Caribbean
U.S. Virgin Islands
St. Thomas
Charlotte Amalie
Things to Do in Charlotte Amalie
Blackbeard’s Castle
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Blackbeard’s Castle

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Blackbeard’s Castle
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#6 of 39 things to do in Charlotte Amalie
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About
This place is temporarily closed due to a natural disaster. One of St. Thomas's most famous historical sites. A Walking Tour rich in History and Beauty. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Spectacular views, sparkling pools, life size pirates and more.
Suggested duration
1-2 hours
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The area
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Restaurants
141 within 3 miles
Stone House Cafe
130
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • American • Bar • Cafe
Side Street Pub
581
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • American • Bar • Pub
Greengos Caribbean Cantina
1,149
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • Mexican • Southwestern • Latin
Amalia Cafe
1,199
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Seafood • Mediterranean • European
Gladys' Cafe
2,353
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Caribbean • Vegetarian Friendly • Vegan Options
Bumpa's
385
0.2 mi$ • Quick Bites • American • Cafe
Virgilio's
613
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Italian • European • Sicilian
Rum Island Pub
116
0.3 mi$ • Pub
Sugarcane Grille
135
0.1 mi$$ - $$$ • Caribbean • Bar • Seafood
Ideal Restaurant
107
0.1 mi$ • Caribbean • Vegetarian Friendly • Vegan Options
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Attractions
71 within 6 miles
Three Queens Statue
11
0 ftMonuments & Statues
99 Steps
663
500 ftHistoric Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
Government House
50
0.1 miHistoric Sites • Government Buildings
Hotel 1829
23
0.1 miArchitectural Buildings
All Saints Anglican Church
1
0.1 miHistoric Sites • Religious Sites
St. Thomas Synagogue
381
0.2 miPoints of Interest & Landmarks
Frederick Lutheran Church
91
0.2 miHistoric Sites • Religious Sites
Hebrew Congregation of St. Thomas
92
0.2 miReligious Sites
Virgin Islands Children's Museum
11
0.2 miChildren's Museums
Main Street
856
0.2 miPoints of Interest & Landmarks
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.0
746 reviews
Excellent
268
Very good
238
Average
145
Poor
54
Terrible
41
Suzanne E
5 contributions
Bluebeard's is the place to stay!
If you like good food, great scenery, a central location on St Thomas; and room at the pool to relax, read and soak of the sun ... Bluebeard's is the place to stay!

You know you've picked a great pool restaurant when the locals come to eat there! Clams, pizza and breakfast amazing - you just have to try the Crab Benedict!! Oh yeah..drinks good too :)

The amenities are good for travelers who don't need to be waited on all the time. We went to Cost U Less to buy staples and made breakfast in our studio most mornings.

Every morning we got up at sunrise to watch the cruise ships and other luxury liners come in! Perfect place to see most of the harbors!

Also, you have to do the Castle Tour! it is really one of the coolest places we visited.

The Castle is centrally located so only took us about 10 - 30 minutes to get anyplace on the Island! We rented a jeep, which we used everyday to explore.. we didn't even go shopping, there is so much to do! Day trip to St. Johns, Megan's Bay, Kayaking, Snorkeling, Hiking, Sailing.. just to name a few!

