Places / North & Central America / United States
US Virgin Islands
Visited
At a glance
- Region
- Caribbean
- Capital
- Charlotte Amalie
- Population
- 104,000 (2024)
- Area
- 347 km²
- Languages
- English
- Currency
- United States dollar (USD)
- Drives on the
- left
- Calling code
- +1 340
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Before you go
Overview
The United States Virgin Islands is an unincorporated island territory of the United States, and has been since 1917, situated at the eastern end of the Greater Antilles, about 40 miles (64 km) east of Puerto Rico, in the north eastern Caribbean Sea.
The territory is geographically part of the Virgin Islands group, which also contains its near neighbour, the British Virgin Islands.
Cruz Bay, on the island of St John.
The territory is composed of three large islands—St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas—and about 50 small islets and cays. The capital is Charlotte Amalie, on St. Thomas.
The islands are famous for its beautiful white sand beaches, turquoise waters and wear round excellent weather.
The U.S. Virgin Islands have a rich cultural legacy that lives on today. The flags of seven different nations have flown over these islands, leaving their distinct imprint on the people, history, culture, architecture, art, music, and cuisine.
There is plenty for tourists to see in the historic towns with 17th and 18th-century forts, museums and historic sites.
Be immersed in the pulse of the local music and take part in the vibrant and colourful cultural displays during the annual carnivals and festivals. With a tapestry of West Indian, African, European, and American influences you’ll be sure to experience the diversity. You’ll taste it in the local fare and cuisine that spans the region and the globe.
History
Denmark ruled the islands for more than 200 years before selling them to the United States in 1917.
Food & culture
Fish and fungi (cornmeal), kallaloo and pate pastries are local favourites.
Wildlife
Virgin Islands National Park covers much of St John, with coral reefs, turtles and tropical birds.
Festivals & events
The St Thomas Carnival and the Crucian Christmas Festival on St Croix are the main events.
Things to see
Trunk Bay on St John, Magens Bay on St Thomas, Buck Island Reef and Christiansted.
Interesting facts
Cars drive on the left, even though it is a US territory.
Cities & towns I’ve visited
Neighbours
No land borders with other countries.
My Bucket List goals in US Virgin Islands
None on the list yet. Got a suggestion? Email Dan.