Virgin Islands

7 Places to Go Glamping on the Beach

I’m always looking for the next adventure, but I’ll be honest…I’m not usually too adventurous when it comes to camping. Until now! I’m probably a little behind here (what’s new!) but I recently discovered the “glamping” phenomenon and I’m hooked! Of course, you know I’m all about the beach so what could be better than glamping on the beach? I’ve been deep in research about beach glamping destinations so I thought I’d share some of my finds with you all. Here are 7 beach glamping destinations where you can get up and personal with nature while still maintaining some creature comforts:

1.Anegada Beach Club, British Virgin Islands: This is the place that started my obsession with glamping. Located on the remote island of Anegada in the British Virgin Islands, this little slice of paradise is home to five beachfront luxury tents that will blow your mind. You can read all about my experience glamping at the Anegada Beach Club here and read reviews and check rates here.

2.Camp Olowalu, Maui: This hidden gem on Maui will make you forget all about the hustle and bustle of Ka’anapali Beach just a few miles away. You’ll feel like you’re back in summer camp with their collection of super affordable tents and cabins right on the beach. Sure, you’ve got world class snorkeling right out your front door (or, er, tent flap) but you’ve also got Leoda’s Pie Shop right across the street. Enough said. You can read reviews and check rates here.

17 Things to Know Before You Go to the US Virgin Islands

The US Virgin Islands are the perfect destination if you’re looking for a tropical getaway full of gorgeous beaches, turquoise water, and swaying palms. This group of three islands just southeast of Puerto Rico is a haven for sailors and beach bums alike, but before you go, here’s 17 things you should know about the USVIs:

1.The US Virgin Islands are a US territory, which means that if you’re an American, you don’t need a passport to travel there.

2.There are three main islands in the USVIs: St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix.

3.Thomas is the main island and most people’s entry point into the Vis. The cruise ships dock in St. Thomas. It’s also where you’ll catch the ferry to St. John or a flight to St. Croix (although there are some direct flights from the mainland).

4.Although it’s a US territory, they drive on the left side of the road here.

Where to Stay on St. John, USVI

If you’re reading this, you’re probably planning a trip to St. John (yippee!!!) and if you’re very far into the planning process, you’ve probably realized that St. John isn’t like a lot of Caribbean islands. When it comes to places to stay, your options can be a little limited. Since so much of the island is protected as part of the Virgin Islands National Park, there’s been very little development on the island (part of its charm!) and even less beachfront development. But no worries! There are still plenty of nice places to stay on the island if you know where to look. Here’s your guide on where to stay on St. John:

Resorts/Hotels

There aren’t a ton of resorts on St. John (and you won’t find any of the mega, all-inclusive types) but if you have your heart set on a resort experience (who can blame you?) then here are some good options:

Gallows Point Resort: Gallows Point is the perfect place to stay if you want nice accommodations, close proximity to town (Cruz Bay), and an oceanfront location. This five acre resort located on a small peninsula just south of Cruz Bay has one or two bedroom options with either ocean or harbor views.

Cruz Bay Boutique Hotel: Cruz Bay Boutique Hotel is a chic little hotel right in, you guessed it, Cruz Bay. It’s not on the water (although some of the third floor rooms have a partial water view) but it’s very conveniently located and the 10 rooms (plus penthouse apartment) are super cute and comfortable.

St. John Inn: The St. John Inn mixes convenience with super affordable accommodations. Nestled right in the center of town, you won’t find luxury here but for the price, this is St. John’s best go to budget option.

Caneel Bay Resort: Caneel Bay is a historic resort (opened in 1956 by Laurance Rockefeller) nestled right in the middle of Virgin Islands National Park and is one of the only beachfront resorts of St. John. It has an understated luxurious feel and is perfect if you’re searching for the most relaxing experience on St. John.

Day Trips from St. John to the BVI

If you’re vacationing on St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands, you’ve GOT to set aside some time to venture into the British Virgin Islands. Trust me…if you don’t, you’ll be missing out. Feeling a little overwhelmed about how to do day trips from St. John to the BVI? Not sure which islands to visit or how to get there? This post is for you! Here’s everything you need to know about day tripping it to the BVI from St. John:

The Lay of the Land

While technically two separate countries (part U.S. and part British), the Virgin Islands’ proximity and culture really make it feel like one destination. This means that traveling between the US and British Virgin Islands really isn’t that big of a deal. While it’s really one big island chain, the U.S. Virgin Islands (St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix) are located at the southwest end while the British Virgin Islands (Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, Anegada, and about 60 smaller islands) are located at the northeast end. You will need a passport and you’ll have to pay exit taxes (plan to have about $45 cash per person) when you leave but otherwise, it’s a pretty routine and quick boat trip (depending on which island you’re headed to). Read this post for 22 things to know before you go to the BVIs.

Which Islands to Hit

The two most popular British Virgin Islands to visit on a day trip form St. John are Jost Van Dyke and Virgin Gorda. While Tortola is the main island, it’s more of a bug and less likely to be your destination if you’re only going for a day. And Anegada is too far out to reach as a day trip from St. John. Those are the main islands but there’s also a smattering of smaller islands that many of the boat charters make stops at for snorkeling and lunch. Here’s the breakdown of the islands I would suggest visiting as a day trip from St. John:

Kenny Chesney’s Guide to the Virgin Islands

If you know anything at all about the Virgin Islands, it’s likely that you’re probably a Kenny Chesney fan, and hey…if you’re planning a trip to the Virgin Islands just because you HAD to get to the place where the “No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems” music video was shot, you’ll get no judgment here! That crystal clear turquoise water, those white sand beaches, and those lush green mountains are the stuff paradise is made of, and if you throw a little Kenny Chesney spotting in, you’ve got the makings of a great vacation!

