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22 Best Things to Do in St. Thomas, USVI (+ Tips & Map!)

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With its white sand beaches, crystal blue waters, and vibrant culture, the best things to do in St. Thomas are nothing short of amazing.

Ah, St. Thomas — there is so much to do on this beautiful U.S. Virgin Island, where stunning beaches and picturesque views of mountains and blue skies await.

As you stroll along the tranquil streets of this sleepy Caribbean island, take in the breathtaking views of the verdant hillsides and unspoiled beaches that beckon your name, eager to show you the beauty of this tropical paradise.

Whether you’re a nature lover or shopaholic, an adventure seeker, or a beach bum, there’s something for everyone in St. Thomas with its unique blend of American and Caribbean influences.

To ensure you don’t miss a thing, I’ve created the ultimate guide on the best things to do on St. Thomas, plus some essential tips and a handy map to help you find your way around!

So get ready to soak up the sunshine while exploring coral reefs, snorkeling around caves, and hiking rugged trails with breathtaking views — all that and more are waiting for you!

This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust. This means that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below. See full disclosure here.

In This Post:

Map of the Best Things to Do in St. Thomas

A clickable map that shows all the attractions and things to do in St. Thomas.
Map of things to do in St. Thomas

Here’s a map of the best things to do on Saint Thomas so you can visualize them and easily plan your visit.

Click on the map to enlarge it, and you can also take a peek at nearby islands if you’re interested in island hopping.

The Best Things to Do in St. Thomas

Now on to the fun stuff — here are the top things to do in St. Thomas for a good time in the US Virgin Islands!

1. Bask Under the Sun at Magens Bay Beach

Golden white sandy beach with clear blue waters and a lush mountain behind it, which is Magens Bay Beach and one of the best things to do on Saint Thomas.
Magens Bay Beach: one of the top things to do on Saint Thomas 😍

I’m starting this list of the best things to do on St. Thomas with one of my favorite spots and one of the very best things to do in St. Thomas: Magens Bay Beach.

When you think of dreamy beach destinations, it’s hard to beat this postcard-perfect strip of powdery white sand beach and glistening turquoise waters.

Spanning 1.5 miles long, Magens Bay is consistently ranked among the world’s best beaches — and when you see it for yourself, you’ll understand why!

There are plenty of activities for you to enjoy here, including swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, kayaking, taking a stroll along the shoreline, and more.

The best part about visiting Magens Bay Beach is that there’s no entrance fee.

A woman sitting on a beach chair at Magens Bay Beach holding a strawberry daiquiri with the beach in the background, which is one of many things to do on St Thomas Virgin Islands.
Sipping a strawberry daiquiri while soaking in all of the things to do on St. Thomas Virgin Islands

You can easily rent beach chairs and umbrellas at a little kiosk right behind the beach, so all you have to bring is towels and reef-safe sunscreen.

And what’s a great beach day without delicious cocktails and mocktails?

Magens Point Bar and Grill is right on the beach, and they serve up a fantastic banana daiquiri for when you need to cool off from the Caribbean heat!

St. Thomas is a popular spot for cruise ships, so if you want to avoid crowds, try visiting Magens Bay early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the ships leave.

2. Go Sea Trek Helmet Diving at Coral World Ocean Park

Colorful fish and coral reefs under the ocean.
You’ll get a chance to spot colorful fish and coral reefs during your helmet dive at Coral World Ocean Park.

If you’ve wanted to explore the fascinating underwater world without learning how to scuba dive, look no further than the Sea Trek Helmet Diving Experience at Coral World Ocean Park.

All you have to do is put on a special dive helmet that allows you to breathe underwater, and then you can explore the aquarium’s underwater trails along the ocean floor.

Located in the East End of St Thomas, you’ll be surrounded by colorful fish and coral reefs in this one-of-a-kind experience while you learn all about the marine life that calls this place home.

Coral World Ocean Park also has other activities, such as a stingray pool, sea turtle encounters, and swimming with sea lions, but I don’t condone any activities that involve mistreating sea life or forcing them to behave in a manner inconsistent with their natural behavior in their natural environment.

So please stick to the helmet diving experience and enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of St. Thomas without taking away from it.

Book Your sea trek helmet diving experience at coral world ocean park!

3. Take the Plunge & Go Scuba Diving

A scuba diver surrounded by lots of small orange fish.
Scuba diving is one of the most adventurous things to do in St. Thomas.

