Virgin Islands 4 Day Itinerary

4-Day Itinerary: Exploring the Beauty of the US Virgin Islands

This itinerary assumes you’re flying into St. Thomas (STT) and want a mix of relaxation and exploring different islands.

Day 1: Arrival & Beach Bliss

  • Morning: Arrive at Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on St. Thomas.

    • Visa Requirements: As the US Virgin Islands are a territory of the United States, US citizens do not require a visa to enter. Citizens of other countries should check their specific visa requirements based on nationality.

  • Afternoon: Relax and soak up the sun at Magens Bay, known for its pristine white sand and calm turquoise waters.

    • Things to Do: Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or sunbathing at the beach. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the bay’s inlets and coves.
    • Transportation: Take a taxi from the airport to your accommodation.

Day 2: History & Culture in St. Thomas

  • Morning: Visit Blackbeard’s Castle, a historic site with stunning views and pirate lore.

  • Afternoon: Explore the vibrant streets of Charlotte Amalie, the capital city, with its colorful colonial architecture and bustling harbor.

    • Transportation: Take a ferry from the ferry terminal (located in Charlotte Amalie) to Charlotte Amalie.

    • Things to know:

      • The historic site offers historical tours, but you can explore the grounds independently.

      • Consider:

        • Morning: Visit Drake’s Seat for another breathtaking view and learn about the island’s history as a pirate haven.

        • Afternoon: Explore Fort Christian, a 17th-century fort with a fascinating past.

  • Evening: Enjoy a sunset cocktail at Coki Beach, known for its lively atmosphere and beachside bars.

Day 3: Island Hopping Adventure

  • Morning: Embark on a day trip to St. John (accessible by ferry from St. Thomas).

    • Things to do: Explore the pristine beaches and hiking trails of Virgin Islands National Park, hike to Trunk Bay for a swim in its famous underwater snorkeling trail, or visit the historic Annaberg Sugar Plantation ruins.

  • Afternoon: Head to Cruz Bay, the main town on St. John, for lunch at a local restaurant and enjoy the vibrant island culture.

    • Things to consider:

      • Book your ferry tickets in advance during peak season.
      • Pack sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water for the beach.
      • Bring cash for smaller vendors and restaurants.

Day 4: Relaxation & Farewell

  • Morning: Enjoy a final relaxing morning at Cinnamon Bay, soaking up the sun and taking in the stunning scenery.

  • Afternoon: Indulge in some last-minute shopping for duty-free goods, jewelry, and local crafts in Cruz Bay.

    • Things to do:

      • Beach hopping: Take a ferry to one of the other beautiful islands like St. Croix or Water Island (ferries from Charlotte Amalie).

  • Farewell Dinner:

      * Enjoy a delicious meal with fresh seafood and local delicacies. Consider a restaurant in **Cruz Bay** for its beautiful views, like **The Terrace**, known for its Caribbean-inspired cuisine and sunset views over the ocean.**

Things to know:

  • Ferry Transportation: Ferries are the primary mode of transportation for island hopping. You can book ferry tickets online or at the dock.

  • Island Culture:

    • Relaxed Vibe: The US Virgin Islands have a “Caribbean time” attitude, meaning things may not always run on schedule. Embrace the relaxed atmosphere and remember that island life is all about enjoying the moment.**
    • Respect Local Customs: Be aware of and respectful towards local culture.

  • Other Things to Do:

    • Explore the beaches: The US Virgin Islands are known for their stunning beaches with white sand, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical surroundings. Consider visiting Sapphire Beach, Coral World Ocean Park, or Coki Beach for snorkeling.
    • Go Hiking: Hike through the trails of Magens Bay (a short hike leads to a scenic overlook), Virgin Islands National Park (renowned for its hiking and nature walks)

  • Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture by attending local festivals, visiting historical sites like Fort Christian, and learning about the island’s rich history.

  • Charlotte Amalie:

    • Explore Red Hook on St. Thomas, a charming harbor town with a variety of restaurants and shops.
    • Cruzan Rum Distillery: Enjoy a tour and tasting at the distillery (must be booked in advance).

