamaica,
Trinidad, or Dominica are, but it is possible to find local vegetables on
roadside stands and in some of the larger markets (think pumpkins and
yams). And don’t be afraid of the local
food trucks. They might not all look as pretty as a big city mainland cupcake
truck, but you might find some yummy ital food for a tasty, healthy meal.
6. Sit on the beach!
I didn’t really need to tell you
this, but it’s always a good idea to find some quiet time while on vacation
where you aren’t hustling about. Relax, look at the boats, do some yoga poses,
take a walk, you know the drill. 4:30-6pm is my favorite time to put my feet in
the sand and reflect on the beauty around me.
7. Go hear music!
There is some very good music to
be found in the Virgin Islands. Steel pan is popular, as are soca and reggae,
and it is possible to find local Caribbean music live if you time things just
right (Carnivals provide obvious opportunities). Additionally, there is
original rock, jazz, and other mainstream bands playing in several locations on
any given night. Just ask the coolest looking waiter, hotel clerk, or dive shop
employee you are talking with for advice.
8. Rent a jeep (or a golf cart if you’re
on Water Island)!
Gas isn’t cheap, but neither are
taxis. Each of the 4 US Virgin Islands have unique attractions and
personalities depending on which end of the island you are on. With your own
vehicle, you can check out a couple different beaches in the same day, try new
restaurants, or find a local bar to hang in off the beaten path. Remember to
keep left!
9. Go shop!
There are quasi-local markets in
the bigger town areas where you can purchase sarongs and t-shirts proudly made
in China, but the real quality bargains can be had if you’re in the market for
jewelry, electronics such as cameras, and of course alcohol. It’s a tax and
duty-free zone. Charlotte Amalie and Christiansted are best for higher-end
items, while random grocery stores usually offer some of the best deals on
liquor, wine, and beer. One of the most memorable and useful gifts I ever
received is a set of three nesting baskets made from a local homeless man who
has sat on the street for years weaving palm leaves into hats, baskets, and
just about anything you can think of. My commissioned baskets were strung
together and still hang from the ceiling, filled with delicious fruit. Look for
this quiet weaver near the St. Thomas and St. John ferry terminals.
10. Have an adventure!
Want to parasail? Go ahead. Zip
lines your style? We’ve got that, too. Want to try kite boarding or surfing?
Sure thing, go for it! While you’re at it, rent a Hobie Cat and be your own
captain. Hey, maybe renting a jeep and driving on the left is adventurous
enough for you, and that’s OK. Whether playing or observing, there certainly is
no shortage of good times to be had.
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