Less than two miles from Charlotte Amalie, the Paradise Point Skyride gives visitors a stunning aerial view of the St. Thomas coastline. A short tram ride will shuttle you 700 feet above St. Thomas Harbor to Paradise Point, where you can see the city, the harbor, and the great expanse of ocean beyond. Afterward, grab a cocktail from the on-site bistro, like the signature Bushwacker with Baileys.

Get a truly unique view of St. Thomas and the Virgin Islands with Caribbean Buzz Helicopters. Their 30-minute NoHello Sunshine tour will whisk you across St. Thomas to St. John, past the neighboring islands of Tortola and Jost Van Dyke. It’s a short thrill ride and a one-of-a-kind way to take in the beauty of the islands. 

If you need to feel the wind in your hair, soar through the treetops at Tree Limin' Extreme. Climb high in the rainforest of St. Peter Mountain in a Swiss Army Pinzgauer (a European military vehicle), where you’ll catch incredible views of Magen’s Bay, the British Virgin Islands, and more. Then strap in and let ‘er rip. Careen down six rainforest ziplines with professional guides to keep you safe.

Just south of Magens Bay, Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden offers a brilliant display of the local plant life. You may find blooming orchids, vibrant bromeliads, and more exotic plants in this lush rainforest setting. A must-see, whether you’re a seasoned gardener or simply an admirer. 

Just a 10-minute walk from the cruise dock on St. Croix, Rhythms at Rainbow Beach is one of the best beach bars on the island. Enjoy authentic Caribbean food and sip fruity frozen drinks while you listen to live music and soak up the sea views. If the crystal-clear water is calling your name, rent a jet ski, snorkel gear, or a kayak. 

Local pride is on full display at the Caribbean Museum of Arts, highlighting artists from the USVI, Puerto Rico, and the greater Caribbean. The diverse collections here are inspired by local culture, from the beauty of the islands to the legacy of slavery and colonialism. The museum store is a great place to pick up a souvenir like a beautiful book, print, or piece of pottery.

St. John’s principal town is Cruz Bay, a charming, walkable village packed with shopping and dining. Wharfside Village, just next to the ferry landing, is the perfect first stop. Start with souvenir shopping and a quick lunch at this friendly collection of waterside shops and restaurants. Just half a mile up the road, the Mongoose Junction shopping area is a must-see. Among a maze of stone steps and archways, you can browse unique local clothing, jewelry, home decor, and more.

More than 60% of Cruz Bay is dedicated to the Virgin Islands National Park. This protected natural and historic area is home to many island treasures. Hike the trails to scenic overlooks, or take the Reef Bay Trail to the ancient petroglyphs left behind by the Taino Indians. Find the island’s only baobab tree brought by enslaved Africans, or swim the crystal clear waters of Cinnamon Bay. 

Located in Virgin Islands National Park, the Annaberg Plantation Ruins serve as an important reminder of the island’s dark past. Once a working sugar plantation, the remains of the mill, sugar factory, and slave quarters can still be explored. Learn about the plantation’s operations and the lives of those who lived there, surrounded by lush tropical foliage and breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea.