The exclusivity of the United States Virgin Islands (USVI) has helped to preserve a vibrant culture and numerous options for hyperlocal group experiences therein.
Groups can explore the island in many unique ways, whether by foot, bike, boat or helicopter. Here are a few of our top picks for immersive group experiences in the USVI.
Horsing Around
With Carolina Corral, horsing around is encouraged. Scenic horseback rides through the Virgin Islands National Park take place with the rescues here and groups can also volunteer to assist with the horses’ upkeep. The park, which is festooned with archeological sites dating as far back as 840 B.C., encompasses almost half of the island.
Art Encounters
During an art workshop with St. John artist, Sloop Jones, groups can learn to paint t-shirts and tablecloths, mimosas in hand. the Magic Ice gallery in St. Thomas is festooned with ice sculptures and an groups can also gather by the ice bar for meetings or networking. the menu of art classes on St. Croix is always changing. A top pick is The Blue Mutt, which offers classes in mosaic candle holder making, origami, batik fabric, book/journal making, recycled plastic bottle flowers and more.
Getting Cultural
St. Thomas and St. Croix islands offer their own sense of cultural experiences—from butterfly gardens and bird watching tours with the Audubon of St. Thomas to ATV, biking and steelpan music nights in St. Croix. Across the islands, Carnival festivals provide glimpse into the area’s local cultures and histories therein. St. Thomas kicks off the first Carnival of the year in April, with dancers, music, cuisine and spirited pageantry to boot. In late July, Cruz Bay in St. John comes alive with the St. John Festival, celebrating the USVI’s independence. Ferries tote Carnival revelers to and from St. John, with food fairs, parades and fireworks in between. In a similar fashion, the Crucian Christmas Festival takes place December through New Year’s.
Embarking on an Ecoquest
Private eco-tours and yoga sessions take place on St. John, St. Thomas and St. Croix with Antilles Ecoquest. Whether hiking through backcountry trails and mangrove forests, barefoot hikes along the Caribbean Sea or exploring the 18th century ruins of a sugar plantation, there’s much to do across the islands. The adventurous in your group can take to the skies with a Caribbean Buzz Helicopters tour or introductory flight lesson. Start your group’s day off with a Hatha or Kundalini yoga session on the beach or chartered boat.
Retail Therapy
Duty-free shopping may very well be considered a top wellness trend in the USVI. In St. Croix, groups may want to load up on Cruzan Rum, explore the Christiansted Boardwalk, Kings Alley Walk and Caravelle Arcade shopping areas or stroll along Frederiksted’s Strand Street for sh-opportunities. Popular shopping areas in St. John include Mongoose Junction, Wharfside Village and Coral Bay’s quaint shops where handmade jewelry, silk screened fabrics and local art is sold. In St. Thomas, Havensight Mall, Red Hook, Yacht Haven Grande and Main Street are the place to be.
