The U.S. Virgin Islands received three top honors at the 2026 Caribbean Travel Awards, including New Hotel of the Year, Caribbean Cruise Destination of the Year and Experiential Destination of the Year.
The Saint, an adults-only boutique hotel in Cruz Bay on St. John, was named New Hotel of the Year. The property is the first new hotel to open on St. John in several years and features a full-service spa and destination dining, according to a press release from the U.S. Virgin Islands Tourism Department.
The territory was also recognized as Caribbean Cruise Destination of the Year, citing its ports of call on St. Thomas and St. Croix. Cruise visitors have access to shopping, historic sites, beaches, dining and excursions, including day trips to St. John that feature locations such as the Annaberg Plantation and Trunk Bay Beach, the press release stated.
The Experiential Destination of the Year award recognized the U.S. Virgin Islands for immersive travel offerings, including kayaking through mangroves, exploring historic Charlotte Amalie, chef-driven dining experiences, and excursions to Buck Island, the release stated.
“These recognitions reflect the dedication of our tourism partners, hospitality professionals, and local communities,” said Jennifer Matarangas King, commissioner of Tourism. “Together, we continue to elevate the U.S. Virgin Islands as a destination that delivers authentic experiences, exceptional service, and unforgettable moments for everyone.”
According to Tourism, the awards add to recent honors for the territory, including 2025 Cruise Destination of the Year from Porthole Magazine, USA Today 10Best Readers Choice Awards No. 6 Best Caribbean Island to Visit in 2026 for St. Croix, and TripAdvisor 2025 Best of the Best Top Ten Beaches for Trunk Bay Beach and Magens Bay Beach.
