Escape to the Beautiful Beaches of the US Virgin Islands

Houstonians don’t necessarily look for warmer weather during the holidays; after all, let’s all admit that we’re hoping our 90+ degree-days are over with. Also, while we are luck enough to live near the ocean, I think we can all honestly admit that we wish our beloved Galveston was a myriad of beautiful shades of blue, turquoise, aqua, and so on. Can you picture that clear blue water yet?

Thanks to direct flights from United Airlines to the beautiful U.S. Virgin Islands, days of daydreaming about sipping on a cocktail with toes in the sand, while gazing at amongst crystal clear water are over! With that being said, doesn’t ditching the chaos of the holidays and trading it, instead, for making some great memories with the family or even escaping it all for some beachside r&r sound like a great plan?

Yes, that means get on that laptop or smartphone and start planning your U.S. Virgin Islands getaway! Don’t worry, we have got the where to stay and what to do all planned out for you. And let’s not forget, No Passport Required!

Following up on our article from August, “US Virgin Islands: No Passport Required”, we suggested staying at the family friendly Bolongo Bay on the island of St. Thomas for those wanting the beautiful scenery and small hotel boutique feel without breaking the bank (we loved this place by the way). However, if you want luxury and have the means to splurge, then Caneel Bay Resort is definitely a must. Just a short scenic ferry ride from Red Hook (St. Thomas) will take you to the island of St John where the 166-room resort is located. Founded by Laurance Rockefeller, Caneel Bay’s tranquil setting which includes seven of the most beautiful pristine beaches offers its guest every possible amenity for relaxation and disconnect. If the resort is out of your budget, a day visit to the resort’s Honeymoon Beach is suggested.

With plenty of picturesque beaches, restaurants, bars, and unique boutique shopping, St. John should definitely be on your itinerary as a day trip if staying on one of the other of the U.S. Virgin Islands. For the historian type of traveler, a drive to the Annaberg Plantation while discovering many of the island’s beaches will paint a vivid picture about the labor and equipment used during the 18th century. (The views from the plantation are simply amazing!) Before heading off the island of St. Thomas, head over to Ocean 362 for a one-of-a-kind Caribbean dining experience. The chef-driven innovative menu offers the freshest ingredients combining local flavors with a modern twist.