Things to do in Mariendal

Unwind on the sand with a cold beer or swim in the turquoise water that meets the shoreline of Sapphire Beach. Snorkel with bright, tropical fish and skim over the waves on a windsurfing board.

Virgin Islands National Park spreads across more than 7,000 acres (2,800 hectares) of the island of St. John, encompassing tropical bays, coral reefs, stunning beaches, mangrove swamps and forested hills. Follow one of the scenic hiking trails, delve into Caribbean history at an 18th-century plantation or simply lie back and soak up the sun on one of the park’s white-sand beaches.

The sublime Magens Bay is often considered the best of the spectacular beaches on the island of St. Thomas. Its stretch of white sand runs for 4,000 feet (1.2 kilometers), encompassing views of the undulating green hills and palm trees surrounding it.

Part of the protected Virgin Islands National Park, the idyllic Trunk Bay is one of the most famous beaches on St. John. Lie back and relax on the sands, dip your feet in the warm water or don a snorkel and explore the underwater trail here.

With miles of pristine coastline on St. Thomas, choosing which beach to go to can be a difficult decision. Coki Beach, with its wide range of facilities and picturesque white sands, is an obvious front-runner. Sip your favorite cocktail while you sunbathe and sample some sweet Caribbean snacks. Swim through shimmering water full of tropical fish or learn how to dive with expert instructors at the nearby diving school.

Cinnamon Bay is a picturesque coastal stretch known for its excellent snorkeling conditions. A former Danish plantation that now serves as an open-air museum adds history and intrigue to this scenic part of the world. Explore the trails of this tropical coastline for a glimpse of its sprawling beauty.

The 17th-century watchtower known as Blackbeard’s Castle is among the most iconic historical sites on the U.S. Virgin Islands. Built by Danish settlers to protect the harbor and Fort Christian, the tower today is part of Skytsborg Historical Park. Go to the tower’s viewing platform to enjoy the commanding vista of the bay and the coastline from the highest part of Government Hill in the city of Charlotte Amalie.