Hang Loose and Explore the Virgin Islands National Park!
Discover Virgin Islands National Park - Enjoy the breathtaking landscapes, relaxing beaches, and stunning wildlife of this spectacular park.
Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to the stunning Virgin Islands National Park! Here, you'll find all the juicy details about the park's fascinating natural history, from its geology to the resident wildlife. Let's dive right in!
The Virgin Islands stretch around 40 miles east of Puerto Rico, nestled between the warm embraces of the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. The legendary playground of the park resides on the lush and idyllic Island of Saint John.
Ready, Set, Get There!
So, how do you make your way to the party? Thomas Cyril E. King Airport on Saint Thomas Island serves as your starting point. There are a couple of routes to choose from:
- flying high with commercial airlinesor
- sailing the seas via cruise ship
If you decide to go with air travel, you'll touchdown on the island of Saint Thomas before hopping aboard a ferry to Saint John. The park entrance is conveniently accessed via North Shore or Centerline Roads.
Taxi Time
Once off the boat in Cruz Bay, daily ferry service whisks you away to St. John’s shores. The service operates from 6:30 am till midnight, so you can explore the park at your leisure! The ride takes around 20 minutes. Additionally, ferries run on the hour from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm to St. Thomas, should you wish to explore both islands[1].
Venturing Within the Park
Local taxis, known as safari buses, are your ticket to the park's most popular hotspots. Rental vehicles are also available in Cruz Bay for those seeking to explore more off-the-beaten-path locales[2]. Just remember that parking can be limited at various park sites.
Documents, Documents, Documents
U.S. citizens don't need a passport to enter the Virgin Islands, but a valid ID—like a voter registration card, birth certificate, or passport—will be needed at departure.
A Whirlwind History of the Park
The park’s roots date back to August 2, 1956, when Congress authorized its establishment, initially limiting the area to 9,485 acres on St. John and 15 acres on St. Thomas[3]. However, in 1962, the park boundaries expanded to include 5,650 acres of offshore waters composed of coral reefs, mangrove shorelines, and sea grass beds. The park's boundaries continued to expand in 1978, incorporating the additional 5,650 acres of Hassel Island in St. Thomas harbor, bringing the park's landmass to a whopping 12,908.6 acres!
Give a Warm Welcome to the Biosphere Reserve
In 1976, the Virgin Islands National Park joined the United Nations' Biosphere Reserve network with a mission to preserve, study, and restore the park's diverse ecosystems[4]. It’s the sole biosphere reserve in the Lesser Antilles!
Size and Visitor Stats
The park spans over 14,689 acres and offers a one-of-a-kind tropical paradise. Home to breathtaking coves, turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and verdant hills, the park is a nature lover's dream. In 2001, the park welcomed a staggering 713,462 visitors[5].
How it All Began
The Virgin Islands have seen a rich tapestry of history for almost five centuries. Archeological findings suggest that humans lived on the islands as early as 710 BC, with subsequent Taino Indian settlements around AD 100. European settlers didn’t establish permanent homes until the 1720s, primarily drawn by the prospect of cultivating sugar cane[6].
Beachin' in Paradise
The gorgeous, sandy beaches of the Virgin Islands are legendary for their postcard-perfect beauty. Hawksnest Bay, Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, Saltpond Bay, and many other sheltered coves beckon visitors to take a dip and soak up the sun[2].
Accessibility for All
Stroller-friendly amenities include the Visitor Contact Station in Cruz Bay and picnic areas at Trunk Bay and Hawksnest beaches[7]. Sadly, the park's steep terrain and winding roads make wheelchair accessibility to beaches and trails limited. Cinnamon Bay campground does offer accessible campsites to accommodate everyone[7].
Heading Out on an Adventure
Planning your trip is key to making the most of your time in the park. An island tour via safari bus will take about two hours, while renting a vehicle for the day offers more freedom to explore off-the-beaten-path sites[7]. But remember, when it comes to exploring this slice of heaven, there's no wrong way of doing things. Relax, take your time, and soak in all the beauty the park has to offer!
[1] https://www.visitusvi.com/en/explore/ferry[2] https://www.nps.gov/viis/planyourvisit/getting-around-st-john.htm[3] https://www.nps.gov/viis/learn/historyculture/historyofvirginislandsnationalpark.htm[4] https://wwf.panda.org/about_our_earth/where_we_work/caribbean/islands/virgin-islands/[5] https://irma.nps.gov/stats/reports/annual-visitation-2001[6] https://www.nps.gov/viis/learn/historyculture/history-of-the-national-park.htm[7] https://www.nps.gov/viis/planyourvisit/visiting-with-disabilities.htm
- Embark on a hiking adventure through the rich ecosystems of the Virgin Islands National Park, home to diverse wildlife and geology.
- The park's quiet trails offer a chance to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the natural world.
- Grab a map before you set off on your exploration of the park's scenic trails and historic sites.
- The park is part of the national park system of the United States, spanning over 14,689 acres across the islands.
- Prepare for your trip by checking the weather forecast and packing appropriate clothing, including sunscreen, hat, and sturdy footwear.
- Camping in the park allows you to fully immerse yourself in the park's wilderness lifestyle, with campsites available for rent.
- The park's rivers and streams contribute to the park's unique ecosystem, supporting a thriving population of aquatic wildlife.
- Keep an eye out for the park's resident wildlife while hiking, such as iguanas, endangered sea turtles, and brightly colored birds.
- Avoid disturbing the wildlife and respecting the park's ecosystem is essential for preserving the natural beauty of the park.
- A travel guide can help you make the most of your trip to the park, providing tips on the best trails to hike, beaches to visit, and historical sites to see.
- The park's rich history dates back centuries, with evidence of human habitation dating back to before 710 BC.
- The park's beaches offer crystal-clear waters and white sand, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the tropical scenery.
