The Virgin Islands of the United States, located in the Caribbean Sea, are a group of islands with a rich history, diverse culture, and unique natural features. From the islands’ discovery and colonization by Europeans to their transfer of ownership from Denmark to the United States, the Virgin Islands have a complex and fascinating history.
In this essay, we will explore the history, geography, and culture of the Virgin Islands of the United States and the things to do in the Virgin Islands of the United States.
The Fascinating History of the US Virgin Island St Thomas
The history of the Virgin Islands of the United States is a story of discovery, colonization, and transfer of ownership. The islands were first discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493 and were later colonized by the Dutch, French, Spanish, and British. In 1917, the United States purchased the islands from Denmark for $25 million, and they became a United States territory.
Since then, the islands have developed a unique economy and culture, with tourism a major industry. The islands’ history is evident in the architecture, museums, and historical sites that dot the landscape. Now that we have covered the history let’s begin with a list of the best things to do in the Virgin Islands of the United States.
Things To Do In The Virgin Islands Of The United States:
1. Virgin Islands National Park, St. John:
The Virgin Islands National Park contains a lush green tropical forest and white sandy beaches. It is a great place to stroll around and contemplate God-given nature. The most common activity is hiking around the national park or mountain biking.
Its richness in flora and fauna makes it an optimal place for landscape and wildlife photography. You might see feral donkeys, white-tailed deer, and invasive goats during your hike.
The Virgin Islands National Park is a natural Paradise where you can spot historic ruins and watch birds at the bird viewing deck on the lovely salt pond.
The national park has around 20 hiking trails, but I highly suggest hiking the Reef Bay Trail, which leads to the old Sugar Mill. The trail then leads to the beach, where you can sunbathe and rest by the shoreline.
2. Buck Island, St. Thomas:
The Buck Island, St. Thomas, might be the best place to visit in the United States Virgin Islands. For a starter, it is the home of Turtle Cove and Shipwrecks Cove, where you can snorkel and seek shipwrecks. You can find shipwrecks from World War II or scuba diving to enjoy its flora and fauna richness.
Buck Island is surrounded by Elkhorn coral barrier reef, which has a rich marine life ecosystem. It is famous for nesting turtles, such as hawksbill and leatherback turtles. The Bank-barrier reef and its lagoon are protected areas, so they must be kept clean and well-maintained.
Buck Island Reef National Monument in the US Virgin Islands contains coral sand beaches and tropical dry forests that are fun to explore. Hiking along the shoreline might be the best thing to do in the United States Virgin Islands. You can also sunbathe or simply relax in the turquoise tropical water.
3. Honeymoon Beach In Water Island:
Honeymoon Beach is one of the best beaches in St Thomas, US Virgin Islands. Its amenities and what it offers tourists and locals make it stand out.
The honeymoon beach contains a Tiki Bar where you can enjoy your favorite drink at the beach. It also contains volleyball courts, water sports rentals, and a vibrant bay with charter boats.
Therefore, you can rent a boat to stroll around the Caribbean Sea and enjoy a fishing trip. However, the best thing to do on Honeymoon Beach is to rent a golf cart and stroll around the island.
4. Cruz Bay:
Cruz Bay is one of the best things to do in the US Virgin Islands, St Thomas. Here is why: It is a lively waterfront village with a Caribbean lifestyle and the largest city in St Thomas. Therefore, you can find souvenir shops, awesome restaurants, charter boat tours, and the largest dive shop in the Virgin Islands.
The best time to enjoy the village is at night when you can enjoy the nightlife and visit countless beach bars. Sip on your favorite drink and mingle with other tourists. It is great for solo travelers to meet locals and other tourists.
5. Coral World Ocean Park:
Coral World Ocean Park is located at Coki Point Beach. Here, you can discover the underwater world and witness marine life in person. Tourists from all over the world flock to scuba diving, which is one of the best things to do in the US Virgin Islands, St Thomas.
It is a perfect spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, especially for kids. Furthermore, it is a fun activity for the whole family, where you can swim with dolphins, sea lions, and turtles.
6. Magens Bay In St. Thomas:
Magens Bay is the most popular beach destination in the US Virgin Islands, St Thomas. This mile-long coastline has white sandy beaches. It also contains coconut palms and sea grape trees, where you can observe the natural canopy in person and relax by the shore.
You can enjoy a hiking trip around the beach to experience its tranquility at its best. If that does not suit you, you can enjoy some water activities, such as paddleboarding, snorkeling, and bodyboarding. Cruising around the sea is another possibility that you should not miss.
7. Coral Bay:
Coral Bay contains one of the best beaches in the United States Virgin Islands, so be ready to explore this tranquil atmosphere and enjoy the natural beauty. It is located in the peaceful village of St. John.
The beach is calm, crystal clear, and warm, making it a perfect spot for swimming or simply sunbathing along the shoreline. You can also stay to witness the sunset; the view is spectacular.
It is within walking distance of St. John’s important attractions, such as Salt Pond Beach, Rams Head Trail, and epic paddling routes in Hurricane Hole.
8. Point Udall In St. Croix:
Point Udall is in the easternmost part of the United States. It has a cozy atmosphere and tranquil ocean views. It has some beautiful scenery and a picturesque coastline. Furthermore, it also serves as a trailhead for many hike trails, such as Jack. A Beach, Isaacs Bay Beach, and Goat Hill.
Point Udall is a great place to witness the sunset and experience the Sundial sculpture known as the Millennium Monument. This horological device tells the time of day as sunlight is directed to it.
9. Maho Bay:
Nestled along the north shore of Maho Bay National Park, Maho Bay has a taste for everyone. It is the most popular beach and the best place to snorkel with turtles on the US Virgin Island of St Thomas. There are food trucks on the waterfront where you can try some delicious cuisine and mouthwatering food.
10. Charlotte Amalie:
Charlotte Amalie is the largest city in the United States Virgin Islands. It is an optimal place for history lovers as you pass through many historical landmarks, such as Market Square, the St. Thomas Reformed Church, Blackbeard’s Castle, Fort Christian, the Government House, and more.
The houses alone have a deep history, dating back to the 1600s. The buildings are Danish architecture developed by the Dutch and Dunes. I am sure you will enjoy strolling around this amazing city.
Conclusion:
The list does not end here. There is more to see and discover in the Virgin Islands of the United States, so do your research before you visit and plan your trip accordingly. I hope you enjoy your visit.
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