This Caribbean U.S. territory offers white- sand beaches, reefs and turquoise waters. Each of the three main islands boasts its own unique character. St. Thomas and capital city Charlotte Amalie are known for luxury shopping, nightlife, festivals and a major cruise port. Virgin Islands National Park takes up most of St. John, a nature lover’s paradise; and St. Croix offers a multicultural history in the remains of forts, sugar and cattle estates, and the charming towns of Christiansted and Frederiksted.
GETTING THERE & AROUND
Cyril E. King Airport on St. Thomas connects directly to several East Coast U.S. cities as well as locations throughout the Caribbean. St. Croix is also served by Henry E. Rohlsen Airport. Travel between islands may be accomplished via passenger ferries and a car barge between St. Thomas and St. John. Although there are no rideshare services available, taxis and car rentals are plentiful, but remember to drive on the left!
LODGING
Divi Carina Bay Beach Resort & Casino
This all-inclusive, adults-only resort features newly renovated hillside suites and beach- front rooms, plus several dining options; two pools; a fitness center; and tennis, pickleball and shuffleboard. Take advantage of the on-site water sports center or enjoy the casino and game room.
5025 Turner Hole Road, Christiansted, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
tel 340 773 9700
diviresorts.com
Gallows Point Resort
Located on its own lush 5-acre peninsula but just a five-minute walk from Cruz Bay, Gallows Point offers freshly refurbished one-bedroom oceanfront villas, concierge services, shuttle service to the ferry terminal, a fitness center and classes, free WiFi and parking. Enjoy fine dining at the on-site restaurant.
3 AAA Gallows Point Road, Cruz Bay, St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
tel 340 776 6424
gallowspointresort.com
Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove
This family-friendly property’s two- and three-bedroom villas offer all the comforts and conveniences of home along with access to an infinity pool with waterslide, fitness center, poolside dining and lots of activities for all ages. Free parking and WiFi and no resort fees add value.
7338 Estate Bakkeroe, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
tel 340 693 4800
marriott.com
DINING
13 Restaurant
Offering Southern cuisine with an island flair made from fresh ingredients sourced from local farmers, 13 serves brunch and dinner and a host of inventive craft cocktails.
5304 Yacht Haven Grande, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
tel 340 774 6800
13restaurant.com
Duggan’s Reef
This beachfront island institution, open since 1983, specializes in local seafood but offers beautifully presented diverse menu options. Choose a table on the porch to savor the sunset along with the food.
5A Teague Bay, Christiansted, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
tel 340 773 9800
duggansreefstx.com
The Lime Inn
Enjoy the fun atmosphere here alongside quality dining on Caribbean fare with a Puerto Rican twist at this family-owned restaurant and bar. The four-course dinner tasting menu includes two small plates, a “large plate” entrée and a dessert. Wine pairings also available.
Kongens Gade, Cruz Bay, St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
tel 340 776 6425
thelimeinn.com
ATTRACTIONS
Main Street, Charlotte Amalie
Known for its duty-free shopping, St. Thomas’ capital concentrates the deals on Dronningens Gade — its Main Street — with retailers selling everything from fine jewelry, watches and perfumes to designer fashion and electronics. Visit quaint shops in 18th-century buildings or visit historical attractions and enjoy a vibrant nightlife.
Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
visitstthomas.com
St. George Village Botanical Gardens
Located among the ruins of an 18th-century sugar cane plantation, the garden is home to more than 1,500 varieties of plants, with collections including palms, ferns, orchids and rare plants. Exhibits identify plants of historical importance as sources of food, medicine, fibers, dyes and building materials.
127 George Road, Frederiksted, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
tel 340 692 2874
sgvbg.org
Virgin Islands National Park
This 5,500-acre park protects two-thirds of the island’s mass and is said to have some of the most unspoiled underwater and land habitats in the Caribbean. Hike the trails to experience diverse flora and fauna, snorkel its coral reefs and crystal-clear waters, explore the ruins of a sugar mill and plantation, view ancient petroglyphs, and choose from among numerous white-sand beaches.
St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
tel 340 776 6201
nps.gov
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