Romance in the Virgin Islands
Romance with the Virgins
Ahoy! Looking for a unique way to say, “I love you!,” to someone special? Well, “Welcome aboard,” because we have a few suggestions you might want to pursue.
Of course, chocolates and roses are always appreciated, but if you’re looking for something original as well as fun, beautiful and romantic then look no further. Here are seven suggestions to make your sweetheart feel extra special all while enjoying the spectacular beauty of the Virgin Islands.
#1. Go On A Night Kayak Adventure –
With tours out of St. Thomas and St. John, Nightkayak.com makes arranging a special night out as easy as a Caribbean breeze. An added bonus this year is that there’s a full moon right before Valentine’s Day, so the night sky should be in full illumination. If St. John is your preferred location, there are two options. First, there’s the Sunset/ Night Kayak Tour that incorporates all the colors and rhythms of the sun sinking into the horizon while casting shadows on those luminous waters. You’ll spend 45 minutes on the water in clear-bottom kayaks and 30 minutes on land. The guided tour is appropriate for all ages and abilities and includes exploring clear water coves as well as “pirate waters” where things are a bit murkier and more mysterious. (All the more reason to snuggle up and share about your experience afterwards!)
The second option, ST. John Night SUP, is for experienced paddleboarders only and covers 45 minutes on the water and 30 minutes on land. Outfitted with LED lights that make everything glow, these SUPs make seeing a variety of marine life a breeze, while also adding a bit of excitement and romance to the adventure as well. Not to mention that the challenge of navigating by starlight will certainly make for a memorable night out.
Both tours leave from The Westin St. John Resort Villas and before leaving, participants are encouraged to “get their glow on” by using the supplied paint. Another bonus: photographs are taken of everyone before venturing out on the water so there’s a built-in keepsake of your night out.
If St. Thomas is your preferred destination, head on over to the Westin Frenchman’s Reef, where you can choose from two more options that also include paint and pictures. Our favorite nigh Kayak tour is, St. Thomas Night Kayak Tour, features one hour of paddling by moonlight in clear-bottom kayaks equipped with LED lights. Enjoy the intimacy of gliding by stingrays and barracudas with gorgeous resort beaches in the background. (It might just be the perfect opportunity to pop that all-important question.). You may even see Captain Tara guiding a tour because she will work as a guide a couple times a week!!
For experienced paddleboarders, try the St. Thomas Night SUP Tour which heads out to Pirate’s Point. Each paddleboard is retrofitted with powerful LED lights that create a 10’ halo of light surrounding each paddleboarder. Turtles, tarpon and other wildlife are easy to spot in the soft glow of the group’s illumination. These award-winning tours are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the nocturnal beauty of the Virgin Islands while also enjoying the romantic allure of moonlight, the chance to catch sight of a falling star and the challenge of staying upright together!
#2. Arrange A Private Photo Shoot –
Capturing some special moments with the one you love is always a great idea, so put your phone away and hire a professional who can deliver on some spectacular shots while also taking advantage of some of the most scenic surroundings in the world. Whether you want formal pictures or more casual shots, professional photographers know where to go on the islands to get the best and most natural shots. Some (like Steve Simonsen) even have underwater cameras to catch a kiss beneath the waves. Go ahead, be creative and capture some romantic photos that will make lasting memories of your time together in the Virgin Islands.
On St. Thomas, try one of these highly rated photographers:
- Alexandra Marie Photography (“Capturing raw moments, love & lifestyle. Inspired by your story”) This fourth generation Virgin Islander blends artistry and heart to capture intimate moments with the one you love. She studied at the Antilles School & Ringling College of Art & Design and also learned photography from her mother and paternal grandmother.
- Megan Briggs Photography (“I’m a seeker of beauty and light.”) She’s noted for capturing photos that are natural, fun and elegant.
- Crown Images Photography by Sage (“I’m obsessed with sharing my love of island life and creating relaxed, timeless, meaningful, and authentic photographs of your island adventure that you will cherish.”) Sage specializes in contemporary destination wedding photography but also does destination, travel and engagement shoots. Her goal is to capture unspoken moments that can’t be put into words.
For St. John, try these local photographers:
- Lindsay Vann Photography (“The things that are most important to me are those raw and beautiful moments with my loved ones and I always gravitate towards photographing just that.”) She’s known for her natural, photojournalistic and candid style.
