US Virgin Islands General Information
The US Virgin Islands is “America’s Caribbean Paradise” and consists of three islands: St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix. There is also Water Island. Below you’ll find more US Virgin Islands general information.
The Virgin Islands are an organized, unincorporated territory of the United States, initially settled by the Ciboney, Carib, and Arawak peoples. Christopher Columbus first named the islands in 1493 for Saint Ursula and her virgin followers. Each island has unique characteristics and offers something different.
St Thomas
Learn more about US Virgin Islands’ general information by learning about St Thomas, known as “Rock City.” The name is given due to its hilly horizon and is known for luxury — from the mega-yachts moored in the harbor to the high-end storefronts along Main Street. Charlotte Amalie is the capital of the US Virgin Islands.
The main airport is the Cyril E. King Airport on St Thomas. There is also a private FBO on the island.
St Croix
St Croix has sugar cane plantations and rum distilleries that offer a glimpse into the past of the Virgin Islands. Visit bright yellow Fort Christiansvaern, St. George Village Botanical Gardens, Point Udall’s Millennium Monument (which marks the easternmost point of U.S. territory), and Salt River Bay National Park.
St John
St John appeals to honeymooners and nature lovers, with more than 7,000 acres of dedicated parkland plus surrounding pristine beaches. Virgin Islands National Park occupies more than half the island. Its forests shelter resident and migratory birds such as cuckoos, warblers, and hummingbirds. At Hurricane Hole, mangroves support corals and anemones. The island’s waters are home to dolphins, hawksbill turtles, and green turtles.
US Virgin Islands General Information | Things to See and Do
There are countless things to do and see in the USVI. Take a day sail or water tour, kayak, snorkel, see historic sites and landmarks, shop, dine, explore, or relax. Of course, you can always use your yacht’s various water toys.
All of the USVI have festivals throughout the year. Check out the USVI Festivals website for more information.
Climate and Weather
The weather is always warm in the USVI. The temperature averages 78°F (25°C) in winter (December through March) and 83°F (28°C) in summer (June through August). Easterly trade winds keep the humidity lower than on most other Caribbean islands.
The wettest months are August through November; rain usually comes in brief tropical showers. Hurricane season peaks in August and September.
US Virgin Islands General Information | Marinas
- Marina at Yacht Haven Grande
- Crown Bay Marina
- American Yacht Harbor
- Sapphire Beach Resort and Marina