We WILL be staying at Bluebeard's again..next time we are brining our entire family!
Written November 30, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Old Pro
Seattle, WA2,457 contributions
Not quite kicking and screaming
Couples
I got dragged to this attraction by the way not quite Kicking and Screaming this time. I thought it might be interesting because I do like the whole pirate era thing. The reason we were going as one of these cheesy timeshare promotions what's the promise of free everything. Yeah yeah yeah. Anyway after that was all done I got to walk around and kind of imagined myself back in the day and think about what it would like to be there. There's not a whole lot to look at cuz it's really not a castle. It's just a keep, or a safe house but he had on St Thomas. Compared to everything else to do on St Thomas it's no better or worse. St Thomas is a pretty boring Island in my opinion. I've been there 3 times now for various reasons and every time I can't wait to get off it. But, why are you there this place is kind of cool
Written December 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Mary M
13 contributions
Blackbeard’s is closed due to COVID
We made the trek up the 99 steps to the castle. Best thing on my first trip was the caterpillars in the plumeria tree. Later we found Moe of paradise taxi. He took us back up and captured the photos for us. He took them through the gate at the front. If you need arise, I can’t say enough good things about Big Moe 404-713-8430
Written December 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
PirateKoz
Twin Cities2 contributions
Not good for Pirate fans
I am a Pirate re-enactor, and I love all Pirate history. When I had the opportunity to sail the Islands aboard a Royal Caribbean ship, my head spun with all of the piratey possibilities. One of my destinations, touted on several websites and in my shore excursions book, was Blackbeard's Castle. I pictured an attraction along the same lines as the excellent Pirates of Nassau museum in the Bahamas. Imagine my disappointment when I discovered that “Blackbeard’s Castle” was nothing more than: a small Martello-type tower from the wrong time period, a couple of 1800’s era houses full of antiques, swimming pools (?), a cheesy gift shop and some OK pirate statues, including one of Johnny Depp as Jack Sparrow! (Badly mislabeled as Henry Every). Not a whole lot of Pirate Goodness for $12.00 per person. Follow that with a long, hot sweaty walk down to Charlotte Amalie’s shopping district and you have a discouraging afternoon better spent at the beach.
Written June 22, 2006
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
hctravelers
Fishers, IN1,120 contributions
Amazing glimpse of history
Couples
Take Note: The castle schedule operates with the cruise ship schedules. If there are ships in port they are open. No ships, they are closed. Hours are 9am-3pm. From the pier we took a taxi up to the castle, which cost us $5 each. We each paid $12 for entrance into the castle grounds and a map of the walking tour. Blackbeard's Castle is actually the remains of Fort Trygborg, which was built around 1679 as a watch tower. It is located at the top of Government Hill and is absolutely the best views of the Charlotte Amalie Harbor. The view is the reason it was built there, so Danish soldiers could keep an eye out for enemy ships and protect Fort Christian from attacks. After taking numerous pictures, we sampled some of the rum, and the rum cake. We then did the self guided walking tour down the 99 steps (actually 103) and visited the houses built in the 1800’s and the amber museum. It was 90 degrees that day and very humid, so we enjoyed the refuge of the cool buildings and the breezes. At the end of the steps is Main Street and if you turn right it takes you directly to the shopping areas.
Written September 25, 2011
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
KrisyP
Philadelphia, PA1 contribution
SCAM - do not visit this place!
Couples
I wish I could give this place ZERO circles! On my honeymoon, I convinced my husband to go to Blackbeard's Castle when our cruise ship docked in St. Thomas. After a crammed taxi ride through the island at morning rush hour - we arrived at Blackbeard's Castle only to find out we were an hour early for their opening. I thought we were in the clear when we found an ex-pat worker on his way in to start his shift. How nice he was... he escorted us to the bar (because it's also a hotel too), and told us to get a coffee and wait.

Then my dreams were quickly shattered. After sitting down, we were immediately questioned by the "bartender" who demanded our room number. When I confessed we were just waiting for the site to open - he quickly escorted us out! He wouldn't even sell me a cup of coffee!

Even though Blackbeard's Castle sounds like a fun and interesting place - it's a SCAM and TOURIST TRAP!

If you've seen pictures of Blackbeard's Castle, you've seen it all. Even if your kids beg you to go there, just take them to the beautiful beaches of St. Thomas and enjoy the true island culture.
Written July 29, 2011
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
BlackbeardsCastle
Good Day! Blackbeard’s Castle is an amazing historical property located in the heart of St. Thomas. Unfortunately this comment is directed at our property while we were closed and does not speak to the experience during operating hours. There are over 14 attractions at Blackbeard’s Castle including a Rum Factory, several historical homes, the Caribbean World Amber Museum, the Treasure Company, the Pirates Den, and more! Like other businesses we cannot open our doors until we are fully staffed and prepared. This ensures the safety for our patrons as well as a wonderful experience. We have several ways for you to check our hours of operations previous to your arrival on the island. Our website has lots of information available and we may also be reached by phone. Please feel free to contact us regarding hours of operation or more information, we are happy to help!
Written September 23, 2011
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Allison O
Grand Blanc, MI129 contributions
Good, family fun
We were in St. Thomas off of the Carnival Liberty and with 2 boys (ages 6 and 9) in tow, decided to pop over for some piracy. We were not disappointed! The entry fee was reasonable and we opted to wander on our own. The gift shop had some really fun stuff and the view from the tower was breathtaking. There are statues of famous pirates all over, including Blackbeard, Anne Bonney, Captain Morgan and even Jack Sparrow. The boys loved seeing these.

There is a small rum distillery there and the rum tasting was great. I highly recommend the very smooth coconut (which isn't as sicky-sweet as Malibu) and the mango. The grounds are lovely, with a few small pools for swimming as well as spectacular views of the harbor. There are 2 preserved historical homes, 2 bars (the one at the bottom/end of the tour is historical in it's own right) as well as the Amber Museum (don't miss the dinosaur!) on the property. The 99 Steps is really 104 now but the kids liked going down such a big stairway.

