Things to Do in USVI

From sun-soaked beaches and kaleidoscopic snorkeling spots to historical sites and hidden-gem markets, the U.S. Virgin Islands offer something for every traveler. St. Thomas is known for its shopping, nightlife and watersports, while St. John offers miles of protected national parkland and secluded beaches. St. Croix blends rich history with thriving food and art scenes. Here are some of the best things to do in the USVI for every type of traveler.

Outdoor Adventures

Whether you’re trekking along a tropical trail, kayaking through glowing waters or setting off on a boat trip to a remote cay, there are countless outdoor adventures in USVI. Hiking on St. John reveals towering kapok trees, ancient petroglyphs and waterfalls. At night, St. Croix’s bioluminescent bay shimmers as tiny organisms light up the water. St. Thomas and St. Croix offer some of the best sportfishing in the Caribbean, with charters chasing mahi-mahi, wahoo and marlin.

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Cultural & Historical Attractions

The U.S. Virgin Islands has a rich history shaped by African, Danish and Caribbean influences. In St. Thomas, Charlotte Amalie is home to Fort Christian and 99 Steps, built by the Danes in the 1700s. St. Croix’s Christiansted features colonial architecture and Fort Christiansvaern. On St. John, the Annaberg Sugar Mill ruins offer a glimpse into the island’s sugar industry past.

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USVI Beaches

Magens Bay in St. Thomas is a mile-long stretch of soft, white sand and calm, turquoise water, perfect for swimming and paddleboarding. The surrounding green hills block the wind, so the waves stay gentle throughout the day. Trunk Bay on St. John has a marked underwater trail winding through coral reefs teeming with angelfish, parrotfish and sea fans. Sandy Point on St. Croix is one of the longest and most untouched beaches in the U.S. Virgin Islands. When open, it offers a quiet escape with nothing but the sound of lapping waves and seabirds overhead.

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Snorkeling & Diving

Warm, clear waters and thriving coral reefs make the U.S. Virgin Islands one of the best places for snorkeling and scuba diving. Just off St. Croix, Buck Island Reef National Monument features an underwater trail winding through towering elkhorn coral formations. Coki Point Beach in St. Thomas is a top choice for first-time snorkelers and families. Off St. John, Carval Rock is one of the island’s coolest dive sites, with dramatic underwater cliffs covered in coral and sponges.

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Shopping

Shopping in the U.S. Virgin Islands blends duty-free deals with locally made goods you won’t find anywhere else. Main Street in Charlotte Amalie on St. Thomas is a hub for jewelry and designer fragrances, while nearby Vendors Plaza is known for handcrafted souvenirs, bold-print sarongs and delicious street food. Traditional favorites like Crucian hook bracelets, island-made hot sauces, hand-carved woodwork and natural skincare products make easy take-home keepsakes. Don’t miss stops like Mongoose Junction on St. John or the Saturday market at La Reine on St. Croix.

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Perks for St. Croix Visitors

Check out two new promotions — Experience St. Croix: A Vibe Like No Other offering hotel room credits and STX Vibe Sail with discounts in local shops for cruise ship passengers.

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