The Best Things to Do in St Thomas US Virgin Islands
The US Virgin Islands are a true slice of paradise, and if you travel there, you'll truly see that there are so many things to do in St Thomas US Virgin Islands. While working on cruise ships, we had the pleasure of visiting here every other week, and saw some great places that this area has to offer.
This is one of the most popular islands in the Caribbean and in the cruise industry. Whether you're coming here for a tropical getaway from the states, or having a port day on a cruise, we have plenty to show you for when you travel to St Thomas.
Belonging to the US, this beautiful island is a true gem of the country. With stunning beaches, rolling hills, and colorful houses, St Thomas has so many great things to offer. Here are the best things to do in St Thomas US Virgin Islands.
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Where is St Thomas?
St Thomas is a US island that is part of the chain of US Virgin Islands. Located in the Eastern Caribbean, St. Thomas is between the two other US islands of St John and Puerto Rico.
St Thomas is located in the Eastern Caribbean.
Travel to St Thomas: Getting There
A big perk of this island being part of the US is that it makes it more easily accessible than many other islands in the Caribbean. Here are all of the different ways that you can travel to St Thomas.
Travel to St Thomas by Air
St Thomas has an airport with plenty of international and domestic flights. The Cyril E. King Airport is located in the capital of Charlotte Amalie, and the code for the airport is STT.
There are direct flights for other big US cities such as New York, Charlotte, Washington, Orlando, Miami, Boston, Houston, Ft. Lauderdale, and more. Additionally, there are plenty of flights coming from the surrounding Caribbean islands of St. Kitts, St. Croix, San Juan, and Beef Island.
Flight Tip: Using Skyscanner you check the calendar option to see which are the cheapest dates to travel to St Thomas.
Search for a flight to St Thomas:
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Travel to St Thomas by Sea
One of the most popular ways to travel to St Thomas is by sea, as it is super easy. This is actually how we always used to visit, while we were working on cruise ships. Here are the two different options for traveling to St Thomas by sea.
Cruising to St Thomas
Many large cruise ship companies such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Disney, and Norwegian frequently include St Thomas in their itineraries. Simply search for Eastern Caribbean cruises, and you'll most likely find that it goes to St Thomas.
One of the easiest ways to travel to St Thomas is by taking an Eastern Caribbean cruise.
Visiting St Thomas From Other Islands
Another easy was to travel to St Thomas is by ferry. This is the perfect option if you are already planning on visiting another nearby island. The islands that are connected to St Thomas are Puerto Rico, St Croix, St John, and Tortola.
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Travel to St Thomas: Entry Requirements
The requirements to enter St Thomas are the same as entering any of the US states on the mainland. If you need a visa to enter the US, you will also need one to enter the island of St Thomas.
If you are traveling from the US, the good news is you won't even need to bring your passport with you! Because it is a domestic flight it is no different than traveling from state to state.
When it comes to Covid requirements, you must have a negative Covid test within 24 hours of arrival. This can be a rapid test, and it applies to anyone over the age of 5.
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Travel to St Thomas: Local Adjustments
When traveling through the Caribbean islands, it can get a bit confusing when it comes to currency, language, outlets, etc.
As St Thomas is part of the US, it is pretty much in line with anything you'd find in the states. The currency is the US dollar, the official language is English, and the outlets are the same as all of the US and Canada.
The only big difference between the island and the states, is that people drive on the left side of the road. This is important to keep in mind when crossing the street, or if you want to rent a car!
Things to do in St Thomas US Virgin Islands
There are so many fun things to do in St Thomas US Virgin Islands! The island is small enough to be able to be able to move around quite easily, but also plenty to do to keep you busy. Here are some of our favorite things to check out for your travels to St Thomas.
Things to Do in St Thomas US Virgin Islands #1: Take in the Views at Paradise Point
Located right outside the cruise port is Paradise Point. Take the cable car to the top and enjoy some of the most stunning views of St Thomas and the surrounding islands. Eat at the restaurant for dinner, or enjoy watching the sun go down with a cocktail in hand.
If you're visiting for just a day, this is definitely one of the most convenient things to do in St Thomas US Virgin Islands.
Paradise Point has one of the best views of St Thomas.
Things to Do in St Thomas US Virgin Islands #2: Visit the Famous Magen's Bay
With its white sand beaches and turquoise waters, its no wonder that the beaches are a must in St Thomas. Magen's Bay is the most popular, and has plenty of amenities, including a bar with food and some great frozen cocktails. Spending a day at Magen's Bay is one of the most popular things to do in St Thomas US Virgin Islands.
Magen's Bay is the most popular beach in St Thomas.
Things to Do in St Thomas US Virgin Islands #3: Take a Catamaran Trip
One of our favorite ways to enjoy the Caribbean is by catamaran, and St Thomas is one of the best! Sail along the coasts to enjoy the colorful houses perched in the green hills, the striking rock formations, and the crystal clear waters.
If you are cruising you can check out one of the many excursions. Most catamarans include rum punches, guided tours, music, and a stop at one of the many beautiful beaches.
There are both shared and private tours that you can choose from, and this is something we do suggest you book in advance.
Here are a few charter options for boats:
Things to Do in St Thomas US Virgin Islands #4: Drink a Frozen Bushwacker
If there's one thing you need to have while in St Thomas it is definitely a Bushwacker. This frozen cocktail is native to the island, and tastes like an alcoholic chocolate milkshake. Can you think of anything better?!
Trying a bushwhacker is a must when you travel to St Thomas.
Things to Do in St Thomas US Virgin Islands #4: Stop Over at Sapphire Beach
Sapphire Beach has the same white powdery sands and turquoise waters as Magen's Bay, but it is a little less crowded. There are plenty of chairs and umbrellas available for rent, as well as a restaurant and bar for food and drinks.
Sapphire beach is just as beautiful Magen's Bay, but with fewer crowds.
Things to Do in St Thomas US Virgin Islands #5: Sail Over to Water Island
Water Island is a short boat ride away from the island of St Thomas, and has really stunning beaches. Hop on the Kon-Tiki booze cruise here via ship excursion, or grab the local ferry from Crown Bay, which only takes 10 minutes, and runs every two hours from 8:00-5:00.
Water Island is the perfect day trip from St Thomas.
If you're limited on time, we suggest organizing a tour in advance. Here are a few you can choose from:
Things to Do in St Thomas US Virgin Islands #6: Relax at Emerald Beach Resort
Looking for a beach equally as beautiful as Magen's bay but a little less crowded? Emerald beach resort has lounge chairs, a restaurant, and a pool for the perfectly relaxing beach day.
Emerald Beach Resort is a beautiful beach with plenty of amenities.
Things to Do in St Thomas US Virgin Islands #7: Go Parasailing
Add some fun to your trip and take a ride through the sky. Parasailing is a great activity to get out on a boat and enjoy the views from up high. Trips usually take an hour, and each pair of people will take about 5-10 minutes in the air.
Parasailing is a fun way to get great views of the island.
Things to Do in St Thomas US Virgin Islands #8: Take a Ride on the Screamin' Eagle
Want an activity to get your adrenaline pumping? This speed boat will take you on twists and turns for a truly exhilarating ride. Between the crazy turns, you'll enjoy stops at different areas to learn a little bit about the history of the island- the perfect way to see St Thomas and have some excitement at the same time.
The Screaming' Eagle is a great mix of both excitement and sight seeing.
Book the Screamin' Eagle directly:
Things to Do in St Thomas US Virgin Islands #9: Check out Coral World
Coral World Ocean Park is a marine park that is great for all ages! Go snorkeling, try helmet diving, swim with the sea lions, or admire the rest of the marine life that this place has to offer. The park is open from 10-3 and has all different types of packages to choose from.
Here are some of the most popular packages that you can book:
Things to Do in St Thomas US Virgin Islands #10: Take a Dip at Coki Beach
Right next to Coral World is one of the most beautiful beaches. Coki beach is one of the best areas for snorkeling and has plenty of chairs and umbrellas lined up for rent.
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Things to Do in St Thomas US Virgin Islands #11: Visit One of the Surrounding Islands
While there are plenty of things to do in St Thomas US Virgin Islands, there are also some great islands that are close enough for some day trips! Check out some awesome places to sail on over to.
There are tons of great islands that you can visit for a day trip from St Thomas.
St. John
The island of St. John is the smallest of the US virgin islands and half of it is occupied by the Virgin Islands national park. This island is full of raw natural beauty with its rolling hills, white sandy beaches, and bright turquoise waters.
Grab an excursion here or take the local ferry over. Being just 45 minutes away, you'll have some really great views and informational guides on the way over, and there is regular service between the two islands, making it the perfect day trip.
Note: If you're planning to travel to St Thomas on a cruise, we highly suggest booking an excursion rather than relying on the ferry.
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Tortola
Located just 30 minutes away by boat is the largest island of the British Virgin Islands, Tortola. Hop on the local ferry over to Road Town and check out some for the great beaches that this island has to offer.
Tortola is a great day trip from St Thomas.
Virgin Gorda
Virgin Gorda is known for its famous baths, which are really great to check out if you are spending a few days in the area. Swim through the labyrinth of natural pools that were formed by the various rock formations.
The island can be reached by ferry in 90 minutes, but only on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Outgoing ferries are at 8:45 am and 5:00 pm on Tuesdays, with the times to come back of 6:30 am and 2:45 pm, and Saturdays outgoing at 4:00 pm, and coming in at 6 am. Due to this, it would be a few day getaway in reality, unless privately chartered.
If you're schedule doesn't line up, but you want to visit Virgin Gorda, you can charter a boat:
St. Croix
With less visitors than the neighboring islands, St. Croix makes the perfect place to enjoy the raw beauty of the Virgin Islands. With it's French influence, lush rainforest, and gorgeous beaches, it is definitely one to add to your list. The ferry is 90 minutes, and runs from Thursday to Tuesday for $50 one way/$90 round trip.