All of the staff were very friendly and helpful. It was peaceful, leisurely and fun for the whole family!
Written April 11, 2011
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
BlackbeardsCastle
Good day! I am so glad that you and your family had a great time. Blackbeard's Castle is perfect for the whole family with lots to do for adults and children. I agree, the coconut rum that we blend here on the property is so smooth and yummy! Try mixing it with Sprite for a nice sunset cocktail. I would like to let you know that we now have a Facebook page. Just simply sign in to your Facebook account and search for “Blackbeard’s Castle”. Check out our page, you can click to follow us, and be sure to click the “LIKE” button as well! Also, we would love to see your photos from your adventures at Blackbeard’s Castle, please post them on our page!
Written August 31, 2011
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
TazsGirl
Ohio178 contributions
If you're in St. Thomas, go to Blackbeard's
On a recent cruise stop we decided to forgo the ship's excursions and chose Blackbeard's Castle based on some reviews we had seen. We took a cab from the dock to the museum and it appeared we were the only ones from the ship that went there. For $14 admission we got our money's worth! Pirates, a rum distillery (try the mango!) historic homes, pools, 2 historic homes, a bar, restaurant, beautiful gardens, the Amber museum and an excellent view of St. Thomas. The tour was self guided but we were given great instruction and historical information at the beginning and throughout. Robert, in one of the historical homes, was extremely knowledgable and passionate about his work! And Madeline at the Amber museum gave us 25,000 years worth of amber history and I did leave having purchased an amber pendant. We realized at the end of the tour that we had spent several hours at Blackbeard's and enjoyed it immensely. Though we didn't have children with us, I believe this is a great attraction for kids and adults alike.
Written June 15, 2011
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
BlackbeardsCastle
Good day! I'm very pleased that you had such a wonderful time at Blackbeard's Castle and that you enjoyed our amazing staff! Robert is a fantastic tour guide and his enthusiasm for the historical home Britannia House is contagious. One of my favorite attractions is the Amber Museum and I agree, Madeline is a delight! I would like to let you know that we now have a Facebook page. Just simply sign in to your Facebook account and search for “Blackbeard’s Castle”. You can follow us on there and be sure to click the “LIKE” button! Also, we would love to see your photos from your adventures at Blackbeard’s Castle, please post them on our page!
Written August 31, 2011
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Julia L
wisconsin6 contributions
Best Stop on Whole Vacation
We LOVED Blackbeard's Castle! It was the best secluded, romantic stop on our whole vacation!!! Blackbeard's Castle DOES NOT HAVE A CASTLE, but a mini-tower which you can climb. The mini-tower is the only historic portion of the compound. The rest of the "castle" includes 3 or 4 pools, an outdoor bar/lounge and several well-perserved historic houses which you can tour. We LOVED the privacy of this place. We arrived on a Tuesday around 10 a.m. and stayed until 3 p.m. During the entire 5 hours we were there........we saw ONE other couple, and one tour group of about 10 seniors. The employees said Blackbeards used to be a popular place to drink and hang out in the afternoons, but now is pretty dead. We LOVED how dead it was.........so secluded and romantic! We walked through the historic houses at our own pace and enjoyed the information provided by the guides, who were stationed inside the houses. The outdoor grotto type bar has a great cliff-side view of the Caribbean Sea. You can also see the Caribbean Sea from many of the pools. The bartenders were very friendly and knowledgeable. We LOVED this place for the seclusion and quietness. No mobs or crowds. A great ADULT get-away. Nice place to hang out and REALX for an afternoon. It was a little difficult to find, but we asked people on the streets, who were more than happy to guide us there. You DO have to walk up the 99 steps (unless you take a taxi), so be prepared!!! Overall, we definately felt like we were in the Caribbean, enjoying an afternoon of drinks, swimming and sun, in a secluded, quiet, adult-friendly hang-out. You definately feel like you are on VACATION here. Oh, did I mention the free RUM tastings?? One of the historic houses that you tour is the storage area of a rum distillary. The guides were so great that they put out huge jugs of dark and white rums and just let you at it!!!!!!!!! Such friendly staff, free rum shots, the pools, the view.......................LOVED IT!
Written February 7, 2007
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
KelleyAndMatt
New Jersey39 contributions
Vini Vidi Vici, with rum
Couples
We anticipated *something* else, and we weren't terribly disappointed by what was actually there - but it is by no means a "castle." Nor is it Blackbeard's. It is instead a 2-level tower, albeit with an excellent view of Charlotte-Amalie's harbor. It was a short taxi ride from the cruise ship, not expensive ($5 each?). If you've got nothing else to do and you want to take a nice walk down the "99 steps" (there aren't 99, and they aren't "steps"), and if you've got a bathing suit and a taste for good rum, then this is a fairly easy activity that takes a couple of hours, and leaves you off at the main shopping/eating area of town. The rum tasting isn't free, but is worth it - the rums were very good and we bought several bottles (mango, pineapple and vanilla).

The tower itself is an easy climb, and as I said, the view is really nice. We were there during an "off" season and the people who run the tower weren't overly friendly or informative, seemed like they could have cared less, actually, but I imagine during more active seasons they must put on some kind of effort. Especially the rum tasting - I swear that lady was bored out of her mind, pouring shots for us to taste. Complete lack of enthusiasm on her part, however, she must stand there all day, every day, pouring shots for tourists, which I do imagine would be tiresome. We did our best to crack a smile on her but failed miserably. Oh well. *Shrug*

The walk down the "steps" is interesting, nice homes and gardens, lots of pirate statues and ample photo opportunities. And, if you've got a bathing suit under your clothes, there are a few places to stop and take a dip on a hot day. Kids might enjoy this, too - not the really young ones (the hills are a bit steep for strollers and dragging along toddlers), but the older kids would probably enjoy the sights and statues.

The amber museum is interesting, but don't buy anything there - that is NOT real amber they try to sell you, not matter what they say. It's resin, and pretty obviously, too.

To recap: it's not a castle it's a tower, and it's not even Blackbeard's tower, but it is interesting, and there's rum, pirate statues and the occasional small pool, so what's to not enjoy?
Written September 5, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Blackbeard’s Castle (Charlotte Amalie) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

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