First, a little disclaimer: Kenny Chesney in no way “discovered” the Virgin Islands but when he bought a house on St. John, started shooting music videos there, and frequently worked the mention of local places into his song lyrics, he did a lot to popularize them. So, if you’re a fan (and if you’re not, I’m not sure we can be friends!) here’s a little tour of the Virgin Islands that includes plenty of places that you’ll find referenced in his songs (and music videos):

St. John

Apart from being Kenny Chesney’s home away from home (I’ve heard his house is on Peter Bay), St. John is an island with quite a few magical spots. Just a short ferry ride away from St. Thomas, St. John has a super laid back vibe and it’s just plain gorgeous. People who really want to see the Virgin Islands make St. John their hub (as opposed to nearby bustling St. Thomas). For this stop on the tour, check out:

Where to Eat on St. John, USVI

If planning where you’re going to eat on vacation is a big deal for you, then you’re going to love St. John. Unlike some other Caribbean islands I’ve visited, St. John has plenty of dining options, from fancy places with killer views to basic beach bars with epic happy hours. The majority of restaurants on St. John are located in Cruz Bay although you’ll find a few in Coral Bay. Here are 11 places you should try:

For find dining and great ambiance…

Asolare: The food has a fancy pants French flair, but let’s be honest…you’re really coming to Asolare for the view. You’ll need a reservation and ask for a table along the railing. You should plan your reservation to coincide with sunset, as it’s a fabulous spot for it. While the open-air feel gives a casual ambiance, you’ll want to dress up a bit. This place ain’t no beach bar!

Zozo’s: Zozo’s does amazing food in an even better atmosphere. Housed in old sugar mill ruins at the Caneel Bay Resort, Zozo’s does Italian cuisine in fine style. You’ll definitely need reservations here and depending on the time of year, it can book up pretty far in advance.

Ocean 362: Situated on Gallows Point looking off towards Cruz Bay, Ocean 362 has amazing views and is a perfect spot for either a sunset dinner or after dinner drinks. Make reservations and request to sit in the bar area upstairs as that’s where you’ll get the best views.

For Kenny Chesney spotting…

Woody’s Seafood Saloon: Woody’s is a St. John institution and in addition to a tourist destination (thanks Kenny) it’s also a local’s spot especially if you hit it during happy hour. It’s in Cruz Bay but not near the water so I wouldn’t make it your evening’s destination but maybe just a stop before.

Quiet Mon Pub: This Irish Pub is another St. John must do and definitely your best bet for a Guinness on the island. Its upstairs location (no water views though) makes it good for people watching and you’ll always find a game on TV. Stop by for a drink or two before dinner.

For a classic beach bar in Cruz Bay…

The Beach Bar: As the name suggests, the Beach Bar is the ultimate destination in Cruz Bay for laid back waterfront dining (and drinking). It’s a casual place just a stone’s throw from the water (they actually have some tables down in the sand) and they do a great happy hour ($3 Painkillers and $4 Bush Whackers).

Joe’s Rum Hut: Right next to The Beach Bar, Joe’s has rum (duh) but also really good eats. Don’t miss the lobster pizza. You’ll get an entire lobster tail worth of lobster on your pizza and it might just be the best thing you eat on St. John.

22 Things to Know Before You Go to the BVIs

The British Virgin Islands are some of the most sought after islands in the world, attracting thousands of sun worshippers, yachties, beach bums, surfers, and mermaids each year. This group of 60 islands is home to some of the world’s greatest beaches and waters for sailing. Before you pack your bikini and captain’s hat, here are 22 things you should know before you go to the BVIs:

1.The BVIs are a British Overseas Territory and as they’re part of her majesty’s crown, you’ll need a passport to travel there.

2.Although technically British, the currency is the US dollar and most imports come from the US Virgin Islands (St. Thomas) so it doesn’t feel very British.

3.What does feel very British is the fact that they drive on the left side of the road (as they do in the US Virgin Islands. Try to figure that one out!).

4.Most of the islands have VERY steep roads with quite a few hairpin turns so drive carefully!

5.There are four main islands in the BVIs: Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, and Anegada, although Tortola is the MAIN main island.

Things to Do on Jost Van Dyke + Where to Stay

If you’re sailing the BVI, I’m willing to bet you’re making a stop on Jost Van Dyke. You should be at least…it’s BEAUTIFUL! It’s a tiny little island and most day visitors are really just on a mission to get to the Soggy Dollar, but if you’re on a boat, or even staying on St. John or Tortola, plan to stay on the island for a couple of days. There are plenty of things to do on Jost Van Dyke that make it much more than just a day trip. I’m going to tell you about my favorites. I’ll also give you a few pointers on where to stay if you’re going to be on the island.

Things to Do on Jost Van Dyke

Beach bar hop on White Bay. This is the number one thing to do on Jost Van Dyke and believe me, it will live up to the hype. What Bay has the whitest sand, the bluest water, and the best views you’ll find anywhere in the BVI. And there are plenty of beach bars to choose from, with the Soggy Dollar of course being the most popular. Read this post for a breakdown of the 9 best beach bars on Jost Van Dyke.

Virgin Islands

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