- St. John Creative Photography (“Finding beauty in all situations of life.”) Known for her work on Kenny Chesney’s documentary Kenny’s Love for Love City, she’s also been featured on numerous news outlets such as The New York Post, People Magazine and Cosmopolitan. Her passion is capturing love in all forms.
- Yelena Rogers Photography (“I am a collector of hugs and kisses, first looks and first dances, sunsets and rainbows.”) Known for her professionalism and clean, classic style that emphasizes composition and color.
- Pictures in Paradise Kelly Quinn photographer, also a Captain and Owner of Salty Dog Day Sails does amazing photography of St. John nature, portraits and weddings.
#3. Go Jewelry Shopping –
While in the Virgin Islands, don’t pass up the opportunity to find some unique and spectacular jewelry to commemorate time spent with your special someone. After all, there are more than a few jewelry stores to choose from and prices are typically lower than the mainland because the goods are tax-free and duty-free.
On St. John, head over to Vibe in Wharfside Village, located in the heart of Cruz Bay. Osa and Jen, the founders of Vibe Jewelry, will treat you to a display of handcrafted sterling silver and 14k gold pieces that incorporate a variety of gemstones. All jewelry is finished with rhodium to ensure extra protection and shine. Their design team has been crafting original earrings, necklaces and bracelets since 2004. Business has been so good that the company opened a second location in Mongoose Junction.
Also located in Cruz Bay, Freebird Creations is located at Dockside Building, directly in front of the Cruz Bay passenger ferry dock. Choose from an eclectic array of jewelry and duty-free watches as well as pieces that feature Larimar, the gemstone of the Caribbean, “Petroglyph” jewelry that reflects the ancient artwork of the island’s first inhabitants and original Caribbean hook bracelets.
For a plethora of choices, make your way to St. Thomas where you’ll have the opportunity to “shop until you drop,” as they say. For exquisite craftsmanship and elegance, head to Palacio Jewelers in Charlotte Amalie, a small-family owned business in operation since 1998. Committed to excellence, you’re guaranteed to find something that will dazzle your loved one. Whether it’s a diamond ring or a graduated diamond tennis bracelet, a Rolex with Pink Mother of Pearl and an array of diamonds, or emeralds surrounded by white diamonds and yellow gold, Palacio’s will help you find the right piece of jewelry to add a romantic souvenir to your Virgin Island escape.
Or try Lucky Jewelers, a charming boutique for handcrafted gold and platinum pieces as well as loose diamonds and gemstones. Their motto is: “Quality product at a fair price.”
But don’t stop there. For even more choices, drop by these outstanding businesses that are also located on St. Thomas: Ballerina Jewelers, Cardow Jewelers, and Imperial Jewelers.
#4. Arrange A Pampered Date At Lovango Resort + Beach Club –
What says romance better than a secluded island with a sparkling pool, your own cabana, and an array of award-winning food and drinks? Voted one of the Top 10 Best Caribbean Resorts by Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2024, this private island resort in the Virgin Islands oozes with hospitality, luxury and intimacy. Laid-back, yet unpretentiously stylish, you’re sure to hit a home run by treating your special someone to a pampered day at Lovango Resort + Beach Club. You might just have such a good time that you wind up eloping the same day – all made possible by Makenzie Wall, Director of Sales + Events, who specializes in arranging elopement packages, wedding plans and proposal events. One 10-minute ferry ride drops you into this serene paradise that offers a 70-ft infinity pool, 3 hiking trails, 6 boutique shops, a gym in the jungle and 2 waterfront dining options as well as some world-class snorkeling. Could there possibly be a better over-the-top gesture to add some romance to your February get-a-way?
#5. Splurge On An Intimate Dinner With Atmosphere –
Fine wine and dining go together like surf and sand, and luckily, the Virgin Islands have more than a few good choices. For starters, book a table at Oceana Restaurant & Bistro on St. Thomas. Located in Frenchtown, Oceana, which received a 2024 Travelers’ Choice Award, is open Monday thru Saturday from 5pm to 9:30 and it’s their mission to combine culinary excellence with superb service and an exquisite setting by the sea. Whether you wish to see the hues of a tropical sunset or bask in the light of the moon, this restaurant can accommodate as most of their tables in the open-air dining room offer unobstructed views. Add an extensive wine list, fresh seafood, grass-fed Wagyu & New Zealand beef, fresh produce, and decadent desserts as well as the vibes of a historical property overlooking the beautiful Baye de GriGri and you have the perfect combo for a fabulous meal with atmosphere and intimacy all in one place.
