St. Thomas

WHAT CAN I EXPECT?

St. Thomas, one of the stunning U.S. Virgin Islands, is a tropical paradise known for its breathtaking beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history. Located in the Caribbean Sea, this island offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Charlotte Amalie, indulging in world-class shopping, or enjoying the crystal-clear waters, St. Thomas promises an unforgettable Caribbean escape.

Beaches

St. Thomas boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, each offering unique experiences.

Magens Bay: Known for its calm, turquoise waters and soft white sand, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Coki Beach: A popular spot for snorkeling and diving, with vibrant marine life just off the shore.
Lindquist Beach: A tranquil and less crowded beach, ideal for relaxation and picnics.
Sapphire Beach: Famous for its crystal-clear waters and reef snorkeling, with stunning views of St. John and plenty of water sports to enjoy.

Cultural Heritage

St. Thomas’s culture is a vibrant mix of African, Danish, and American influences, reflected in its festivals, architecture, and traditions.

Charlotte Amalie: Explore the island’s capital, known for its historic buildings, bustling markets, and Fort Christian, the oldest standing structure in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Carnival: Experience the island’s lively Carnival celebration with parades, music, and traditional dances.
Blackbeard’s Castle: Visit this historic site for a glimpse into the island’s pirate history and panoramic views of Charlotte Amalie.

Adventure and Activities

St. Thomas offers a wide range of activities for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.

Water Sports: Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, and parasailing in the island’s clear waters.
Hiking: Explore scenic trails like the hike to Drake’s Seat, offering stunning views of the island and surrounding waters.
Sailing and Boating: Discover the island’s coastline and nearby cays with sailing tours and boat charters.

Culinary Delights

St. Thomas’s culinary scene is a delicious blend of Caribbean flavors with international influences, offering something for every palate.

Local Dishes: Savor traditional dishes like fungi and fish, johnnycakes, and roti.
Seafood: Enjoy freshly caught fish, lobster, and conch prepared in various styles.
Dining Spots: From beachside cafes to upscale restaurants, there’s a dining experience for everyone. Don’t miss the fine dining at Old Stone Farmhouse or the casual fare at Gladys’ Café.

Accommodation

St. Thomas offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different tastes and budgets.

Luxury Resorts: Experience top-notch amenities and ocean views at properties like The Ritz-Carlton and Marriott Frenchman’s Cove.
Boutique Hotels: Enjoy personalized service and unique charm at places like Mafolie Hotel and Bellavista Bed & Breakfast.
Vacation Rentals: For a more home-like stay, consider renting a private villa or condo with stunning island views.

Practical Information

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is between December and April, when the weather is warm and dry.
Getting Around: Renting a car is recommended for exploring the island, though taxis and local safari buses are also available.
Language and Currency: English is the official language, and the U.S. Dollar (USD) is the currency used throughout the island.

WHY ST. THOMAS?

St. Thomas is a captivating destination that combines the best of Caribbean beauty with rich cultural experiences. Known for its pristine beaches like Magens Bay and Coki Beach, the island offers idyllic spots for both relaxation and adventure. The historic capital of Charlotte Amalie invites visitors to delve into the island’s past, with its cobblestone streets, historic landmarks, and vibrant markets. Culinary enthusiasts will delight in the island’s diverse dining options, from local seafood to international cuisine. Adventure seekers can enjoy a plethora of water sports, hiking trails, and sailing excursions. With a range of accommodations, from luxurious resorts to charming boutique hotels, St. Thomas caters to all types of travelers. Discover why St. Thomas is the perfect destination for those seeking a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern comfort in a Caribbean paradise.

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN ST. THOMAS

Magen’s Bay is St. Thomas’s most famous beach, known for its calm turquoise waters and mile-long stretch of soft white sand. Surrounded by lush hills, it’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun.

Coki Beach is lively and colorful, offering some of the best snorkeling on the island just steps from shore. Local vendors, island food, and music give it an upbeat, authentic Caribbean vibe.

Red Hook is St. Thomas’s east end hub, filled with waterfront restaurants, buzzing bars, and boutique shops. It’s also the ferry gateway to St. John and the British Virgin Islands.

Sapphire Beach dazzles with white sand, coral reefs, and stunning views of St. John. With water sports, a beach bar, and plenty of shade, it’s a favorite for both relaxation and adventure.

Lindquist Beach is a hidden gem on St. Thomas, with powdery white sand and calm, crystal-clear waters. Part of a protected park, it’s quiet, clean, and perfect for swimming or a peaceful beach day away from the crowds.

Charlotte Amalie, the capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands, blends history, culture, and shopping into one vibrant harbor town. From duty-free bargains and pirate legends to waterfront dining, it’s the lively heart of St. Thomas.

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN ST. THOMAS

Magen's Bay

Magen’s Bay in St. Thomas is world-famous for its breathtaking beauty, consistently ranked among the best beaches in the Caribbean. This heart-shaped stretch of soft white sand and calm, turquoise waters is perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply soaking up the sun. Surrounded by lush green hills and protected as part of a nature preserve, Magen’s Bay offers both relaxation and natural wonder. Whether you’re planning a family day, a romantic escape, or a bucket-list island adventure, Magen’s Bay is a must-visit destination in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Learn More

Coki Beach

Coki Beach in St. Thomas is a lively, colorful spot known for its crystal-clear waters and amazing snorkeling right from shore. With vibrant marine life, local food vendors, and an upbeat Caribbean vibe, it’s the perfect mix of fun, flavor, and relaxation.

