5 Things To Do In Virgin Islands National Park

Virgin Islands National Park is a stunningly beautiful national park located on the island of St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The park encompasses over 7,000 acres of land and almost 5,000 acres of underwater territory, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The park is home to a variety of landscapes, including beaches, coral reefs, tropical forests, and historic ruins. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan a visit to the park. In this article, we’ll cover five of the best things to do in Virgin Islands National Park.

1. Go Snorkeling or Diving One of the main draws of Virgin Islands National Park is the incredible underwater scenery. The park is home to some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the world. With crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, snorkeling and diving in the park is a must-do activity. There are several popular spots to explore, including Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, and Waterlemon Cay. If you’re new to snorkeling or diving, there are several tour companies that offer guided trips and equipment rentals.
2. Take a Hike The park has over 20 hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging treks. The trails lead through lush forests, along scenic coastlines, and past historic ruins. One of the most popular hikes in the park is the Reef Bay Trail, which winds through the forest and past several historic sugar plantation ruins. Another popular trail is the Rams Head Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding islands. No matter which trail you choose, be sure to bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes.
3. Relax on the Beach Virgin Islands National Park is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. With soft white sand, crystal-clear water, and lush vegetation, the beaches in the park are the perfect place to unwind and soak up the sun. One of the most popular beaches is Trunk Bay, which is known for its underwater snorkeling trail. Other popular beaches include Cinnamon Bay, Hawksnest Bay, and Maho Bay. Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or simply relax in a hammock, there’s a beach in the park that’s perfect for you.
4. Visit the Historic Sites Virgin Islands National Park is home to several historic sites that offer a glimpse into the island’s past. The most famous of these sites is the Annaberg Sugar Plantation, which was established in the 18th century and produced sugar, molasses, and rum for over 100 years. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the plantation and learn about the history of the sugar industry on the island. Other historic sites in the park include the Cinnamon Bay Plantation and the Reef Bay Estate.
5. Go Kayaking or Paddleboarding Exploring the park’s coastline by kayak or paddleboard is a unique and unforgettable experience. The calm waters of the bays and coves offer a peaceful and serene setting for a paddle. Kayaks and paddleboards can be rented at several locations in the park, including Cinnamon Bay and Maho Bay. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even paddle out to some of the nearby cays and explore the deserted beaches and rocky outcroppings.

In conclusion, Virgin Islands National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, lush forests, and historic ruins, there’s something for everyone in the park. Whether you choose to snorkel, hike, relax on the beach, explore the historic sites, or paddle along the coastline, you’re sure to have a memorable and unforgettable experience.