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List of minor islands of the United States Virgin Islands facts for kids

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The United States Virgin Islands are a special group of islands in the sunny Caribbean Sea. They are an unincorporated territory of the United States, which means they are part of the U.S. but don't have all the same rules as a state. There are four main islands where people live: Saint Thomas, Saint Croix, Saint John, and Water Island. Besides these, there are about 50 other smaller islands and cays (which are tiny, low islands or reefs). These islands are famous for their beautiful beaches, clear blue water, and exciting history.

Discovering the Main Islands

The U.S. Virgin Islands are home to four main islands, each with its own unique charm and things to explore. These islands are where most people live and visit.

Saint Thomas: A Bustling Hub

Charlotte Amalie, the capital city of the U.S. Virgin Islands, is on Saint Thomas.

Saint Thomas is often the first stop for many visitors because it's where the capital city, Charlotte Amalie, is located. This island is known for its busy harbor, where many cruise ships dock. You can find lots of shops, restaurants, and historical sites here. It's also famous for its amazing views, like the one from Mountain Top, where you can see many of the surrounding islands.

Saint Croix: The Largest Island

Christiansted, one of the historic towns on Saint Croix.

Saint Croix is the largest of the U U.S. Virgin Islands. It has two main historic towns: Christiansted and Frederiksted. Christiansted is known for its beautiful Danish colonial buildings, which remind us of the island's past. Saint Croix has a different feel from Saint Thomas, with more open spaces and a focus on agriculture and local culture. It's a great place to learn about the islands' history and enjoy a more relaxed pace.

Saint John: Nature's Paradise

Trunk Bay on Saint John is famous for its underwater snorkeling trail.

About two-thirds of Saint John is covered by the Virgin Islands National Park. This makes Saint John a true paradise for nature lovers. The park protects beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and lush forests. Visitors can enjoy hiking, snorkeling, and exploring untouched natural beauty. It's a wonderful place to see wildlife and enjoy the quiet side of the Caribbean.

Water Island: The Newest Addition

Water Island is the smallest of the four main islands. It became an official main island more recently. It's a quiet, residential island with beautiful beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. You can reach Water Island by a short ferry ride from Saint Thomas. It's a great spot for a peaceful day trip.

Exploring the Smaller Islands and Cays

Besides the four main islands, the U.S. Virgin Islands include many smaller islands and cays. These tiny landforms are often uninhabited and are important for wildlife, recreation, or simply add to the beauty of the region. Many are protected areas, like national parks or wildlife refuges.

Islands Near Saint Croix

Some of the smaller islands close to Saint Croix are important for nature and recreation.

Islands Around Saint Thomas

The waters around Saint Thomas are dotted with many small islands and cays, each with its own character.

Islands Around Saint John

The area around Saint John also features many small cays, often part of the national park or important for marine life.

See also

  • Islands of the United States Virgin Islands
  • Danish West Indies
  • Danish colonization of the Americas


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