Which of the US Virgin Islands is best to stay on?
By Carles Barcelo. Updated October 27, 2023
The US Virgin islands are a Caribbean gem that attract global holidaymakers all year round. Known as the ‘American Caribbean’, The US Virgin Islands are divided into three separate islands: Saint Thomas, Saint John and Saint Croix. Each has a lot to offer: beautiful beaches, fascinating Creole culture and delicious local cuisine. The islands have a deep and fascinating history, and this is reflected in both the culture and the historical museums and landmarks in all of the three small islands. Whether you just want to experience one of these islands or all three, there are many fantastic places to stay.
All of these three islands boast white- sanded beaches, sky-blue waters and lovely beach resorts. If you love to be in the heart of the action, the mountainous Saint Thomas Island is the perfect place to base yourself, with a historical capital and plenty of resorts. If you prefer a smaller and slightly more remote island, then Saint John is for you, with its remote resorts, stunning natural beauty and exciting watersports. Or if you would love a Caribbean cultural immersion combined with pristine beaches, forts and historical landmarks, the island of Saint Croix makes for a remarkable place to stay.If you are interested in where to stay in US Virgin Islands, you may also be interested in where to stay in Puerto Rico and where to stay in Antigua.
Choosing where to stay in US Virgin Islands
Saint Thomas
Saint Thomas Island is a tourist’s paradise and definitely the most popular destination to stay in the US Virgin Islands. Lined with pristine beaches and stunning surrounding mountains, there are many jaw-dropping viewpoints all around Saint Thomas. You could easily spend a week or more exploring what Saint Thomas has to offer, and there are many fantastic places to stay on the island.
Charlotte Amalie is the island’s capital and where the bulk of the Saint Thomas population lives. There are many great accommodation options and you are definitely in the heart of the island life here. Charlotte Amalie is particularly famous for its historical landmarks, including ancient fortifications, churches and museums.
If you prefer a more secluded and quiet area famous for beautiful beaches, East End is an ideal place to stay on Saint Thomas Island. There are many upmarket resorts here, with great facilities and idyllic seafront views. You can relax on Sapphire or Lindquist Beach or enjoy the more lively Red Hook area and its delicious restaurants. Other great places to stay on the island are the stunning beach settlements of Nazareth and Frydenal or Bolongo and its splendid Bolongo Bay Beach Resort and snorkeling.
Recommended hotels in Saint Thomas:
The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas:
Nestled on the beautiful island of St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas provides a luxurious escape for travelers seeking sun, sand, and sea.
This oceanfront resort offers elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites with stunning views of Charlotte Amalie harbor and Magens Bay.
Guests can enjoy an array of on-site amenities and activities, including a spa, fitness center, infinity pool, and water sports. The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas is also home to several restaurants and bars, offering everything from fine dining to casual fare. No matter what your travel plans entail, The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas is the perfect place to relax, rejuvenate, and explore.
Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove:
There’s no mistaking the Frenchman’s Cove for anything but a quintessential Caribbean experience for adventure seekers.
The turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and lush greenery are reminiscent of postcards from the region. But this St. Thomas resort also has plenty of contemporary comforts that make it a great choice for a perfect vacation.
The Resort offers two and three-bedroom villas that are spacious and well-appointed. The Sunset Cove Bar & Grille is a great spot for American lunch or dinner, and there’s also an indoor Marketplace for snacks and other items.
Despite its size, the Frenchman’s Cove never feels crowded, and guests can always find a spot to relax.
Saint John
Saint John is smaller than Saint Thomas but is still a beautiful island perfect for holidaymakers. Connected to Saint Thomas by ferry, Saint John is full of history, natural beauty as well as immaculate beaches and resorts. There are several lovely areas to choose from, and you could easily spend a week on the island. With fantastic weather and excellent cuisine, you will feel at home quickly here!
The Cruz Bay Area of Saint John Island is arguably the most popular area to stay for tourists. As well as great restaurants, cafés and resorts, you are very close day trip to the iconic Trunk Bay - where you will find the most spectacular and pristine beaches on the island. If you want somewhere more remote, head to the Eastern side of the island- to Coral Bay. Here, there are similarly splendid beaches, but without the crowds seen in Trunk Bay.
