VIRGIN ISLANDS
NATIONAL PARK

AREA - 14,737 ACRES

EST. 08 02 1956

VIRGIN ISLANDS

Planning a Trip to
Virgin Islands National Park

The Virgin Islands National Park is a United States National Park located in St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands. Established in 1956, it covers approximately 60% of the island and is renowned for its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush tropical forests. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including sea turtles, iguanas, and over 800 species of fish. The park also features historic ruins, including the remains of the Annaberg Sugar Plantation and the Caneel Bay Estate. Visitors can explore the park on foot or by boat, or by taking part in the numerous recreational activities offered, such as snorkeling, kayaking, and scuba diving.

"The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever." - Jacques Cousteau

"The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness." - John Muir

"An island is a little universe within itself." - John Fowles

"The earth has music for those who listen." - George Santayana

BEST TIME TO GO

The best time to visit the Virgin Islands is generally considered to be the winter months, from December to April. This is when temperatures are milder, the humidity levels are lower, and rainfall is at its lowest. The summer months in the Virgin Islands can be quite hot and humid, with frequent showers and thunderstorms. The hurricane season runs from June to November and can bring strong winds and heavy rains. For the best experience, it is best to plan your trip during the winter months when temperatures are more pleasant and the risk of bad weather is at its lowest.

The Virgin Islands offer an ideal tropical getaway year-round, with mild temperatures and sunny skies. The best time to visit for the most affordable prices is during the off-season, from April to mid-December. During this time, you can expect fewer crowds and lower prices on flights, hotels, and car rentals. For those looking to avoid the crowds, the best time to visit is during the spring or fall months. The Virgin Islands are generally most crowded during the winter months from mid-December to April.

OVERVIEW

The Virgin Islands National Park is a stunningly beautiful tropical paradise located on the island of St. John in the US Virgin Islands. The park is comprised of over 7,000 acres of lush green hills, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can explore a variety of ecosystems, including coral reefs, mangrove swamps, tropical forests, and seagrass beds. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles, iguanas, and tropical birds. Interesting facts about the park include that it is the only National Park in the US Virgin Islands, and that it is home to the largest and oldest coral reef in the Caribbean. The Virgin Islands National Park is a must-see for anyone looking for a tropical getaway.

WEATHER

The Virgin Islands boast a tropical climate with warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. The average temperature on the islands is around 80°F (27°C). The coolest months are January and February, with temperatures hovering around 73°F (23°C). August and September are the warmest months, with temperatures reaching up to 88°F (31°C). Rainfall is most common during the summer months, with an average of 12 inches per month. The winter months tend to be the driest, with only an average of 3 inches of rain per month.

The Virgin Islands are known for their tropical climate and diverse ecology, which have been shaped by the islands' unique geography and protected status as a national park. The weather in the Virgin Islands is typically warm and sunny, with temperatures typically ranging from the mid-70s to the low-90s year-round. The islands are also known for their beautiful beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant coral reefs. During the rainy season, rainfall can be heavy and frequent, bringing lush vegetation to the islands. The ecology of the Virgin Islands is also diverse, with hundreds of species of plants, birds, and animals. The protected status of the park has helped to preserve this unique and beautiful ecology, allowing visitors to enjoy the many wonders of the Virgin Islands' natural environment.

GEAR

Top 10 recommended items to bring: 1. Sunscreen - Protect yourself from the intense Caribbean sun with a high SPF sunscreen.2. Insect repellent - Keep pesky mosquitoes away with a good insect repellent.3. Water - Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated while exploring the park.4. Hiking shoes - Wear sturdy shoes to navigate the rugged terrain.5. Hat - Keep the sun off your face with a wide-brimmed hat.6. Sunglasses - Protect your eyes from the bright Caribbean sun with a pair of sunglasses.7. Binoculars - Bring binoculars to get a closer look at the wildlife and stunning views.8. Swimsuit - Don’t forget to bring a swimsuit to take advantage of the island’s amazing beaches.9. Snacks - Bring a few snacks to keep your energy up while exploring the park.10. Camera - Capture your amazing adventure with a camera or smartphone.

The Virgin Islands National Park is a paradise for those looking to explore the breathtaking beauty of the Caribbean. To make sure your experience is both safe and enjoyable, it is important to bring the right gear. For snorkeling, it is important to bring a quality mask, fins, and snorkel. For scuba diving, make sure to bring a wetsuit, regulator, buoyancy control device (BCD), and dive computer. Expert divers may even want to bring underwater photography equipment to capture the incredible sights. Additionally, make sure to bring the appropriate clothing and outwear to protect you from the elements, including a hat and waterproof sunscreen. With the right gear, you are sure to have a memorable time in the Virgin Islands National Park.

