Best things to do in St Thomas, St Croix & St John

By Andrea Milam on 1st April, 2020

It should go without saying that many of the best ways to get out and explore the US Virgin Islands revolve around the water. The archipelagos three main islands, St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas has a wide range of activities on offer, from family-friendly excursions to exhilarating watersports. Here is the lowdown on some of the best things to do in the US Virgin Islands.

1. Snorkeling, scuba diving & parasailing

The islands offer some of the best snorkeling right from the beach, making beautiful reefs and serene sea life easily accessible. Go deeper with a scuba diving excursion; there are plenty of local experts to help you get your certification. Give Flyboarding a whirl, or soar even higher with a parasailing excursion. Rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the tranquil seas under your own power.

2. Boat tours – a day at sea

Boating is a must when you’re in the USVI. Make it a fruitful day on the water with a fishing excursion, where you can enjoy a day at sea and bring home dinner while you’re at it. The proximity of the British Virgin Islands and the territory’s numerous beach bars, restaurants, and world-class snorkeling make it an ideal choice for a boating day; just be sure you remember your passport. Or charter a boat and stay local with the U.S. Virgin Islands’ ever-expanding offerings. You can even get pizza or tacos made to order on a boat.

3. St John’s National Park

Of course, the V.I. has much to offer by land as well. The Virgin Islands National Park, which occupies about two-thirds of St. John, is home to many miles of hiking trails that vary greatly in difficulty. Almost all trails come with rewards like sweeping vistas, the chance to see plantation ruins up close and personal, or a beach at the end where you can enjoy a well-deserved refreshing dip.

4. St Thomas excursions

Historic and culinary walking tours give you a deeper insight into what makes St Thomas special, while The Tropical Treasure Hunt gives you the chance to solve a puzzle using teamwork with your travel companions while you experience some of the best St. Thomas has to offer. Zipline above the island’s verdant hills or come face to face with marine life without getting wet at Coral World’s undersea observatory tower.

No matter which island you’re visiting, renting a car is the best way to get out and explore at your own pace. By land or by sea, the US Virgin Islands numerous interactive experiences are sure to keep you busy and coming back for more.

Read more: US Virgin Islands 10 must-visit beaches