Best Time to Visit the U.S. Virgin Islands
Last updated: November 9, 2025
The U.S. Virgin Islands — made up of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix — are a Caribbean dream of turquoise seas, white-sand beaches, and laid-back island life. Whether you’re exploring coral reefs, sailing between islands, or relaxing with a rum punch in hand, this tropical paradise offers year-round warmth and beauty. The best time to visit depends on whether you want sunshine, festivals, or quiet serenity.
🌸 Dry Season (December – April): Sunshine, Calm Seas, and Perfect Weather
The dry season is the best time to visit the U.S. Virgin Islands. With clear skies, warm breezes, and calm turquoise waters, it’s ideal for beach days, snorkelling, and island-hopping. This is also the most popular time to visit, with a lively atmosphere across all three islands.
Highlights:
- Warm temperatures (25–30 °C)
- Perfect for swimming, sailing, and diving
- Carnival celebrations on St. Thomas (April)
- Excellent conditions for exploring St. John’s Virgin Islands National Park
☀️ Shoulder Months (May – June): Sunshine and Fewer Crowds
May and June offer beautiful weather, lower prices, and fewer tourists. The seas remain calm, and the islands are lush and colourful after light spring rains. It’s one of the best times for travellers seeking a relaxed experience without peak-season crowds.
Highlights:
- Warm temperatures (26–32 °C)
- Great for snorkelling, kayaking, and paddleboarding
- Fewer visitors and attractive hotel rates
- St. John’s Food Fair and Carnival (June–July)
🍂 Wet Season (July – November): Tropical Rains and Tranquil Escapes
The wet season brings short tropical showers, usually in the afternoons, but plenty of sunshine in between. While this period overlaps with the Atlantic hurricane season, major storms are rare. It’s an excellent time for budget travellers who don’t mind occasional rain and want a quieter island experience.
Highlights:
- Hot temperatures (28–33 °C)
- Lush green scenery and peaceful beaches
- Best rates on hotels and villas
- Great for scuba diving, as sea temperatures stay warm year-round
❄️ Late Autumn (November – December): Returning Sunshine and Festive Spirit
November and early December mark the transition back to dry season. The weather improves rapidly, crowds have yet to arrive, and the islands begin gearing up for the festive season. It’s a perfect balance of great weather and value.
Highlights:
- Pleasant temperatures (26–31 °C)
- Fewer tourists and lower accommodation prices
- Early holiday events and island markets
- Excellent time for sailing and coastal hikes
🇻🇮 In Summary
- Best for beaches and sunshine: December – April
- Best for festivals and culture: April – July
- Best for quiet, affordable travel: May – June and September – November
- Best for balanced weather and value: November – December
From the coral reefs of St. Croix and the golden beaches of St. Thomas to the natural beauty of St. John, the U.S. Virgin Islands are a paradise that shines all year round. Whether you’re visiting for sun, culture, or calm seas, these islands offer a slice of Caribbean perfection in every season.
Top Travel Tips for the U.S. Virgin Islands
✅ GOOD NEWS: Entry Requirements (U.S. Territory)
For U.S. Citizens: No passport is required! As a U.S. territory, you can travel with just a government-issued photo ID (like a driver's license). However, a passport is still recommended.
For International Visitors: Entry requirements are the same as the United States. You must have a valid passport and a U.S. visa or an approved ESTA (Visa Waiver Program).
ℹ️ Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD)
The official currency is the U.S. Dollar ($). No currency exchange is needed for American visitors. ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in almost all hotels, restaurants, and shops.
ℹ️ Tipping: Follows U.S. Standards
Tipping etiquette is the same as in the mainland U.S. Expect to tip 15-20% at restaurants and bars. It is also customary to tip taxi drivers ($1-2 per bag), hotel housekeeping ($2-5 per day), and tour guides.
ℹ️ Tap Water: Use Caution
The tap water in the U.S. Virgin Islands is generally safe to drink as it is regulated by the EPA. However, most water comes from desalination plants or rainwater cisterns, and many visitors (and locals) prefer the taste of bottled water, which is widely available.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Power Plugs (U.S. Standard)
The U.S. Virgin Islands use the same electricity standard as the U.S. mainland: 110/120V and 60Hz. The power plugs are Type A (two flat prongs) and Type B (two flat prongs and a round ground pin). Visitors from outside North America will likely need a plug adapter and/or a voltage converter.
Things to do in the U.S. Virgin Islands
Explore the world-famous Trunk Bay on St. John, snorkel with sea turtles at Buck Island on St. Croix, or take the Skyride to Paradise Point for stunning views of St. Thomas. Book your tours and activities easily via our trusted partners: