Thinking about hitting up the Caribbean? Well, choosing between the US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico can be really tricky, but luckily we’re here to help with this complete travel comparison guide!
The US Virgin Islands are packed with relaxing, luxurious resorts that are perfect for couples and families alike. It’s definitely a laidback vibe that’s all about the beach – and with beaches like these, it’s no wonder. The US Virgin Islands definitely have some of the most pristine and beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a Caribbean vacation that’s jam-packed full of activities, outdoor pursuits, culture, and great nightlife, you’ll want to book a flight to Puerto Rico. With a great blend of history, culture, and entertainment, the island is ideal for couples and friendship group getaways!
A Quick Overview & Comparison: US Virgin Islands vs Puerto Rico
US Virgin Islands
- Better beaches
- Chilled out vibes
- More luxury resorts
- Better for couples and families
Puerto Rico
- Great nightlife
- Plenty of outdoor activities, including watersports
- More cultural activities and festivals
- Tends to be more affordable.
If you’re looking for a classic, laidback Caribbean vacation on a beachfront resort, it’s kind of hard to beat the luxurious vibes of the US Virgin Islands. With the islands dominated by boutique resorts that are either directed at honeymooners or families, you can have your pick of the bunch here and be steps away from the beach.
However, if you want a vacation where you actually get to experience culture and history, head to Puerto Rico. For all pros of the US Virgin Islands – and there are many – there isn’t really a great cultural or historic vibe, instead it’s all about relaxation. Puerto Rico has vibrant festivals, nightlife, museums, and much more, so get yourself into the main towns and explore!
Speaking of nightlife, the Puerto Rico club and bar scene is second to none. If you and your partner or your friendship group want to go out and have a night on the town, I’d definitely recommend Puerto Rico over the US Virgin Islands. While there are plenty of all-inclusive resorts with drinks packages included, it’s less energetic and more like lazy days drinking.
When it comes to outdoor activities, Puerto Rico is the place to be. Between amazing watersports, bioluminescent bays, and even ziplining through the rainforest, there’s a little something for everyone. If your dream vacation activities revolve around splashing around in crystal clear waters, snorkeling, or relaxing on pristine beaches, then the US Virgin Islands are going to be for you.
US Virgin Islands vs Puerto Rico: A Quick Guide to Choosing
Want to see how the US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico stack up at a glance? Check out this quick guide to choosing so that you can pick your next vacation destination in a pinch.
US Virgin Islands Mini Guide
- Location Size – Land 346.4 km², Sea 1,564 km²
- Population –105,870
- Rainy Season – August to November
- High Season – December to March
- Top Sights – Hawksnest Beach, Reef Bay Trail, Brewers Bay Beach, Frederiksted Pier
- Major Airports – Cyril E. King Airport (STT), Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (STX)
With almost five times the amount of water-based territory than land mass, it’s no wonder that the US VIrgin Islands is a mecca for beach lovers. In fact, the majority of the area’s top sights are actually world-famous beaches. Known for white sandy bays, crystal clear waters and immaculately kept beaches, this is a seaside vacation that stands above the rest.
For a Caribbean island chain, the rainy season for the US Virgin Islands is actually really short. This means that there’s a hefty shoulder season from March to August where you might be able to snag some great deals at many of the high-end resorts which can be unattainable during the peak season.
Puerto Rico Mini Guide
- Location Size – 13,791 km²
- Population – 3.264 million
- Rainy Season – April to November
- High Season – Mid-December to mid-April
- Top Sights – El Yunque National Forest, San Juan Historical Site, Castillo San Felipe del Morro, Casa Bacardi, Bahía Bioluminiscente
- Major Airports – Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport (SJU), Mercedita International Airport (PSE), Rafael Hernández International Airport (BQN)
Whether you want to check out impressive castles and other historical sights, visit rum distilleries, or head inland to the El Yunque National Forest, a trip to Puerto Rico is going to be a well rounded one. Like all Caribbean island getaways, the beaches here are great, but they are a lot more touristy than the ones in the US Virgin Islands, so that’s something to consider.
As Puerto Rico is a much bigger place, there’s plenty of variety to be had and there’s no shortage of activities or excursions. There’s also a whole host of big name brand hotels and resorts that aren’t present in the US Virgin Islands, which is mostly boutique. This often means that there are more deals to be had in Puerto Rico and there are way more options.
The 5 Key Differences Between US Virgin Islands vs Puerto Rico
Now we know all the main facts about the US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, let’s get into the major differences between the two destinations to see which matter more to you!
