Planning a U.S. Virgin Islands vacation? Here's how to choose the island that's right for you

Where will your summer travels take you? If you're seeking a vacation spot far from home, but where the culture feels familiar, you may want to look into the possibilities offered by U.S. Virgin Islands vacations.

Located 90 miles east of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands consist of four principal islands. St. Thomas, Water Island, St. John and St. Croix are in close proximity, but a world apart. Here's a quick look at what each island has to offer:

St. Thomas - This is the most cosmopolitan of the islands, and home to one of the world's most active cruise ship ports -- Charlotte Amalie, a city rich in history, but with a modern flair. On almost any day, you can find at least one cruise ship, often many more, anchored outside the harbor. Cruises to and from this island are popular all year round. Once on the island, activities to enjoy include shopping, taking in the nightlife, fishing, swimming and scuba diving.

Water Island - This 500-acre island is situated about a quarter mile out in Charlotte Amalie Harbor. It was once part of a peninsula jutting out from St. Thomas, but the two land masses were separated when a channel was cut so U.S. submarines could reach their base in a bay to the west. There is no commerce on the island, so you'll have to bring supplies from the mainland. A ferry goes between Crown Bay Marina on St. Thomas and Water Island several times daily between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.

St. John - If the purpose of your trip is to just get away from it all, you might be most interested in a visit to St. John, the least developed of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Two-thirds of the island is a protected U.S. National Park, and there are plenty of trails to explore. The island also boasts beautiful beaches, excellent diving and snorkeling spots.

St. Croix - If you enjoy nature, this is the place for you. St. Croix has some of the best diving spots in the Caribbean, including a place known as "The Wall." For those who have always wanted to witness a giant sea turtle laying eggs on the beach, it happens just about every night on this island between April and November. Green, leatherback and hawksbill turtles all nest here.

Whether you're interested in a getaway where you can enjoy casual time with friends, or are seeking a destination where you can disappear from the chaos of the world for a while, U.S. Virgin Islands vacations offer it all. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip today.

Courtesy of ARAcontent