Top 3 Questions We Get About Visiting the U.S. Virgin Islands (Answered!)
If the U.S. Virgin Islands are on your vacation wish list, you’re not alone—and you’re probably asking the same questions we hear from clients every single week. From how long to stay to where to sleep and how to get around, these answers can make or break your trip.
Let’s break it all down so you can plan smarter, relax more, and actually enjoy island life 🌴
1️⃣ How Many Days Do I Really Need in the U.S. Virgin Islands?
Six nights is the sweet spot (ideally Saturday–Sunday travel).
Here’s why shorter trips feel rushed:
Travel days eat up two days (airports + connections)
You’ll want one full day to island-hop to St. John
One day to explore Charlotte Amalie for shopping, history, and dining
At least two full beach days (there are more beaches than days, we promise 😍)
Bonus (Highly Recommended):
🚤 A boat charter to the British Virgin Islands
This is a full-day experience and hands-down one of the most memorable add-ons you can do—think snorkeling, island hopping, and postcard-perfect views.
👉 Bottom line: Less than six nights means you’ll be choosing what to skip. Six nights lets you actually enjoy the islands without rushing.
2️⃣ Resort or Vacation Rental: Which Is Better?
This one surprises a lot of people.
Food in the Virgin Islands is expensive, because nearly everything arrives by boat—those costs show up whether you’re dining out or grocery shopping.
Choose a Resort if you want:
Walkable restaurants
Zero cooking
Easy, low-planning vacation mode
On-site amenities and beach access
Choose a Vacation Rental if you want:
Flexibility and space
Grocery runs + picnic lunches
A quieter, more local vibe
Stunning views and unique locations
💡 Important truth: Neither option is automatically cheaper. It’s about how you want to vacation, not how you want to budget.
3️⃣ Should I Rent a Car or Take Taxis?
We always recommend renting a car. And a four-wheel drive vehicle IS necessary if you are staying on St. John. If you are staying on St. Thomas, you do not need a four wheel drive vehicle!
The Virgin Islands are meant to be explored:
Hidden beaches
Scenic overlooks
Local food spots
Flexible schedules (no waiting around)
🚕 Why taxis add up fast:
Charged per person
Each way
Prices increase quickly for families or groups
🚗 A rental car gives you:
Freedom to explore
Air conditioning (you’ll thank me)
Cost savings over the week
No rigid schedules
👉 If you want to see more than your resort or rental driveway, a car is the way to go.
Final Thoughts: Plan the Trip That Fits You
The U.S. Virgin Islands can be:
Relaxing or adventurous
Resort-based or DIY
Beach-heavy or excursion-packed
The key is matching your travel style to the right length of stay, accommodations, and transportation.
If you want help pulling all of this together—flights, lodging, island hopping, boat days, and the “don’t miss this” spots—We’ve got you covered!
Want NTA to help you with your trip to the Virgin Islands? Click the button below to get started with our pros!
This blog post was written by Megan Dunn, our most experienced USVI traveler on the team! She’s practically and transplant there!
