U.S. Virgin Islands Travel Guide

Prepare to be charmed on a vacation to the U.S. Virgin Islands. Located between the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, over 2 million vacationers flock here each year for the white sandy beaches and quaint architecture. No passport is required for visitors coming from the States, and English is the official language. Although most visit one of the three main islands of St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas, there are dozens of smaller islands just waiting to be explored.

Best Time to Visit

The U.S. Virgin Islands boasts balmy tropical weather. Trade winds from the east keep humidity low, and seasonal temperatures vary little. The average winter temperature is 77 degrees, while in summer average temperatures reach 82 degrees. The Caribbean currents keep the water warm, making this a haven for travelers who love to play in the ocean. Peak tourist season runs from December to May, but it is cheapest to visit outside this time period. Expect short bursts of rain if you plan to visit between May and November. If you’re interested in scuba diving or snorkeling, the clearest water can be found in April and August. Do note that the U.S. Virgin Islands can be hit by hurricanes, so check the weather before you depart, especially if you want to visit between August and November.

Airports and Transportation

The U.S. Virgin Islands offers travelers the choice of two major airports - Henry E. Rohlsen International (STX) in St. Croix and Cyril E. King International (STT) serving St. Thomas and St. John. Cheap flights to the U.S. Virgin Islands (into St. Croix) can be found for as low as $667 from LAX, $649 from SFO, $521 from ORD, and $486 from JFK. If you prefer to fly into Cyril E. King in St. Thomas, discount airfare to the U.S. Virgin Islands via that route can be found for as low as $471 from LAX, $659 from SFO, $423 from ORD, and $471 from JFK.

Most travelers opt to rent a car while in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and rental rates are comparable to those on the U.S. Mainland. Consider booking in advance as rates are generally lower. Use caution – you’ll be driving on the left while most of the cars have been imported from the United States and have left hand drive. This tends to be confusing for visiting drivers and is responsible for the high accident rate.

If you want to island hop, ferries run between St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas, and can even take you to the British Virgin Islands.

Where to Stay

A variety of lodging options can be found on a U.S. Virgin Islands vacation. This vacation paradise offers hotels, resorts, villas, condos and even camping. If you’re looking to be pampered, look no further than The Palms at Pelican Cove in Christiansted, St. Croix. This award-winning small hotel takes great pride in its excellent service. The family atmosphere and 40 beachfront rooms will make you want to come back year after year. If looking for a secluded beach with great snorkeling, stay at the Secret Harbour Beach Resort on St. Thomas. For an intimate bed and breakfast, consider the Estate Lindholm on St. John.

What to Do

While fun in the sun is endless on the U.S Virgin Islands, you’ll want to take time to enjoy the duty-free shopping and local cuisine. For unique and beautiful souvenirs, visit the D & D Studio Fine Art Gallery on St. Croix. Here you’ll view some of the finest photography in the Caribbean. While on St. Thomas, sample the delights at Hook, Line and Sinker Bar and Restaurant. Rum Runners in Christiansted on St. Croix offers festive Caribbean dining at its best.