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Plan Your Trip to St. Thomas: Best of St. Thomas Tourism

St. Thomas

With its endless shoreline and some of the clearest snorkeling waters outside of Hawaii, St. Thomas was made for back-to-back beach days. If it’s your first time strapping on a snorkel, head to Secret Harbor. This small bay is the ideal wave-free spot to learn. Back on dry land, the capital city and cruise port of Charlotte Amalie is packed with brightly colored Danish colonial architecture—and pirate legends. Check out Blackbeard’s Castle, a tower that was rumored to be the pirate’s lookout point. And the Carnival celebrations here are arguably the Virgin Islands’ best. Streets are overrun with sequins, feathers, and calypso music, even in the early morning hours, which locals call a “jump up” party. Want more St. Thomas recs? We’ve got ‘em below.

How to do St. Thomas in 3 days

History tours, panoramic views, and waterfront bars
Read on

Itineraries from real travelers

The best beaches in St. Thomas

I’ll admit it—I’m a beach snob. It’s a natural consequence of being born and raised in St. Lucia, an island blessed with idyllic beaches. But that still didn’t prepare me for the stunning, sun-drenched St. Thomas coastline, which is lined with more than 40 major beaches. Picking a favorite is an almost impossible task, but there are a few that deserve a moment in the spotlight.
Nasha Smith, Gros Islet, St. Lucia
  • Magens Bay
    6,173
    If you pull up any list of the most beautiful beaches in the world, you’ll likely see Magens Bay in the mix. The serene blue water that hugs the almost mile-long sandy horseshoe is perfect for relaxing on a float or kayaking. Facilities include restrooms, restaurants, picnic tables, and the Yak Shak for water sports rentals. Yes, it does get crowded, especially when cruise ships are in port. But trust me—Magens is more than worth the hype.
  • Lindbergh Bay Beach
    79
    Powder-soft white sand, warm aqua water, and a lush canopy of willowy palms and sea grape trees make this beach a must-visit. Aviation enthusiasts love it because of its proximity to Cyril E. King Airport and the thrill of watching planes land. You can also go windsurfing, kayaking, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and scuba diving. The Emerald Beach Resort restaurant—right on the waterfront—is perfect for a meal or a quick snack. Best of all, you won’t find many crowds here.
  • Sapphire Beach
    2,079
    This stunning white-sand beach with the most impossibly turquoise water I have ever seen—plus sweeping views—is a watersports paradise. You can rent windsurfing, kayaking, and snorkel gear at a booth onsite or head to the nearby marina for jet skiing and parasailing. Sea grape trees on one side provide shade, while sunbathers can enjoy the rays on the other side, where there are fewer trees.
  • Lindqvist Beach
    1,173
    Lindquist is part of the protected Smith Bay Park and very family-friendly, with picnic tables for a leisurely meal, showers to wash off pesky sand and saltwater, and a round-the-clock lifeguard. Here, pillowy white sand with a shimmer of pink frames teal-colored water. Off in the distance, rolling emerald hills stretch across the horizon, providing a scenic backdrop. Be sure to have cash on hand to pay the small entrance fee.
  • Secret Harbour
    810
    For some much-needed R&R, head to Secret Harbor, a charming little beach on a quiet, secluded bay. This area is great for swimming because the water is usually quite calm. You can soak up some sun on a floating raft anchored in the middle of the bay or finally finish that book you have been meaning to read while lounging in one of the hammocks strung between the palm trees.
  • Brewer's Bay
    175
    A beach tucked between an airport and a university doesn’t exactly seem like the best spot to decompress, but Brewers Bay is an anomaly. Weekdays are practically deserted, and the gin-clear waters are home to sea turtles and stingray. Grab local faves like Jonnycakes from one of the two food trucks parked on the perimeter. Another major plus? The restrooms are wheelchair accessible.
  • Honeymoon Beach
    875
    A quick 10-minute ferry from Crown Bay Marina in Charlotte Amalie takes you to Water Island. Hike another 10 minutes and Honeymoon Beach—a scenic cove with majestic palm trees—unfolds before you. A sprinkle of tiki huts provides ample shade if you prefer to lounge around with a cocktail from one of the bars that line the beach.
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St. Thomas travel advice

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These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travelers ask in the forums.

Vehicle Rental Options

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.

Rental Locations and Recommendations

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.

Cost Considerations

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.

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Popular Choices

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.

Seafood and Views

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.

Unique Dining Experiences

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.

Additional Recommendations

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.

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Ferry Services to Nearby Islands

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.

Ferry Services to Tortola

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.

Ferry Options during Holidays

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.

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Restaurants at Sapphire Beach Resort

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.

Nearby Dining Options

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.

Delivery Options

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.

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Popular Choices

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.

Alternative Recommendations

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.

User Experiences

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.

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Hotel Options for Short Stays

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.

Additional Recommendations

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.

Travel Convenience

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.

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Excursion Recommendations

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.

Excursion Details

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.

Activity Suggestions

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.

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Beach Amenities and Activities

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.

Atmosphere and Crowds

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.

Entry and Convenience

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.

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Frequently Asked Questions about St. Thomas



St. Thomas is known for some of its popular attractions, which include:


If you're a more budget-conscious traveler, then you may want to consider traveling to St. Thomas between September and November, when hotel prices are generally the lowest. Peak hotel prices generally start between March and May.