USVI Big time Winners at 2026 Carib Travel Awards

M.A. Dworkin

USVI - The U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) won Triple Honors in Travel Awards by being awarded three major accolades for the: New Hotel of the Year, Caribbean Cruise Destination of the Year, and *Experiential Destination of the Year at the 2026 Caribbean Travel Awards. 

The honors underscore the USVI’s continued momentum and growing appeal to global travelers.

he Saint, St. John was named New Hotel of the Year. The first new hotel to open on St. John in several years, the adults-only boutique retreat has infused a fresh, energetic vibe into the beloved beach town of Cruz Bay. From its standout spa to its destination dining experience, The Saint has quickly become a sought-after addition to the island’s hospitality landscape.

The Territory also claimed Caribbean Cruise Destination of the Year, recognizing the U.S. Virgin Islands as an exceptional port of call for cruise travelers. Whether docking in St. Thomas or St. Croix, visitors enjoy seamless access to shopping, historic sites, beaches, dining, boating, and well-curated excursions. Most notably, day trips to neighboring St. John from St. Thomas allows guests to experience renowned hotspots like the Annaberg Plantation and Trunk Bay Beach. Also, the short 1.5 mile boat ride to Buck Island Reef National Monument, the 176 acre uninhabited island surrounded by 18,000 acres of protected marine habitat is one of the St. Croix’s major attractions.

Completing the Triple Honors, the USVI was named Experiential Destination of the Year, celebrating the destination’s emphasis on immersive, hands-on travel. From kayaking through mangroves and strolling the historic streets of Charlotte Amalie and Christiansted, to chef’s table experiences at the marina and day trips to Buck Island, the Territory offers something for every type of traveler. These experiences are delivered in a friendly, accessible, and easy-to-explore setting, exactly what today’s travelers are seeking. 

“These recognitions reflect the dedication of our tourism partners, hospitality professionals, and communities,” said Jennifer Matarangas-King, USVI 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.”

These latest awards of recognition for the USVI reflect the growing list of recent accolades, including 2025 Cruise Destination of the Year from Porthole Magazine, USA Today10Best Reader’s Choice Awards #6 Best Caribbean Island to Visit in 2026 (St. Croix), and Trip Advisor’s 2025 Best of the Best Top Ten Beaches (Trunk Bay Beach and Magens Bay Beach).    

Now in their 12th annual edition, the awards are nominated and selected exclusively by the editors of Caribbean Journal, widely recognized as the world’s top Caribbean travel experts. 

More than 35 million travelers are expected to have visited the Caribbean as overnight guests in 2025, representing a 4 percent increase over the previous year. This growth comes alongside another 38 million visitors arriving by cruise ship. 

The region remains the world’s most dynamic travel destination, defined by stunning and vibrant cities and towns, breathtaking beaches, remarkable hotels, extraordinary cuisine, and the world’s most fascinating tapestry of cultures. These are the very elements the Caribbean Travel Awards were created to honor.

“The Caribbean Travel Awards have emerged as the region’s most meaningful measure of travel distinction, celebrating the destinations and experiences that shape the future of Caribbean travel,” said Alexander Britell, Editor and Publisher of Caribbean Journal.