U.S. Virgin Islands

Covering 2,832 hectares of the Virgin Islands, and much of that water, this park’s scope includes 60 percent of St. John and boasts tropical rainforests to explore, prime boating areas, dozens of nature trails and many sites that reflect the island’s rich history.

It’s a party on top of St. Thomas's highest peak, where, at 640 meters, you’ll find yourself on an expansive observation deck overlooking Magens Bay, sipping the site’s famous banana daiquiri and taking in the view.

The award-winning beach here is exactly what you picture when you think tropical paradise: turquoise water, sparkling white crescent shoreline and a rainforest in the distance. Snorkel the underwater trails here to get an unfiltered view of the coral reef.

This cay just off of St. Croix is almost entirely bordered by an Elkhorn coral barrier reef, which keeps the lagoon-like water calm and swimmable. Go diving, snorkeling, boating, bird-watching or take a hike across the island (only 45 minutes). 

Swim with sea lions, pet a shark and hang out with iguanas in this two-hectare St. Thomas park, which includes aquariums and marine pools as well as nature trails and a butterfly garden.

Discover a place where history and nature meet. At Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge on St. Croix, visitors can see ancient conch middens give way to softer spots in the sand, watch for birds of all species convene in the trees and marvel at leatherback sea turtles nesting grounds.

This 300-year-old fort’s red and green façade looks cheerful, but it is also weathered: the long-standing fort has played many roles in the U.S. Virgin Islands’ complex story. Explore more on a walking tour of Charlotte Amalie, the capital city, where Fort Christian is located.

Located in an urban park, Christiansted’s six historic buildings reflect the European influence on St. Croix. Visitors can tour the site for an understanding of the Danish background and presence on the islands.

The spirit of St. Croix is even tastier with MUTINY Island Vodka, a handcrafted, specialty vodka made with breadfruit – one of the islands’ local staples. Visitors can tour Sion Hill Distillery and sample this flavorful vodka.

Built during the 1700s, the 99 Steps were built into the hillside to keep the orderly grid of the city intact. Beginning in downtown Charlotte Amalie and made of bricks that were once used as ballast on Danish and British ships, the 99 Steps (actually 103) lead to the residential area above Charlotte Amalie and Blackbeard's Castle, a U.S. national historic landmark.