Difference between us virgin islands and british virgin islands

Looking into booking your next Caribbean vacation? There’s so much to think about! The Virgin Islands are home to some of the most beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and fun in the Caribbean. The real question: Which island should you choose when planning your next trip. Let’s take a look at USVI vs BVI and everything each territory has to offer.

Difference between us virgin islands and british virgin islands

Overall, US Virgin Islands is the more commercialized and developed Virgin Island Territory. It’s great for families, fun, excursions, and staying busy for an active vacation! The British Virgin Islands are quiet, secluded, and serene. BVI is great for a romantic getaway or a relaxing vacation.

There’s so much more to Virgin Islands than that though! It’s time to dive into the nitty gritty of USVI vs BVI.

USVI vs BVI ROUNDUP:

Which Island is Better for Honeymoons? British Virgin Islands & St John, USVI
Which Island is Better for Families? US Virgin Islands, St Thomas, USVI
Which Island is Better for Beaches British Virgin Islands
Which Island is Larger? US Virgin Islands
USVI or BVI: Which is Easier to Get to? US Virgin Islands
Which Island is Better? Let’s find out!

For nightlife, fine-dining, and endless adventures, the US Virgin Islands will be better for you. For untouched land and very few disruptions, the British Virgin Islands are sure to bring you the peace and quiet you’re looking for.

Quite frankly, it’s hard to go wrong with either, but lets dive into some important comparisons before you make your final decision!


Which Island is Better for Families?

Depending on what you’re looking for, the USVI is generally more family-friendly than BVI.

US Virgin Islands are more developed and populated than British Virgin Islands, so if you want to fill your days with adventures and activities, especially if you’re planning a trip with the family, USVI is sure to fill your itinerary and mark everyone’s boxes!

If you’re on a budget, check out these free things to do in St Thomas

USVI vs BVI: Best Choice for Families
US Virgin Islands
: St Thomas, in particular!

Which US Virgin Island is best for your vacation?
St Thomas vs St John ➡️
St Thomas vs St Croix ➡️


USVI vs BVI: What’s the Difference?

The main difference between USVI and BVI is that the US Virgin Islands are a US territory, great for adventures, nightlife, and family vacations, whereas British Virgin Islands are British Overseas Territory, and better for kicking your feet back in the sand, honeymooners, and romantic getaways.


Which Virgin Island is Larger?

US Virgin Islands are more populated and built up than British Virgin Islands; USVI is also about double the size of BVI (in square miles).

The total population of British Virgin Islands was approximately 30,000 in 2020 and the total population of US Virgin Islands was approximately 106,000.

USVI vs BVI: Which Island is Larger?
US Virgin Islands

How Many Islands are in USVI

While there are many cays and island territories in the USVI, the three notable territories of USVI are St Thomas, St Croix, and St John.

St Croix is the largest of the three islands. St Thomas is home to the USVI capital, Charlotte Amalie, and St John is the smallest, and least developed.

All three islands offer their own unique history and beauty.

Difference between us virgin islands and british virgin islands

How Many Islands are in BVI

Similar to USVI, BVI is surrounded by many small territories, but have four main islands: Tortola, Anegada, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke.

Tortola and Virgin Gorda are the most well known of the BVI. Road Town, Tortola is the BVI’s capital.

➡️ How to Get to Virgin Gorda

USVI vs BVI: Which is larger?
US Virgin Islands🏝️


USVI vs BVI: Which Island is Easier to Get to?

USVI is easier to get to than BVI, since there are currently no direct flights to BVI.

Though both islands are located in the eastern Caribbean, airlines only offer direct flights to St Thomas, USVI from a few majors cities including New York, Atlanta, Miami, and Charlotte. Cities such as Miami and Charlotte also have direct flights to St Croix, USVI.

The largest airport in USVI is Cryil E King Airport (STT).

From STT, you can catch a hopper plane or ferry ride from the Charlotte Amalie Ferry Port to St John, British Virgin Islands, and St Croix.

The fastest route available to get to the British Virgin Islands by plane will be through St Thomas or San Juan.

USVI vs BVI: Which is easier to get to?
US Virgin Islands ✈️
 


USVI vs BVI: Which Island is Safer?

The Virgin Islands are an extremely tourist destination.