St. Thomas is the perfect place to take your next plunge if you’re a certified diver!

This two-tank dive for certified divers will have you exploring the best of St. Thomas’s coral reefs and wreck sites with an experienced dive master to guide you.

You’ll get the unique chance to see some of the natural wonders of the Caribbean Sea, such as vibrant sponges, sea turtles, angelfish, sharks, and more!

This scuba diving experience is operated by Aqua Marine Dive Center, one of the top dive companies on St. Thomas, and they’ll ensure you have a safe and fun dive with all the necessary equipment.

🤿 Book Your two-tank dive at aqua marine dive center!

4. Explore the Historic District of Charlotte Amalie

Pink and blue buildings with shops in the historic district of Charlotte Amalie.
Colorful shops in downtown Charlotte Amalie

Besides the beach, there are also several amazing things to do in St. Thomas’s capital city, Charlotte Amalie.

It was founded in 1666 by the Danish West India and Guinea Company as a major port city for the area’s trade, and it was one of the most important Caribbean cities in its heyday.

Today, Charlotte Amalie is still a bustling town full of galleries, restaurants, shopping outlets, outdoor activities, and a major cruise port.

Wander around the downtown area, and the gorgeous cobblestone streets and brightly-colored colonial buildings from the Danish era will surround you!

Below, I’ll briefly highlight some of the must-see attractions and things to do in Charlotte Amalie:

Fort Christian

An orange clocktower and brick building known as Fort Christian.
Fort Christian

Fort Christian is the oldest building in the city and dates back to 1680.

It was built in defense of the city by the Danish during their occupation of St. Thomas, and it served as a prison, a police station, and even the governor’s residence at one point in time.

Today, this historical site houses a museum that contains an extensive collection of artifacts from St. Thomas’s colonial period as well as items related to its history.

Blackbeard’s Castle

A brick watchtower with two flags at the top which is Blackbeard's Castle.
Blackbeard’s Castle

Blackbeard’s Castle is one of the five National Historic Landmarks in the United States Virgin Islands and was initially known as Skytsborg Tower.

It’s rumored that the infamous English pirate Blackbeard used the tower as a lookout point and to store his treasure.

We don’t really know if the story is true, but it makes for a great tale!

It has since been transformed into one of the coolest things to do in St. Thomas, and it offers breathtaking views of the harbor and the Atlantic Ocean.

Unfortunately, due to Hurricane Irma, Blackbeard’s Castle is temporarily closed, but it should reopen in the future. You can still see the castle, but you can’t go inside at the moment. 

99 Steps

99 Steps, a walkway of steps, lined with pink flowers and palm trees.
99 Steps

The 99 Steps is one of the most iconic landmarks in St. Thomas and dates back to the 1700s.

It consists of a steep set of stairs that lead up to Blackbeard’s Castle, and it was used by the Danish to get around the city’s hilly streets.

The sides of the steps are lined with flowers and plants making it a picturesque spot to take some photos!

Spoiler alert — there are actually 103 steps, but who’s counting?

St. Thomas Synagogue (Hebrew Congregation of St. Thomas, Virgin Islands)

The interior of St. Thomas Synagogue with wooden pews and ornate chandeliers.
St. Thomas Synagogue

St. Thomas Synagogue is one of the oldest synagogues in continuous use in the United States and the second oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere, dating back to 1796.

It’s an active Jewish congregation and a tourist attraction with gorgeous stained-glass windows, marble floors, and other historical artifacts.

St. Thomas Synagogue is a designated National Historic Landmark, and it lies adjacent to the Weibel Museum, which highlights the history of Jewish life on the island.

Emancipation Garden

A white gazebo with a red roof and two flags surrounded by trees at Emancipation Garden.
Emancipation Garden

Emancipation Garden is one of the best things to do in St. Thomas and plays an important role in the history of the Virgin Islands.

This beautifully landscaped park features monuments and markers that commemorate the day in 1848 when slavery was abolished in St. Thomas.

It’s a tranquil and serene place, perfect for taking time to reflect on the struggles faced by past generations and honoring those who persevered.

St. Thomas Walking Food Tour

If you want to try some of St. Thomas’s best local dishes, check out the Flavors of St. Thomas Walking Food Tour!

This guided walking food tour takes you to several different restaurants and eateries in Charlotte Amalie, where you can sample traditional Caribbean classics and even learn how to make rum punch.

