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The Virgin Islands is a group of about 90 islands located in the West Indies, east of Puerto Rico. The islands are separated between the United States and Great Britain.
Formally, they are known as the British Virgin Islands and the U.S. Virgin Islands, though most people group them together.
Why You Should Visit the Virgin Islands
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One perk of visiting the U.S. Virgin Islands over the British Virgin Islands is that they are a territory of the United States. This means you don’t need a passport to enter this area if you are a United States citizen!
Some popular islands in the U.S. Virgin Islands are St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix. If you make a short boat trip to the British Virgin Islands during your trip, and you are a U.S. citizen, you will need a passport to enter those islands.
A few commonly visited British-owned islands are Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and Anegada. These islands are known for being home to white sandy beaches, relaxing coastal towns, and their wide array of hotels and resorts that make your stay a vacation to remember!
The 15 Best Resorts in the Virgin Islands
Check out our list of the 15 best resorts in the Virgin Islands below. We include islands in the BVI and USVI areas, so you can choose which location you want to try.
And unlike other lists, we’ve tried to include both large corporate-owned and also mom-and-pop resorts. Not only does this show the local business owners some love, but also expands our recommendations to all travel styles and budgets.
1. The Ritz-Carlton – St. Thomas
Source: Booking.com
- Average Price: $900 – $1,100 per night
The Ritz-Carlton line of hotels and resorts is known for impeccable service, delicious restaurants, and excellent accommodations. The St. Thomas location features chic, modern-beachy decor, meaning you get the luxury amenities with a twist.
Open-air aesthetics and a focus on bringing the outdoors inside make the Ritz-Carlton a must-stay. Try to request a room facing east for the best views.
2. Gallows Point Resort – St. John
Source: Booking.com
- Average Price: $795 – $900 per night
Surrounded by tropical gardens, Gallows Point Resort is a homey-feeling, recently renovated, luxurious resort on St. John island.
Guests love that snorkeling is available right off the dock, and many say it was perfect for a romantic getaway. The area is ideal for lounging on the beachfront after an active day horseback riding and swimming in the crystal clear water!
3. Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove – St. Thomas
Source: Booking.com
- Average Price: $700 – $900 per night
Marriott is a trusted family of hotels, and their Frenchman’s Cove hotel is no different! The onsite restaurant features light fare and divine drinks while you enjoy the fresh air and incredible scenery. It’s ideal for groups who want to stay together in the villas. Plus, this resort features a private beach on Pacquereau Bay.
4. Scrub Island Resort – BVI
Source: Booking.com
- Average Price: $650 – $1,000 per night
Scrub Island Resort is on the high end of resorts in the Virgin Islands. It has one of the most impressive features in the region – a four-tiered, lagoon-style pool complete with waterfalls.
Where else can you bask near a waterfall with a cocktail in your hand from the swim-up bar? The whole experience sounds even better when you find out this exclusive resort is only accessible by helicopter or boat.
5. The Westin Beach Resort – St. Thomas
Source: Booking.com
- Average Price: $650 – $775 per night
The most notable feature of the Westin Beach Resort at Frenchman’s Reef is the view. This cliffside resort looks out over the clear blue Caribbean, and it makes the most of the scenery with a stunning glass elevator. Plus, you can head to the private dock for fishing, snorkeling, and sunset cruises!
6. The Westin St. John Resort Villas
Source: Booking.com
- Average Price: $600 – $900 per night
The Westin at St. John Resort is another beachfront property managed by a reputable, global brand. You can walk through some of the loveliest grounds in the region and explore nearby white sand coves. If you crave a little privacy, choose one of the villas with a view.
7. Saba Rock Resort
Source: Booking.com
- Price: $600 – $750
Saba Rock Resort is a stunning boutique hotel on a private island, so hop on the ferry and head to paradise. It’s small but gloriously furnished with clean, contemporary decor in neutral colors to make it feel homey without interfering with the landscape.
The food is outstanding with a range of local cuisine and classic favorites paired to perfection with wine or a cocktail. Enjoy a walk on the private beach, roma the neighborhood, or get a massage at the on-site spa.
8. The Buccaneer Beach & Golf Resort – St. Croix
Source: Booking.com
- Average Price: $550 – $700 per night
The Buccaneer Beach & Golf Resort is a private beachfront resort that embraces tranquility and activity all in one location. This resort is the perfect blend of country club and tropical island with a range of activities, including golf and tennis, set against the backdrop of lush palm trees and turquoise waters.
9. Bolongo Bay Beach Resort – St. Thomas
Source: Booking.com
- Average Price: $430 – $550 per night
Bolongo Bay is an all-inclusive resort, and one of the most versatile options on the list. This mid-range resort offers high-class amenities you desire, like water sports and beach bars. It’s close to many attractions if you want to explore, or you can stay on-site and unwind on the beach.
10. Sugar Mill Hotel – Tortola
Source: Booking.com
- Average Price: $390 – $500
Guests at Sugar Mill Hotel can enjoy world-class service, unique decor and atmosphere, and excellent food. The lush gardens draw you in and set the scene for the main attraction – the beach. It’s a classic hotel that pays tribute to the traditional Caribbean resorts.