Beaches and Landscapes
US Virgin Islands
Let’s be honest, it’s hard to beat the beaches in the US Virgin Islands. In fact, many of these beaches commonly feature of the best beaches in the world lists. They’re just that beautiful. Many of the beaches are protected so stay clean and pristine all year round which makes relaxation easy. Realistically, the beaches are the main draw for the US Virgin Islands, so no wonder they invest so much time and energy to make sure they’re the dreamiest beaches you’ve ever seen.
Puerto Rico
The beaches in Puerto Rico are definitely a lot more lively than the ones in the US Virgin Islands. Whether you view that as a good thing or a bad thing is up to you and your vacation vibe! Many of the beaches have watersports and beach sport courts available and are normally pretty crowded with tourists. That being said, Puerto Rico is huge, so there are plenty of bays that are off-the beaten path or not quite as crowded if you’re looking for your own slice of paradise.
Which is Better for Nightlife?
US Virgin Islands
If you’re looking for a big night on the town with clubbing, dancing, and a lot of shots, the US Virgin Islands probably isn’t the destination for you. On the other hand, if you love high-quality restaurants, upmarket cocktail bars and great music, then you’re in luck. As with everything in the US Virgin Islands, the nightlife definitely has a more laidback, high-end feel to it.
Puerto Rico
Well, the nightlife in Puerto Rico is insanely good. With amazing clubs, dancing, bars, and restaurants, it’s hard to have a bad night out in Puerto Rico. There are plenty of all night clubs, beach parties, and cheap drink deals to go around, so it’s ideal for a girls’ trip away or younger adult visitors who are looking to party in paradise without spending a fortune.
Which is Cheaper?
US Virgin Islands
Realistically, just about everything in the US Virgin Islands is more expensive than in Puerto Rico. While there is a larger low season in the US Virgin Islands which can offer up some more affordable deals, on average, you could be spending at least double to have a vacation in the US Virgin Islands vs Puerto Rico.
Puerto Rico
Overall, when it comes to accommodation, travel, food, drink costs, and more, Puerto Rico comes out as cheaper pretty much every time. It’s a great budget destination, especially considering how expensive the Caribbean has gotten in recent years. While you might not have the pristine beaches or boutique hotel feel, you’re still going to have an amazing tropical vacation and you’re not going to break the bank!
Which is Better for Families?
US Virgin Islands
With a much more relaxed vibe that focuses primarily on boutique resorts, beach days, and conservation, the US Virgin Islands are pretty great for a calm family getaway. While there’s not a ton of activities to do, there are plenty of snorkeling opportunities and other low-intensity watersports that make the most of the island chain’s natural beauty. It’s also reported to be a lot safer than Puerto Rico, so that’s something to factor in.
Puerto Rico
Between the historical and cultural attractions in San Juan to the fun outdoor activities in the rainforests to action-packed tourist beaches, Puerto Rico remains a high-energy destination for families. Many of the big name resorts have kids clubs and children-specific activities and areas where they can have fun, leaving the adults to relax and enjoy their vacation too!
Which has Better activities?
US Virgin Islands
When it comes to activities and excursions in the US Virgin Islands, it’s all about natural beauty, marine conservation, and relaxed vibes. Between snorkeling, coastal hikes, and wildlife spotting, there are a whole lot of other activities to check out while you’re here. You can jump on a boat tour or enjoy a shopping trip in one of the major towns, but the beach remains the main activity here!
Puerto Rico
Whether you want to fly through the El Yunque National Forest on a zipwire, want to kayak in bioluminescent bays or enjoy a game of beach volleyball on one of the popular sandy beaches, there are plenty of activities to enjoy in Puerto Rico. With a great mix of outdoor excursions and historic places to visit, it’s really got the best of both worlds, especially if you’re looking for a more energetic and adventurous Caribbean island getaway
5 Questions to Help You Decided to Travel to US Virgin Islands vs Puerto Rico
Do you still not have a clear idea of where to visit on your next trip to the Caribbean? Here are a few extra questions that are going to help your decision between the US Virgin ISlands and Puerto Rico become a lot clearer. Let’s dive in and find out more.
US Virgin Islands vs Puerto Rico: Which Is The Better Choice?
All in all, both the US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico have their pros and cons, but in my opinion, if you’re looking for a more upbeat and active holiday, you need to go the Puerto Rico. There are so many more things to see and do there, and especially if you’re traveling with kids, there are more activities to keep the whole family entertained.
On the flip side, if you want to treat yourself or find a honeymoon destination, it’s hard to beat the beaches and crystal clear waters of the US Virgin Islands. Yes, it comes with a considerable price tag, but if you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime luxury beach vacation, this is the place to do it!
So, to recap, for energetic families, girls’ trips, or budget getaways, head to Puerto Rico, for relaxing and high end romantic vacations, calmign friend getaways, or special occasion holidays, head to the US Virgin Islands!
