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St. Thomas Travel & Vacation Guide

St. Thomas
St. Thomas offers a perfect mix of laid-back island life and exciting Caribbean energy. As the most developed of the U.S. Virgin Islands, it's known for world-class beaches like Magens Bay, vibrant coral reefs, and lively shopping in Charlotte Amalie’s historic downtown. Visitors can explore colonial-era forts, take a scenic ride to Paradise Point, or island-hop to nearby St. John and Water Island. St. Thomas is also a top destination for cruise travelers, honeymooners, and families alike, with its wide variety of excursions—from snorkeling and sailing to zip-lining and rum tastings. Whether you're sunbathing on Sapphire Beach, diving offshore wrecks, or dining by the marina, St. Thomas delivers tropical ease with a dash of adventure—just a quick flight from the U.S., no passport required.

Current Weather

80.02 °F - Clouds Min/Max: 80.02 °F / 80.02 °FFeels: 85.57 °F Humidity: 89%5 Day Forecast
St. Thomas

Trips

Hotels

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Useful information

Population:

14,477 Virgin Islanders (2020) A 76.2% majority are Afro-Caribbean, descended from Africans who were enslaved and brought to the islands by Europeans to work on plantations.

Currency:

US dollar (US$)

Emergency Info:

Dial 911

Opening Hours:

Do & See

99 steps

99 Steps to the Blackbeard’s Castle

The many winding steps of Charlotte Amalie were built in the mid 1700s. The bricks for the steps were brought all the way from Denmark as ballast in the empty hulls of the sailing ships. The picturesq... Read More

Magan's Bay from Drake's Seat

Drake’s Seat

Drake's Seat was built in 1933, when everyone had to navigate the island by horse or on foot. To this day it remains the most popular vantage point, only rivalled by the Skyline Drive Overlook. Stop h... Read More

Fort Christian

Fort Christian

Build in the 1670s as the administrative centre of the island and military grounds, the bright red Fort Christian now hosts the St Thomas museum. Explore the old photos, antique furniture and artifact... Read More

Frederick Evangelical Lutheran Church

Frederick Evangelical Lutheran Church

Known as the oldest Lutheran Church in the Americas, the Fredrick Lutheran Church was established in 1666 by Danish minister and coloniser, Kjeld Jensen. The yellow Georgian style building with its la... Read More

banana daiquiri

Mountain Top

Mountain Top is a must do just for the view alone. Their observation deck is the perfect vantage point to see the island and the bay below. A sizeable gift shop will provide you with all the USVI souv... Read More

Villa Nottman on Government Hill in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands

Old Town

The capital city of St Thomas — Charlotte Amalie — only about 10 minutes away from both It will take you about 10 minutes to reach downtown from the Havensight cruise pier and Crown Bay Marina. Take a... Read More

orchids at the botanical garden

Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden

Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden is a superb place to hide from the intense heat of the Caribbean sun. Stop here on your way to Crown Mountain and explore the work of Patsy, the garden's owner. She... Read More

golden pirate scull and crossbones

Pirates Treasure Museum

Learn about pirates and their long history fun of dangers and adventures at the Pirates Treasure Museum. The interactive environment with videos, hands-on activities and lots of visuals won't leave yo... Read More

Shopping

Back Street, Charlotte Amalie

Back Street

Running parallel to the Main Street and the waterfront, Back Street is a showcase of impressive West Indian architecture. The buildings now house over 100 jewellery stores, fine dining restaurants and... Read More

boutiques on the Main Street, Charlotte Amalie

Main Street

The historic Dronningens Gade, now know as Main Street, is a prime destination for shoppers. It has had this role ever since the city was founded. Take a walk down the cobblstone Stroll the bustling c... Read More

backstreets of Charlotte Amalie

Royal Dane Mall

A small pedestrian alleyway called the Royal Dane Mall is studded with small boutiques. Browse artisanal souvenirs and eclectic trinkets. The famous Gladys’ Cafe is perfect for breakfast or lunch. Bac... Read More

cameras at a street vendor's stall

Vendor’s Plaza

Vendor’s Plaza is an open-air market with small stalls selling local merchandise, souvenir and trinkets, clothes and knockoff designer purses, casual jewellery and hats. The plaza gets very busy whene... Read More

Essential Information

open passport with entry stamps

Passports & Visas

The U.S. Virgin Islands choose to follow the mainland US entry requirements. As with the mainland, any non-US citizen must follow the Visa Waiver Program. All travellers arriving in the U.S. Virgin Is... Read More

Cyril E. King Airport sign

Cyril E. King Airport (STT)

Cyril E. King Airport is a public airport just two miles (3 km) west of the central business district of Charlotte Amalie. The U.S. Virgin Islands greet visitors with open-air terminals — rain or shin... Read More

Crown Bay Dock on St Thomas

Crown Bay Dock

Once a naval base, Crown Bay is St. Thomas' newest cruise port. The port has been completely restored after the hurricanes of 2017. The ships dock on either side of a single finger pier. The Crown Bay... Read More

view of Havensight on St Thomas

Havensight — The West India Company Dock

Havensight is one of the busiest cruise ship ports in the world. The port is located only 2.5 km (1.5 miles) or about a 5-10 minute taxi ride outside of downtown Charlotte Amalie. Havensight is mostly... Read More

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit St. Thomas Island is during the winter months from December to April. This period offers pleasant weather with lower humidity and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds.

A stay of 3 to 5 days is recommended to fully enjoy St. Thomas Island. This allows time to explore the island's beautiful beaches, engage in water sports, visit historical sites like Blackbeard's Castle, and take a day trip to nearby islands such as St. John or the British Virgin Islands.

Don't miss visiting Magens Bay, one of the world's most beautiful beaches. Explore Charlotte Amalie, the island's capital, known for its vibrant shopping scene and historical landmarks. Coral World Ocean Park offers interactive marine experiences, and the 99 Steps provide a scenic climb with panoramic views.

Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore St. Thomas Island, giving you the flexibility to visit various attractions at your own pace. Alternatively, taxis are widely available, and the island's safari buses offer a more budget-friendly option for getting around.

Be sure to try local dishes such as conch fritters, johnnycakes, and fungi, a cornmeal-based side dish. Fresh seafood is a highlight, with dishes like grilled mahi-mahi and lobster being popular. Don't miss the chance to taste the island's signature drink, the Bushwacker, a creamy cocktail made with rum and coconut cream.

Carnival is the most vibrant festival on St. Thomas Island, held annually in April. It features lively parades, music, dancing, and local cuisine. Another notable event is the St. Thomas International Regatta, a prestigious sailing competition attracting participants from around the world.

Consider taking a ferry to St. John, known for its pristine beaches and hiking trails in Virgin Islands National Park. Another popular day trip is to the British Virgin Islands, where you can explore The Baths on Virgin Gorda or enjoy snorkeling at the famous reefs of Jost Van Dyke.

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