Discover the U.S. Virgin Islands: A Tropical Photo Paradise
Welcome to the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI), a tropical haven comprising three main islands: St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas. These islands boast a rich history, vibrant harbors, and seas so blue they beg to be photographed.
As a U.S. territory in the Greater Antilles, the USVI are situated just 40 miles east of Puerto Rico. They offer an idyllic escape for those seeking the Caribbean's sun, serenity, and beauty.
Here are 20 of the most picturesque spots in the USVI:
1. Trunk Bay Beach, St. John
![Trunk Bay Beach](/media/united-states-virgin-islands-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-trunk-bay-beach.jpg)
Gifted to the National Park Service by Laurence S. Rockefeller, Trunk Bay is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.
2. Virgin Islands National Park, St. John
![Virgin Islands National Park, St. John](/media/united-states-virgin-islands-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-virgin-islands-national-park.jpg)
This park offers diverse activities, from hiking to snorkeling, and is home to historical petroglyphs and sugar plantation ruins.
3. Reef Bay Trail, St. John
![Reef Bay Trail](/media/united-states-virgin-islands-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-reef-bay-trail.jpg)
The Reef Bay Trail leads adventurers through a lush jungle to historical sites and natural wonders.
4. Frederiksted, St. Croix
![Frederiksted](/media/united-states-virgin-islands-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-frederiksted.jpg)
Frederiksted charms with its pastel Victorian architecture and historical significance.
5. Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
![Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas](/media/united-states-virgin-islands-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-charlotte-amalie.jpg)
Charlotte Amalie is a bustling hub for shopping, dining, and water-based adventures.
6. Honeymoon Beach, St. John
![Honeymoon Beach](/media/united-states-virgin-islands-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-honeymoon-beach.jpg)
Honeymoon Beach offers a secluded and romantic setting within the Caneel Bay Resort.
7. St. Thomas
![St. Thomas](/media/united-states-virgin-islands-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-st-thomas.jpg)
St. Thomas is a tropical paradise known for its beaches and coral reefs, attracting cruise ships and shoppers alike.
8. Cinnamon Bay, St. John
![Cinnamon Bay](/media/united-states-virgin-islands-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-cinnamon-bay.jpg)
Cinnamon Bay, the longest beach on St. John, is nestled in the Virgin Islands National Park.
9. Annaberg Sugar Plantation, St. John
![Annaberg Sugar Plantation](/media/united-states-virgin-islands-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-annaberg-sugar-plantation.jpg)
The Annaberg Sugar Plantation ruins offer a glimpse into the island's colonial history.
10. Cruz Bay, St. John
![Cruz Bay, St. John](/media/united-states-virgin-islands-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-cruz-bay.jpg)
Cruz Bay is the lively heart of St. John, with dining, shopping, and tour opportunities.
11. Christiansted, St. Croix
![Christiansted](/media/united-states-virgin-islands-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-christiansted.jpg)
Christiansted is a cultural treasure with historic churches and distinctive architecture.
12. Fort Christiansvaern, St. Croix
![Fort Christiansvaern, St. Croix](/media/united-states-virgin-islands-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-fort-christiansvaern.jpg)
This 18th-century fort has protected Christiansted from various threats throughout history.
13. Magens Bay, St. Thomas
![Magens Bay](/media/united-states-virgin-islands-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-magens-bay.jpg)
Magens Bay is celebrated for its stunning beach and relaxing atmosphere.
14. Buck Island Reef National Monument, St. Croix
![Buck Island Reef National Monument](/media/us-virgin-islands-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-buck-island-reef-monument.jpg)
This protected area is a haven for divers and nature lovers, accessible by boat.
15. 99 Steps, St. Thomas
![99 Steps, St. Thomas](/media/united-states-virgin-islands-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-99-steps.jpg)
The 99 Steps are a historic and picturesque stairway, perfect for unique photos.
16. Government House, St. Thomas
![Government House, St. Thomas](/media/us-virgin-islands-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-government-house-st-thomas.jpg)
This elegant government building is a testament to the island's architectural beauty.
17. Coral Bay, St. John
![Coral Bay, St. John](/media/united-states-virgin-islands-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-coral-bay.jpg)
Coral Bay is a quieter alternative to Cruz Bay, offering a serene resort experience.
18. Coki Beach, St. Thomas
![Coki Beach](/media/united-states-virgin-islands-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-coki-beach.jpg)
Coki Beach is a snorkeler's paradise with vibrant marine life and close proximity to Coral World Ocean Park.
19. Maho Beach, St. John
![Maho Beach, St. John](/media/united-states-virgin-islands-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-maho-beach.jpg)
Maho Beach is a peaceful retreat with soft sand and shallow waters, perfect for families.
20. Hawksnest Beach, St. John
![Hawksnest Beach, St. John](/media/united-states-virgin-islands-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-hawksnest-beach.jpg)
Hawksnest Beach is a less crowded but equally stunning beach, ideal for relaxation.
21. Secret Harbour, St. Thomas
![Secret Harbour, St. Thomas](/media/us-virgin-islands-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-secret-harbour-st-thomas.jpg)
Despite its name, Secret Harbour is a well-known snorkeling spot with a variety of marine life.
22. Drake's Seat, St. Thomas
![Drake's Seat lookout, St. Thomas](/media/us-virgin-islands-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-drakes-seat-st-thomas-2.jpg)
Drake's Seat offers panoramic views of the surrounding islands and Magens Bay.
23. Brewers Bay, St. Thomas
![Brewers Beach in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands](/media/us-virgin-islands-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-brewers-bay-st-thomas.jpg)
Brewers Bay Beach is a family-friendly spot near the airport, where kids can watch planes while enjoying the sun.
24. Blackbeard's Castle, St. Thomas
![Blackbeard's Castle](/media/united-states-virgin-islands-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-blackbeards-castle.jpg)
This historic landmark in Charlotte Amalie is linked to the legendary pirate Blackbeard.
25. Francis Bay, St. John
![Francis Bay, St. John](/media/us-virgin-islands-in-pictures-beautiful-places-to-photograph-francis-bay-st-john.jpg)
Francis Bay is a tranquil and spacious beach, offering a serene escape from more crowded spots.