So Close and So Beautiful
With white sandy beaches, aqua blue water and a low-key pace, the US Virgin Islands (USVI) are a great place to visit to wind down and rejuvenate. With US citizenship, travel to the islands is easy (no passport required) and if you are on the East Coast, its a quick trip down. This is a photo I took looking over Trunk Bay on St. John, USVI.
Getting There
Via Puerto Rico
You can find a direct flight to the airport on the island of St. Thomas from some cities (New York), but most likely you will need to fly through San Juan, Puerto Rico. The airport on St. Thomas is the entry point by air for the USVI. From there you can explore St. Thomas or take a ferry to St. John, St. Croix or Water Island.
I recommend a stay of a few days in Puerto Rico before flying over to St. Thomas. San Juan, Puerto Rico is colorful, friendly and full of historically significant architecture.
I recommend a stay of a few days in Puerto Rico before flying over to St. Thomas. San Juan, Puerto Rico is colorful, friendly and full of historically significant architecture.
- Caribbean Specials on Travelocity
- Check travelocity or your other favorite travel site for special deals on flights and hotels. Here are some from Travelocity.
- El Convento Hotel, Puerto Rico
- This is a great place to stay right in the heart of Old San Juan. I loved it!! It is not inexpensive, but nothing is on the island. A former Carmelite convent built 3 & 1/2 centuries ago, the restored El Convento is a member of the Historic Hotels of America. There is a real sense of history here and, yet, the rooms are equipped with flat screen TVs, for instance. Everyone at the hotel is very, very friendly and there is the sweetest little pool and hot tub on a balcony overlooking the ocean and complimentary wine and cheese served every evening.
- Caribe Hilton San Juan, Puerto Rico Hotel - Hot Deals
- The Caribe Hilton is an excellent choice if you want to stop off in Puerto Rico, be near both the airport and Old San Juan and right on the beach. It has a great set of pools in addition to an ocean beach and the open air lobby and shops invite you to stroll around. There is also a little garden area with a Koi fish pond, geese and a set of peacocks.
Getting Around on the USVI
Renting a car vs. using public transportation
The airport on St. Thomas is located just outside of the town of Charlotte Amalie at the western end of the island. If you are staying anywhere on St. Thomas, just find yourself a taxi and head on out.
If you are going to stay on the island of St. John, you will need to take a ferry from St. Thomas out of Charlotte Amalie or Red Hook. In either case, you will need to take a taxi to the ferry. If you are booked at the Westin St. John resort or Caneel Bay, they have their own ferry services.
While you are visiting the USVI, you may want to rent a car. Though there is plenty of transportation available by way of taxi, shuttle and bus, for as many times as you may want to go exploring, those charges can add up, especially on St. Thomas because of its size. On the smaller island of St. John there are fewer roads. (A little secret concierge tip: do not use "Hertz" rentals on St. John. They are not really a Hertz franchise).
You may, however, not want to bother with driving yourself around. Driving is done on the left side of the road and the roads can be winding and confusing, so its a trade-off. If you do get dropped off by taxi somewhere, you can pre-pay and arrange to have them return to pick you up at a certain time. The taxis are regulated, very reliable, honest and prompt.
There are 2 ferries on St. Thomas: one at Red Hook and another at Charlotte Amalie. They will take you back and forth between St. Thomas and St. John. Red Hook is closer to Cruz Bay, the main docking area on St John.
If you are going to stay on the island of St. John, you will need to take a ferry from St. Thomas out of Charlotte Amalie or Red Hook. In either case, you will need to take a taxi to the ferry. If you are booked at the Westin St. John resort or Caneel Bay, they have their own ferry services.
While you are visiting the USVI, you may want to rent a car. Though there is plenty of transportation available by way of taxi, shuttle and bus, for as many times as you may want to go exploring, those charges can add up, especially on St. Thomas because of its size. On the smaller island of St. John there are fewer roads. (A little secret concierge tip: do not use "Hertz" rentals on St. John. They are not really a Hertz franchise).
You may, however, not want to bother with driving yourself around. Driving is done on the left side of the road and the roads can be winding and confusing, so its a trade-off. If you do get dropped off by taxi somewhere, you can pre-pay and arrange to have them return to pick you up at a certain time. The taxis are regulated, very reliable, honest and prompt.
There are 2 ferries on St. Thomas: one at Red Hook and another at Charlotte Amalie. They will take you back and forth between St. Thomas and St. John. Red Hook is closer to Cruz Bay, the main docking area on St John.
- Ferry Schedules
- Check here for the ferry schedules. For day visits from St. Thomas to St. John, if you stay at the western end of St. Thomas, take the Charlotte Amalie Ferry and the Red Hook ferry if you stay at the east end of St. Thomas.
The little town of Cruz Bay on St. John, where the ferries dock, has excellent restaurants and interesting artsy shops. A trip aboard the ferry on a clear, dark night is like a magical, starry slow dance. Sit up top. - Taxis & Rates
- This is a Virgin Islands "Getting Around Guide" with info on catching a cab and the taxi rates for St. Thomas. The taxis are regulated and fares are specified for each destination. You don't have to pay the top rate, though, especially if you use the smaller cabs--not the big vans that seat 12, as these are definitely geared toward tourists. Just ask a local and they will give you tips on taxi deals.
