Virgin Islands 3 Day Itinerary

3-Day Virgin Islands Itinerary (St. Thomas & St. John)

This itinerary focuses on exploring both St. Thomas and its neighboring island, St. John, assuming you have access to ferry transportation between the islands. You can adjust it based on your interests and travel style!

Day 1: St. Thomas History & Views

  • Morning: Arrive in St. Thomas (Charlotte Amalie).

  • Afternoon:

    • Things to do:
      • Explore Blackbeard’s Castle, a historic landmark with stunning views and fascinating pirate lore.
      • Visit the Emancipation Garden, a beautiful park in the heart of Charlotte Amalie.
      • Stroll along Main Street and browse the duty-free shops for souvenirs.
      • Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the many restaurants overlooking the harbor.
    • Things to know:
      • St. Thomas is known for its history as a hub for rum production and trade.
      • The island has limited public transportation, so taxis are the most common way to get around.

  • Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant with fresh seafood and Caribbean flavors. Enjoy a sunset cocktail overlooking Drake’s Seat for breathtaking views of Magens Bay and the British Virgin Islands.

Day 2: Island Adventures & Beaches

  • Morning:
    • Take a ferry to St. John (check schedules in advance).
    • Explore Trunk Bay, a famous beach with a clear underwater trail perfect for snorkeling.
  • Afternoon: Hike the scenic Cinnamon Bay Trail through lush forests and along pristine shores.
    • Relax and enjoy the beauty of Cinnamon Bay Beach.
  • Evening: Return to St. Thomas by ferry. Indulge in a delicious dinner at one of the local restaurants in Charlotte Amalie, followed by a stroll through the historic streets.

Day 3: Water Sports & Culture

  • Morning: Enjoy a final morning on the beach with some sunbathing and swimming.
  • Afternoon: Explore the beauty of Coral World Ocean Park, experiencing its underwater observatory and interactive exhibits.
  • Evening: Depart from St. Thomas.

Things to Consider:

  • Transportation: While taxis are readily available in the US Virgin Islands, consider renting a car on St. John for flexibility, especially if you want to explore beaches beyond the main town (Charlotte Amalie).
  • Island Hopping: Taxis are generally safe and reliable, but be aware that ferry schedules can vary. Plan ahead and book tickets in advance.

Visa Requirements:

  • US citizens do not need a passport for travel to and from the US Virgin Islands.
  • For non-US citizens, you’ll likely need a visa, depending on your nationality. Check the US Department of State website for specific requirements based on your passport.

Things to do:

  • Visit Magen’s Bay: Relax on the beach, swim in the crystal-clear water and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

  • Explore Charlotte Amalie: This historic town offers a variety of attractions, including:

    • Blackbeard’s Castle: A 17th-century fort with historical tours, cannons, and stunning views.
    • Drake’s Seat: Enjoy panoramic vistas of Magens Bay from this scenic overlook.

  • Go snorkeling at Coral World Ocean Park: This underwater park offers a variety of exhibits about marine life, but the real highlight is the opportunity to swim with colorful fish and explore the coral reef.

  • Experience Charlotte Amalie’s history: The island has a rich history with many sites and museums worth visiting.

  • Relax and enjoy the beaches: St. John is known for its beautiful beaches.

  • Snorkel at Coral Bay: This charming bay offers a variety of activities, including swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

  • Hike to a scenic overlook:

Things to do in St. John:

  • Visit the Virgin Islands National Park: Explore the island’s stunning natural beauty, from pristine beaches and lush rainforests to picturesque hiking trails and historical sites.
  • Snorkel or dive at Cinnamon Bay: Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs of this popular beach.

Day 3 Activities (St. John) :

  • Visit Cinnamon Bay: The Virgin Islands National Park is a must-see for any visitor to St. John.
  • Enjoy the beaches:

You can spend the entire day enjoying the sun and sand at Cinnamon Bay, a beautiful beach within the park.

  • Explore the island’s trails:

Day 3: Hiking & History

  • Morning:

    • Explore the historical landmarks of St. John, such as Fortberg or the Annaberg Sugar Plantation. These sites offer a glimpse into the island’s past and are sure to be fascinating for history enthusiasts.
    • Enjoy the trails: Take a hike along one of the many scenic trails on the island, enjoying the lush vegetation and stunning views.

Other Tips:

  • Visit the beach early: Avoid the midday sun and crowds by hitting the beach in the morning or late afternoon.
  • Respect the environment:

Remember that St. John is part of a fragile ecosystem. Stay on marked trails, avoid touching the coral reefs (let’s them thrive!), and don’t leave any trash behind. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen with reef-safe ingredients!

  • Stay hydrated: Bring plenty of water when hiking, especially in the tropics.

  • Bring snacks: It’s a good idea to have some energy on hand for your hikes. Pack snacks like fruit, granola bars, or trail mix to keep you going.**

  • Consider a guided tour: There are many great guided tours available on St. John that can take you to the best spots and teach you about the island’s nature and history.**

  • Pack your swimsuit, sunscreen, and a towel: Even if you don’t plan on swimming, it’s good to have a swimsuit on hand for spontaneous dips in the ocean!**

Remember:

This is just a sample itinerary. You can adjust it based on your interests and budget.

  • Book your tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.**
  • Pack light: You won’t need a lot of stuff, but it’s important to be comfortable when hiking. **

Enjoy the island!

Remember to check for specific tour options and accessibility information for the attractions mentioned.