St. Thomas
St. Thomas - Vacation Briefing
St. Thomas, Virgin Islands (U.S.) is a breathtaking tropical destination known for its stunning white-sand beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and crystal clear turquoise waters. Located in the Caribbean Sea, this island offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history. Explore the charming capital, Charlotte Amalie, with its colonial architecture and duty-free shopping. Experience the thrill of water sports like snorkeling, diving, and sailing. Indulge in delectable Caribbean cuisine and authentic rum cocktails. Immerse yourself in the local culture through lively festivals and cultural events. St. Thomas is the perfect escape for those seeking relaxation, adventure, and a taste of island paradise.
Popular Sights in St. Thomas
Things to do during your St. Thomas vacation
St. Thomas is a beautiful island in the Virgin Islands (U.S.). Located in the Caribbean Sea, it offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. From stunning beaches to historical landmarks, there is something for everyone on this tropical paradise.
- Magens Bay: Relax on the soft white sand and swim in the crystal clear waters of Magens Bay beach. This popular beach offers stunning views and is perfect for sunbathing and picnics.
- Charlotte Amalie: Explore the historic downtown area of Charlotte Amalie, the capital city of St. Thomas. Visit the charming shops, dine at local restaurants, and immerse yourself in the island's culture.
- Coral World Ocean Park: Discover the underwater world at Coral World Ocean Park. Explore the marine life through interactive exhibits, go on a snuba adventure, or take a walk through the underwater observatory.
- Blackbeard's Castle: Step back in time at Blackbeard's Castle, a historic tower that offers panoramic views of the island. Explore the pirate museum and learn about the island's rich history of pirates and buccaneers.
- Skyride to Paradise Point: Take a scenic skyride to Paradise Point, where you'll be treated to breathtaking views overlooking Charlotte Amalie and the surrounding islands. Enjoy a delicious meal at the mountaintop restaurant.
- Magen's Point Resort Golf Course: Tee off at Magen's Point Resort Golf Course, a challenging 18-hole championship course with stunning ocean views. Perfect for golf enthusiasts looking to enjoy a game in a tropical setting.
- St. Thomas Synagogue: Visit the St. Thomas Synagogue, one of the oldest synagogues in the Western Hemisphere. Admire its beautiful architecture and learn about the rich Jewish history of the island.
- Parasailing Adventure: Experience the thrill of parasailing and enjoy a bird's-eye view of St. Thomas. Soar above the turquoise waters and take in the stunning coastline and surrounding islands.
- Frenchman's Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort: Indulge in a luxurious stay at the Frenchman's Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort. Relax on the pristine beach, enjoy resort amenities, and savor delicious dining options.
- Drake's Seat: Drive up to Drake's Seat and witness panoramic views of Magens Bay and nearby islands. This scenic lookout point is named after the famous explorer Sir Francis Drake.
Why you should visit St. Thomas
St. Thomas, Virgin Islands (U.S.) is a popular destination, but it falls short of being truly amazing due to certain factors.
St. Thomas, Virgin Islands (U.S.) has some safety concerns. While it is generally safe for tourists, there are occasional reports of petty theft and instances of crime. Travelers should take usual precautions and remain vigilant.
St. Thomas, Virgin Islands (U.S.) has a rich cultural heritage with historical sites and museums. However, the cultural diversity may not be as extensive compared to other destinations.
St. Thomas, Virgin Islands (U.S.) offers a decent nightlife scene with various bars, pubs, and nightclubs. However, it may not be as vibrant as other popular tourist destinations.
St. Thomas, Virgin Islands (U.S.) offers some adventure activities like sailing, kayaking, and hiking. While there are options for adventure enthusiasts, it may not have the same level of adrenaline-filled experiences as some other destinations.
St. Thomas, Virgin Islands (U.S.) is known for its beautiful beaches and relaxing atmosphere. It offers ample opportunities for leisure activities such as sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.
Best time to visit St. Thomas
St. Thomas offers a year-round Caribbean paradise, but for the best experience, choose November to April. Enjoy perfect weather, from warm temperatures to clear skies, with minimal rain showers and wind. Expect bustling crowds and higher prices during this popular time. If you prefer a quieter visit with fewer tourists, consider May to October, where you'll find lower prices and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere, though the occasional rainstorm may interrupt your beach time.
A guide To your first day of St. Thomas vacation
morning
- Visit Magens Bay Beach: Enjoy the pristine white sand, crystal clear waters, and lush greenery at one of the world's most beautiful beaches. Don't forget to bring your snorkeling gear!
- Take a scenic hike up to Drake's Seat: Marvel at the breathtaking panoramic views of St. Thomas and the surrounding islands. Don't forget your camera!
afternoon
- Explore Charlotte Amalie: Take a leisurely stroll through the capital city, known for its colonial architecture, vibrant shopping district, and historic sites. Don't miss the iconic Blackbeard's Castle.
- Go on a boat tour to nearby islands: Experience the beauty of the Virgin Islands by taking a boat tour to neighboring islands like St. John or Tortola. Enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and beach hopping.
evening
- Dine at a waterfront restaurant: Indulge in delicious seafood and Caribbean cuisine while enjoying waterfront views. Don't forget to try the local specialty, conch fritters.
- Experience the vibrant nightlife at Red Hook: Head to Red Hook, a lively neighborhood known for its bars, live music, and late-night entertainment. Dance the night away at a local hotspot.
night
- Go stargazing at Mountain Top: Drive up to Mountain Top, the highest point on the island, and gaze at the star-filled sky. Enjoy a warm beverage while taking in the awe-inspiring view.
- Attend a cultural performance: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of St. Thomas by attending a traditional dance or music performance. Experience the island's vibrant heritage.
How to get to St. Thomas
By Plane
The most convenient way to reach St. Thomas is by flying to Cyril E. King Airport (STT). Located on the southwestern coast, it welcomes frequent international flights from major cities like Miami, New York, and Charlotte. Upon arrival, travelers can take a short taxi ride or opt for car rentals available at the airport. It's advised to check for direct flights and plan ahead, as connections can be limited during certain seasons.
- Check direct connections to MIA Airport
- Check direct connections to JFK Airport
- Check direct connections to CLT Airport
By other means
While St. Thomas doesn't offer an extensive public transport network, taxis and shared shuttle services are available at Cyrile E. King Airport and can take visitors to their desired destinations. Public buses are also an option, albeit less frequent and with limited routes. For exploring the island and nearby attractions, renting a car is recommended for convenience and flexibility.
Tips for Booking Your Trip
Planning a trip can get tricky, right? Don't worry, we've got some solid advice to make your life easier. Here's how you can find flights and accommodations without a hitch.
Flights: How to Score the Best Deal
First things first, check out Google Flights. Their price calendar and nearby airport options are really useful. Found a good deal? Great, but hang on a sec—make sure you compare it with prices on Kayak, Skyscanner, Momondo, and Kiwi. A little research can go a long way.
Accommodation: Find Your Ideal Spot
For places to stay, start by scanning Booking.com and Airbnb to get an idea of what's out there. Then, level up your search by looking at Hostelworld and Agoda. Oh, and a quick tip: the hotel's own website might have some special offers, so give that a look too.
Ready to make some moves? The links you need are right below. Happy booking!
Flights
Accommodation
Best for travelers who are ...
St. Thomas is the ideal destination for beach lovers, water sports enthusiasts, history buffs, and travelers seeking a tropical getaway.
How long to stay in St. Thomas?
To fully experience the beauty and attractions of St. Thomas, we recommend staying for at least 5-7 days.
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