Virgin Islands National Park (Virgin Islands)

A tropical paradise within the idyllic Caribbean, Virgin Islands National Park is a dazzling showcase of pristine beaches, lush forests, and vibrant marine life. This enchanting park, celebrated for its breathtaking beauty and rich cultural history, offers visitors an unforgettable escape into the heart of the Caribbean's captivating charm.

Established as a national park in 1956, Virgin Islands National Park spans over 15,000 acres on the island of St. John, encompassing nearly two-thirds of the island's landmass. The park's diverse ecosystems support a wealth of flora and fauna, including vibrant coral reefs teeming with life, dense tropical forests, and the rare Virgin Islands tree boa and the St. John's wort.

The park's storied past, which spans from pre-Columbian Taino civilizations to European colonial powers, is evident in its numerous historic sites. Visitors can explore ancient petroglyphs, sugar plantation ruins, and remnants of Danish colonial architecture, offering a glimpse into the region's rich and varied heritage.

Visitors to Virgin Islands National Park can indulge in a variety of recreational activities that highlight the park's natural beauty and cultural history. With over 20 trails, guests can hike through lush forests, wander along pristine beaches, or explore the park's fascinating historic sites. Snorkeling and scuba diving are also popular activities, with the park's crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs providing an unparalleled underwater experience. Other popular activities include kayaking, birdwatching, and participating in ranger-led programs that delve into the park's natural and cultural history.

The nearby communities of Cruz Bay and Coral Bay on St. John, as well as other neighboring islands, offer a range of accommodations, dining options, and local attractions for visitors. These vibrant island towns ensure that every visitor can experience the park's captivating beauty and rich history in comfort and style.

MUST SEE SITES

1. Trunk Bay: This stunning beach offers crystal-clear waters and a unique underwater snorkeling trail, as well as opportunities for hiking and relaxing in the sun. Visitors can explore the area by hiking one of the park's trails, attending a ranger-led program, or simply taking in the stunning views of the unique landscape.

2. Reef Bay Trail: This scenic trail offers stunning views of the surrounding wilderness, as well as opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. Visitors can explore the area by hiking the trail, attending a ranger-led program, or simply taking in the stunning views of the unique landscape.

3. Annaberg Plantation: This historic site was once a sugar plantation and offers visitors a glimpse into the area's cultural and economic history. Visitors can explore the area by hiking one of the park's trails, attending a ranger-led program, or simply taking in the stunning views of the unique landscape.

4. Cinnamon Bay: This scenic beach offers crystal-clear waters and opportunities for snorkeling and relaxing in the sun. Visitors can explore the area by hiking one of the park's trails, attending a ranger-led program, or simply taking in the stunning views of the unique landscape.

5. Lind Point Trail: This scenic trail offers stunning views of the surrounding wilderness and leads to the historic Lind Point Lighthouse. Visitors can explore the area by hiking the trail, attending a ranger-led program, or simply taking in the stunning views of the unique landscape.

GETTING THERE

The most common way to arrive at Virgin Islands National Park is by air and ferry. The park is located on the island of St. John, which does not have its own airport, so visitors usually fly into the Cyril E. King Airport on the nearby island of St. Thomas. Several airlines offer flights to St. Thomas from several cities, including Miami, New York, and Atlanta.

Once you arrive at St. Thomas, you can take a taxi or rental car to the Red Hook ferry terminal, which is about a 30-minute drive away. From there, you can take a ferry to the town of Cruz Bay on St. John, which is home to Virgin Islands National Park.

Another option is to fly into the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport on the island of Tortola, in the neighboring British Virgin Islands, and then take a ferry to St. John.

Once you arrive at Virgin Islands National Park, the best way to get around is by car or by foot. The park is home to several hiking trails, including the Reef Bay Trail and the Francis Bay Trail. There are also several campgrounds and rental villas available for overnight stays, and ranger-led programs and tours are offered throughout the year.

GATEWAY COMMUNITIES

The towns of Cruz Bay on St. John and Charlotte Amalie on St. Thomas serve as the primary gateway communities to Virgin Islands National Park, offering various accommodations, dining options, souvenir shops, and outdoor recreation equipment rentals.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Visitors can find various lodging options in the surrounding communities, including hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals. Additionally, there are several campgrounds available within the park, providing tent and eco-tent sites.

CAMPGROUNDS

Virgin Islands National Park has a developed campground, Cinnamon Bay Campground, offering tent and eco-tent sites, as well as basic amenities like restrooms, drinking water, and picnic areas. Reservations are recommended, especially during the busy season, which typically runs from December through April.

WEATHER/CLIMATE

Virgin Islands National Park has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round. Average temperatures range from the 70s to 80s Fahrenheit, with occasional fluctuations. Visitors should be prepared for potential rain, as the region experiences both dry and wet seasons.

RECREATION OPPORTUNITIES

Numerous recreational opportunities await visitors, including hiking, snorkeling, swimming, and exploring the park's beautiful beaches and coral reefs. The park offers miles of hiking trails, providing opportunities to explore the diverse landscapes and observe the stunning coastal scenery. Popular hikes include the Reef Bay Trail, the Ram Head Trail, and the Annaberg Sugar Mill Ruins Trail. Snorkeling and swimming are popular activities, with a variety of marine life inhabiting the park's coral reefs, including sea turtles, tropical fish, and rays.

VISITOR CENTER

Virgin Islands National Park has a visitor center located in Cruz Bay, known as the Cruz Bay Visitor Center. The center provides information about the park's history, ecology, wildlife, and recreational opportunities. Rangers are available to offer guidance and answer questions. The visitor center is open daily, with some exceptions for major holidays or seasonal closures.