St. Thomas is one of those places that looks exactly like the photos. Turquoise water, green hillsides, and enough sunshine to make you forget what day it is. But with so much to see and do, it helps to have a plan before you go.
Whether you’re visiting on a cruise, planning a full week, or looking for the best things to do in St. Thomas for a long weekend, this guide covers all the highlights. We’ve included beaches, restaurants, day trips, water activities, and local tips that most travel sites skip.
We put this list together based on years of helping guests at The Mary Anne Boutique Hotel plan their perfect island trip. These are the spots we actually recommend, not just the ones that show up first on Google.
Table of Contents
Best Beaches in St. Thomas
St. Thomas has more than a dozen beaches worth visiting. Some are famous, some are hidden, and a few are only known to locals. Here are the ones we send our guests to most often.
Magens Bay
This is the beach you’ve seen on postcards. Magens Bay is a long, calm, crescent-shaped stretch of sand on the north side of the island. The water is shallow and gentle, making it a great choice for families. There’s a small entrance fee (around $5), and you can rent chairs and grab food from the vendors near the parking area. Go early in the morning if cruise ships are in port because it fills up fast by midday.
Brewers Bay
Brewers Bay is where locals go. It’s a laid-back beach near the airport with calm water and a good chance of spotting sea turtles right from shore. Bring a towel, a snorkel, and some patience. The turtles tend to graze on the sea grass in the shallows, so you don’t even need to swim far out. There are no big resort crowds here, just a relaxed island vibe.
Lindquist Beach
If you’re looking for a quieter, more scenic beach, Lindquist (also called Smith Bay Park) is one of the most beautiful on the island. The sand is soft, the water is clear, and it never feels packed. There’s a small entrance fee and limited facilities, which is part of what keeps it peaceful.
Sapphire Beach
Sapphire Beach sits on the east end of the island and has a casual, local feel. There are a few restaurants right on the beach, so you can easily spend a full day here without needing to leave. The snorkeling is decent, and the views across to St. John are hard to beat.
Hull Bay
Hull Bay is tucked away on the north shore and feels like a completely different island. It’s a favorite with surfers (yes, St. Thomas has surf) and has a genuinely local atmosphere. Pair your beach time with lunch at The Shack, a no-frills spot right on the sand that’s been a local staple for years.
Emerald Beach
Emerald Beach is close to the airport and easy to get to. It’s a solid pick if you want beach chairs, nearby food, and a more relaxed setup without driving across the island. Great for a half-day if you’re arriving or leaving and want to squeeze in some beach time.
Water Activities and Boat Tours
Getting out on the water is one of the best things to do in St. Thomas. The Caribbean here is warm, clear, and full of marine life. Whether you prefer snorkeling over coral reefs or reeling in a big catch, there are plenty of options.
Snorkeling Cruises
A snorkeling day trip is one of the most popular things to do in St. Thomas, and for good reason. Companies like Ocean Surfari run full-day and half-day trips that take you to reef-filled bays around the Virgin Islands National Park and Cruz Bay. Expect to see coral formations, tropical fish, sea turtles, and rays in crystal-clear water. Most tours include gear, drinks, and lunch.
Fishing Charters
St. Thomas has some of the best sport fishing in the Caribbean. Charter boats head out from the marinas daily, targeting mahi-mahi, wahoo, tuna, and marlin depending on the season. Most charters provide all the gear, and you can keep what you catch. Some restaurants on the island will even cook your fresh catch for dinner.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
For something more low-key, rent a kayak or paddleboard from one of the beach outfitters. The mangrove lagoons near the east end are a great spot for a guided kayak tour, and you’ll often see turtles, rays, and small reef fish along the way.
Day Trips from St. Thomas
Day trips are some of the most memorable things to do in St. Thomas. Two of the best are just a short boat ride away, and if you have a week on the island, you should make time for both.
Ferry to St. John
St. John is just a 20-minute ferry ride from Red Hook on the east end of St. Thomas. The island is about two-thirds Virgin Islands National Park, and the beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world. Trunk Bay is the famous one with an underwater snorkeling trail, but Honeymoon Beach and Salomon Beach are also worth the trip.
Once you land in Cruz Bay, grab a coffee at North Shore Deli, then take an open-air taxi to the North Shore beaches. If you’re feeling adventurous, hike the Lind Point Trail from Cruz Bay to Salomon and Honeymoon Beach. It’s about a 20-minute walk and completely worth it.
Pro tip: Take the earliest ferry you’re comfortable with. St. John beaches are best before midday. Confirm the ferry schedule the day before and bring cash for the taxi.
Water Island
Water Island is the smallest and most relaxed of the USVI. It’s a quick 10-minute water taxi from Crown Bay Marina, and it feels like stepping into a different era. Rent a golf cart to explore the island, visit Honeymoon Beach, and stop at Heidi’s Hilltop for lunch and drinks with a view. Watch out for tortoises crossing the road. This is a perfect half-day trip if you want something easy and unique.
Charlotte Amalie: Shopping, History, and Culture
Downtown Charlotte Amalie is the capital of the USVI and one of the most walkable towns in the Caribbean. It’s a mix of Danish colonial architecture, duty-free shopping, and waterfront views. If you’re staying near downtown (like at The Mary Anne, which is steps from the historic district), you can explore all of this on foot.
99 Steps and Blackbeard’s Castle
The famous 99 Steps (there are actually 103) are a historic staircase built by the Danes in the 1700s using bricks from ships. At the top, you’ll find Blackbeard’s Castle, a 17th-century watchtower with panoramic views of the harbor. It’s one of the most photographed spots on the island. Jolly Roger’s bar at the castle is a great place to grab a drink and enjoy the sunset.
Fort Christian
Fort Christian is the oldest standing structure in the USVI, dating back to 1672. It’s right in the center of town and houses a small museum with exhibits on the island’s history, from the Taino people through the Danish colonial period. It’s a quick visit but worth it for some historical context.
Duty-Free Shopping
Charlotte Amalie is one of the best duty-free shopping ports in the Caribbean. You’ll find jewelry, watches, liquor, and designer goods at prices well below what you’d pay on the mainland. Main Street and the side alleys (called “Dronningens Gade” and the historic passages) are where the best shops are. Even if shopping isn’t your thing, it’s worth a walk through for the architecture alone.
Paradise Point Skyride
For the best panoramic views on the island, take the Paradise Point Skyride. The tramway runs from the Havensight cruise port area up to a lookout point 700 feet above the harbor. On a clear day, you can see all the way to St. John and the British Virgin Islands. There’s a bar and restaurant at the top, so grab a drink and take it all in.
Drake’s Seat
Drake’s Seat is a lookout point on the north side of the island with sweeping views of Magens Bay and the surrounding islands. Legend says Sir Francis Drake used this spot to watch for enemy ships. It’s a quick stop if you’re driving to Magens Bay, and the photo opportunity is one of the best on St. Thomas.
Where to Eat in St. Thomas
The food scene in St. Thomas is better than most people expect. You’ll find everything from casual beachside shacks to upscale Caribbean dining, and most of it is locally owned. Here are some of the spots we recommend to our guests.
Walkable Downtown Restaurants
If you’re staying in Charlotte Amalie, you have some solid options within walking distance. Virgilio’s is an upscale Italian spot with a loyal following. Amalie Café at Palm Passage is great for a nicer dinner out. Surf & Turf Bistro is a consistent favorite for seafood and steaks. For breakfast, check out Bumpa’s, Gladys’ Café, or Parley Café.
Worth the Drive
Oceana and Twisted Cork in Frenchtown are two of the best restaurants on the island. Both serve creative Caribbean-inspired dishes in intimate settings. Prime at Paradise Point offers sweeping harbor views with upscale dining. For something more casual, The Tap & Still in Havensight is a great craft beer and burger spot, and Agave has solid Mexican food with a rooftop bar.
Casual Bites and Local Favorites
For low-key meals, Side Street Pub is a downtown staple. 758 Bar & Restaurant is walkable and has a relaxed patio. Pizza Amore is the go-to carryout pizza. And if you find yourself at Hull Bay, The Shack is a must-stop for cold drinks and fresh food right on the sand.
Nightlife and Evening Activities
St. Thomas isn’t a late-night party island, but there’s plenty to do after dark if you know where to look.
