Image via Wikipedia

Virgin Islands Vacations

The Virgin Islands are a real Caribbean paradise and offer a spectacular vacation “hotspot” however you like to relax, no wonder they’re the most popular vacation/tourist destination in the Caribbean - so that’s saying something. So what can you expect to enjoy on your Virgin Islands vacation?

The US Virgin Islands are St Thomas, St Croix and St John, and offer wonderful warm weather (well you can get that in loads of places), pristine beaches and crystal clear waters (now you’re talking, but still not special enough) and the wonderful diverse cultural heritage of the people. Yes, Virgin Islanders are always ready with a quick smile and can trace their roots from all around the world, the fierce Carib Indians, the peaceful Arawak, England, Africa, Holland, Spain, India, France, Denmark and the United States. Put it all together and what have you got – a vacation island paradise.

Virgin Islands Vacations – Things To Do

• Virgin Islands Secluded Beaches – unlike many Caribbean islands, which have rocky beaches or black volcanic sand, the beaches on the Virgin Islands are fine, white and sandy – oh, can’t you just feel it running through your toes, and all except one beach (Magens Bay on St Thomas) are absolutely free. Some of them are accessible on foot, some of them can only be reached by boat – sounds very “Robinson Crusoe” don’t you think?
• Virgin Islands National Park – more than half (around 60%) of St John is National Park, and many agree that it’s one of the most beautiful parks in the whole National Park system. The word “paradise” was invented to describe such places as this. It’s got subtropical forest, white sand beaches, coral reefs, mountains and when you’re not marveling at the magnificent sea life you can trek through the dense forest for over 20 miles (if you’re up to it) and discover lots of ruins and historical archeological sites.
• Virgin Islands Snorkeling – it kind of stands to reason then, that the Virgin Islands offer some of the most amazing snorkeling experiences anywhere in the Caribbean. Apart from snorkeling around the magnificent coral reefs and towers, teeming with life – fish, sponges, crustaceans –  there are also some historic shipwreck sites to fire up your imagination. If you fancy going a bit deeper, there are also some brilliant dive sites to explore.
• Virgin Islands Watersports – there are plenty of other water sports available in the Virgin Islands, maybe you’ll fancy your hand at kayaking, wind-surfing or sailing. It’s all there just waiting for you.
• Virgin Islands Fishing – no less than 24 sport fishing world records have been set in the Virgin Islands, yes, we’re talking sport fishing – fishing at its most extreme. Blue marlin (you’ve probably seen them on the Discovery Channel), white marlin and sailfish can be found at the world famous North Drop, and closer inshore there’s an abundance of mackerel, bonefish, snappers, grouper and much more.
• Virgin Islands Golf – anyone who fancies “playing around” on their vacation, well, actually, maybe I should say “playing a round”, subtle difference, but anyway, there’s plenty of opportunities for both on your Virgin Islands vacation. Let’s just stick to the golf for the time being, there are some wonderful courses designed by world acclaimed designers just waiting for you to tee off.
• Virgin Islands Shopping – don’t forget to browse some of the many wonderful shops while you’re on your Virgin Islands vacation. You see, you’re in the US, but you’re outside the Custom Zone, so you are permitted a $1200 dollar exemption each – no wonder there are so many rather trendy jewelery stores.
• Virgin Islands Nightlife – if you have any energy left after your busy days on the beaches, snorkeling, hiking, kayaking and a quick round of golf before lunch, then you won’t be disappointed by the vast array of restaurants and nightlife on offer. The food on offer is as wonderfully diverse as the people, and Virgin Islanders sure know how to throw a good party.