11. Pavilions and Pools Resort – St. Thomas
Source: Booking.com
- Average Price: $350 – $500 per night
Pavilions and Pools Resort offers a casual, laid-back vibe for those who want to get in the mood. Though the resort has many pools, it’s within walking distances of several beaches and bars for those who want to explore the area.
12. Long Bay Beach Resort – Tortola
Source: Booking.com
- Average Price: $350 – $500
If you want a chic, modern hotel with excellent cocktails, Long Bay Beach Resort might be the one for you! Every room has a balcony to showcase the incredible views and put you steps from the water.
Sprawl in the shade on your beachfront balcony, walk the beach, or swim in the turquoise waters without venture far from your room.
13. Flamboyan on the Bay – St. Thomas
Source: Booking.com
- Average Price: $190 – $300 per night
Though the price of Flamboyan on the Bay is much lower than others, its amenities and accommodations do not disappoint!
If you’re looking for something less stuffy and more down-to-earth, this might be the place for your next vacation. The low-key resort features all the amenities you could want, including two pools, a coffee shop, bar, and restaurant, plus stunning views.
14. Emerald Bay Resort – St. Thomas
Booking.com
- Average Price: $180 – $350
Another low-end price, but a high-end quality hotel in St. Thomas is the Emerald Bay Resort. Despite its proximity to the airport, this resort has a tucked-away feel with one of the best beaches in the region. You get a stellar ocean view, comfortable rooms, and an outstanding beachfront bar.
15. Sebastian’s on the Beach Hotel – Tortola
Source: Booking.com
- Average Price: $150 – $300
Sebastian’s on the Beach Hotel is an affordable hotel option in the British Virgin Islands that many guests appreciate due to its proximity to the beach.
One notable feature of this hotel is that it is beachfront and has plenty of water sports activity options even though its accommodation price is lower than others with these same features.
Making the Most of Your Virgin Islands Hotel Stay
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Getting to the Hotel
Most resorts in the Virgin Islands offer hotel shuttles. Some are free, while others incur an additional fee. If you are unsure if your resort offers this kind of service, give them a call and ask!
However, if you visit the U.S. Virgin Islands, you can rent a car just like you can in the continental United States. If you prefer to drive yourself, that is an option! Many hotels have parking or valet options for guests.
Crime and Safety
While crime in the Virgin Islands is rising, much of this crime is among locals and often occurs between these groups of people. Tourist crime does exist, but you should exercise the same amount of caution that you would usually use on any other trip.
If you need more security and safety, pick a hotel where much of the activities are at the hotel or provided by their partner companies.
Traveler Tips
The vibe on many of the islands is that life is on island time! Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours early, rent a car if you do not like to rely on others for timely transportation, and most of all enjoy and embrace the laid-back lifestyle!
Book an excursion through the concierge at your resort, since it is helpful to keep all reservations in one place!
Take a day trip to a neighboring island if you want. Make the vacation yours, but take advantage of the delicious food and gorgeous beaches the islands have to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
ST JOHN, US VIRGIN ISLANDS -15 APR 2017- View of the ferry transporting guests between St Thomas and Caneel Bay, a luxury resort hotel located on St John, USVI/EQRoy/Shutterstock
Which US Virgin Islands has the best beaches?
The Virgin Islands as a whole have some of the best beaches you will experience in the subtropical area! Below is a short list of some of the best beaches in the Virgin Islands.
- Magens Bay Beach in St. Thomas
- Trunk Bay Beach in St. John
- Sandy Point Beach in St. Croix
- White Bay Beach on Jost Van Dyke
- The Baths on Virgin Gorda
Which of the Virgin Islands is the best to stay on?
Some of the most recommended islands in the Virgin Islands include Magens Bay on St. Thomas, Honeymoon Beach on St. John, Buck Island on St. Croix, and Road Town on Tortola.
Regardless of which island you choose, if you love the beach and world-class snorkeling, you will love your time in the Virgin Islands!
Which is the safest US Virgin Island?
Regarding crime rate, St. John has the lowest crime rate among the three major U.S. Virgin Islands. However, as with any trip, be aware of your surroundings and conduct yourself in a manner that feels safest to you!
Another perk of staying at a resort is that you have people familiar with the area to provide advice and safety tips should you need them.
What is the best month to go to the Virgin Islands?
The best time to visit this area is mid-April to June. Average temperatures are comfortable, hotel and resort rates often drop, and the dry season nears its end.
You can take advantage of great weather and great rates during this time because it is before hurricane season but after peak tourism times.
Which US Virgin Island is the easiest to fly to?
St. Thomas is the easiest U.S. Virgin Island to fly to. Once you arrive, you can easily reach St. Croix and St. John. American Airlines, Delta Airlines, JetBlue Airlines, United Airlines, and Spirit Airlines operate direct flights from the continental United States to St. Thomas.
Over to You — Book Your Trip Today!
Our number one resort in the Virgin Islands is the Ritz-Carlton in St. Thomas. However, every resort on our list has its benefits, so take into account what you want to explore while you are there, then make your decision on where to stay
No matter what resort you choose, the gorgeous landscape of the Virgin Islands is waiting for you. So what are you waiting for — book your trip to the Virgin Islands today!