U.S. Virgin Islands Reports Record-Breaking First Quarter 2026 Visitor Arrivals

St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands (April 8, 2026)—The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism announces record-breaking visitor arrival numbers for the first quarter of 2026, reinforcing the territory’s continued momentum as a leading Caribbean destination.

March 2026 delivered strong performance with 121,716 total arrivals, representing a 23% increase year-over-year and 14% above the previous high set in 2024. St. Thomas led this growth with 98,284 arrivals, up 24% compared to 2025 and 17% over 2024. St. Croix also saw gains, welcoming 23,432 arrivals, reflecting a 20% increase year-over-year and a 5% rise over 2024.

Building on this momentum, the first quarter of 2026 recorded a total of 303,388 arrivals, marking continued growth for the territory with a 12% increase year-over-year and a 6% rise compared to 2024.

St. Thomas accounted for the majority of growth in the first quarter, with 246,772 arrivals, up 15% year-over-year and 11% over 2024. St. Croix recorded 56,616 arrivals, reflecting a 2% increase compared to 2025.

“These record-breaking numbers underscore the continued strength and appeal of the U.S. Virgin Islands as a premier Caribbean destination,” said Jennifer Matarangas-King, Commissioner of the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism. “We are seeing sustained demand across our islands, supported by strategic marketing efforts, strong industry partnerships, and the unique experiences that set the U.S. Virgin Islands apart.”

Growth in early 2026 reflects continued demand from U.S. travelers. Recent efforts, including sports partnerships across the NFL and MLB, media collaborations with iHeartRadio, and promotion of Carnival celebrations across the territory, have helped expand visibility and strengthen interest.

The Department of Tourism continues to focus on enhancing airlift, strengthening partnerships, and expanding promotional efforts to sustain growth throughout the year.

For more information about the U.S. Virgin Islands, please visit https://www.visitusvi.com/.

About the U.S. Virgin Islands
About 40 miles east of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands comprise a United States territory located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea. The three islands are St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas, where the capital of Charlotte Amalie is located. Perfect for leisure or business travel, the U.S. Virgin Islands features breathtaking, world-renowned beaches, an international marine industry, European architecture, and a burgeoning restaurant industry. No passports are required from U.S. citizens traveling from the U.S. mainland or Puerto Rico. Entry requirements for non-U.S. citizens are equivalent to entering the United States from any international country. Upon departure, a passport is required for non-U.S. citizens. For more information about the United States Virgin Islands, go to www.VisitUSVI.com, follow us @VisitUSVI on Facebook, Instagram, Threads and Pinterest, and @USVITourism on TikTok, X and LinkedIn.

Media Contacts:

Efrain Rivera
Development Counsellors International
[email protected]

Alani Henneman
U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism
[email protected]