According to forum posts, several car rental agencies are available in St. Thomas, with options like Dependable Car Rental being recommended. Travelers have called out that a simple compact car is sufficient for navigating both St. Thomas and St. John, highlighting that there is no need for the additional expense of a 4WD vehicle.

Some travelers suggested renting directly from agencies with a presence at the airport for convenience. Agencies such as Hertz, Avis, and Budget are located at the airport, offering easy access to vehicles upon arrival. However, it's noted that Hertz does not allow its vehicles to be taken to St. John.

Discussions on the forum indicate that the cost of renting a car can start at about $100 per day, not including insurance. This price point is considered by some to be on the higher side.

According to forum posts, Oceana and Old Stone Farmhouse are highly recommended by many users. Oceana is favored for its waterfront setting and great food, while Old Stone Farmhouse is often chosen for special occasions like birthdays.

Travelers have called out Caribbean Fish Market and Prime at Paradise Point for their seafood offerings and scenic views. Caribbean Fish Market is noted for its location near the Elysian, and Prime is appreciated for its location at Paradise Point, offering a good view.

For a unique atmosphere, Mims Seaside Bistro is mentioned for its location right on the water, providing a great setting for a lobster dinner. Additionally, Sea La Vie in Frenchtown is highlighted for both its excellent food and service.

Posts also suggest the French Quarter Bistro for its high-quality dishes and Enkai for sushi enthusiasts, providing a variety of dining experiences across St. Thomas.

According to forum posts, travelers have called out regular ferry services from St. Thomas to St. John, with options departing from Red Hook to Cruz Bay every hour, taking about 10-15 minutes. Another less frequent route from Crown Bay to Cruz Bay takes about 30 minutes.

Some travelers noted that while direct ferries to West End are not mentioned, there is a ferry from St. Thomas to Road Town in Tortola. Details and schedules can be accessed through the provided link to an official ferry schedule website.

For many users, ferry schedules on holidays like Christmas might differ. One user mentioned an adjustment in the ferry schedule that was not reflected on the official site, suggesting direct contact with ferry services for the most accurate information.

According to forum posts, Sapphire Beach Resort offers a variety of dining options. Travelers have mentioned a casual poolside restaurant called Sudis Bar & Grille up the hill in Sapphire Village. Additionally, there is a beachfront pizzeria and a new upscale restaurant called SeaSalt that has recently opened above the pizzeria.

For many users discussing nearby dining, Red Hook is a recommended area with multiple choices. It is accessible by a short drive from Sapphire Beach Resort. Users have pointed out that Red Hook offers a range of restaurants and bars, providing a vibrant dining scene close to the resort.

Some travelers said that there are pizza delivery options available from Red Hook, such as Senor Pizza, which delivers to the Sapphire Beach area. This can be a convenient option for guests preferring to dine in their accommodations.

According to forum posts, Sapphire Beach Resort and Marina is highly recommended for its beachfront accommodations. Travelers have called out its convenience for early morning jogs and its proximity to Red Hook for dining and entertainment. The resort offers various units that can be directly booked via VRBO, providing flexibility in choosing specific condos.

Some travelers said that Secret Harbour is another excellent option, noted for its tranquil beach and the ability to request specific types of units like oceanfront or ground floor, though not specific buildings. It is smaller and offers a more private feel compared to larger resorts, which could appeal to those seeking a quieter experience.

For many users, the ability to directly interact with property owners via VRBO is a significant plus, offering a more personalized accommodation experience. Both Sapphire Beach Resort and Marina and Secret Harbour receive positive mentions for their location, amenities, and the quality of the beachfront experience.

According to forum posts, the Emerald Beach Resort is recommended for short stays as it accepts one-night reservations. It is located conveniently on the airport road and features a nice beach, making it suitable for travelers looking for a brief but comfortable stay. Pricing details were not provided, but the resort is noted for its convenience and setting.

Some travelers also mentioned Secret Harbor, which accepted a one-night stay reservation for a Thursday, suggesting flexibility in booking policies for short-term accommodations. This option is also highlighted for those seeking a brief stay, although specific details about amenities or exact location were not discussed in the posts.

Both recommended hotels, Emerald Beach Resort and Secret Harbor, are appreciated for their strategic locations, which offer easy access to transportation and nearby attractions, making them ideal for travelers with limited time to explore St. Thomas.

According to forum posts, several excursions to St. John from St. Thomas are highly recommended. Travelers have called out specific charter services such as S/V Independence, which sails out of American Yacht Harbour in Red Hook, and services like OceanSurfari for snorkeling trips. Additionally, Daysail Sweetpea and RumBa Charters, both sailing out of Red Hook, are also favored for their child-friendly options.

For many users, snorkeling excursions are particularly popular. Some travelers suggested booking through cruise ships for organized snorkeling trips to St. John, highlighting the beautiful beaches there. Another recommended option is taking a local taxi tour in St. John, which can include stops at various beaches and scenic lookouts, effectively turning the ride into a mini tour.

Some posts also mentioned engaging in self-guided activities like hiking from the ferry terminal to Honeymoon Beach on St. John, which starts behind the National Park HQ. This offers a blend of adventure and exploration without the structure of a formal excursion.

According to forum posts, both Sapphire Beach and Magens Bay offer unique amenities and activities. Sapphire Beach is praised for its lively beach bar, good snorkeling, and sometimes live music, making it a popular choice for those seeking entertainment along with beach activities. In contrast, Magens Bay offers a more serene experience with its long stretch of beach, hiking trails, and less crowded areas, although it has limited snorkeling opportunities.

Some travelers said that Sapphire Beach can become quite crowded, especially when cruise ships are in port, potentially affecting the overall experience. Magens Bay, despite also being popular, is noted for its larger size, which allows for more space and quieter spots away from the crowds, particularly appealing to those looking for relaxation.

Travelers have called out that there is an entrance fee for Magens Bay, which is used for its upkeep, while Sapphire Beach does not charge an entrance fee. The choice between the two may also depend on the proximity to other activities and the type of beach experience desired.