Top 10 Most Interesting Facts About the U.S. Virgin Islands

1. Nicknamed "America's Paradise," the U.S. Virgin Islands consist of three main islands: St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix.
2. The territory was purchased from Denmark by the United States in 1917 for $25 million in gold.
3. Residents of the U.S. Virgin Islands are U.S. citizens but cannot vote in presidential elections.
4. Virgin Islands National Park covers 60% of St. John and offers some of the most pristine landscapes in the Caribbean.
5. Charlotte Amalie, the capital, is named after a Danish queen.
6. The islands are known for their vibrant Carnival celebrations, featuring music, dancing, and parades.
7. Magens Bay on St. Thomas is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
8. Salt River Bay on St. Croix is the only known site where Christopher Columbus landed on U.S. territory.
9. The underwater snorkeling trail at Trunk Bay is one of the most famous in the world.
10. The U.S. Virgin Islands operate on “island time,” emphasizing a laid-back and relaxed culture.

Geography of the U.S. Virgin Islands

The U.S. Virgin Islands are characterized by lush tropical landscapes, white sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters:

• Highest Point: Crown Mountain on St. Thomas (1,555 feet).
• Lowest Point: Caribbean Sea (sea level).
• Major Islands: St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix.

A Brief History of the U.S. Virgin Islands

The U.S. Virgin Islands have a rich history influenced by Indigenous peoples, European colonization, and modern American culture:

• The islands were originally inhabited by the Ciboney, Arawak, and Carib peoples.
• Christopher Columbus arrived in 1493 and named the islands "Las Once Mil Vírgenes" (The 11,000 Virgins).
• The islands were under Danish rule for over 200 years before being sold to the United States in 1917.
• The economy once revolved around sugar plantations worked by enslaved Africans.
• Today, the islands are a popular tourist destination known for their natural beauty and history.

Top 20 Things to Do in the U.S. Virgin Islands

1. Explore Virgin Islands National Park on St. John.
2. Relax on Magens Bay Beach on St. Thomas.
3. Snorkel at Buck Island Reef National Monument.
4. Visit Coral World Ocean Park on St. Thomas.
5. Snorkel the underwater trail at Trunk Bay.
6. Stroll through Charlotte Amalie's historic streets.
7. Tour Christiansted National Historic Site on St. Croix.
8. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Cruz Bay on St. John.
9. Take in the views from Drake's Seat on St. Thomas.
10. Visit the Estate Whim Plantation Museum on St. Croix.
11. Explore the Annaberg Plantation Ruins on St. John.
12. Climb the 99 Steps in Charlotte Amalie.
13. Relax on Honeymoon Beach on St. John.
14. Tour Fort Frederik in Frederiksted, St. Croix.
15. Snorkel at Coki Point Beach on St. Thomas.
16. Visit the historic Salt River Bay on St. Croix.
17. Unwind on Water Island's quiet beaches.
18. See sea turtles at Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge.
19. Shop and dine in Red Hook on St. Thomas.
20. Celebrate Carnival on St. Thomas or St. Croix.

Plan Your Visit

For more information about the U.S. Virgin Islands, visit the official tourism site: Visit USVI