A Great Travel Guidebook for the Islands
Top 10 Virgin Islands, US and British (EYEWITNESS TRAVEL GUIDE)
We used this book extensively on our trip. It is well laid out, full of photos and very reliable. We loved the rating guide where they list the top ten of just about everything you can think of, for example: top ten snorkeling beaches, top ten romantic restaurants and so forth. Very helpful.
Amazon Price: $8.00 (as of 10/07/2008)
USVI Informational Websites
- History of the Virgin Islands
- In 1917 the US Virgin Islands became a part of the United States after it was acquired from the Danish government. Check here for more on the history of these islands.
- U. S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism
- The official site of the US Virgin Islands Department of Tourism. Take a virtual tour of each island and get the latest information for hotels, activities and shopping.
- Virgin Islands Newspaper, A Pulitzer Prize Winning Newspaper
- The Virgin Islands Newspaper offers local news, a Virgin Island guide, stories, business and opinion. It can give you a good feel for the islands and what is happening before you go.
- Virgin Islands Geography
- For all you lovers of detail, here's a geographic summary of the islands.
- St. John USVI Your Virgin Islands Information Site
- This a great insider guide to St. John USVI including St. John Virgin Islands books, beaches, snorkeling, hiking, history, culture, accommodations, villas, hotels and more. They offer a great hardcover photo book on St. John Beaches and you can buy some of Trinidad Charlie's hot sauces made by Charlie on St. John.
Where to Stay on St. Thomas
On St. Thomas we liked staying at the eastern end of the island where it is a little quieter and you have easy access to the less expensive Red Hook Ferry to St. John.
- Elysian Beach Resort
- The Elysian Beach Resort is located at the eastern end of St. Thomas, Virgin Islands. The resort has 67 villas, each with a balcony that overlooks the sea. It has a small white sand beach and a large, beautiful pool, as well as a hot tub. A fantastic restaurant is on the premises: Richard's Bistro and it is worth the trip even if you don't stay here. The bar/cafe on premises, however, is very mediocre. Richard hopes to take it over in the future. I hope so. He is a character: rail thin and friendly. His t-shirts say "Trust the Thin Man. Food Good."
Opportunities are provided to sign up for boat and other trips and they are all worth it. It is a Fairfield timeshare resort, so you will be offered a discount on ticket prices if you attend a meeting. The meeting is not really as bad as they usually are. No high pressure here. If you don't have Fairfield points to use, you can buy them at a reduced rate from someone who has more than they need. I believe you can also book a room without points. - Ritz Carlton
- This is a pretty fancy place and more expensive than the Elysian. "Nestled within a 30-acre estate on the east end of St. Thomas, this luxury resort overlooks the sparkling turquoise waters and white-sand beaches of the Caribbean." Yes it does. It is nicely land-scaped and has an infinity pool near the ocean. It is right next to the Elysian (one cove over, but a short walk), making access to restaurants at both places very convenient. There is a taxi post there which makes taxi service for both resorts very accessible whenever you need it.
Time Shares Deals on St. Thomas
Time Shares on St. Thomas
There are several timeshares on St. Thomas and owners are frequently renting out one of their weeks or selling the whole thing for a really good deal. If none show up right now, there will be some soon.
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Where to Stay on St. John
We prefer the more relaxed atmosphere on St John. Here are some suggestions of where to stay.
- Westin Resort, St. John
- The Westin Resort/St. John is in Great Cruz Bay and has a small private white sand beach. The beach is not the highlight of the resort, but it will do. Plan day trips to visit the many beautiful beaches all over St. John.
The privately owned villas (by time-share) are tucked into the hills, but easily accessible. Try and find a way to rent one of these for the best deals. The whole resort is covered with beautifully manicured tropical gardens. The pool is the largest in the USVI. There are smaller pools at each of the villa buildings, as well.
For the best meals, check with the concierge and eat at some of the many excellent places in town.
This Westin resort is one of their deeded time-share properties. The studios, and 1 & 2 bedroom units have kitchens and washer and dryer. The 3-bedroom units have their own private pool and patio. You can sometimes find good deals for weekly rentals from owners who are not able to use their villa. Check e-Bay below or some of the other timeshare rental sites such as "Redweek". - Caneel Bay Resort
- Caneel Bay is a luxury resort and offers top-notch levels of service. Caneel Bay is more natural but still elegant, while the Westin Resort is more fancy and well-appointed. The Westin has flat screen TV's and soundsystems in every room, for example, while Caneel Bay does not provde televisions, but offers many pristine beaches within the expansive, very private property.
- Cinnamon Bay Campground
- Cinnamon Bay Campground, located in St. John National Park (which covers 2/3's of the island), offers cottages, tents, bare campsites, sea kayaks, snorkeling and sailboat rentals. This is the place to stay if you are on a budget or if you just like the camping experience.