How to See the Best Things to Do in St Thomas US Virgin Islands: Getting Around the Island
There are plenty of ways to get around and explore all of the things to do in St Thomas US Virgin Islands. Here are the different options that you can choose from.
Is St Thomas a Walkable Island?
Truthfully, there aren't many places that you can reach on the island by foot. From the port of Charlotte Amalie though, you can walk to some shops, as well as the cable car up to Paradise Point.
How Do Tourists Get Around St Thomas?
Taxis are the easiest way to get around, but definitely the most expensive. They don't run by meter, but are set prices. Prices are per person, as opposed to a set rate for groups.
Is There Uber in St Thomas?
There is no Uber in St Thomas. so the only form of private transportation is taxis.
Public Buses in St Thomas
The cheapest way to get around St Thomas is by taking the public bus system, called the VITRAN, with fares of just $1.
Renting a Car in St Thomas
The great thing about renting a car is that you can see the island on your own schedule! Another good thing is that if you are a US Citizen, you don't need to purchase extra insurance as your own auto insurance will be applied. The bad thing? They drive on the other side of the road so you need to be extra careful!
Rent a car in St Thomas:
Paradise Point is great because it is walking distance from the port of the capital.
Travel to St Thomas: Food & Drink
Being that St Thomas is part of the US, it is heavily influenced by the states, with a bit of a Caribbean twist. The most popular things to find in restaurants are sandwiches, burgers, salads, and dishes such as barbecued meats or fish.
We definitely suggest having some seafood, as there are plenty of fresh fish that you can try while on the island.
Also, don't miss out on the island's specialty drink that we mentioned before! Trying a bushwacker is an absolute must for things to do in St Thomas US Virgin Islands.
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Travel to St Thomas: Where to Stay
There are a ton of great hotels near the beaches around St Thomas. However, we personally think that the best place to be located is in Charlotte Amalie, the capital of the island. This is where the cruise ships come in, and where you can find the majority of the shopping, restaurants, and public transportation to other parts of the island.
Look for accommodation in St Thomas:
Is it Safe to Travel to St Thomas?
St Thomas, along with the other US Virgin Islands, are all very safe. They are family friendly, and perfect for those that want a fun Caribbean getaway. The people of St Thomas are all super friendly, so you won't have any problems getting recommendations or info from the locals.
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Travel to St Thomas: Other Things to Know
Here are a few other things to keep in mind when you travel to St Thomas:
What is the Best Month to Go to St Thomas?
Being that St Thomas is located in the Caribbean, the island has year round hot and tropical climate. The best time to visit is in the winter, when the temperatures are pleasant, and days are sunny.
Avoid visiting during hurricane season which is primarily from August to October. The island is extremely humid, and can have severe storms during this time. June, July and August are also the most expensive months to visit, as this is when most Americans take their vacations.
Weather & Packing for a Trip to St Thomas
The number one thing you'll want to pack is your bathing suit, sunscreen, and flip-flops. St Thomas is a tropical location, and the best things to do on the island include beaches and swimming.
Packing List for St Thomas
- Sunscreen
- Towel
- Reusable Water Bottle (we use this water bottle from Cafago because it holds the temperature)
- Flip Flops (we personally always get Havaiana flip flops, as they are comfy and long lasting)
- Zippered Bag or Backpack - take a look at these backpacks for travelers!
- Power Bank (we use Anker power banks, as they are super long lasting and sturdy)
- Bathing Suits
- Drone (We use the Mavic Mini Pro 3 because it's super light and doesn't sacrifice quality)
- Action Camera (we use the Insta 360 X3 because it's small & waterproof)
- Case Mate waterproof Phone Pouch (we use the Cafago Waterproof Phone Pouch)
- Travel Adapter if your aren't from North America (we use Insignia travel adapters as they are affordable and reliable)
- Travel toiletries (our favorites are from Sheer Alternatives because they're all natural and 100ml)
Main Things to Keep in Mind While Visiting St Thomas
Here are a few other things you'll want to keep in mind when planning to travel to St Thomas:
- St Thomas is part of the United States, so US citizens are free to use their phone plans with no extra charge.
- Although it is part of the US, driving is on the left side, so look both ways before crossing the street!
- As St Thomas is a US territory, passports are not needed for US citizens traveling here.
- The sun is strong, so make sure you apply plenty of sun screen!
The best time to travel to St Thomas is in the winter for great weather.
Travel Planning Tools
Here are some useful tools that you can use for planning your upcoming trip!
There are so many great things to do in St Thomas US Virgin Islands, and plenty of great day or weekend trips to offer. We suggest spending a week in the area. If you have just a day in port, we suggest enjoying the great beaches that the island has to offer.
Traveling to other places in the Caribbean?
Check out other great Caribbean Islands that we've written about.
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