Honeymoon in the US Virgin Islands

A honeymoon in the US Virgin Islands awaits couples who want all the perks of a Caribbean getaway without any of the fuss of crossing into international territory. Leave your passport at home to fly to St. Croix and St. Thomas and visit St. John! This tropical trio won’t disappoint with its white-sand beaches, beautiful hotels, and water sport opportunities. Plus, you’ll get plenty of time to relax and rejuvenate from your wedding when you honeymoon in the US Virgin Islands.

Geography and Information about the US Virgin Islands

The US Virgin Islands (USVI) is a United States territory, which includes three popular tropical islands: St. Croix, St. Thomas and St. John. It also has many smaller cays and islets, but the three larger islands are the main attraction.

St. Thomas and St. John are very close to each other, at just six miles apart at their nearest points. St. Croix is located to the south of St. Thomas and St. John and is reachable by boat or a ferry that takes approximately 45 minutes for inter-island travel. The US Virgin Islands are situated to the west of the British Virgin Islands and to the east of Puerto Rico, another U.S. territory. Charlotte Amalie, a city named after a Danish King’s wife from the 17th century, is the largest city on the islands. It’s located on St. Thomas.

The Caribbean Sea surrounds them all, and there are plenty of sandy beaches to enjoy during your honeymoon.

The islands were previously known as the Dutch West Indies, during a time when sugar production ruled their economy for two centuries. Dutch influence remains here in its architecture and street names; the Dutch controlled these lands before the United States gaining the territory in the early 20th century.

Language

 The US Virgin Islands is a melting pot of cultures, but their official language is English.

You’ll find immigrants from the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico speaking Spanish. You may also hear French spoken by immigrants from places like French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Haiti and Martinique. There is a Creole influence here too, both Dutch Creole and Virgin Islands English Creole.

But you can expect everyone you encounter during your honeymoon to be able to communicate with you in English!

USVI Time Zone

These islands observe Atlantic Standard Time year-round but do not observe Daylight Savings Time. Its time aligns with New York’s during summer, but it’s one hour ahead during winter.

In other words, if it’s 8 pm in New York during May, it’s the same time in the US Virgin Islands. But if it’s January, when much of the United States has “fallen back” an hour for Daylight Savings Time, it’s 7 pm in N.Y. and 8 pm on St. Croix, St. Thomas and St. John.

Currency in the US Virgin Islands

As you may suspect, the official currency of the USVI is the U.S. dollar. There are no conversions necessary for your honeymoon in the US Virgin Islands, whether you’re figuring out the bill at dinner or buying souvenirs!

LGBTQ+ Community

Gay marriage is recognized in the USVI, and same-sex marriage ceremonies are performed here. Expect to feel welcomed and comfortable as a visiting LGBTQ+ couple. Be aware that some rural areas of the country are more conservative in their views, so discretion is advised when passing through.

If you’re looking for gay bars and clubs, check out the Frenchtown neighborhood of Charlotte Amalie on St. Thomas. Frederiksted, in St. Croix, is also a popular city that caters to the gay market.

Weather and Best Time to Visit the US Virgin Islands

Hurricane season is something to consider in this area of the world. It could significantly affect your vacation with winds and rain. This time is from June through October. Because of the risk, hotel prices tend to drop during this time. (It is a good idea to get travel insurance if you wish to visit during these months.)

The best time to honeymoon in the US Virgin Islands is April through June, outside of the winter tourist season, when temperatures range between the mid-70s and high-80s. Carnival takes place during these months. It’s an exciting annual festival that occurs in St. Thomas each April and in St. John in June. (St. Croix has its own Carnival festival in December.)

Getting Around During Your Honeymoon

Flying to the USVI is easy from the United States mainland. You can fly to one of two islands. We’ve provided information for both from New York, Los Angeles and the Houston area.

While St. Croix and St. Thomas are reachable by plane, St. John is only reachable by boat. This could mean an affordable ferry ride, private charter, water taxi or cruise. Since it’s very close to St. Thomas, it only takes about 20 minutes to get there.

During your honeymoon in the US Virgin Islands, you can easily walk, use taxis and hotel transportation to get around. They do not have rideshares, like Uber or Lyft.

We’ve priced roundtrip flights, per person, from three major cities in the US from the two locations during early June.

Flights to St. Thomas

Visitors flying to St. Thomas will arrive at Cyril E. King Airport, code STT.

• NYC to STT: $200 for a nonstop 4-hour flight.
• LAX to STT: $555 with one-stop and between 10 to 11 hours of traveling.
• IAH to STT: $400, nonstop with approximately 5 hours of travel time.

Flights to St. Croix

Henry E. Rohlsen Airport on St. Croix is the airport guests will arrive at, code STX.

• NYC to STX: $480, with one-stop and just over 7 hours of traveling.
• LAX to STX: $770 with one-stop and just over 11 hours of travel time.
• IAH to STX: $500 with 7.5 of traveling and one-stop.

Passport and Visa Requirements

If you’re flying from the US to any of the islands without a stopover in a foreign country, you don’t need a passport to honeymoon in the US Virgin Islands.

