Family-Friendly

Family-Friendly Adventures in the American Virgin Islands: Top Spots for Kids and Parents Alike

St. Thomas: Adventures for Families

Coral World Ocean Park

• What to See: Coral World Ocean Park is a must-visit for families with kids who love marine life. This interactive marine park allows children to learn about sea creatures up close. Highlights include the Undersea Observatory, where you can walk beneath the waves and observe fish, turtles, and other marine animals in their natural habitat. Families can also swim with sea lions, feed stingrays, or take part in the Shark Encounter for a thrilling adventure.
• Why It’s Great for Families: Coral World offers both educational experiences and fun activities for kids, allowing them to explore the wonders of the ocean in a safe and exciting environment.
• Affiliate Suggestion: Waterproof Camera – “Capture unforgettable moments at Coral World with this kid-friendly waterproof camera, perfect for underwater photos and videos.”

Skyride to Paradise Point

• What to See: Take your family on an exciting ride up the Skyride to Paradise Point, a scenic cable car that ascends 700 feet above Charlotte Amalie. At the top, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking panoramic views of St. Thomas and the surrounding islands. There’s also a small shopping area, restaurant, and live music performances on select days.
• Why It’s Great for Families: The Skyride is a fun and unique way to see the island from above, and kids will love the experience of riding in a cable car. It’s also a great place for family photos with stunning island backdrops.
• Affiliate Suggestion: Binoculars – “Enhance the view with these compact binoculars perfect for kids to spot ships, islands, and wildlife from the top of Paradise Point.”

Tree Limin’ Extreme Zipline Park

• What to See: For families with older kids and teens who crave adventure, Tree Limin’ Extreme Zipline Park is the perfect destination. Located high in the rainforest canopy, this zipline park offers thrilling rides across six zip lines, suspension bridges, and rappels, all with stunning views of Magen’s Bay and the surrounding islands.
• Why It’s Great for Families: It’s an exhilarating experience that allows families to bond over adventure while enjoying some of the best views on the island. The zipline guides also ensure safety while providing fun commentary about the island’s natural environment.
• Affiliate Suggestion: Adventure Backpack – “Keep essentials like water bottles, snacks, and sunscreen handy with this lightweight adventure backpack, perfect for a day of ziplining.”

St. John: Nature and Wildlife Fun for Families

Virgin Islands National Park (Junior Ranger Program)

• What to See: St. John’s Virgin Islands National Park is not only a paradise for nature lovers but also offers an exciting Junior Ranger Program for kids. Families can explore the park’s hiking trails, beaches, and historic ruins while kids complete activities from the Junior Ranger booklet. Once completed, children are sworn in as official Junior Rangers and receive a badge.
• Why It’s Great for Families: The Junior Ranger Program makes exploring the park fun and educational for kids. They’ll learn about the island’s ecology, wildlife, and history while engaging in hands-on activities.
• Affiliate Suggestion: Hiking Shoes for Kids – “Ensure your little explorers are comfortable on the trails with these durable hiking shoes for kids, designed for all-day adventures in the national park.”

Honeymoon Beach (Watersports Rentals)

• What to See: Honeymoon Beach on St. John is a family-friendly beach with calm, shallow waters perfect for young children. In addition to sunbathing and swimming, families can rent paddleboards, kayaks, and snorkeling gear for a day of fun on the water. The beach also has a snack bar, restrooms, and changing facilities, making it convenient for families.
• Why It’s Great for Families: Honeymoon Beach is an ideal place for a relaxing beach day with kids. The gentle waves make it a safe spot for little ones to splash around, and older kids can try paddleboarding or snorkeling with ease.
• Affiliate Suggestion: Inflatable Paddleboard – “Get the family involved in water activities with this easy-to-transport inflatable paddleboard, perfect for beginners and kids.”

Elaine Ione Sprauve Library and Museum

• What to See: Located in a historic plantation house, the Elaine Ione Sprauve Library and Museum offers a quiet retreat where families can learn about the history and culture of St. John. The museum features exhibits on the island’s indigenous people, colonial past, and African heritage. The library also has a children’s section with books and activities for kids.
• Why It’s Great for Families: This spot provides a great way for kids to learn about local history while taking a break from the beach. It’s also a peaceful indoor activity if the weather doesn’t cooperate.
• Affiliate Suggestion: Children’s Travel Journal – “Encourage your kids to document their island adventures with this travel journal for kids, perfect for writing, drawing, and keeping memories.”

St. Croix: Hands-On Learning and Outdoor Fun

St. George Village Botanical Garden

• What to See: The St. George Village Botanical Garden is a beautiful 16-acre garden that showcases the native plants and flowers of the Virgin Islands. The garden is built on the ruins of an old sugar plantation, giving visitors the chance to learn about the island’s agricultural past while exploring the lush gardens. Families can enjoy guided tours, educational programs, and special events tailored to kids.
• Why It’s Great for Families: The gardens offer a peaceful outdoor experience where kids can learn about local plant life and the history of the island. It’s a relaxing and educational outing that combines nature with culture.
• Affiliate Suggestion: Field Guide to Caribbean Plants – “Enhance your botanical garden experience with this guidebook on Caribbean plants, perfect for curious kids who want to learn more about the local flora.”

Estate Mount Washington

• What to See: For families interested in history, the Estate Mount Washington offers a fascinating look into St. Croix’s past. This beautifully restored 18th-century sugar plantation is set on a hillside with sweeping views of the island. Visitors can tour the estate, explore the plantation ruins, and even see artifacts from the colonial period.
• Why It’s Great for Families: It’s a great opportunity to teach kids about the history of the Virgin Islands, especially the impact of the sugar industry and the role of enslaved people in shaping the islands’ economy and culture.
• Affiliate Suggestion: Travel Guide to Historic Sites – “Explore the island’s history with this family-friendly guide to St. Croix’s historic sites, packed with interesting facts and kid-friendly explanations.”

Cruzan Rum Distillery Tour (Kid-Friendly Version)

• What to See: While the Cruzan Rum Distillery might not sound like a family destination at first glance, they offer a kid-friendly version of the tour that focuses on the history of the distillery and the rum-making process without the alcohol sampling. Parents can learn about rum production, while kids get a fascinating lesson in how local resources are used to create one of the island’s most famous products.
• Why It’s Great for Families: It’s a fun and educational experience that shows how the island’s industries have developed over time. Plus, kids will enjoy the behind-the-scenes look at how things are made.
• Affiliate Suggestion: Tote Bag – “Carry your souvenirs from the distillery (including non-alcoholic items like Cruzan rum cakes) in this sturdy tote bag, perfect for shopping and day trips.”

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