It’s an excellent way to get a taste of the island while also learning about its rich cultural history.

🍽️ Book Your flavors of st. thomas walking food tour!

5. Snorkel With Sea Turtles at Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge

A sea turtle below the water near the ocean floor.
Snorkeling with sea turtles is one of the most incredible things to do in St. Thomas.

One of the most memorable things to do in St. Thomas is snorkeling with the sea turtles at Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge.

You’ll hop on a catamaran and head two miles south of St. Thomas to the pristine waters of Buck Island, passing by Turtle Cove along the way.

Here, you’ll have the chance to explore a world of colorful marine life and swim with sea turtles in their natural habitat and learn about the turtles’ habits and behaviors.

Your snorkel gear is included, so all you need to bring is an underwater camera to capture all your magical snorkeling moments!

🐢 Book your snorkel trip with sea turtles at buck island national wildlife refuge!

6. Visit Drake’s Seat for Epic Views

Panoramic view of Magens Bay from Drake's Seat with turquoise waters and blue skies.
The view of Magens Bay from Drake’s Seat is epic!

Drake’s Seat, named after English explorer Sir Francis Drake, is one of the best places to get a view of St. Thomas and its stunning beaches.

It’s said that Sir Francis Drake used this lookout point to keep an eye out for pirates and invading naval ships.

Drake’s Seat offers some of the best views of Magens Bay Beach, the Caribbean Sea, the British Virgin Islands, and other nearby islands.

Sunset is the perfect time to visit, and you can watch as the sun sinks lower into the horizon, bathing St. Thomas in a warm golden light.

7. Escape to the Picturesque Virgin Islands National Park

Overlook of Trunk Bay in St. John in the Virgin Islands National Park in the background with crystal clear blue waters and lush trees.
Virgin Islands National Park

The Virgin Islands National Park is located on St. John, the smallest of the three US Virgin Islands.

The park is a tropical paradise that covers the majority of St. John and includes pristine white sands beaches, clear water, gorgeous coral reefs, and lush rainforest hikes.

It’s the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of St. Thomas because you won’t find big resorts and commercial attractions here.

This Virgin Islands National Park snorkeling excursion will take you to some amazing snorkeling spots around the national park and the surrounding islands, where you can spot all kinds of marine life.

It’s also a great way to learn about the unique marine ecology of St. John, including its tropical fish, seagrass meadows, coral reefs, and more.

🏝️ Book Your virgin islands national park snorkeling excursion!

8. Get Lost in Nature at Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden

One of the most beautiful things to do in St. Thomas is to visit Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden.

This tropical oasis is one of St. Thomas’s best-kept secrets and features over two acres of lush rainforest gardens full of exotic plants, orchids, palms, and fruit trees.

The botanical gardens are home to over 1200 species of tropical plants, including Succulents, Bromeliads, Aroids, and much more!

Moreover, you can catch gorgeous views of Magen’s Bay Beach, Saint John, Tortola, and more.

St. Thomas was also home to the St. Peter Great House and Botanical Gardens, but they’re temporarily closed due to Hurricane Irma. This site is also worth checking out once it opens again!

9. See St. Thomas From Above While Parasailing (One of the Most Adventurous Things to Do in St. Thomas)

An aerial shot of a parasail over the waters of St. Thomas.
If you’re looking for thrilling things to do in St. Thomas, you’ll love parasailing!

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-fueled adventure in St. Thomas, this one-hour parasailing experience is a must-try activity!

You’ll take off from the beach after safety briefings from expert guides and soar above the Caribbean Sea for some incredible panoramic views of St. Thomas, its beaches, and other nearby islands.

You’ll also have the chance to spot some dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life while you fly high above the clear blue waters.

This incredible activity is perfect for couples, friends, and families alike, and I can’t think of a better way to spend the morning or afternoon.

🪂 Book Your St. Thomas Parasailing Adventure!

10. Visit The Mountain Top (One of the Top Things to Do in St. Thomas!)

Panoramic view of Magens Bay from The Mountain Top with cloudy skies and clear blue water with lush trees.
The view of Magens Bay from The Mountain Top

Perched on the highest cliff on the island at 2100 feet above sea level, The Mountain Top is one of the most popular attractions in St. Thomas.

You’ll be mesmerized by the lush green forests, the bright blue sea and its turquoise waters, and the observation deck that offers incredible scenery of Magens Bay Beach and St. Thomas from this vantage point.

This lookout point is also home to the island’s largest duty-free shop, and you can browse through an impressive selection of jewelry, souvenirs, apparel, and more.

You’ll also want to grab their world-famous banana daiquiri to sip while you take in the stunning views.

11. Learn About Pirate History at Pirate’s Treasure Museum

A telescope, coins, and jewels in a pirate's treasure chest.
Pirate’s Treasure Museum

Located in the heart of Charlotte Amalie, Pirates Treasure Museum is a fun and educational attraction for families.

You can explore interactive exhibits that tell the stories of real-life pirates who once sailed the Caribbean Sea and buried their treasure on St. Thomas.

The museum also includes interactive exhibits, replicas, and artifacts that help bring the pirate stories and history to life.

You can also explore the museum’s gift shop for unique souvenirs and pirate-themed toys and memorabilia.

12. Enjoy a Romantic Sunset Dinner Sail

Dinner, sunset, sailboat catamaran, and St. Thomas = the perfect ingredients for a romantic evening!

This sunset and harbor lights dinner sail is a two-hour sailing experience that will take you and your special someone out on a luxurious catamaran around the coast of St. Thomas, giving you incredible views of the Caribbean Sea and Magen’s Bay Beach.

The boat will then hang out in the harbor, where you can enjoy a delicious barbeque dinner and sip on complimentary drinks as the sun goes down.

⛵️ Book Your sunset and harbor lights dinner sail!

13. Unwind & Relax at Coki Beach

Umbrellas and chairs lined along the shore of Coki Point Beach with powdery white sand and clear baby blue water.
The list of beachy things to do in St. Thomas is endless with Coki Point Beach being a must-visit.

Nestled on the northeast side of the island, Coki Beach is a stunning beach featuring white powdery sand and sparkling turquoise waters that are the very definition of paradise.

Relax on the shore and take in the wondrous sights while enjoying a relaxing massage or take an adventure into the crystal clear waters to explore the vivacious reefs below.

The best part about Coki Beach is that the water is calm, and there’s a reef near the shore, so you don’t have to venture too far to snorkel.

You can also lounge in a hammock or rent a beach chair and umbrella before heading to one of the beachside restaurants and bars for lunch and rum punch.

14. Soar Through Nature’s Canopy While Ziplining

A man and a woman ziplining through the jungle.
Ziplining through the forest canopy

Another exhilarating thing to do on St. Thomas Virgin Islands is to go ziplining.

You’ll get to fly through the island’s dense rainforest canopy and experience St. Thomas from a bird’s eye view as you soar across six different lines up to 35 miles per hour!

There are also two sky bridges for you to walk across to take in the spectacular views and snap some amazing photos.

Not only that, but your guide will point out the native birds, plants, and trees of St. Thomas as you fly through the sky.

It’s an unforgettable experience that even experienced zipliners will enjoy!

📌 Book Your St. Thomas ziplining experience!

15. Go for a Dip at Secret Harbour Beach Resort

If you want to get away from the frenzy of St. Thomas without actually leaving the island, Secret Harbour Beach Resort is the perfect spot!

Located a little less than eight miles away from Charlotte Amalie, this resort has two restaurants, a PADI 5-star dive shop, a beach in a private cove, watersports rentals, and more.

The property is also scattered with restaurants, which makes it the perfect spot to spend the day without having to worry about anything.

Before you head back to Charlotte Amalie, stop at Lindquist Beach and Sapphire Beach nearby to get a glimpse of St. Thomas’s iconic beaches!

16. Wander Around Red Hook

Boats in the harbor in Red Hook, St. Thomas.
Red Hook Harbor

Tucked away in the subdistrict of the East End in St. Thomas, Red Hook is a low-key yet lively marina village with plenty of things to see and do.

At night, Red Hook comes alive with music, dancing, and delicious drinks, so be sure to stop by for a memorable evening!

Make sure to pop into one of the restaurants and bars to sample the local cuisine and browse through the selection of charming shops for souvenirs.

17. Go Off the Beaten Path & Kayak Through the Mangroves

Did you know that St. Thomas is home to some of the most incredible mangrove forests in the Caribbean?

If you’re looking for one of the more unique things to do on Saint Thomas, you’ll love this mangrove kayaking tour!

This excursion includes hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling, so you can explore the tropical island’s hidden secrets and experience its natural beauty.

Your first stop is Cas Cay, which is an uninhabited island where you can go hiking and snorkeling.

Your last stop is Mangrove Lagoon, where you’ll traverse the winding channels of the mangrove forest.

Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through the mangroves while educating you about local wildlife and the importance of preserving these ecosystems.

🛶 Book Your Guided mangrove kayaking tour!

18. Go Island Hopping to Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands

Aerial view of the beach in Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands with boats on the water and trees dotting the shore.
If you run out of things to do in St. Thomas, head over to spend the day in the British Virgin Islands at Jost Van Dyke!

Jost Van Dyke is a small island located just north of St. Thomas in the British Virgin Islands.

This secluded paradise is a favorite among travelers looking for an undiscovered getaway from the hustle and bustle of St. Thomas.

You’ll take a short ferry ride from Red Hook in St. Thomas to Jost Van Dyke, where you’ll be transported to a world of breathtaking beaches and pristine blue waters.

White Bay Beach is famous for its powdery white sand and turquoise waters, making it the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing with a good book.

Another popular activity on Jost Van Dyke is hiking up to the Bubbly Pool, which is a natural pool formed by waves crashing over volcanic rocks.

The hike provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and offers an opportunity to see local wildlife, such as iguanas and hermit crabs.

19. Blast Through the Water on a Jet Boat Tour

For a truly unique experience, take a jet boat tour of St. Thomas!

You’ll get to explore the bays, inlets, and cays of St. Thomas from an adrenaline-pumping perspective as you zip through the waters on a turbo-charged jet boat!

Your knowledgeable guide will teach you about the wildlife and history of St. Thomas while providing an exciting yet safe ride.

You’ll also get a chance to catch a glimpse of wild dolphins and sea turtles while on the tour!

Warning — you will get wet, and the salt water can burn your eyes, so make sure to bring a pair of sunglasses or goggles and a towel.

🚤 Book Your st. Thomas Jet Boat Adventure!

20. Glide Through the Clouds on the Skyride to Paradise Point

Cable cars on the Skyride to Paradise Point overlooking Magens Bay and lush forests.
Skyride to Paradise Point

One of the most incredible things to do in St. Thomas is the Skyride to Paradise Point.

On this unique cable car experience, you’ll soar 700 feet above the stunning landscape of St. Thomas and get incredible views of its lush forests, sparkling bays, and beautiful beaches.

The ride to the top of Paradise Point takes about 10 minutes, and you’ll see the entire island in all its glory, including iconic spots such as Magens Bay and Sapphire Beach.

Once you reach the top, you can wander around the area while sipping on a banana daiquiri!

21. Discover the Hidden Gem of Honeymoon Beach on Water Island

Not to be confused with the beach in St. John, Honeymoon Beach on Water Island is a hidden gem and one of the best things to do in St. Thomas!

This secluded spot is accessible only by ferry or private boat, so it’s a great place to fully disconnect and unwind.

You’ll find pristine white sand, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of shade with dozens of palm trees lining the shore.

You can spend the day swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling in the calm waters, or just relaxing with a cold drink in hand.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, water sports such as paddleboarding and kayaking are also available.

Further, you can rent beach chairs and umbrellas from Dinghy’s Beach Bar & Grill so you can settle in for a full day of bliss!

You’ll also want to rent a golf cart from Rachael’s Rentals so you can easily get around the island and explore it to the fullest.

22. Take a Journey Through Paradise on an Island Tour

Hillside apartments overlooking the harbor in Charlotte Amalie.
Going on an island tour is one of the best things to do in St. Thomas because you get to see all the best spots on the island.

If you’re stopping in St. Thomas on a cruise, then an island tour is the perfect way to explore all the best things to do in St. Thomas!

This St. Thomas island tour will take you around some of the island’s hotspots and historic sites, including the Mountain Top, Magen’s Bay Beach, Fort Christian, and more.

You’ll spend an hour exploring the island, and you’ll spend two hours relaxing at Magen’s Bay Beach.

Even if you’re spending a few nights on the island, going on this island tour is a great way to get an overview of St. Thomas and get your bearings before you dive into the more hidden gems of the island.

🚗 Book Your St. Thomas Island Tour!

What Is the Best Area to Stay in St. Thomas?

St. Thomas is sprawling with resorts, villas, and condos for rent, which can make it hard to decide where to stay.

Moreover, the island is comprised of several exciting areas, each with its own vibe for visitors to explore.

👉 Some of the best areas to stay in St. Thomas are Charlotte Amalie, East End of St. Thomas, Northside, and Charlotte Amalie East.

My top picks of places to stay in St. Thomas are below, and they all have ratings of 8/10 and better, so you know you’ll have a pleasant stay: 

💎 Best luxury hotel: The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas 

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best for families: Limetree Beach Resort by Club Wyndham 

💰 Best bang for your buck: Secret Harbour Beach Resort

🌊 Best for beautiful ocean views: Luxury Beachfront Duplex Villa on Sapphire Beach V 

🌆 Best for being in the hustle and bustle of Charlotte Amalie: Hilltop Villas at Bluebeard’s Castle by Capital Vacations

⛰️ Best for epic views of the bay and mountains: Little Indigo Apartments

What Is the Best Month to Go to St. Thomas?

A rainbow peeking over the mountains over the water in St. Thomas.
A beautiful rainbow over St. Thomas

The best time to visit St. Thomas varies depending on what you want to do and what your preferences are.

If you’re looking for the best weather, December through April is the best time to visit.

There’s very little rainfall during these months, and the temperatures hover in the low-to mid-80s°F.

The only downfall to visiting during these months is that it’s peak tourist season which means the island is busier and hotel prices jump up a lot.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for great deals on accommodation and don’t mind a bit of precipitation, May through November is the best time to visit St. Thomas.

The island experiences a lot of rainfall in these months (it doesn’t rain all day, every day — it comes in bursts), but temperatures stay consistent, and hotel prices dip significantly lower than during peak season.

This is also hurricane season, so keep an eye on the weather if you’re going during this time and purchase travel insurance to protect your trip.

What Is the Best Way to Get to St. Thomas Virgin Islands?

Cruise terminal in St. Thomas with a blue and white docked cruise ship.
Cruise port in St. Thomas

There are two ways you can get to St. Thomas — flying or cruising.

Cyril E. King Airport (STT) is the main airport serving St. Thomas, and it’s located just a few miles away from downtown Charlotte Amalie.

If you’d prefer to cruise, St. Thomas has two cruise ports — Crown Bay Marina and West Indian Company Dock (also known as Havensight).

What Is the Best Way to Get Around St. Thomas?

Once you’re on the island, you have a few options for getting around.

The most convenient way to get around is by taking a taxi, but they are pretty pricey and add up quickly.

Renting a car is the best way to get around St. Thomas if you plan on exploring more than just Charlotte Amalie, as most of the attractions are located in different parts of the island.

You’re free to explore at your own pace, and you don’t have to worry about flagging down a taxi and blowing your budget on transportation.

Just remember to drive on the left side of the road!

🚗 Want to rent a car? Expedia is the best option in St. Thomas. Not only do they offer competitive prices and a vast selection of vehicles from reputable car rental companies, but they also provide a seamless booking process that allows you to compare prices and choose your preferred vehicle with ease. Book your car rental through Expedia today!

Alternatively, there’s also a public bus system that runs throughout St. Thomas, but it can be crowded, slow, and unreliable.

Helpful Tips for Visiting St. Thomas

Aerial view of St. Thomas at sunrise or sunset with houses lining the cliff along the clear blue waters.
The beauty of St. Thomas is something you’ll never get over!

When planning your trip to St. Thomas, there are a few important things to keep in mind so you can make the most of your stay.

👉 Pack reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent: St. Thomas is a tropical paradise, which means its lush vegetation is home to some pesky bugs, and the sun is intense. Pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and insect repellent so you can keep those pesky bugs at bay!

👉 Stay hydrated: The hot and humid climate in St. Thomas can lead to dehydration, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

👉 Use U.S. currency: St. Thomas is a part of the United States Virgin Islands, so the official currency is the U.S. dollar.

👉 Check local weather reports: Hurricane season in the Caribbean runs from June through November, so be sure to check local weather reports before planning outdoor activities or traveling during this time.

👉 Try local cuisine: The island boasts a diverse culinary scene with many restaurants serving traditional Caribbean dishes like conch fritters and johnnycakes. Don’t be afraid to try something new!

👉 Rent a car: While taxis are available on the island, they can get pretty pricey, and renting a car gives you more freedom to explore all that St. Thomas has to offer at your own pace.

👉 Keep left: Speaking of driving, remember that you’ll be driving on the left side of the road in St. Thomas, so make sure you adjust to this before hitting the roads!

👉 Dedicate most of your budget to food: Not only is the food delicious in St. Thomas, but it’s also expensive due to its remote location and reliance on imports. I got serious sticker shock when I visited. So, make sure you devote a good chunk of your budget to food!

👉 Carry cash: While credit cards are accepted at some of the larger establishments, many of the mom-and-pop shops accept only cash. If you exclusively use American Express, keep in mind that many places won’t accept it.

More FAQ for Things to Do in St. Thomas

What is St. Thomas most known for?

St. Thomas is most known for its beautiful beaches and lush landscapes, its duty-free shopping, and its vibrant nightlife.

Is there a lot to do in St. Thomas Virgin Islands?

Yes! From snorkeling and diving to sailing and shopping, there’s no shortage of things to do in St. Thomas Virgin Islands.

How many days should you spend in St. Thomas?

The number of days you should spend in St.Thomas depends on what type of activities you plan to do and how much time you have available.

If you’re looking for a relaxed vacation, 3-4 days is enough to get a taste of the island and explore some of its main attractions.

For a more extensive trip, especially if you want to do some island hopping to Virgin Gorda in the BVI or you want to explore some dive sites, we recommend spending 5-7 days in St. Thomas to make sure you enjoy all the different activities that this beautiful island has to offer.

Can you walk around St. Thomas?

Yes, you can walk around St. Thomas because of its compact size and its well-maintained sidewalks.

Charlotte Amalie is the main city, and its streets are lined with duty-free shops, cafes, and restaurants with live music that you can explore on foot.

Just remember to bring your walking shoes so you can explore all the things to do in St. Thomas comfortably!

What is the prettiest beach in St. Thomas?

St. Thomas is home to many beautiful beaches, but the most popular and arguably prettiest beach in St. Thomas is Magens Bay Beach.

This iconic spot boasts clear blue waters, white sand, and breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea.

It’s a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing with a good book.

What country owns St. Thomas?

St. Thomas lies around 78 miles east of Puerto Rico and is part of the United States Virgin Islands (USVI), which are owned by the United States of America.

St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Water Island are the four main islands that comprise the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Does St. Thomas have waterfalls?

Unfortunately, you won’t find any waterfalls in St. Thomas.

But what St. Thomas lacks in waterfalls, it makes up for in stunning beaches and unique activities.

Is St. Thomas worth a visit?

Absolutely! St. Thomas is a lively and vibrant island with so much to offer its visitors.

From stunning beaches to cultural attractions, historical sites, and unique shopping experiences, there are things to do in St. Thomas for everyone!

St. Thomas is one of the best honeymoon destinations in the Caribbean, and it’s great for all kinds of travelers to visit, including families, couples, and solo trippers.

Is it safe to visit St. Thomas?

St. Thomas is a generally safe destination, but it’s important to follow basic safety precautions when exploring the island.

Like every place in the world, there are some areas that are safer than others, so it’s best to avoid walking alone at night and stay in well-lit touristy areas.

Also, be sure to keep your belongings safe and always trust your instincts when traveling.

Do you need cash in St. Thomas?

Yes, you will need cash in St. Thomas for certain activities and services such as taxis, some small restaurants, and local markets.

The US dollar is the official currency of the USVI, so be sure to have some cash on hand when visiting St. Thomas.

What is the best thing to buy in St. Thomas?

The best things to buy in St. Thomas are duty-free items such as jewelry, watches, and fragrances, as well as local souvenirs like rum cake or hot sauce.

You can also find great deals on electronics, clothing, and spirits at the many shopping centers around the island.

What are the best things to do in St. Thomas on a cruise?

If you’re visiting St. Thomas on a cruise ship, you’ll only have a limited amount of time to explore the island, and you’ll want to stick to the most popular activities.

We recommend visiting some of St. Thomas’s most iconic attractions, such as Magens Bay Beach, Main Street Charlotte Amalie, the Mountain Top, and the Skyride to Paradise Point.

For an adventurous day trip, you can also take a ferry to St. John and enjoy snorkeling.

Final Thoughts About Things to Do in St. Thomas

St. Thomas is a tropical paradise with something for everyone!

Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore a nature trail or two, or experience some of the local culture and cuisine, you won’t run out of things to do in St. Thomas!

With our helpful tips in mind and a bit of planning ahead, you’ll be ready to make the most out of your stay in St. Thomas!

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