U.S. Virgin Islands home to the world's best beach
Turquoise waters, silky white sand and radiant sunshine are key ingredients in any relaxing seaside vacation. Arriving by ferry, we are met by Kenneth Louis, our guide from Great Exploration Tours. En route to the beach, there’s a stop at the former Annaberg sugar plantation, which began operating circa 1870 using slaves to harvest sugar cane. It’s rare to see buildings of that area preserved in such a great state, says Louis. The star of the park service is Trunk Bay, stretching for one-third of a mile with a forested backdrop. It’s the only St. John beach with an entry fee and the lineup starts early. Regarded as the “duty free capital of the world,” the USVI capital of Charlotte Amalie exudes the attitude of a big city in idyllic surroundings. En route to The Hideaway at Hull Bay, a private luxury estate, travellers are treated to stops at Drakes Seat and Skyline Overlook for spectacular aerial views of the city, Magen’s Bay beach and arriving cruise ships in the harbour. Outside this gated paradise, another culinary adventure awaits at Oceana Restaurant and Bistro, overlooking Baye de Grigri. Owner Patricia LaCorte, a renowned chef originally from France, has operated several restaurants across the USVI. Her connections to local farmers and fishermen land her fresh bounty for exotic creations. A bouillabaisse with spiny lobster, garlic shrimp, littleneck clams and mussels bathes in a rich saffron broth.
