Most visitors to the Virgin Islands head straight for St Thomas, though it can feel overcrowded and familiar; more serene surroundings await on St Croix and St John, especially the latter, which offers excellent hiking .

In the BVI, the main draws are the wondrous reefs and sandy beaches , along with myriad watersports and boating activities; Brewer's Bay Beach in particular has excellent snorkelling, while the well-preserved wreck of the RMS Rhone off Salt Island is the highlight of any visit. To the northwest, peaceful Virgin Gorda is home to the unusual natural attraction known as The Baths , colossal boulders surrounded by pools teeming with marine life.