Two-thirds of the island of St. John, a short ferry ride from St. Thomas, is a National Park, donated to the U.S. government by Laurance Rockefeller in 1956. One of the most beautiful of the Virgins, it is also the most serene, surrounded by shimmering bays and beaches. Largest of the islands, historic St. Croix, dotted with the ruins and restorations of over 100 sugar mills and great houses, is a mere 20-minute plane hop from St. Thomas. Its past can be glimpsed at Estate Whim, an eighteenth century plantation restored by the Landmark Society. Residents are known as Cruzans.
Small planes fly between the islands.
Surrounding waters are a favorite hangout for yachtsmen who spend happy days dropping anchor at islands like Peter, Dead Chest, Salt, Virgin Gorda, Beef, Anegada, Jost Van Dyke and Marina Cay. They use American money in this otherwise British crown colony. Inc. Design 1999 by Virtual Virgin Islands, Inc.