09/11/2025
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A 2025-2026 Season Guide to the U.S. Virgin Islands: Enjoying Paradise
Responsibly
Welcome to the US Virgin Islands! 🌴
Whether this is your first visit or you’re returning to paradise, here’s a detailed guide to help you enjoy your stay while respecting our islands, culture, and community.
Water is a Commodity—Don't Waste, Conserve Water!
Water scarcity is a serious, year-round issue in the islands, even with periods of rain or new infrastructure projects. Most island homes and accommodations rely on rainwater collected in cisterns or desalinated water. Every drop counts.
• Take Shorter Showers: Keep your shower time brief.
• Turn Off the Tap: Don't let water run while brushing your teeth, shaving, or washing dishes.
• Report Leaks: If you notice a dripping faucet or toilet running in your accommodation, please report it immediately.
Our power grid is fragile.
Rolling blackouts are common. We pay the highest rates in the US. Please be mindful, don't waste energy. Turn A/C off when you are not in the room
General Tips
• Drive on the Left: In the Virgin Islands, we drive on the left side of the road. Pay close attention when navigating intersections and remember—stay left! Think of the Beyonce singing. “To the left, to the left."
• Start with a Greeting: In the VI, it’s customary and polite to begin every conversation with Good morning, Good afternoon, or Good evening. It’s a sign of respect, and it makes a great first impression.
• Cover Up in Town (It's the Law!): Bathing suits belong on the beach. When heading into town, restaurants, or stores, wear proper clothing. Sheer cover-ups do not count, and you could face fines for being improperly dressed.
• Pack Light but Respectful: Lightweight clothing is perfect for the heat, but modesty is appreciated in public spaces.
• Leave Sand and Shells Behind—You Will Be Fined: It’s illegal to remove sand, shells, or coral from the beaches. Customs and Border Protection will stop you and confiscate sand, shells, or coral, and issue a fine. Just because you may be able to do this in other places, DO NOT do it here. Keep our ecosystems intact and enjoy the beauty right here.
• Reef-Safe Sunscreen is the Law: The law prohibiting sunscreens with the "Toxic 3 Os" (oxybenzone, octinoxate, and octocrylene) is in full effect.
• Don’t Touch Coral: Coral reefs are living organisms. Avoid stepping on or touching them—they’re irreplaceable.
• Do Not Stack Rocks: Do not stack rocks for Instagram pictures. Those are homes to animals you might not see. Just don't do it—it disrupts the natural ecosystem and creates unnecessary environmental damage.
Respect Our Culture
• Honor Historical Sites (This is Very Important): Many old ruins and sugar mills carry the weight of our ancestors’ painful history. Seriously, please do not use these places as props for wedding or engagement photo shoots. Approach these sites with the utmost respect, and take a moment to learn about their profound historical significance instead.
• Respect Private Property: Do not go on private property to pick flowers or fruit. This is considered trespassing and theft. Respect the land and the boundaries of Virgin Island residents.
• Ask a Virgin Islander for Help: Need recommendations or assistance? Find a Virgin Islander, not another tourist. We can give you correct information and point you in the right way. A friendly “Good afternoon, are you from here?” goes a long way.
• Support Local Businesses: From restaurants to gift shops, choose local to experience authentic island life. You can get Wendy’s anywhere in the world.
Wildlife and Nature
• Donkeys on St. John: While they’re adorable, please do not feed, pet, or lure donkeys to the road for photos. These actions have caused illness and accidents. Take pictures from a distance and let them roam freely.
• Respect Wildlife: Observe sea turtles, fish, iguanas and other creatures without chasing, touching, taunting or feeding them. That goes for your children too.
Be Gracious
• Tipping is Appreciated: Show your gratitude to drivers, servers, and tour guides for excellent service. A little extra kindness goes a long way.
Dining and Exploring
• Try Something New: Don't miss dishes like conch and rice, johnny cakes, pates, and fresh-caught fish. Pair it with a Cruzan rum punch or bush tea.
• Check the calendar for major events like St. Thomas Carnival, St. John Carnival and St. Croix Festival.
A Word of Caution
Crime happens every where. Use common sense. Seriously, use common sense.
• Snorkel Safety: Cheap full-face snorkel masks can be dangerous. There have been multiple drownings linked to faulty designs. Invest in high-quality equipment to stay safe.
• Stay Hydrated: The sun here is intense. Drink plenty of water and wear hats or sunglasses to protect yourself.
Beach Etiquette
• Keep It Clean: Always pack out what you pack in. Trash left behind can harm wildlife and ruin the beauty for others.
• Mind Your Noise: Keep music and conversations at respectful levels to preserve the peaceful atmosphere.
• Respect Personal Space and Views.
• Don't set up in the walkway and foot paths.
• Group all beach items (bags, towels, coolers) together to maximize space for others.
• Leave tents at home. If you must bring big sunshades, set up near the tree line or the back of the beach so you don't block anyone's view of the ocean.
• Ask Politely: Do not just set up right next to someone. Ask politely if the spot is okay.
• We Have Other Beaches: If a beach is crowded, be flexible and consider visiting another beautiful beach instead of creating a jam.
• Supervise Kids: Watch your little ones and teach them to treat the beach and ocean with care.
Enjoy Responsibly!
The Virgin Islands are a slice of paradise, but they’re also our home that is rich culture, history, and ecosystem that deserve respect. By following these guidelines, you’ll not only have an unforgettable trip but also leave a positive impact.
We’re glad you visited.
