The U.S. Virgin Islands are located in the eastern Caribbean, just
1,100 miles southeast of Miami, about 50 miles east of Puerto Rico.
Surrounded by the clear blue waters of the Caribbean, the average
temperature ranges from 77ºF in the winter to 83ºF in the summer.
The territory consists of four main islands: Saint Thomas,
Saint John, Saint Croix, and Water Island, as well as
several dozen smaller islands. The combined land area of the
islands is roughly twice the size of Washington, D.C..
The U.S. Virgin Islands are known for their white sand
beaches, including Magens Bay and Trunk Bay, and strategic
harbors, including Charlotte Amalie and Christiansted. Most
of the islands, including Saint Thomas, are volcanic in
origin and hilly. The highest point is Crown Mountain, Saint
Thomas (474m). Saint Croix, the largest of the U.S. Virgin
Islands, lies to the south and has a flatter terrain. The
National Park Service owns more than half of Saint John,
nearly all of Hassel Island, and many acres of coral reef.
The beaches are obviously one of the reasons you choose to visit
the U.S. Virgin Islands as your vacation getaway - and you won't be
disappointed. From soft white sands to glorious blue-and-white
contrasts, you will find picture-perfect stretches. If you prefer
more secluded spots, you will find them also. Without a doubt, the
U.S. Virgin Islands has a beach to suite every taste.
All the beaches in the Virgin Islands are open to the public. Along
the many miles of shoreline, you will find a wide variety of beaches
for swimming and snorkeling.
Each of the three major islands possesses a unique character
all its own. St. Croix's Danish influence is perfect for visitors
who prefer a laid-back experience. The historic towns of
Frederiksted and Christiansted offer quaint shops, charming pastel
buildings, refreshing cultural diversity. From horseback riding near
eighteenth-century sugar mills to playing golf on one of the
island's three scenic golf courses, you're sure to find something to
suit your tastes.
Two-thirds of St. John is a national park; its comfortable pace is
perfect for enjoying the island's world-renowned beaches such as
Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, and Salt Pond Bay. A nature lover's
favorite, St. John offers hiking, camping, specialty shopping, and
breathtaking views. If you take just a few hours to visit this
island, you'll find it well worth the trip.
St. Thomas boasts one of the most beautiful harbors in the world. As
the most visited port in the Caribbean, downtown Charlotte Amalie
offers elegant dining, exciting nightlife, world-class, duty-free
shopping, and even submarine rides. While it's full of energy,
especially in Charlotte Amalie, this island also possesses numerous
natural splendors, such as stunning views of the Caribbean from
1,500 feet above sea level.
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