Overall, BVI is slightly less developed and has fewer “city” areas, so you’re likely to feel a bit safer in the solitude of BVi.

With that being said, most of the crime on the US Virgin Islands is petty – car break-ins, vandalism, small theft. St John is the safest of the three USVI territories; St Thomas and St Croix have larger cities (Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas and Christiansted and Frederiksted, St Croix) and a higher crime rate.

When planning your trip to either island always follow best practices in a new city. That includes:

  • Keeping hotel doors and car doors locked at all times
  • Do not keep valuables in cars; if you have valuables in your hotel room, put them in a safe
  • Stay together at night – try not to wonder around alone after sunset
  • Be cautious in unfamiliar and unpopulated areas. Do you research.
  • Most importantly, stay safe and be smart!

USVI vs BVI: Which is safer?
British Virgin Islands


Currency in the Virgin Islands

The US Virgin Islands AND the British Virgin Islands both operate with the US Dollar as the official currency!

This makes traveling between all the islands so easy and convenient!

If you can’t choose between the USVI and BVI, no worries, it’s easy to check them both off the bucket list in one trip… and why wouldn’t you?!


What are the Virgin Islands Known for?

Virgin Islands are most popular for their beautiful, Caribbean white-sand beaches and snorkeling, rich history, and even some fun nightlife!

What are US Virgin Islands Known for?

USVI is best known for St Thomas, home to capital Charlotte Amalie. St Thomas is packed with nightlife, duty-free shopping (up to $1,600 worth of duty-free items can be brought back to the US every 30 days!), and exciting, fun-packed clear-water beaches.

It’s also well known for St John, the smallest, quietest, and one of the most romantic Caribbean destinations.

Honeymoon Destinations: St Croix Honeymoon / Aruba Honeymoon

Buck Island National Reef, which is located off the cost of St Croix, attracts visitors from around the world to see the white-sand and translucent waters at Turtle Bay Beach and snorkel or dive around the protected national monument reef to see the thriving marine life and corals of USVI.

What are British Virgin Islands Known for?

British Virgin Islands can only be known for what they do best – SAILING!

You’ll find sailboats, catamarans, and yachts floating around the near-perfect waters and beaches throughout the year in BVI!

But the British Virgin Islands have more than you might know! BVI is well-known for “The Baths in Virgin Gorda”, the protected Sage Mountain National Park, and Road Town, the bustling capital of BVI!

Virgin Gorda Baths

The Virgin Gorda Baths Hike located on Virgin Gorda is one of the most popular hiking trails in the British Virgin Islands. 

The trailhead is located just a short walk from the beach, and the hike takes you through a series of unique rock formations known as the Baths. 

There are 2 beaches along the trail.  The first part of the trail is mostly dirt with stunning ocean views.  You’ll soon be at a beautiful beach with calm waves, where you can spend time before finishing the hike. 

Difference between us virgin islands and british virgin islands
Virgin Gorda Baths in BVI

The next part of the hike is to the baths. The Baths are a series of large granite boulders that have been eroded over time by wind and water. The boulders create a series of caves and passages that you can explore. 

There are some areas where you will need to scramble over rocks, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes. You’ll climb up and down ladders, duck under rocks, and walk through water. 

The second beach is even prettier than the first with huge boulders along the crystal clear water.  There is a bar where you can get food and drinks, and a bit of shade here too. 

The Virgin Gorda Baths Hike is a great way to explore the island’s natural beauty, and it’s a must-do for any nature lover. The hike is fairly easy, and it takes about an hour to complete.  

Submitted by Chantelle from Flannels or Flip Flops


USVI vs BVI: Which Island Has a Better Nightlife?

St Thomas, Charlotte Amalie in US Virgin Islands is definitely the party town of the Virgin Islands! You’ll find nightclubs, fine-dining, and beach bars all around.

You can also find some bars and late-night restaurants open in St Croix, Christiansted.

British Virgin Islands is much more local and laid back. It’s better for quiet day adventures and romantic getaways.

USVI vs BVI: Which island has a better nightlife?
St Thomas!
🍹🎉

Plan your trip with our full list of things to do in St Thomas! ➡️


USVI vs BVI: Where are the Best Beaches?

If you’re looking for beaches, you know the Caribbean is the place to be!

