Classically Caribbean and uniquely American, the U.S. Virgin Islands are a tropical playground for the entire family.

Courtesy of new Air Canada flights between Toronto and St. Thomas, exploring the sunny isles is, indeed, a vacation triumph.

Beach Bonanza

For superb water quality and impeccable safety, four of the finest beaches picked up the prestigious Blue Flag certification by the Foundation for Environmental Education. Winning beaches include Lindbergh Bay and Great Bay on St. Thomas, Trunk Bay on St. John and Pelican Cove on St. Croix. “We wave these Blue Flags as a testament to the sanctuary our beaches provide travellers in search of an inimitable island escape,” said Beverly Nicholson-Doty, commissioner, tourism.

Beds for Heads

As the largest resort in St. Thomas and an island icon for four decades,Marriott Frenchman’s Reef in St. Thomas is revered for its spectacular views of Charlotte Amalie harbour from the spacious suites. Distinctive eco-astute cottages at Maho Bay Camps in St. John boast airy terraces that invite cooling trade winds. At the water’s edge in Christiansted, Hotel Caravelle oozes St. Crucian charm with seaside dining at RumRunners.

New on the Horizon

Soon to open, Tree Limin’ Extreme zip lining in St. Thomas will include skywalks with majestic vistas of Magens Bay. And in St. Croix, a visitor centre at Diageo’s Captain Morgan Rum Distillery will house a theatre and, of course, a bar.

Travel Planner

For more information on the U.S. Virgin Islands, visit:

U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism: visitusvi.com

Hotel Caravelle:hotelcaravelle.com

Maho Bay Camps: maho.org

Marriott Frenchman’s Reef: frenchmansreefmarriott.com