Vaccinations

Routine vaccines are recommended by the CDC when visiting these Caribbean islands. It’s advised travelers have been vaccinated for things like Chickenpox, Measles-Mumps-Rubella, the flu, Polio, Hepatitis A and B. The typhoid vaccine is also one to consider, especially for honeymooners who may visit more rural areas in the islands.

 

Things to Do in the US Virgin Islands

A honeymoon in the US Virgin Islands will surely include poolside relaxation or enjoyment of the beach. And maybe even water sports like scuba diving, fishing, and renting resort paddle boards or kayaks! There are unique experiences to be had on each of the islands. 

St. John Things to Do

• Virgin Islands National Park covers two-thirds of the island. It would be difficult not to be in the park at some point during your visit to St. John! Explore various hiking trails, or visit the island’s iconic white-sand Caribbean beaches. These include Cinnamon Bay, Caneel Bay, Trunk Bay and neighboring Jumbie Bay. (They’re all part of the national park.)
• Explore the advanced hiking opportunities at Reef Bay Trail. It’s a steep trail not for the faint of heart, but the two to four hour hike is perfect for avid hikers.
• Grab some snorkel gear and head to Leinster Bay, renowned for its excellent snorkeling. Be cautious of the currents here—they’re strong in some areas. (The area is also known as Watermelon Bay.)
• Walk around Cruz Bay, the main town on St. John. There are plenty of restaurants and shops to enjoy on your honeymoon in the US Virgin Islands.

St. Croix Activities

• Visit Fort Frederik, in Frederiksted on the west side of the island. It was built by the Danish in the 18th century for defense.
• Step back in time at Christiansted National Historic District. You can visit the buildings to see Europe’s influence on the region from a historical context.
• Take a culinary tour with Virgin Island Food Tours. This “Crucian” experience brings guests to six exclusive tastings and where the locals eat and drink.
• Take a memorable horseback ride along the North Shore beaches and through historic sugar plantations on a guided tour.

Things to do in St. Thomas

• Visit Coral World Ocean Park and its adjacent Coki Beach. Ask about Coral World’s Seatrek Safari tours for a unique underwater adventure.
• Visit Red Hook, where you can partake in shopping, strolling and dining. It’s named for its red-tiled roofs on the buildings.
• Hang out on Magens Bay Beach, a gorgeous public beach. This trendy destination is one of two free beaches on the island. Its beachside concession stand means you can sunbathe and swim in the ocean through lunch!

Honeymoon Resorts We Love in the USVI

The Westin St. John Resort Villas

Located on the beautiful island of St. John, US Virgin Islands, The Westin St. John Resort Villas offers a luxurious and tranquil escape. The resort features spacious villas with modern amenities, stunning ocean views, and access to pristine white sandy beaches. Guests can enjoy a range of activities including snorkeling, kayaking, and relaxing by the pool. With its serene atmosphere and top-notch service, The Westin St. John Resort Villas is a paradise for those seeking a rejuvenating vacation.

Morningstar Buoy Haus Beach Resort at Frenchman’s Reef, Autograph Collection

Nestled on the picturesque Frenchman’s Reef in St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands, Morningstar Buoy Haus Beach Resort offers a blend of natural beauty and refined luxury. The resort boasts stylish accommodations with breathtaking ocean views, private balconies, and access to a pristine beach. Guests can indulge in gourmet dining, unwind at the spa, or take part in water sports activities. With its idyllic location and upscale amenities, Morningstar Buoy Haus Beach Resort promises an unforgettable vacation experience.

Carambola Beach Resort St. Croix, US Virgin Islands

Located on the serene island of St. Croix, US Virgin Islands, Carambola Beach Resort is a tropical oasis set amidst lush greenery and turquoise waters. The resort showcases charming rooms and suites with Caribbean-inspired decor and modern comforts. Guests can lounge by the infinity pool, explore the coral reefs through snorkeling, or simply unwind on the beautiful sandy beach. Carambola Beach Resort offers a tranquil retreat for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful getaway.

Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the shimmering waters of Pacquereau Bay in St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands, Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove offers a luxurious vacation experience. The resort features spacious villas with contemporary furnishings, fully equipped kitchens, and private balconies with stunning ocean views. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including multiple pools, a fitness center, and a beachfront restaurant. With its prime location and upscale accommodations, Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove is a perfect destination for a memorable Caribbean escape.

The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas

Renowned for its elegance and unparalleled service, The Ritz-Carlton in St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands, is a haven of luxury and sophistication. The resort boasts lavish accommodations with refined decor, private balconies, and panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. Guests can indulge in gourmet dining, relax by the infinity pool, or rejuvenate at the spa. The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas provides an exquisite retreat for discerning travelers seeking the finest amenities and a truly opulent experience.

Inquire about honeymoon packages and specials at any of the recommended resorts.

Create a Honeymoon Registry with Honeyfund

No matter where you honeymoon in the US Virgin Islands, going with the assistance of gifts from family and friends will be heart-warming for you and your spouse. Start with our sample US Virgin Islands registry and encourage them to purchase things like flights and experiences to make your wedding gifts extra special.