Your Virgin Islands Guide

Enjoy a St. Thomas sunset kayak tour through the Mangrove Lagoon, with a gentle guided paddle, golden-hour views, and opportunities to spot wildlife.

Explore a St. Thomas kayak tour through the Mangrove Lagoon to Cas Cay, with an easy eight-minute nature walk, the Red Point Blowhole, and snorkeling.

Planning to snorkel with sea turtles in the USVI? See why a local guide saves vacation time, what you'll spot, and which island tour fits your group.

While we love to always look on the bright side of life and focus on sharing the must-dos when in the USVI, we thought it might be helpful to also give some insights into what you should avoid the next time you’re here snorkeling in the USVI. Snorkeling should not only be fun and safe for you, but it should also leave the sea free of damage. Here are our 5 Don’ts When Snorkeling in the USVI

For many people, their vacation in the US Virgin Islands is the first time they’ve gotten the opportunity to try stand up paddle boarding (also known as “SUP”). And while many of them arrive just a little intimidated at first, it ends up being one of the most fun experiences of their trip. If you, too, aren’t sure if paddle boarding in the USVI is for you, we’d like to encourage you to give it a shot. You’ve got this! We have stand up paddle boards available for rent on all three islands: St. Thomas , St. John , and St. Croix . With a SUP rental in the VI, you have endless opportunities to explore and to spend quality time in our gorgeous Caribbean waters. Your SUP rental opens up a world of adventure for you. Here are some answers to the frequently asked questions we get regarding stand up paddle boarding in the Virgin Islands to set your mind at ease:

What was that?! USVI underwater mysteries solved: anemones, flamingo tongue snails, sea hares, white urchins, and reef squid explained by our guides.

8 fun Virgin Islands nature facts for kids: sea turtles, pelicans, mongoose, mangroves, and more wild facts to explore on your USVI family trip.

Things to do in St. John: top Virgin Islands National Park hikes, beaches, snorkeling spots, cultural sites, and dining, for families, couples, and explorers.

Trying to choose between a kayak tour and a snorkel tour in the Virgin Islands? Compare effort, cost, and what you'll see to pick the right adventure.

Planning a Virgin Islands trip? Learn how to paddle a kayak properly as a beginner, from grip and posture to the 3 basic strokes, before you go.

Hurricane season in St. Thomas runs June–November, peaking Aug–Oct. Here's what to know about timing, risk, and whether to still book your trip.

Our 6 favorite St. John souvenirs to shop in Mongoose Junction: rash guards, hook bracelets, sail bags, wind chimes, and more island keepsakes.

Our top 10 hiking tips for the USVI: sun protection, hydration, footwear, timing, and safety advice for exploring St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix.

Discover St. John's North Shore: Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, Hawksnest, and Maho Bay beaches, snorkeling, and hiking inside Virgin Islands National Park.

Find the best places to see sea turtles on St. John, USVI, including Maho Bay and Francis Bay, plus local tips for calm-water snorkeling.

Discover the best places to swim with sea turtles in St. Thomas and St. John in the US Virgin Islands, plus tips on timing, locations, and turtle etiquette.

All about St. John's wild donkeys: their history, where to spot them around the island, and how to safely enjoy this quirky local sight.

Learn what to expect when visiting the Virgin Islands during Christmas: festive events, island traditions, warm weather, and travel tips for the holidays.

USVI snorkeling safety tips: going with a guide, checking weather and currents, using a buddy system, and other advice for a safe day in the water.

Trying to choose between St. Thomas vs St. John? See which island fits your trip style based on cost, vibe, logistics, and activities before you book your trip.

Not sure whether to rent water sports gear or book a guided tour? Learn the pros and cons of each to choose the best Virgin Islands experience.

Why even experienced snorkelers should join a guided tour in the USVI: local expertise, marine life ID, and an extra layer of safety in the water.

Everything to know about Lime Out, the floating taco bar in Coral Bay, St. John: what to expect, how to get there, and what to order.

Check out our new mesh snorkel gear rental bags on St. John, included with every snorkel gear rental from our Mongoose Junction retail shop.

Plan your visit to Mongoose Junction on St. John: shops, restaurants, and our retail shop for gear rentals and tour check-in in Cruz Bay.

Private tours in the US Virgin Islands: why couples, families, and groups love the personalized experience, and how to book your own island adventure.

Don’t overpack! Here’s your ultimate guide to what you really need (and what you don’t) for your Virgin Islands vacation.

Rent snorkel gear in the US Virgin Islands and explore epic marine life anytime—sea turtles, rays, and coral reefs are just a swim away!

Arawak Expeditions is now part of Virgin Islands Ecotours. Book St. John kayak tours or visit Mongoose Junction for snorkel, SUP, and kayak rentals.

Discover the top snorkeling spots in St. John, USVI. Explore sea turtles, coral reefs, and hidden bays with tips from local guides at Virgin Islands Ecotours.

Discover top paddleboarding and paddle surfing spots in St. John, Virgin Islands. Local tips, calm bays, wave breaks, and gear pickup in Cruz Bay.

Looking for Arawak's fly fishing tours? Here's what to know about fly fishing in the Virgin Islands today, plus top local charters on St. John.

Ready for an amazing turtle adventure? We reveal 3 idyllic islands perfect for swimming with gentle sea turtles. Learn when and where to go!

Learn how mindful travel protects the USVI’s beauty, supports local communities, and helps preserve marine life for generations to come.

From iconic lookouts to beachside snaps, discover the top places on St. John to capture the perfect island photo and preserve your memories.

Discover the best of St. Thomas: kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking through mangroves, vibrant reefs, and scenic trails with Virgin Islands Ecotours.

Kayak, hike, snorkel, and explore the natural beauty of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix with this ultimate outdoor guide.

Big island energy, rich history, killer snorkeling, and rum—discover why St. Croix is the underrated gem of the US Virgin Islands.

Only have a few hours in port? Maximize your day with this guided eco-tour that includes kayaking, hiking, and snorkeling off St. Thomas.

Packing smart makes your boat day better! See what essentials to bring for sun, sea, and snorkeling fun in the US Virgin Islands.

After years away, sea turtles are back in the Mangrove Lagoon. Discover how to spot them respectfully on your next St. Thomas tour.

From pelicans to flamingos, discover the rich birdlife of the USVI and where to spot them on your next island adventure.

Snorkel with turtles, kayak the mangroves, and hike epic trails—these must-do adventures belong on your Virgin Islands bucket list this year.

Looking for the ultimate tropical escape? This guide helps you plan a stress-free, adventure-packed vacation in the Virgin Islands.

Fewer crowds, warm water, and sweet deals—discover why summer is an underrated (and awesome) time to visit the Virgin Islands.

Explore how mangroves support wildlife, fight climate change, and offer peaceful escapes for all—from families to nature lovers.

Whether on a beach, boat, or hilltop—here’s how to soak in those breathtaking Caribbean sunsets like a seasoned islander.

This off-the-beaten-path hike on St. Thomas offers wildlife, volcanic cliffs, and sweeping views—everything you want from a tropical trail.

Pair stunning ocean views with island bites. Here’s how to plan the ultimate USVI boat day filled with food, drinks, and fun.