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If you only do one thing on St. John, make it this drive from the outskirts of Cruz Bay to Annaberg along the North Shore Road (Route 20). Stunning vistas of white beaches and turquoise seas unfold at Caneel Bay, Trunk Bay, and Maho Bay overlooks. A part of the BVI chain of islands is visible to the north

Take this route along Virgin Gorda’s spine from Savannah Bay to North Sound for spectacular ocean and beach views. You can make a stop along the way for a swim or walk where you might just be the only visitor. There are no services until you reach North Sound.

A handful of small resorts fringe North Sound’s shoreline. Most are reached only by complimentary boat service from Gun Creek or in the case of Biras Creek Resort, from Beef Island (seeBeef Island). The majority welcome day visitors to their restaurants and shops. Protected North Sound serves as one of the BVI’s hottest sailing destinations. Sailors on week-long charters out of Tortola and the USVI drop anchor here and head for the easy camaraderie of the bars.

Sit at the bar or one of the in-the-sand tables at this very casual burger and sandwich spot at the water’s edge. The sunsets are fabulous.

Enjoy burgers and beer at this casual spot (seeOff the Wall).

Usually served boiled with onions and spices, ole wife is officially called triggerfish or moonfish. Most cooks just take a little of this and some of that to conjure up their version of this tasty catch of the day.

Gardeners all over the islands usually prune the pink- or white-flowered oleander into rows as a hedge. The wood is poisonous to animals so folks often plant them near more fragile plants to keep foraging goats and donkeys away.

From tall coconut-bearing trees to shorter feathery varieties, palm trees are found all over the USVI and BVI.

Opt for the terrace tables at this beachfront bistro in good weather. Delicious pizzas and pastas (seePanini Beach, St. John).

The fine Italian fare here includes its namesake pressedpanini sandwiches (seePanini Beach).