St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands: Beaches, Shopping & Island Adventures Await

Discover Saint Thomas Island's Wonders

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 - Clear Min/Max: 80.02 °F / 80.02 °FFeels: 78.94 °F Humidity: 26%5 Day Forecast

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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 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 picturesque 99 steps attract the most foot traffic and cameras. How could one resist this narrow stairway, adorned with flowers on both sides! The original name if the street can be translated as the Greater Tower Street. The steps lead to the Blackbeard’s Castle — a 17th century watch tower. The tower has been closed to visitors since Hurricanes Irma and Maria, but the view from up above is still stunning.

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 here for a short while and enjoy the panoramic view of Magen’s Bay, surrounded by green rolling hills and with a scattering of colourful houses.

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 artifacts connected to the history of the island.

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 large staircase that you can visit today was opened in 1793. The earlier two buildings that were, unfortunately, destroyed by fire.

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 souvenirs imaginable. The cherry on top — banana daiquiris were invented right here, and the bar is happy to give you a taste.

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 stroll down the cobbled alleyways, climb the steep stairs for glorious views and admire West Indian furnishings in historic homes. Since its founding by Danish settlers in 1681, the town has evolved from a colonial trading post to one of the busiest duty free ports in the Caribbean.

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 has worked tirelessly for over 20 years to assemble a vast collection of orchids, bromeliads, palms, succulents and air plants. Kids will surely love the petting zoo with a peacock and parrot, while "plant parents" can buy some gorgeous flowering plants to bring home.

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 you bored. You can learn to tie the various knots and imagine what life would be like back in the pirate era.

Shopping

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 luxury boutiques.

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 cobblestone lane in the heart of Charlotte Amalie, which is lined with high-end shops and cozy restaurants that were previously used as pirate warehouses. Find beautiful jewelry pieces, watches, and souvenirs, as well as perfume, liquor, and tobacco. If you’re interested in shopping for jewelry, highlights include Diamonds International, Cardow Jewelers, and Bobby’s Jewelers. Make sure to venture down the quaint side alleyways, too, where more boutiques await with hidden gems. Main Street is one of the top spots for shopping in St. Thomas.

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. Back in the Danish colonial times, this part of the city was filled with cane sugar warehouses. Some of the buildings now house boutiques, cafes and restaurants.

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 whenever a newly docked cruise ship is in-town.

Essential Information

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 Islands from outside the United States (including U.S. citizens) must meet the requirements for entry (or re-entry) to the United States. Since USVI is an American territory, a passport is not required for American/American Samoan citizens who are travelling from any part of the United States or its territories, as long as a foreign place is not touched during the journey. However, having a passport might speed up the entry and exit process. The territory is a "free port" in a separate customs zone from the mainland USA, which means that everyone going to the mainland must go through customs.

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 shine — so be ready with sunscreen of rain protection! The airport also serves the island of St. John and is additionally often used by those travelling to the nearby British Virgin Islands. Non-stop and connecting service from the US mainland to St. Thomas are available, but most flights make connections in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Small sea planes land at the Charlotte Amalie Harbor Seaplane Base — another port-authority-owned private-use airport with two seaplane landing areas.

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 Center is a large shopping mall just outside the pier gates with duty-free shops, crafts and souvenir stalls, restrooms, ATMs, convenient stores and taxi dispatch. A taxi is the best way to get to Charlotte Amalie downtown. You'll find the Information Center just outside the Mall, on the north side. The building looks like a miniature windmill, so it's easy to spot.

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 known for its deepwater port West Indian Company Dock and the aerial tramway to Paradise Point on Flag Hill. Right here you'll find numerous businesses that offer boat trips, submarine rides, scuba diving and snorkelling, jet skiing and more. Boats can take you to Red Hook in East End, Saint John, and Water Island. Taxis will take you downtown for about $3, but you could also take a long but pleasant walk there. The Havensight Mall offers eateries, all sorts of souvenir and luxury shops, and even a post office. Nail salons and barber shops, pharmacies and crafts stalls — whatever you need for a great trip. Three large modern cruise ships can tie up at Havensight at the same time. When the docks are full, allow extra time to return to the pier from downtown Charlotte Amalie.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit St. Thomas Island?

The best time to visit St. Thomas Island is from April to June when the weather is mild and the tourist crowds are smaller. This period offers pleasant temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits.

What are the must-see attractions on St. Thomas Island?

Don't miss visiting Magens Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Explore Charlotte Amalie, the island's capital, for its historic architecture and vibrant shopping scene. Coral World Ocean Park offers interactive marine experiences, while Blackbeard's Castle provides panoramic views and a glimpse into pirate history.

What local dishes should I try on St. Thomas Island?

Be sure to try local specialties like conch fritters, johnnycakes, and kallaloo, a traditional stew. Fresh seafood is abundant, so sample dishes like grilled mahi-mahi and Caribbean lobster. For a sweet treat, try the island's famous rum cake.

How can I get around St. Thomas Island?

Renting a car is a convenient way to explore St. Thomas, but be prepared to drive on the left side of the road. Taxis are readily available and operate on fixed rates. Public transportation is limited, but safari buses offer a more affordable option for getting around the island.

How many days should I spend on St. Thomas Island?

A stay of three to four days is ideal to explore St. Thomas Island. This allows enough time to visit the main attractions, enjoy the beaches, and take a day trip to nearby islands like St. John or Water Island.

What are some recommended day trips from St. Thomas Island?

Consider taking a ferry to St. John to explore its pristine beaches and Virgin Islands National Park. Water Island offers a quieter escape with Honeymoon Beach. You can also book a boat tour to the British Virgin Islands, but remember to bring your passport for international travel.

Where is the best area to stay on St. Thomas Island?

Charlotte Amalie is a popular choice for its central location and access to shopping and dining. For a more resort-like experience, consider staying in the East End near Red Hook, which offers beautiful beaches and easy access to ferries for island hopping.

Trips

St Thomas Discovery

St John Discovery

St Thomas Romance

St Thomas Family Escapade

St Thomas Active Island Escapade

St Thomas Discovery

St John Discovery

St Thomas Romance

St Thomas Family Escapade

St Thomas Active Island Escapade

St Thomas Discovery

St John Discovery

St Thomas Romance

St Thomas Family Escapade

St Thomas Active Island Escapade

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