It doesn’t matter what time of year you go—the US Virgin Islands are a treat for the eyes.
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That being said, I understand the appeal of jet-setting to the islands during winter and especially over the holidays.
Though I’m a fan of a classic white winter and gallons of mulled wine, the Virgin Islands are a veritable oasis for all forms of winter chill. Temperatures hover in the 80s—and the ocean stays almost bathwater-warm.
But there’s another factor working in the USVI’s favor when it comes to winter getaways: proximity to the United States and tourism infrastructure. As one of the US’s overseas territories, you don’t need to stamp your passport to travel to USVI.
You don’t even need a passport to start with.
Thinking about heading to the USVI for the holidays? Here’s what you need to know, along with my picks for the very best resorts in the USVI that offer Christmas packages. I’ve got selections for couples, families, and more.
Is a Caribbean Christmas in USVI right for you?
These are a few signs that booking a resort in the USVI for Christmas might be perfect for you and your loved ones:
- You’re tired of frigid, cold Christmas weather… but you still want Christmas-themed festivities
- You’re looking for an easy-to-book vacation with resort offerings
- You want to take it easy on your first ‘international’ trip
Best resorts in USVI for a Caribbean Christmas
Best family pick: The Westin St. John Resort Villas
Want to drop off the map without a care in the world… with your children in tow? The Westin St. John is my top pick for families because the villas come equipped with living rooms and kitchenettes—always ideal for family trips.
On top of that, there’s a massive 400-yard white-sand beach that guests have all to themselves, plus frisbee, pickle ball, ping pong, a child’s play room, and more.
Over Christmas, the resort also rolls out plenty of decoration and fanfare. But the real appeal here is those larger villas. Some groups even book larger villas for multiple families—which is a pretty rare feature that’s great for large groups.
Coolest pick: The Buccaneer Beach & Golf Resort
With more than 75 years under its belt, you can expect a seamless stay at The Buccaneer. This boutique resort touches on almost everything a holiday traveler could expect from a Caribbean Christmas.
First, the grounds are gorgeous and spread across 340 acres—you’ll almost have the island to yourself. There’s a strong emphasis placed on preserving natural beauty, which is showcased in the seven private venues—from a full-scale golf course to a tennis club to a shoreside snorkeling program.
Over those 75 years, the great minds at Buccaneer have thought about almost every part of the traveler experience—and they’ve optimized it. If you want a five-star stay with four-star prices, head to the Buccaneer.
Over Christmas, you’ll be able to soak up Christmas décor and themes tacked onto the most popular activities. But keep in mind that this highly rated venue is also a prime spot to pop the question—just in case anyone has been thinking about getting down on one knee.
Best for couples (and social butterflies): Bolongo Bay Beach Resort
Want an adults-only Caribbean Christmas? This St. Thomas stay has plenty of experience under its belt, just like the Buccaneer.
This year, Bolongo celebrates its 50-year anniversary. Unlike other resorts on this list, this pick is geared toward relaxation, adventure, and socializing in equal parts.
The main appeal is the roster of activities that guests can join. The Bolongo hosts things like the Snorkel Booze Hunt, for example. It makes it easy to rub elbows with other travelers.
Still, if you’re more interested in holing up with your loved one, the Bolongo makes it easy to disappear—either under an umbrella on the beach or sailing into the sunset on the resort’s privately owned and operated catamaran.
Luxury pick: The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas
It’s all austerity at the Ritz-Carlton in St. Thomas. The main appeal here is the resort’s sleek design, which includes private suites that overlook the water and beachside cabanas that overlook Great Bay.
Plus, you get all the finer service markers like upscale, on-site dining and yet another private catamaran ready to squire guests around on snorkeling trips and sunset cruises.
The only drawback is the lack of accessible beaches. Compared to other resorts—many of which have their own private beach or are located next to one—the Ritz-Carlton doesn’t make it quite as easy to sink your toes into the warm sand.
Budget pick: Divi Carina Bay Beach Resort & Casino
If you’re looking for beachfront resorts, skip the Ritz and head to the Divi Carina.
This place has it all at a reasonable price, from a large pool to a full-scale casino to tennis and pickleball courts. Not only will you have plenty to do, but the arrangement will feel familiar to almost any other resort.
Like the Bolongo, Divi Carina is an adults-only selection. Most of its rooms overlook the ocean, while its poolside views are also hard to beat. Plus, there are nightly shows that feature fire dancers on the beach.
Just make sure you’re okay with the high-energy vibe, as this might not be the best place for silent retreats.
