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With lots of space to roam, the centerpiece of Christiansted National Historic Site gives kids a glimpse into history and a place to expend some energy. The park rangers are quick to answer children’s questions (seeHistoric St. Croixand;St. Croix).

A day sail is the perfect way to introduce children to sailing. Kids get to hoist sails and assist the captain at the wheel. Once at Buck Island, the crew will help them explore the reef with a snorkel, mask, and fins (seeDay Sails to Buck Island Reef National Monument).

This easy half-mile (1-km) loop trail across from Cinnamon Bay Campground on the North Shore Road takes you through sugar factory ruins and past an old cemetery that dates to Danish times. Make stops at the numerous labeled examples of the island’s vegetation to add to your child’s botanical knowledge (seeCinnamon Bay Ruins Trail).

With lifeguards on duty and underwater signs pointing out the features of its underwater trail, Trunk Bay provides easy snorkeling for novices. Kids with a bit more experience can snorkel off Trunk Cay. Rent snorkel gear near the snack stand, where you can get burgers if you haven’t brought lunch (seeVirgin Islands National Park, St. John;St. John).

Coral World provides the ideal introduction to the under-sea world that surrounds the Virgin Islands. With easy-to-understand exhibits, kid-friendly staff, and a nearby beach, this marine park is a must-see for visitors to St. Thomas. It’s a great place to spend the entire day (seeCoral World, St. Thomas).

Kids can clang the jail cell doors, climb the stairs to the fort’s ramparts, and play tag in the huge parade grounds. The small museum has some nifty artifacts for children keen on history. While the kids are letting off steam, adults can enjoy the rampart views (seeFort Christian).

Head 90 ft (27 m) down into the briny deep on this 48-passenger submarine and view colorful reefs and watch marine life swim by through large portholes. Not for the claustrophobic. The trip also includes a boat ride out to the submarine (seeAtlantis Adventures).

Several resorts in the USVI and BVI have children’s learn to sail programs. The summer program at the Bitter End Yacht Club in Virgin Gorda gets lots of accolades. Kids learn on small, easy-to-handle boats. They must be able to swim (seeLearn to Sail, Virgin Gorda).

Kids over 10 can experience the underwater world through a basic diving course or spend more time to receive their diving certification card. Instructors are child-friendly and understand their limitations. There’s no better way to add that wow factor to a USVI or BVI vacation.

Kids as well as adults can spend delightful hours strolling along a stretch of beach, picking up shells and exploring the water’s edge as they go. Rocky and reefy beaches are good bets because they get less traffic and the tide pools are home to an interesting array of creatures.