While there's plenty to so in Charlotte Amalie on land, it would be a great loss not to explore the underwater wonders of the U.S. Virgin Islands. The easiest thing to do is rent a snorkel and explore the shallow waters by the beach, but you should definitely consider trying something more advanced at least once. Snorkelling is the cheapest choice. Add some diving equipment to go deeper and see more. Some tours now offer Sea Trek helmets — a modern take on the diving helmet. No matter your choice of equipment, do explore the coral reefs that are home to tropical fish such as snapper, hamlets, parrot fish, sturgeon, squirrel fish and majestic sea turtles.

Once sleepy fishing villages, the fabulous beaches of fine white sand of Agia Napa and Protaras, and the coastal area of Paralimni with its hundreds of windmills, nowadays buzz with life. This area is known collectively as the Kokkinochoria, “red soil villages,” because of the rich red earth in which Cyprus’ famous potatoes are grown. Culture lovers can explore the medieval churches found in villages like Sotira or go around the folk art museums displaying rural artefacts in Deryneia and Avgorou. Children will love the Marine Life museum or the new Sea Museum, “Thalassa”, in Agia Napa, which has an amazing replica of a 4th-century trading ship which sank off the coast of Kyrenia. Or you could stop at the tiny estuary known by the locals as Potamos and watch the fishing boats haul in their catch in their multi-coloured baskets. Spend the day sunbathing at the beach, swimming in warm turquoise waters or taking a short cruise along the coast. Some of the best snorkelling and diving spots are at Cape Greco, the national forest park, with its secluded coves and rocky outcrops, impressive cliff-top views and sea caves. In the evening, dine at one of the many restaurants, especially the local ones in Paralimni, or jive to the latest sounds at one of the numerous nightclubs.

For a quick and effortless bird’s-eye view of the seafront, take a spin on the Bournemouth Observation Wheel. Located right at Pier Approach, this 50-metre-tall wheel offers a relaxed 10-minute ride in enclosed, all-weather gondolas. Your three or four gentle rotations provide fantastic 360-degree panoramas, perfect for looking down the length of the historic pier and out across the sea. The wheel has lost its retro colour scheme after a full revamp in 2024, now looking sleek and modern. It’s a simple, classic way to see the bay from a new perspective.