Us Virgin Islands Bed and Breakfast, Cheap Hotel and Guest House Accommodation

The U.S. Virgin Islands, consisting of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, have a rich history dating back to the indigenous Taino people. European colonization began in the 17th century when the Danish West India Company took control. The islands were later sold to the United States in 1917 and became a U.S. territory. Today, the U.S. Virgin Islands are known for their beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and historical landmarks.

Charlotte Amalie, the capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands, located on St. Thomas, is one of the most visited cities. It is famous for its duty-free shopping, historical landmarks like Blackbeard's Castle, and picturesque harbor. Christiansted on St. Croix is another notable city, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and waterfront charm. Cruz Bay, the main town on St. John, serves as the gateway to the island's pristine beaches and national parks.

Quaint and unusual towns include Frederiksted on St. Croix, a small and charming port town with colorful buildings, historic forts, and beautiful sunsets. Coral Bay on St. John offers a laid-back atmosphere and is a hidden gem for those seeking a quieter, more rustic experience.

The popular islands in the U.S. Virgin Islands are St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix. St. Thomas is known for its lively vibe, luxury resorts, and shopping. St. John is celebrated for its unspoiled natural beauty, with two-thirds of the island protected as a national park. St. Croix, the largest of the three, offers a mix of culture, history, and outdoor adventure, including diving and snorkeling at Buck Island Reef National Monument.

Fun things to do in the U.S. Virgin Islands include snorkeling and diving in crystal-clear waters, particularly at Trunk Bay on St. John, which is famous for its underwater snorkeling trail. Sailing around the islands, hiking the trails of Virgin Islands National Park, and visiting the Annaberg Sugar Plantation ruins on St. John are also popular activities. For history lovers, exploring Fort Christian in Charlotte Amalie or the Christiansted National Historic Site on St. Croix is a must.

When it comes to dining, the islands offer a variety of local and international cuisine. Gladys' Café in Charlotte Amalie is a favorite for authentic Caribbean food, particularly its conch fritters and jerk chicken. ZoZo’s at the Sugar Mill on St. John is known for its fine dining and breathtaking views. On St. Croix, The Galleon offers delicious seafood and steaks by the marina. For casual dining, Skinny Legs in Coral Bay, St. John, is a popular beach bar serving burgers and cold drinks.

Tourist seaside towns like Charlotte Amalie and Cruz Bay are perfect for those seeking a blend of beach relaxation and local culture. Both towns offer easy access to the islands’ beaches, restaurants, and shops. Frederiksted on St. Croix is a great spot for those looking to enjoy the island’s west coast beaches and a more laid-back experience.

Accommodation options range from luxury resorts to charming guesthouses. On St. Thomas, The Ritz-Carlton offers beachfront luxury and world-class amenities. Caneel Bay Resort on St. John is another famous option, providing access to multiple beaches within the Virgin Islands National Park. St. Croix’s The Buccaneer is a historic resort offering a blend of elegance and Caribbean charm. For more budget-conscious travelers, Estate Lindholm on St. John offers boutique accommodations with stunning views of Cruz Bay.

Famous hotels include The Ritz-Carlton on St. Thomas, Caneel Bay on St. John, and The Buccaneer on St. Croix, all known for their luxury, service, and stunning locations. There are also numerous intimate guesthouses and vacation rentals available for travelers seeking a more personal experience.

Things to see in the U.S. Virgin Islands include the famous Trunk Bay Beach on St. John, which is consistently ranked among the best beaches in the world. Buck Island Reef National Monument off the coast of St. Croix offers excellent snorkeling, with vibrant coral reefs and marine life. The Virgin Islands National Park covers much of St. John and features hiking trails, beaches, and historical sites like the Annaberg Plantation. Blackbeard's Castle in Charlotte Amalie is another must-see, offering both historical significance and panoramic views of the harbor.

Carnival and festivals are a big part of the local culture. The St. Thomas Carnival, held in April, is one of the largest and most vibrant, featuring parades, calypso music, and traditional Caribbean costumes. The St. Croix Christmas Festival, held in December, brings festive cheer with street parties, music, and local food. St. John hosts the smaller yet lively St. John Festival, with events centered around the 4th of July.

Local food in the U.S. Virgin Islands includes Caribbean favorites such as roti (a wrap filled with curried meat or vegetables), johnnycakes (fried bread), and conch fritters. Seafood is also a staple, with dishes like grilled lobster and fish served with rice and peas. Don’t miss out on tasting the islands’ signature drinks, like the painkiller, a rum-based cocktail with coconut, pineapple, and orange juice.

Famous people from the U.S. Virgin Islands include Tim Duncan, a former NBA star who was born and raised in St. Croix, and Camille Pissarro, a famous impressionist painter who lived in Charlotte Amalie. Contemporary musician Pressure Busspipe, known for his reggae music, is also from the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Attractions such as the Coral World Ocean Park on St. Thomas allow visitors to learn about the marine life of the Caribbean. The Cruzan Rum Distillery on St. Croix offers tours and tastings of the famous local rum. For nature lovers, the Virgin Islands National Park on St. John offers miles of hiking trails, stunning beaches, and historical ruins.

Local music in the U.S. Virgin Islands is a vibrant blend of Caribbean genres, including reggae, calypso, and steel pan. Quelbe, a form of folk music native to the islands, is often played at festivals and events. You can also catch live music performances at beach bars and cultural events throughout the islands.

Nature sites in the U.S. Virgin Islands are abundant. The Virgin Islands National Park on St. John protects a vast portion of the island, offering hiking, snorkeling, and opportunities to spot local wildlife. The Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve on St. Croix is an important ecological and historical site. Magen’s Bay on St. Thomas is one of the most famous beaches, known for its calm, clear waters and beautiful scenery.

Important places to visit include the historic sites of Christiansted on St. Croix, Fort Christian in Charlotte Amalie, and the Annaberg Sugar Plantation ruins on St. John. Each of these sites provides a glimpse into the islands’ colonial past and the role of sugar production in their history.

For unusual things to see, visit the underwater snorkeling trail at Trunk Bay, where you can follow signs placed underwater to learn about the coral reefs. On St. Croix, explore the historic Estate Whim Plantation Museum, a restored 18th-century sugar plantation. The Soggy Dollar Bar on nearby Jost Van Dyke is a fun stop for those who want to visit a bar that’s only accessible by swimming from your boat to shore!