  • Consider:

    • Exploring other islands: Take a ferry to St. John for a more secluded experience or visit Water Island, known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning sunsets.
    • Visiting historical sites: The US Virgin Islands have a fascinating history, and there are many museums and historic sites to explore.

  • Other Activities:

Besides beach relaxation and exploration, the islands offer a range of activities for tourists:

  • Historical Tours: Explore historical sites like Fort Guadalupe and the Annaberg Plantation on St. John.

  • Water Sports: Enjoy snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, or sailing in the clear waters of the Virgin Islands.

  • Island Hopping: Take day trips to different islands for a change of scenery and experience.

  • Shopping: Visit Charlotte Amalie for shopping experiences.

  • Hiking: Hike through the trails of Virgin Islands National Park, taking in the beautiful views and exploring hidden beaches.

  • Snorkeling & Diving: Explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life around the islands, like the Coral World Ocean Park.

  • Historical Sites: Visit the St. John Historical Society Museum or the Fort Guadalupe ruins for a deeper dive into the island’s history.

  • Island Tours: Explore the island by joining a guided tour.

Remember:

  • Research and book in advance:

    • Tours are popular, especially during peak season, so it’s best to book ahead.

  • Pack for the weather: Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and light clothing for the warm temperatures.

  • Island Hopping: Remember that transportation options to other islands may be limited.

Visa Requirements:

  • The US Virgin Islands are a US territory, so you don’t need a passport or visa to visit if you are a US citizen.
  • Visitors from other countries can check their specific visa requirements for travel to the US Virgin Islands.

Travel Tips:

  • Best time to visit: The islands have a tropical climate, with warm weather year-round.

The best time to visit is during the dry season (December-April), when temperatures are in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit and rainfall is minimal.

  • Currency: The US dollar is used in the US Virgin Islands.

  • Language: English is the official language.

  • Packing essentials:

    • Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat for sun protection
    • Lightweight clothing suitable for warm weather
    • Hiking shoes if you plan to explore trails
    • Swimwear and a swimsuit cover-up

  • Pack light: You don’t need much for a 4 day trip.

  • Learn about the local environment: The US Virgin Islands are home to diverse marine life, but remember to respect the environment

  • Respect the local culture: The islands have a strong Caribbean identity and heritage.

    • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

  • Be mindful of your belongings: Petty theft can occur in tourist areas.

Remember to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid leaving valuables unattended.

Island Hopping Options:

  • St. John Island: Explore the island’s natural beauty by hiking or taking a boat tour.

  • Transportation:

    • Taxis: Widely available and a convenient way to get around.
    • Rental Cars: Recommended for exploring at your own pace.

  • Ferry Schedules: Check ferry schedules for times and availability.

Island Hopping Options:

  • St. Croix: Experience the island’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning beaches.

  • Other Islands: Visit nearby islands like Water Island for a taste of local life.

  • Day Trips:

    • Consider a ferry trip to St. John, which offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical charm.

Cultural Experiences:

  • Historical Sites: Explore the historical sites of the US Virgin Islands, National Museum of the US Virgin Islands

  • Local Cuisine:

    • Enjoy fresh seafood dishes at Charlotte Amalle, like conch fritters, fish sandwiches, or grilled lobster.

  • Island Adventures:

    • St. John’s Trunk Bay: This beach is a popular destination for snorkeling due to its clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.

Things To Do:**

  • Historical Sites: Explore the historic sites of the US Virgin Islands, such as

  • Local Activities:

    • Enjoy the local festivals

  • Remember:

    • Respect local customs: Dress appropriately for cultural events and be mindful of noise levels in public areas.

  • Island Culture:

    • Be aware that the island culture is diverse and vibrant,

Be prepared to learn about the history of the islands

, and experience the unique blend of Caribbean and American influences.

This itinerary is just a starting point. You can customize it to fit your interests and budget.

  • For Budget Travelers:

    • Take advantage of free activities like swimming at Coki Beach, exploring nature trails

  • For History Buffs: Visit historical sites like the Charlotte Amalie Historic District and learn about the island’s past.