When planning a trip to the Virgin Islands, choosing the right place to stay can make all the difference in your vacation experience. The Virgin Islands, split between the US Virgin Islands (USVI) and the British Virgin Islands (BVI), offer a plethora of accommodation options to suit every preference and budget. From luxurious resorts to cozy beachfront villas, and eco-friendly retreats, the islands cater to travelers seeking relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both. Here’s a guide to help you decide where to stay in the Virgin Islands.
US Virgin Islands
St. Thomas
St. Thomas is known for its bustling harbor, shopping, and beautiful beaches. It’s a great choice for visitors looking for a mix of activities, from snorkeling and sailing to exploring historical sites.
Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas offers a premier experience with its stunning views, exceptional service, and waterfront location.
Mid-range: Emerald Beach Resort provides comfortable beachfront accommodations without breaking the bank, ideal for families and couples.
Budget: Mafolie Hotel offers affordable rooms with a spectacular view of the harbor, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.
St. John
Over two-thirds of St. John is a national park, making it a paradise for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
Luxury: Caneel Bay Resort, although temporarily closed for renovations (as of my last update in April 2023), has been a favorite for luxury eco-tourism.
Mid-range to Budget: Consider renting a villa or a condo for more privacy and a personalized island experience. Companies like VRBO and Airbnb offer a range of options across the island.
St. Croix
St. Croix offers a blend of cultural experiences and natural beauty, with less crowded beaches and a laid-back vibe.
Luxury: The Buccaneer Beach & Golf Resort is renowned for its historical significance, beautiful beaches, and golf course.
Mid-range: Chenay Bay Beach Resort offers charming beachfront cottages with easy access to the water.
Budget: Club Comanche is a historical hotel in the heart of Christiansted, offering a unique and affordable stay.
British Virgin Islands
Tortola
Tortola is the largest and most populated of the BVI, known for its sailing, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture.
Luxury: Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina offers exclusive accommodations with breathtaking views and top-notch amenities.
Mid-range: Fort Recovery Beachfront Villa & Suites Hotel provides a historical and intimate setting with personalized service.
Budget: Sea View Hotel is a budget-friendly option with basic amenities and a friendly atmosphere.
Virgin Gorda
Famous for The Baths, Virgin Gorda offers dramatic landscapes and luxury accommodations.
Luxury: Rosewood Little Dix Bay is an iconic resort known for its pristine beach, luxury villas, and exceptional service.
Mid-range to Budget: Renting a villa or a cottage can provide a more intimate and customized island experience, with options available through local real estate agencies or vacation rental platforms.
Tips for Choosing Where to Stay
Consider your priorities: Whether it’s being close to nature, having easy access to restaurants and shopping, or just finding a quiet beach to unwind.
Think about transportation: Some islands and locations are easier to navigate than others. Renting a car might be necessary in more secluded areas.
Book early: Especially if you’re traveling during the peak season (December to April), as the best places can fill up quickly.
The Virgin Islands offer something for everyone, from luxury seekers to adventure enthusiasts and those in search of peace and natural beauty. No matter where you choose to stay, the stunning landscapes, warm hospitality, and rich culture of the islands are sure to make your trip unforgettable.
Eco-Friendly Stays
For those looking to minimize their environmental footprint, the Virgin Islands offer several eco-friendly accommodation options. These places often utilize sustainable practices, such as solar power, rainwater harvesting, and local sourcing of food and materials, providing a stay that’s both comfortable and conscientious.
USVI: Eco Serendib Villa and Spa in St. John promotes luxury with sustainability, offering organic gardens, energy conservation practices, and eco-friendly amenities.
BVI: Cooper Island Beach Club is a boutique resort in the BVI that is almost entirely solar-powered, offers its own microbrewery, and practices sustainability in its operations, making it a perfect choice for eco-conscious travelers.
Adventure and Activity-Based Stays
For those whose idea of a perfect vacation includes plenty of activities, both the USVI and BVI cater to adventure seekers with resorts and lodgings that specialize in outdoor and water-based activities.
USVI: Concordia Eco-Resort on St. John offers eco-tents and studios near some of the best hiking trails and snorkeling spots in the Virgin Islands, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.
BVI: Bitter End Yacht Club in Virgin Gorda, although it was undergoing rebuilding efforts following hurricane damage (as of my last update in April 2023), has historically been a haven for sailors and water sports enthusiasts, offering lessons, rentals, and excursions.
Cultural and Historical Experiences
For those interested in the rich history and culture of the Virgin Islands, staying in or near one of the historic towns can provide a deeper connection to the islands’ past and present.
USVI: Hotel on the Cay, located on a small island within the Christiansted Harbor on St. Croix, offers a unique opportunity to stay in close proximity to historical sites and the vibrant cultural life of the town.
BVI: The Sugar Mill Hotel in Tortola is set within a 17th-century sugar plantation and offers a blend of historical charm with modern amenities, ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in the islands’ history.
When to Visit
The best time to visit the Virgin Islands is from December to May, when the weather is the most pleasant, and the risk of hurricanes is low. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowded attractions. The summer and early fall offer lower prices and fewer tourists but come with the risk of hurricanes and hotter, more humid weather.
Choosing the right place to stay in the Virgin Islands depends on your interests, budget, and the type of experience you’re looking to have. Whether you’re after luxury and leisure, adventure and exploration, or cultural and historical insights, the islands offer a diverse range of accommodations to suit your needs. By considering what you most want out of your vacation and doing a bit of research, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy all that the Virgin Islands have to offer.