Learn More

Lindquist Beach

Lindquist Beach, tucked inside Smith Bay Park on St. Thomas, is a hidden gem known for its serene, untouched beauty. With powdery white sand, calm turquoise waters, and fewer crowds than other beaches on the island, it’s perfect for travelers seeking peace and relaxation. This protected nature preserve offers incredible snorkeling, picnic areas, and stunning views of nearby islands, making Lindquist Beach one of the most picturesque and tranquil spots in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Learn More

Red Hook

Red Hook on St. Thomas is the island’s lively east end hub, known for its marina views, buzzing nightlife, and easy ferry access to St. John and the British Virgin Islands. By day, visitors enjoy shopping, casual cafés, and island-hopping adventures; by night, the streets come alive with music, cocktails, and waterfront dining. Red Hook is the perfect blend of gateway and gathering place, offering both convenience and Caribbean energy.

Learn More

Sapphire Beach

Sapphire Beach on St. Thomas is a postcard-perfect stretch of white sand and turquoise water, loved for its natural beauty and easy access. Snorkelers will find coral reefs just offshore with colorful tropical fish, while sun-seekers can relax under sea grape trees or rent chairs and umbrellas for the day. With water sports, a beach bar, and breathtaking views of St. John and the British Virgin Islands, Sapphire Beach is a laid-back favorite for both families and couples.

Learn More

FRIENDLY TIPS FOR TRAVEL TO ST. THOMAS

Airport VIP Service

The Cyril E. King International Airport (STT), located on the southwestern side of St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, serves as the main airport for the island. Cyril E. King Airport is one of the busiest airports in the eastern Caribbean. It hosts several airlines with flights from the mainland U.S. and between many Caribbean islands.

Car Rentals

When renting a car in St. Thomas, consider the island’s narrow mountainous roads. opt for an SUV or Compact SUV for better maneuverability. These vehicles are ideal for the terrain due to their higher ground clearance. Enjoy exploring the beautiful landscapes of St. Thomas with the convenience of a rental car!

Currency

The official currency in St. Thomas is the U.S. dollar. No other currency is in circulation, so you’ll need to use USD for your visit to St. Thomas. While many places on the island accept major credit cards (such as Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express), there are also venues that only accept cash (such as taxis, ferry terminals, customs docks, and some vendors and restaurants). Plan to carry cash accordingly and remember to inform your credit card provider that you’ll be in the Caribbean.

Drinking Water

It is safe to drink the water in St. Thomas. Therefore, you can confidently consume tap water during your visit. However, if you have any concerns or prefer bottled water, it’s always a good idea to choose the option that makes you feel most comfortable.

Electricity

In St. Thomas, you’ll find two types of power plugs and outlets: Type A and Type B. Here’s what you need to know: Type A plugs have two flat prongs on either side of the plug. They are mostly used in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, China, Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines, and Thailand.

Type B plugs have a round prong in the center with two flat prongs on either side. They are also used in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines, and Thailand. Type B outlets can accommodate either Type A or Type B plugs.

St. Thomas operates on a standard voltage of 110 V and a frequency of 60 Hz. If you’re traveling from another country, check if your electronic devices are compatible with St. Thomas’ voltage.

It's Illegal To...

Drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and the legal blood alcohol content limit is .08%, the same on the U.S. mainland.

Language

The official and most widely spoken language in St. Thomas is English. The literacy rate in St. Thomas is around 90-95%. However, due to the island’s diverse history and heritage, you can also hear French Creole and Spanish spoken, particularly on St. Thomas and St. Croix

National Dish

The national dish of St. Thomas is Fish & Fungi. This flavorful dish represents a fusion of African, European, and indigenous culinary influences. Here are the key components:

Fish: Fresh catches from the Caribbean’s pristine waters, such as red snapper or grouper, are commonly used.
Fungi: Fungi is a unique side dish made from cornmeal, similar to polenta. It is cooked until thick and served alongside the fish.

Fish & Fungi celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the U.S. Virgin Islands and is a must-try for anyone visiting St. Thomas

Time Zone

St. Thomas operates on Atlantic Standard Time (AST) throughout the year. AST is four hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-4). Notably, St. Thomas does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST).

When to Visit

The best time to visit St. Thomas is from December to April when the dry season is at its peak. During this period, the weather is warm year-round, with average highs around 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Pleasant weather, sunny days, and minimal rainfall. High season for tourists, so expect higher prices. Ideal for beach activities, water sports, and exploring the island.

St. Thomas Map

More St. Thomas Resources:

ARE YOU PLANNING A TRIP TO ST. THOMAS?

Dreaming of St. Thomas? From big-picture planning to fine-tuning the details, my travel services make sure your trip flows effortlessly. Plus, you’ll unlock insider St. Thomas tips right from the start—giving you the perfect head start toward paradise.