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HISTORY

The Virgin Islands National Park, located on the island of St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands, was established in 1956. It encompasses more than 7,000 acres of land, including beaches, coral reefs, and ancient petroglyphs. The park is a popular tourist destination and is home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered green sea turtle and the critically endangered hawksbill sea turtle. Fun facts about the park include that it is the only national park in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and it was the first national park to be established in the Caribbean. The park also has a rich cultural history, with historical sites such as the Annaberg Sugar Plantation and the ruins of the old Danish fortification at Cinnamon Bay.

The Virgin Islands boast a rich and varied history, and no tale is more legendary than the story of Blackbeard the Pirate. According to lore, Blackbeard hid his treasure in the Virgin Islands, and the area is still believed to be full of hidden pirate booty. To this day, adventurers still set out to sea in search of the elusive treasure, hoping to be the one to finally unearth the mystery.

Another Virgin Islands legendary story about a beautiful sea creature called the Virgin Mermaid. According to folklore, the mermaid lives off the coast of Tortola and can be heard singing her enchanting songs on quiet nights. Locals believe that the mermaid is an embodiment of the spirit of the islands, and that she brings luck and good fortune to those who hear her.

RECOMMENDED

Yosemite National Park is one of the most stunning places in the world. For first time visitors, here are some tips to make the most of your visit: 1. Start by exploring Yosemite Valley, the most iconic part of the park. Here, you can take in breathtaking views of Half Dome and El Capitan, or take a stroll along the Merced River.2. Make sure to catch a sunrise or sunset – the colors and reflections that light up the valley are truly unforgettable.3. Take a hike and explore Yosemite’s backcountry. There are countless trails and routes to choose from, so make sure to bring a map and plenty of supplies.4. Keep your eyes open for wildlife. Yosemite is home to a wide variety of animals, from bears to mule deer.5. Enjoy the night sky. Yosemite is one of the few places in the world with very low light pollution, so you can get an amazing view of the stars.6. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos. Yosemite National Park is a magical place and you’ll want to remember it forever.

Exploring off the beaten path in Yosemite National Park can be a great way to experience the area's natural beauty. From breathtaking waterfalls to lush meadows, there are countless hidden gems to explore. Here are a few suggestions for an unforgettable adventure: 1. Tuolumne Meadows: Located in the northern part of Yosemite, this high-altitude meadow is the perfect spot for a peaceful day of hiking and exploring. 2. Hetch Hetchy Valley: This stunning valley is often overlooked, but it offers incredible views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. 3. Wawona Point: This overlook offers stunning views of Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and other famous landmarks in the park. 4. Merced River: This river is a great spot for a peaceful canoe ride. 5. Sentinel Dome: This dome offers breathtaking views of the entire Yosemite Valley. 6. Mariposa Grove: This ancient grove of giant sequoia trees is a great spot for a peaceful stroll.

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PLAN YOUR VISIT

Planning a visit to Virgin Islands National Park is a great way to experience the beauty of the Caribbean. Here is our top ten list of things to do at the park: 1. Explore the stunning beaches and enjoy the warm sunshine. 2. Take a hike through the lush tropical forests and observe the abundant wildlife. 3. Go snorkeling and discover the vibrant coral reefs and marine life. 4. Dive into the crystal-clear waters and explore the underwater world. 5. Visit the historic Annaberg Sugar Plantation and learn about its history. 6. Take a sunset sail around the island and watch the sun set over the horizon. 7. Soak up the culture and visit the local markets and art galleries. 8. Relax at the Cinnamon Bay Beach and enjoy a picnic lunch. 9. Go birdwatching and spot the many species of birds that call the park home. 10. Take a guided tour of the park and learn about its unique ecology.

Planning a visit to Virgin Islands National Park is a great way to explore the sea. Before you go, make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as well as sturdy shoes and a sun hat. There are plenty of trails to explore, beaches to relax on, and activities to take part in. Make sure to take the time to visit the coral reefs, where you can snorkel and observe a variety of marine life. Visiting the park will also give you the opportunity to learn about the history of the islands, including the native cultures that have called the islands home for centuries. With a little planning and preparation, you can make your visit to the Virgin Islands National Park an unforgettable experience.

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# OF VISITORS/MONTH

Yosemite National Park is one of the most visited parks in the United States, with over 4 million visitors each year. Over the past three years, the park has seen an average of over 350,000 visitors per month. In 2020, the park welcomed over 4.5 million visitors, a record high for the park. In 2021, the numbers have remained steady, with an average of 330,000 visitors per month. In April, the highest number of visitors was seen with over 500,000 visitors. Overall, Yosemite National Park continues to be one of the most popular destinations in the United States.