About 1,100 miles southeast of Miami sit three major bodies of land that make up the US Virgin Islands — St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas — and they are also surrounded by roughly 50 other islands and cays.

Even though these islands have long been a US territory, they are still relatively unknown to most living in the states.

1. No Passport Required!

The U.S. Virgin Islands is an American territory, therefore U.S. citizens don’t need a passport. Another perk is that they use US currency and speak English. Despite these comforts of the continental US, there is still a strong foreign feel to the islands. For instance, in St. Croix you will notice some European influences as this was a former Danish colony. Plus, the laid-back island vibes still shine through despite the American influence.

2. Well-Preserved Natural Scenery

The Virgin Islands boasts six national parks throughout the three islands. The islands also offer eco-friendly dining options, accommodations, and activities, from farm-to-table restaurants to volunteering opportunities. The islands are full of exotic wildlife including iguanas, donkeys, and mongoose. There are over 144 species of birds throughout the islands. Wildlife-junkies can get their fix at the Virgin Islands National Park on St. John. You will likely be able to spot dolphins and whales, depending on the type of year.

3. Breathtaking Beaches

St. Thomas has busier bustling beaches, like Coki Point and Magens Bay, serviced with surfside bars, restaurants and water sports. St. John’s beaches, like Leinster Bay, tend to be quiet, deserted and off the beaten bath. If you want to learn how to sail or kite surf, head to St. Croix. Beyond the three main islands, there are also smaller islets and cays to explore by boat, offering hundreds more white sand beaches. Honeymoon Beach on Water Island is a particular favorite.

4. Diverse Culture

The Virgin Islands have plenty of historical tours, interesting foods, fairs, parades and activities; each island has it’s own vibe. If you’re an architecture nerd, you can tour 17th- and 18th-century landscapes and restored houses on St. Thomas and St. Croix. One of the most famous attractions is the 99 steps on St. Thomas, but make sure you are prepared physically for this one! In St. John’s National Park, Annaberg Plantation offers an immersive look at colonial culture.

5. Vibrant Culinary Scene

The U.S. Virgin Islands is known for local favorites and authentic Caribbean cuisine that include kallaloo, potato stuffing, red grout, and fritters. The islands have expanded their foodie game in recent years, with fine-dining and beach shack restaurants both offering regional specialties. Fresh fish, callaloo, johnnycake, pates, fungi, okra, and roti are likely to be found on the menus.

6. Ideal Location for a Destination Wedding

Your guests will thank you for choosing the USVI for your destination wedding. You may be inviting guests that do not have a passport or have never traveled out of the country. Plus, direct flights (including just a 45 minute flight from Miami) make the idea of traveling less daunting. Plus with tourism playing an important role in the USVI economy, flights from the mainland are often more affordable than flights to other Caribbean destinations.

Each island offers it’s own unique vibe for whatever destination wedding you have in mind. St. Thomas has the nightlife, restaurants, and activities for adventurous groups. St. Croix is full of white-sand beaches, and European architecture. St. John is the most luxurious of the islands, with gorgeous villas and several national parks. Plus, it is incredibly easy to hop from island to island!

7. Endless Sunshine

The USVI boast an average temperature of 82 degrees with the temp at night falling only slightly to the mid-70’s. Rainfalls normally last a few minutes in the morning or evening. The water temperature also remains between 79-84 degrees year-round. The practically guaranteed sunshine ensures that you can soak up all of the activities the USVI have to offer.

Call us today at 402-281-3022 to book your own getaway to the US Virgin Islands!