Ideal Family Fun Vacation at the USVI
Planning a family vacation is not easy, let alone finding a perfect spot to satisfy everyone’s idea of fun. Adults want time to relax and unwind, while the kids want a trip that is packed with activities and adventure. So, the solution for this familiar and seemingly annual problem? Easy. Make your next family vacation a trip to the Virgin Islands.
Running southeast of Florida and just 50 miles east of Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands are actually two archipelagos consisting of the United States Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands. Each of them feature islands with scenic anchorages, idyllic sugar white sand beaches, warm calm seas with crystal clear water, great snorkeling and sun filled skies. Each of the islands found in the VI’s have their own unique features, so the fun isn’t limited to one island alone. Here’s just a few places you’ll all enjoy in both the US and British Virgin Islands.
United Stated Virgin Islands
Trunk Bay on beautiful St. John and Magen’s Bay on St. Thomas are two world famous bays in the USVI, but each offers completely different experiences. In common, both have azure blue and turquoise waters, powdery soft white sand and swaying palms trees. In fact, Trunk bay is consistently voted among the Top Ten Beaches in the World by Conde Nast Traveler magazine. These picturesque beaches are perfect for those who just want to relax on a hammock while enjoying the gentle sea breeze or float in calm, waveless waters. Both of the bays’ surrounding reefs are great for snorkeling and kayaking that are sure delight the young and adventurous types as well.
What makes them unique and different from the other is the island on which they’re located. St Thomas is a major hub for cruise ships and is home to the area’s largest airport, so on this island, you’ll find a bustling city, shopping, restaurants, nightlife, and more population than any other US Virgin Island. Because of the amount of people on the island, the beaches are hopping too, and Magen’s Bay is a favorite of tourists and locals alike. Lots to do and see here!
In contrast, St. John is home to just 4,000 residents and is only accessible by boat or seaplane. This sleepy little island is quiet, with a small city center in Cruz Bay. The beaches are almost never crowded and often deserted.
The British Virgin Islands
A short boat ride from the USVI, the British Virgin Islands do not disappoint. They are home to pristine beaches, world famous bars, pirate lore and much more. Jost Van Dyke is the largest of the 60 islands that make up the BVI. Apart from it’s lovely beaches and awesome snorkeling, this is where you’ll find Great Harbour Bay and it’s fantastic beach bars that are known the world over. Time Magazine has listed Foxy’s, on Great Harbour, as the third best place to spend New Year’s Eve–that’s how amazing this place is!
The Caves on Norman Island is another great place to visit for an exciting time together with the family. The series of caves is home to stunning coral formations, colorful and friendly fish and awesome adventure. Norman Island is privately owned and uninhabited, and is said to be the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic tale, “Treasure Island.” It is rumored, and even documented that pirates hid tons of treasure in this area that has never been found, so keep lookout while inside the caves–you might just find yourself a silver pirate coin. ARRRRRRRR!
A trip to the Virgin Islands is definitely the solution for your perfect family vacation. To take the hassle off hopping from one island to another and enjoy your trip to the fullest, charter your own private boat for family memories to last a lifetime!
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