U.S. Virgin Islands in 2022

The US Virgin Islands are a group of Caribbean volcanic islands famous for their white-sand beaches. This is my travel log from a trip in January of 2022.

St Thomas

St Thomas is the entry point for most visitors to USVI who enter the territory by plane or on cruise ships.

The island is very expansive and hilly, and renting a car is a must for visitors who want to explore it. Many major car rental companies have kiosks at the airport, where one can pick up the car right outside of the airport entrance.

Unlike most of the U.S., in USVI driving is on the left side of the road, and it takes some time to get used to that. I highly recommend renting an SUV here if you are planning to visit spots outside of the capital, Charlotte Amalie.

Points of interest

• Magens Bay Beach - well protected by the bay, has clean waters, plenty of parking space, and facilities like showers and picnic tables.

  

• Sapphire Beach - located in front of multiple resorts and hotels

  

  

• Drake's Seat is a vista point with panoramic views of the island.

• Cost U Less - a local equivalent of Costco.

St John

St John is considered to be the prettiest of USVI. It can be reached from St Thomas by the Red Hook Car Ferry. The round trip will cost about $60.

Most of the island is occupied by Virgin Islands National Park, which means the nature here is well protected and taken care of.

Beaches

Maho Bay Beach is a beautiful beach perfect for snorkeling. I was able to spot a turtle, a stingray, and many different kinds of fish and mollusks. Beware of sea urchins!

Trunk Bay view

Watermelon Cay hike pictures