The US Virgin Islands are renowned for their picturesque beaches, boasting soft white sand and crystal clear blue waters. One of the most popular beaches is Judith's Fancy Beach, which is perfect for swimming and surfing. Low tides make it an ideal spot for divers to explore the nearby reef. Cinnamon Bay is another great beach, with no entry fee and plenty of amenities.
It's one of the few places in the Virgin Islands where you can camp on the beach, thanks to Cinnamon Bay Beach and Campground. There's also a coffee shop, store, and water sports facilities with kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkeling. Isaac Bay is a wild beach that's perfect for long solitary walks. It's accessible by a 20-minute walk and has very little shade, so it's usually devoid of tourists.
Snorkeling here is excellent, with prismatic brain corals, although you'll want to keep an eye on the strong current. Jack and Isaac Bay Reserve is a favorite nesting site for green and hawksbill turtles between July and December. Water Island is a small, tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of Charlotte Amalie, with just 200 residents and three stunning beaches. Honeymoon Beach is one of the best, with cheerful palm trees lining a small cove.
There are several bars and restaurants with tables on the sand, making it ideal for a long lunch or early happy hour. Lindquist Beach is a narrow half-moon of untouched sand located inside Smith Bay Park. It's a haven of peace for families thanks to its shallow waters, picnic tables, lifeguard, and bathhouse with showers. The panoramic views of several cays along the horizon are breathtaking.
Hull Bay is the best spot for surfing when there are waves from the north (usually between November and March). The rest of the year it's known for its lively bar, sea grapes shade, and slightly rocky seabed. The Virgin Islands National Park has several attractions worth exploring, including Trunk Bay's self-guided underwater diving trail with underwater signs that provide information on coral formations and marine life. There's also an overwater trail that surrounds the western end of Buck Island to an observation deck atop a hill.
When planning a charter vacation, one inevitably asks: “What is the best island to visit in the US Virgin Islands?” The answer is simple: all of them! From rum distilleries to nature reserves and first-class shops and restaurants, these translucent waters offer something for everyone.