Popular types of activities in Virgin Islands National Park

Updated April 26th, 2022
Girl in snorkeling mask dive underwater with coral reef fishes
Image credit: dmosreg / 123rf

The Virgin Islands are known for their beaches, aquamarine waters, and lush vegetation. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, diving, fishing, sailing, and windsurfing. There are also many hiking trails, golf courses, and tennis courts on the islands.

The Virgin Islands are also known for their duty-free shopping. Visitors can find designer brands, jewelry, and local arts and crafts. There are also many restaurants and bars on the islands.

1. Enjoy the beaches

When visiting Virgin Islands, you can expect to enjoy the beaches. The beaches are sandy and the water is clear. There are also many beach bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or meal.

2. Visit the coral reefs

When visiting the coral reefs in or near Virgin Islands, visitors will likely see colorful fish swimming around coral reefs and other aquatic life. Visitors may also see coral reefs from a distance, and may be able to see some of the reef's colorful fish up close. Visitors may also be able to see marine life such as whales and dolphins while on the reef.

3. Take a hike through the rainforest

Take a hike through the rainforest in or near Virgin Islands will be a beautiful experience. The trees will be towering above you, the humidity will be high, and the sounds of the forest will be all around you. You'll be able to see all sorts of wildlife, and you'll be able to feel the misty raindrops falling on your skin.

4. Visit the botanical gardens

When visiting the botanical gardens in or near Virgin Islands, visitors can expect to see a variety of plants and trees, as well as wildlife. The gardens may also offer outdoor walking and biking trails, as well as a greenhouse.

5. Go snorkeling or diving

There are many different types of dive sites in the Virgin Islands. Some of the more popular sites include the Blue Hole, Baths of the Virgin Islands, and the wreck of the Queen of the Virgin Islands. All of these sites offer a different type of dive experience, from easy dives to more challenging dives. When diving in the Virgin Islands, it is important to be aware of the conditions. The water can be choppy and cloudy, so it is important to make sure that your equipment is in good condition before you dive. Additionally, the water can be very hot and acidic, so it is important to take precautions against sunburn.

6. Take a ferry ride to one of the nearby islands

When taking a ferry ride to one of the nearby islands in or near Virgin Islands, you can expect to be on the water for a short period of time and then be able to explore the island. Some of the islands that are popular for ferry rides include Saint John, Saint Thomas, and Saint Croix.

7. Visit a rum factory

When visiting a rum factory in or near Virgin Islands, expect to see large tanks where the rum is made, as well as small barrels where the finished product is stored. You may also see workers in white coats mixing ingredients in large vats, and barrels of finished product ready to be shipped off to stores.

8. Go on a safari tour

A safari tour in or near Virgin Islands will typically include a drive to a wildlife reserve to observe the animals, followed by a game drive where you'll have the opportunity to see lions, elephants, buffalos, and other animals up close. You may also see monkeys, snakes, and other creatures in the jungle.

9. Visit a plantation

When visiting a plantation, visitors may expect to encounter historic architecture, lush gardens and fruit trees, and workers in traditional clothing. Some plantations may also offer interpretive programs and demonstrations of plantation life.

10. Take a zip-lining tour

You will zip through the trees and over waterfalls on a thrilling zip-line tour in the Virgin Islands.