USVI and BVI both have their fair share of gorgeous white sand beaches and turquoise waters, but they each have their own unique character.

The USVI is known for its lively beach bars and restaurants, while the BVI is more laid-back and secluded.

Ultimately, it comes down to what kind of experience you’re looking for.

If you want to party hard and enjoy some luxury amenities, then the USVI is the place for you. But if you’re looking to disconnect from the world and spend your days lounging on a deserted beach, then the BVI is your best bet.

Whichever destination you choose, you’re guaranteed to find some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.

Difference between us virgin islands and british virgin islands

Beaches in US Virgin Islands

🌊 Coki Beach St Thomas
🌴 Sapphire Beach St Thomas
🌊 Honeymoon Beach St John
🌴 Rainbow Beach St Croix

Check out all of the Best Beaches in St Thomas USVI ➡️

Beaches in BVI

🌊 Savannah Bay Virgin Gorda
🌴 Devils Bay Virgin Gorda
🌊 Smuggler’s Cove Tortola
🌴 Cane Garden Bay Tortola

USVI vs BVI: Who has better beaches?
USVI for activities, BVI for seclusion
🏖️

USVI vs BVI Attractions: Which Island Has More Things to Do?

If you’re looking for things to do in the US Virgin Islands, you won’t be disappointed. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, whether you want to relax on the beach or go on an exciting excursion.

Popular beaches include Trunk Bay on St. John, Maho Beach on St. Thomas, and Cinnamon Bay on St. Croix.

If you’re looking for something more active, there are plenty of options for excursions and tours, from snorkeling and diving to zip-lining and hiking. No matter what your interests are, you’ll find plenty of things to do in the US Virgin Islands.

Things to Do in USVI

✅ St John Snorkel Tour

Hop on one of Cruz Bay Watersport’s Catamaran with a group to hit two hidden snorkeling spots around nearby US Virgin Islands.

🤿 Hit off-the-beaten-path snorkel
spots in St John with Cruz Bay Watersports

Check out 39 things to do in St John! ➡️

✅ Spend the Day at Buck Island

Snorkel in the protected National Reef Monument and Turtle Bay Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean!

⭐Reserve your Buck Island Excursion for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with The VI Catamaran

View a full list of things to do in St Croix ➡️

Things to Do in BVI

Visit the Virgin Gorda Baths

Charter a Boat to the Soggy Dollar

MUST DO: Visit all the Famous Spots in USVI AND BVI in the Same Day!

Knock out all your favorite stops in USVI and BVI in one awesome charter boat adventure!

Local Legend Charters will take you to the famous BVI Soggy Dollar, USVI LIME OUT! floating taco bar, The Baths, Virgin Island National Park, and more!

Where to Stay in Virgin Islands

Where to Stay in USVI

Hotel on the Cay in St Croix

Gallows Point Resort in St John

Green Iguana Hotel in St Thomas

Where to Stay in BVI

Long Bay Beach Resort Tortola

Saba Rock Resort in Virgin Gorda

How to Get Around USVI and BVI

Most importantly, don’t forget they drive on the left side of the road in USVI and BVI!

It’s easy to get around all of the islands and very straightforward as well; here are a few of your options.

 ✅ RENTAL CARS

USVI and BVI, which there are some city-like areas, are secluded, spread out islands. There are so many off-the-beaten-path adventures when traveling around. The BEST way to see everything while keeping your time-freedom is renting a car!

Rental cars are quite affordable in the USVI and BVI.

You can snag a rental car on most islands for about $50-$100 per day, depending on what you’re looking for.

Reserve a rental car in ST THOMAS from Expedia before you arrive for best rates and options!

Reserve a rental car in Tortola, BVI from Expedia

Pro Tip: Car rentals are scarce on small islands so reserve your car ASAP!

 ✅ TAXIS

The taxi system is a convenient and easy way to get around!

Taxis in all the islands will charge per person. The cost will be around $9-$20 per person for rides.

In the cities, large resorts, and popular beaches – like Charlotte Amalie, Tortola, Christiansted, and Cruz Bay, to name a few, you’ll find many taxis and taxi stands around for easy travel.

Once you get out a little further, it can be harder to find taxis. This is why it’s easiest to rent a car if you really want to see everything the Virgin Islands has to offer.