Time Share Deals on St. John
Time Shares on St. John
The smallest of the Westin villas--the studios--usually rent from the Westin for between $300 and $600 a night, depending on the season and any special promotions. These are rented by the week. Use this to help you spot a good deal on an owner's rental price at the Westin.
Fetching new data from eBay now... please stand byCheck For a Good Deal on Timeshare Rentals
Look here on RedWeek.com ("redweek" refers to the weeks in the prime time slot of the year) for a good deal renting someone else's timeshare if they are not able to use it themselves.
- RedWeek.com
- Timeshares for rent, sale, and exchange by owner. Resort information, reviews, and timeshare forums.
Exploring Under the Water
Snorkeling!
This is my favorite thing to do at the islands. I love to float around in the beautiful aqua blue water and watch the fish and other animals. Its so easy, relaxing, exciting and ever-changing. On a recent trip, among many other sights, I saw a giant spotted ray, a huge sea turtle and a family of 4 medium-sized squid.
Take your own equipment. It will be much more pleasant. And, wear a t-shirt or a special cover, called a "rash guard" so your back doesn't burn. No matter how much water-proof sunscreen you put on, you will burn so easily floating there in the water near the equator.
Following are several selections to help you with snorkeling in the US Virgin Islands.
Take your own equipment. It will be much more pleasant. And, wear a t-shirt or a special cover, called a "rash guard" so your back doesn't burn. No matter how much water-proof sunscreen you put on, you will burn so easily floating there in the water near the equator.
Following are several selections to help you with snorkeling in the US Virgin Islands.
- Frommer's: Best Snorkeling in the USVI
- Information from Frommer's on the best snorkeling locations in the USVI.
- Marine Life Around the Virgin Islands
- Virgin Islands marine life including fish, sharks and reefs in the USVI. Includes photos and descriptions.
- Snorkeling at St. John Virgin Islands beaches
- St. John USVI has some of the best beaches in the world. Check here for a comprehensive listing and advice on snorkeling spots.
Learn More About Snorkeling & What You Will See
Snorkeling Guide to Marine Life: Florida Caribbean Bahamas
Reviewed very highly, this book is an awesome guide for snorkelers.
Amazon Price: $10.17 (as of 10/07/2008)
Guided Water Tours
Take a Boat Tour
There are many options for boating. Here are a few. Tip: Be sure to make plans to include the BVI (British Virgin Islands) in your excursions. They are even more secluded and laid back. We love Jost Van Dyke. You WILL need to have a passport to go to the BVI.
- New Horizons
- Daysails from both St. Thomas and St. John. We went on a day sail with them and had a great time. Their all-day cruise on a sail boat takes you out for some beautiful snorkeling in 2 locations and includes a very good lunch and frozen drinks throughout the day. They also have a sunset dinner cruise. Its a good chance to meet some interesting people as well as to have lots of fun.
- Breakaway
- The "Breakaway" tour boat is one which can take you to the British Virgin Islands, with many stops along the way. These day excursions require a passport because you are entering British territory. A large, comfortable powerboat takes you around to several stops. One of these, "The Baths" at Virgin Gorda, is a collection of huge volcanic rocks sitting just off shore. After a strenuous swim into the beach and a reak fight to pull yourself up out of the boiling surf, a walk through the "baths" or rocks will take your breath away. It is stunning and is, in fact, where many photo shoots are done, such as the "Sports Illustrated" swimsuit issues. You will also have lunch on a secluded island then have time for snorkeling, swimming and walking the beaches at Jost Van Dyke.
Go Ahead. Treat Yourself!
Treat yourself to a relaxing, exotic vacation in the US Virgin Islands. You won't regret it. Soaking up all that sunlight, warm ocean water and laid back life-style in the middle of winter, or anytime, is a great boost for your mood.Here is the view tableside at the Asolore restaurant on St. John.
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Reader Feedback
Please share with all of us your Virgin Island suggestions, or just make a comment on this lens right here.
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isabella
Nice work done for this lens! Join the brand new group for the World's Best Islands Posted August 22, 2008 |
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TopStyleTravel
I love St. John and the Virgin Islands. I never get tired of it. Wonderful lens. Posted June 06, 2008 |
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KonaGirl
I love the Virgin Islands! Can hardly wait to go back. 5* for a well done lens. I lensrolled you to my Hawaii lens and added you to my Faves. Posted May 16, 2008 |
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jenabernathy
This very grateful lens here, I like white sandy beaches and it is fantastic place, I want to visit US Virgin Island. Posted May 07, 2008 |
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elyfrank
Hi, guys Posted May 02, 2008 |
Reviews of Places to Stay on St.John
Here's what Yelpers have to say about Hotels & Travel in 00830
- The Westin Resort (Saint John)
- "I honeymooned here in 2007 and I will always have fond memories of being in a state of bliss! I think what stands out in my mind is the guy who checked us..." more
- Maho Bay Camps (Saint John)
- "freagin awesome. the cheapest way to stay on St John and you're always walking distance to the beach, their restaurant, their grocery / convenience store,..." more
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