John, the smallest and quietest of the U. S. Virgin Islands, is the perfect destination for those looking for a tranquil Caribbean experience. With its lack of a major airport, two-thirds of the island protected as a national park, and few public transport options, shops, or restaurants, St.
John offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Keep reading to find out what this U. Virgin Island has to offer and why it's the best choice for your next vacation. Thomas is the busiest and most commercialized of the three islands, with lots of tax-free stores, high-end restaurants, and golf courses.
It also has a lively nightlife at dusk. If you're looking for spectacular views of the Caribbean, take the St. Thomas Skyride to a point 700 feet above the island's capital, Charlotte Amalie. Or swim with sea lions at Coral World Ocean Park and visit Bluebeard Castle, a Danish fortress built in 1689; Haagensen House, home of Danish banker Hans Haagensen; and climb the 99 steps (there are actually 103).
Don't miss Magens Bay Beach, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful in the world. For snorkeling or diving, head to Coki Beach on St. Thomas. It's also home to Cruzan Rum and Captain Morgan Rum (both offering guided tours and exhibitions) and the Estate Whim Plantation Museum. And don't forget to set aside a night to kayak through the bioluminescent bay — it's impressive! If you're a food enthusiast and like to explore local offerings, reserve a table on Savant's patio or try one of the smaller roadside restaurants that serve chicken or roti (curry wrapped in flatbread).Croix is the largest of the three islands but receives the least amount of tourists, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a less commercial Caribbean experience.
Base your visit in Christiansted where you can tour the historic fort and take a boat to nearby Buck Island to snorkel at one of only three underwater national monuments in the United States. It's fairly easy to get to both cities of St. Croix and St Thomas (remember that here you drive on the left side of the road). While there are mountains on both islands, St. Thomas tends to have steeper and more winding roads.
Thomas is busier since it's a more crowded island so driving around St. Thomas is more difficult and less pleasant than driving in St. Croix. In reality, there isn't much difference in cost between the two islands so neither is really more expensive than the other. Thomas has beautiful beaches but St.
Croix offers more secluded beaches that are less developed than those in St. The most famous beach in St. Thomas is Magen's Bay Beach which can also be crowded but there are other great beaches such as Coki Beach, Hull Bay Beach and Sapphire Beach; all of them have services such as water sports equipment rental, restaurants and bars. So which island should you choose? It really depends on what you're looking for on your Caribbean honeymoon or romantic retreat. Both islands are beautiful with green mountainous interiors surrounded by white sand beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters but St.
Thomas is more popular with travelers who like history, who want nightlife or who want lots of options for dining and activities while St. Croix is more popular with those interested in tranquility, relaxing on secluded beaches and doing natural activities such as hiking.
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