PRIME at Paradise Point on St. Thomas, also awarded a 2024 Travelers’ Choice Award, is another excellent choice. How do Quail Lollipops, Octopus Tacos and Smoked Wagyu Crostini sound? And those are just some of the appetizers on the menu! Wet aged filet mignon or prime Wagyu steaks will satisfy any meat lover, while Caribbean Double Stuff Lobster or Whole Fried Snapper are offered as chef creations. Wine, cocktails and an array of fine desserts round out their superb menu. Make sure to make your reservation around the time of the sunset, so you have the opportunity to experience the view of the harbor during the day and at night.
For another truly elevated dining experience, you might opt for the Old Stone Farmhouse on St. Thomas, where Chef Trujillo, who graduated from the world-renown Culinary Institute of America Hyde Park in 1997, will spoil you with his repertoire of flavors that stretch from one continent to another. Added to his award-winning menu is the fact that you’ll be dining in a 200-year-old restored plantation that overlooks the lush countryside of the island. Saviour the magic of the experience with a fine wine and some intimate conversation and your date will surely be impressed with your choice of restaurants.
If you prefer to dine on St. John, head to the waterfront in Cruz Bay and request a front-row table at La Tapa, a dining staple since 1996. Open 7 nights a week during high season, La Tapa never disappoints. Noted for their contemporary Mediterranean cuisine, the menu changes nightly but always features a bit of elegance as well as eclectic charm. Everything from organic greens with cashew breaded goat cheese to bread with three sauces to pan seared local mahi with green curry and shitake mushrooms might be featured (My personal favorite is the paella for two), but regardless of the choices, you won’t be disappointed by the food, drinks or their sumptuous desserts. Make a night of it by ordering cocktails and appetizers to watch the sun set, followed by champagne and dinner as the stars emerge. Of course, finishing with dessert under the moonlight is a must.
Another fine-dining choice is Extra Virgin Bistro. Although it’s not waterfront, the seating is intimate and the menu unique. Dedicated to locally grown and sourced products, Extra Virgin offers three-course tasting menus for $100 pp. Here again, the menu changes frequently, but there’s always an array of choices, even for picky eaters. Don’t miss out on their house crafted cocktails.
Last but not least, there’s The Terrace. This French-influenced restaurant has quickly become a favorite of locals and tourists. Chef Erica Miner never fails to create interesting dishes with flair and taste. The mixture of fine food, great wines and a view of the water from their covered patio always make for a romantic evening.
#6. Book A Sunset Sail –
“Sailing into the sunset” may be an overused phrase, but it certainly captures the essence of the ultimate romantic date – that feeling of freedom, intimacy, peace and beauty that coalesce when watching the sun sink into the horizon while gliding along the water. Stormy Pirates had that in mind when they designed their Sunset Sail which is a combo package that offers snorkeling, sunset viewing and a stop at Pizza Pi on their luxurious catamaran. Only 12 guests are allowed so there’s plenty of privacy to cuddle with your date and toast to more adventures together.
#7. Book A Private Charter And Go Island Hopping –
If you really want to pull out all the stops to create not just a romantic date, but a whole day of splurging on your special someone, talk to Stormy Pirates about chartering your own boat for a full day of excursions of your own choosing. With a fleet of fully customized boats to choose from – everything from a 27’ Hydra Sport to a 45’ Luxury Sailing Catamaran to a 55’ Power Catamaran – you can be assured that traveling in comfort to the destinations that you’re most interested in with the best music, food and drinks that you desire will be arranged by a Stormy Pirates’ crew member. (More than a few captains have officiated wedding ceremonies on board, so keep that in mind should the urge to say, “I do,” take hold!)
End Notes: Hopefully, we here at Stormy Pirates got you thinking about some new romantic gestures to spice up your next trip to the Virgin Islands. While Valentine’s Day is a good opportunity to plan something special, remember that romance in the islands is pretty much an open season, so take advantage of these suggestions all year long. As always, please visit our web site and learn more about our charter company. We promise to put the gang plank down and escort you in style.