 ✅ OPEN AIR SAFARI TAXIS

In some of the territories of Virgin Islands, you can find “Open Air Safari Taxis”.

In St Thomas, in particular, some of these taxis may operate as “Dollar Safari Busses”

Some operate as regular taxis, some as dollar taxis. Ask the driver before getting on so you know what you’ll be expected to pay!

This is a fun way to get around the island, but they usually stay on the main roads, so you might have little walk to get to your final destination! Again, always ask the drivers how much the ride will cost and what your final destination is.

Driving in USVI

Visitors with a valid US drivers license can drive in USVI for up to 90 days.

The roads in all three territories – St John, St Thomas, and St Croix – all have some undeveloped and damaged roads. Additionally, the roads can be narrow and windy.

Drive slowly and with caution, for your own and other’s safety, especially the first time you go out! Sometimes, people will be walking or cars will be coming around sharp corners.

In St John, Coral Bay, specifically, you’ll run into some friendly donkeys on the roads, so be on the lookout and let them cross.

Driving in BVI

Visitors with a valid UK license can drive in BVI for up to 30 days.

If you do not have a valid US license, or similarly, a valid UK license in BVI, you can easily apply for temporary license. The cost is usually no more than $10.00

Sailing USVI vs BVI

British Virgin Islands has been a popular sailing destination for years. The waters of the Sir Francis Drake Channel are quiet, warm, and calm.

USVI has great sailing and plenty of places to stop, but the waters will be more crowded, as will your docking places.

Difference between us virgin islands and british virgin islands

If you’re looking to sail the waters alone, head to BVI. If you’re looking for a party on the water with plenty of downtown areas to stop and hit bars and restaurants, USVI is the spot for you.

Can You Sail from USVI to BVI COVID

Depending on the current restrictions, many sailing/yacht charters have tried to stay in one territory due to the complications of on-boat testing, filling out paperwork, etc.

7/15/2022 Travelers are not required to be screened on arrival in BVI

8/10/2022 Visit the USVI Tourism site for the most up-to-date alerts on testing.

Currently, there is no testing requirements for domestic or international travels, but that can change at any time.

Is British Virgin Islands Expensive?

British Virgin Islands can be a luxury vacation, or a budget-friendly, adventurous one.

That being said, basic necessities on the islands are going to be more costly than your used to! Plan ahead and buy the essentials before you arrive like reef safe sunscreen, some snacks for hiking and beach hangs, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, conditioner, etc.

Plan for about $2,000 for a week in the British Virgin Islands.

Honestly, it’s not much more expensive than most Caribbean vacations you’ll go on.

Which Island is Better? USVI or BVI

Conclusion: So, which is the best island for your next vacation- USVI or BVI? Both have their own unique charms that are sure to make your stay a memorable one.

It really depends on what you’re looking for in a vacation.

If you want an action-packed getaway with plenty of nightlife and activities, then head to St. Thomas or St. John in the USVI.

But if you’re after a more laid-back experience with stunning natural scenery, then check out Tortola or Virgin Gorda in the BVI.

No matter which island you choose, we guarantee you won’t be disappointed! Start planning your trip today and enjoy all that the Virgin Islands have to offer.

Are U.S. Virgin Islands and British Virgin Islands the same?

US Virgins Islands: Whats the Difference? The British Virgin Islands are a British Overseas territory consisting of four larger islands (Tortola, Anegada, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke), while the U.S. Virgin Islands are a territory of the United States consisting of three larger islands (St. Croix, St. John, and St.

What's better US or British Virgin Islands?

The USVI offers cheaper flights and ease of travel, especially for US Citizens, but the BVI is generally considered to provide a better charter itinerary. Both areas offer great choices of yachts and crew, as well as excellent snorkeling, diving, and an array of activities.

Do you need a passport to go to the British Virgin Islands?

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements Generally, all U.S. citizens are required to present a valid U.S. passport when traveling to the British Virgin Islands, as well as proof of anticipated departure from the British Virgin Islands. This includes travelers arriving by airplane and by private sea-going vessel.

Are the US or British Virgin Islands cheaper?

So the USVI is a much more budget friendly destination than the BVI. Prices between the islands differ as well. St. Thomas is among the cheapest, while St.