For more adventurous travelers, staying near Cinnamon Bay in the north of the island is the logical option. Here, you can enjoy exciting watersport activities such as snorkeling, kayaking and even windsurfing! Or if you prefer to unwind on the beach, head to Rendevoux Bay and Fish Bay in the South of the island.
Recommended hotels in Saint John:
Gallows Point Resort
: Located in St. John, US Virgin Islands, Gallows Point Resort is a distinctive Caribbean Resort that overlooks Cruz Bay. The resort offers a variety of one- and two-bedroom suites, and villas.
Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant, pool, and fitness center, or explore the neighborhood. The resort is also a short drive from the Virgin Islands National Park.
Enjoy dinner with a view at The Ocean 362 or an indulging coffee at Gallows Point Resort Gift & Gourmet Shop.
Take a drive over to Maho Bay Beach to spend the day swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the coral reef. The nearby town of Cruz Bay offers a variety of shops and restaurants.
The Westin St. John Resort Villas
offer the perfect blend of luxury and comfort. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, white sand beaches, and lush gardens.
The resort features a variety of amenities including an infinity pool, world-class dining, a spa, and much more.
Sugar and Spice Spa together with the Workout Fitness Center at the Westin St. John Resort Villas offer the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate.
Snorkels Bar & Grill and Mango Deli are the perfect places to enjoy a meal or snack while enjoying the breathtaking views. The Westin St. John Resort Villas is the perfect choice for a luxury Caribbean vacation.
Saint Croix
Saint Croix is another culturally rich and beautiful US Virgin Island that draws tourists in all year round. With consistently warm weather, interesting historical landmarks and an unparalleled coastline, it is no wonder that so many people flock to Saint Croix. It boasts white sand beaches, crystal blue seas and makes for a great destination for all types of tourists.
In terms of areas to stay in Saint Croix, the two major towns are Christiansted and Frederiksted. As well as strolling by the lovely waterfront, both of these towns have major historical points of interest, including ancient forts and museums. They also boast excellent local cuisine, outdoor sports activities and a wide range of accommodation options.
For beach lovers, the North Shore area is the best place to stay when in Saint Croix. This amazing coastal strip is home to the best beaches on the island, numerous hotels and resorts and even a busy shopping scene. You could spend days here and not get bored! Alternatively, the East End of Saint Croix is also a beach lover’s paradise-located just east of Christiansted. Just like the East End of Saint Thomas, it is a much quieter alternative to base yourself.
Recommended hotels in Saint Croix:
Buccaneer Beach & Golf Resort
is located in the heart of St. Croix, US Virgin Islands. This resort is for those seeking breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and the surrounding islands.
Buccaneer Resort features an 18-hole championship golf course, a full-service spa, 5 restaurants, a fitness center, and an outdoor swimming pool.
Guests can enjoy a variety of activities such as snorkeling, windsurfing, sailing, and kayaking. Buccaneer Beach & Golf Resort is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the Caribbean lifestyle.
Resort’s rooms and The Beach House overlook the beautifully landscaped grounds, sparkling pools, and the azure Caribbean Sea, making it the perfect place to spend some quality time.
Hotel on the Cay
is a historic hotel located on a small island off the coast of St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands.
For those who would enjoy a ferry ride, the hotel is accessible by ferry from Christiansted and offers views of the nearby Buck Island Reef National Monument.
The hotel’s accommodation options include well-appointed rooms along with two-bedroom suites that feature a kitchenette, cable TV, and a private balcony or patio.
On-site Rolling Smoke On The City together with The Beach Bar offers authentic barbeque and drinks in an open-air setting with views of the harbor. The hotel also has an outdoor pool and a sun deck.
Our recommended hotels in US Virgin Islands
Use the interactive map to navigate through our recommended hotels in US Virgin IslandsNote: Hotel prices can change daily due to promotions, seasons, and demand. Our $ - $$$$ scale shows the overall cost range rather than exact prices.
