The Virgin Islands are the stuff dreams are made of.
Divided into the British Virgin Islands and the U.S. Virgin Islands, these areas offer some truly pristine views of the Caribbean.
The British Virgin Islands are considered more remote and therefore more difficult to explore. For this reason, most yacht and cruise ships focus on islands within British territory.
In contrast, the U.S. Virgin Islands are much more developed and welcoming to first-time travelers.
In theory, this should make it easier to find a good hotel or rental accommodation for your trip to the U.S. Virgin Islands – at least compared to the rougher British Virgin Islands.
There are three major islands to choose from in the USVI. You’ve probably heard of St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas – but what about another popular island, Water Island?
And what about the 50 or so smaller islands that lie between the main islands?
If you’re looking for an unexpected and quality stay in the U.S. Virgin Islands, start with one of these options. I have personally selected some of the top hotels and Airbnb properties available based on ratings and reviews, the uniqueness of the stay and the relaxation-focused Caribbean feel.
The Pink Palm Hotel
St. Thomas
This boutique hotel is stylish—from the on-site restaurant to the emerald pool. It reminds me of a Wes Anderson-style stay… one that focuses on Caribbean details like thatched boudoirs and dark wood features.
Plus the tropical amenities you expect, like a hot tub, pool with a view, and lush gardens. This hotel is also adults-only, making it ideal for couples and groups seeking a quieter retreat.
Book here
The waves in Cane Bay
St. Croix
Style is another key feature of The Waves – but this venue is decidedly more atmospheric than The Pink Palm.
I’m a huge fan of the decor as it’s reminiscent of the historic properties that existed in the Caribbean. Plus, every room has an ocean view. Want to see it in more detail? The beach is just a short walk away.
I’ve also seen a lot of rave reviews for the on-site restaurant, Ama. It serves American and Caribbean cuisine with an emphasis on seafood. Delicious.
Book here
Lovango Resort + Beach Club
St. John
This amazing new place to stay is located just off the coast of St. John… on a private island.
Lovango Resort + Beach Club opens its beaches daily to day-trippers and overnight guests. The decor is Caribbean-style and at the same time chic and funky.
But you might fall in love with the live music, the spacious terraces, the truly opulent pool and what I call a near-perfect array of chill-out areas.
Lounge here, lounge there, take a bath, eat something, drink a cocktail and go to sleep – and start all over again the next day.
Book here
Caribbean style cottage
St. John
At only 46 square meters, it might be a little small, but the design of this Airbnb is just right. (I’ve been looking at the pictures for a while trying to figure out how to adapt this design for my apartment.)
Aside from the cute decor, I love the location of this Airbnb.
Guests are just five minutes from the popular Reef Bay Beach, which borders a national park. To make the most of your stay, you will need to rent a car, but this is not uncommon when visiting the US Virgin Islands.
Book here
Bella Fortuna (Oceanfront Studio)
St. Thomas
Just like the Caribbean-style cottage pictured above, Bella Fortuna is a lush and delicious take on tropical cottages—a little more colorful. The many windows offer views of the beach, and equipment like board games and art supplies are provided.
Although it’s not the most luxurious accommodation, I can’t fault it. It’s tucked away in a jungle just a short walk from the beach, there’s a fantastic outdoor area to relax on and a really big terrace for relaxing outside.
Book here
Surf Song Cottage
Water island
It’s a bottle-stone yurt – a classic in the world of sustainable construction. That alone gives me a huge thumbs up… but it’s also great for those who aren’t tree huggers.
Surf Song Cottage offers a very private patio. By private, I mean this place is located at the end of a dead-end road on tiny Water Island off the coast of St. Thomas.
If you want privacy, you’ll find it in abundance here. The grounds are spacious and mostly left wild, so you can wander around on hiking trails.
Oh, and beach access. You can easily get to Honeymoon Beach – or even return to St. Thomas on a day trip.
Book here
