Best US Virgin Islands for Families
Many families dream of going to the Virgin Islands with their kids. It’s easy to see why, as it offers one of the most tranquil backdrops imaginable for family fun! Picture spending a week under the Caribbean sun, island hopping in USVI. Priceless. However, family travel in the Virgin Islands takes some planning, especially when traveling by boat. Learn more about the best US Virgin Islands for family travel.
Choosing a Family-Friendly Itinerary in the USVI
Family travel in the Virgin Islands offers fun activities for all ages. There’s snorkeling, swimming, and (of course) sailing.
If you’re new to sailing, teach your kids a new skill and island hop with GSVI courses! A USVI sailing course showcases some of the most family-friendly locations in the Caribbean so you can focus on having fun.
However, if you plan to book a bareboat charter, here’s a look at where to go in the Virgin Islands with kids.
St. John
It’s no surprise that families fall in love with St. Johnn, an island that boasts clear blue waters and snow-white sands at beaches like Cinnamon Bay and Trunk Bay.
When you take a sailing course with Go Sail VI, you’ll cast off to see nearly the entire island of St. John. Highlights include:
Virgin Island National Park
Dock in one of these two popular locations in Virgin Island National Park. You can swim with sea turtles, colorful fish, and other wildlife if you’re lucky.
Coral Bay, St. John
Visit the Virgin Islands with kids and experience waters that are often as gentle as clear. Coral Bay is an ideal learning ground for sailing or snorkeling.
Lameshur Bay, St. John
Sail back to Virgin Island National Park on St. John, where you can visit historical mills, plantations, and hiking trails. A perfect adventure for active kids!
St. Thomas
Many sailing trips begin in St. Thomas. If you can arrive a few days early, it gives you an opportunity to explore the family-friendly island before setting sail. There are many things to do in the Virgin Islands with kids, and St. Thomas offers some of the best!
Skyride to Paradise Point
The St. Thomas Skyride takes you 700 feet above the Caribbean Sea in a gondola on a 10-minute thrill ride. Tickets are $29.99 for adults but just $19.95 for children.
Coral World Ocean Park
Families who want to learn more about marine life can visit Coral World Ocean Park near Coki Beach. You can swim with dolphins, admire sea lions up close, and even take an underwater hike!
Iggies Beach Bar & Grill
Iggies Beach Bar & Grill is a popular spot for families to dine, with indoor and outdoor seating near the beach. This allows the kids to have fun in the sun between bites of shrimp tacos, freshly made chicken tenders, or conch fritters at the popular pool bar and restaurant.
St. Croix
St. Croix is an excellent addition to your USVI itinerary. If you charter a bareboat, you may want to add Twin City to your family travel Virgin Islands itinerary.
St George Village Botanical Gardens
The St George Village Botanical Gardens features over 1,000 plants in a tropical setting that was once home to a colonial-style plantation. Kids can walk around the 16 acres of land while learning more about local history and wildlife.
Cruzan Cow Girls
Ride along the beaches and trails of St. Croix by horseback when you visit the Virgin Islands with your kids. Cruzan Cow Girls will have you trotting along the white sands and even splashing around in the Caribbean Sea.