Jolly Roger’s at Blackbeard’s Castle is one of the most unique spots for evening drinks. It sits next to the historic watchtower with panoramic views of the harbor lit up at night. Side Street Pub downtown is the casual, everyone-knows-everyone local bar. For something more upscale, grab a sunset cocktail at Prime at Paradise Point or head to St. Thomas Social at Yacht Haven Grande.
If you time it right, try to catch a Full Moon Party at one of the beach bars. These pop up seasonally and are a blast. Ask a local or check social media for the next one.
Outdoor Adventures and Hiking
St. Thomas is hilly, green, and full of trails that reward you with incredible views. You don’t need to be a serious hiker to enjoy them.
The hike from Red Hook up to the ridge gives you a full view of the east end. The trails around Estate St. Peter Greathouse & Botanical Gardens are beautiful and shaded. And if you take the ferry to St. John, the Lind Point Trail and Ram Head Trail are two of the best short hikes in the entire Caribbean.
For a non-hiking outdoor experience, rent a Jeep or open-air vehicle and drive the island. The roads wind through the hills with pulloffs that offer views you won’t find on any tour. Just remember: they drive on the left in the USVI.
Relaxation and Pool Days
Not every day needs to be packed with activities. In fact, some of the best things to do in St. Thomas involve doing as little as possible.
If you’re staying at a boutique hotel like The Mary Anne, the rooftop pool and sun deck are perfect for a slow morning or a late afternoon reset between adventures. Order a cocktail, catch up on your book, and let the Caribbean breeze do the rest.
Several hotels and resorts on the island also offer day passes if you want access to a pool without booking a room. It’s a great option for cruise visitors or anyone looking for a chill afternoon with food, drinks, and a pool.
Things to Do in St. Thomas from a Cruise Ship
If you’re arriving by cruise ship, you’ll dock at either Havensight or Crown Bay. Both are close to Charlotte Amalie, so you can walk or take a short taxi ride into town. Even with limited time, there are plenty of things to do in St. Thomas in a single day.
For a beach day, head straight to Magens Bay or Sapphire Beach. Both are about a 15-20 minute taxi ride. For shopping, walk into downtown Charlotte Amalie and explore the duty-free stores. For an adventure, book a half-day snorkeling trip with Ocean Surfari or take the quick ferry to Water Island. And if you just want to relax poolside without the cruise ship crowds, grab a day pass at The Mary Anne and enjoy a quiet afternoon.
Practical Tips for Visiting St. Thomas
Getting Around
There’s no public bus system that tourists typically use. Your main options are taxis (which run on set routes with fixed rates), rental cars, and ride shares. If you plan on exploring the island at your own pace, a rental car gives you the most flexibility. Just remember that you drive on the left side of the road, even though most cars have left-hand drive. It takes about a day to get used to.
Best Time to Visit
St. Thomas is warm year-round, with temperatures hovering between 77°F and 90°F. The peak season runs from December through April when the weather is driest and hotel rates are highest. The shoulder months of May, June, and November offer great weather, smaller crowds, and better prices. Hurricane season runs from June through November, with September and October being the most active months.
What to Pack
Keep it simple. You’ll want reef-safe sunscreen (it matters here), a good pair of water shoes, a dry bag for boat days, and light layers for the evening. Most restaurants are casual, but a few of the nicer spots appreciate resort-casual attire. And don’t forget a snorkel if you have one. You’ll use it more than you think.
Currency and Costs
The USVI uses the US dollar, and most places accept credit cards. Taxis are cash-preferred, and the ferry terminals and Water Island water taxi typically require cash. ATMs are available in Charlotte Amalie and at the major shopping areas. Budget-wise, expect to spend $15-25 per meal at casual spots and $40-80 per person at upscale restaurants.
Frequently Asked Questions About St. Thomas
How many days do you need in St. Thomas?
Five to seven days is ideal if you want to experience the best things to do in St. Thomas, including beaches, day trips to St. John, and plenty of time to relax. A long weekend (3-4 days) works if you prioritize and don’t try to do everything.
Is St. Thomas safe for tourists?
Yes. St. Thomas is generally safe for visitors, especially in the tourist areas and beaches. Use the same common sense you would anywhere: don’t leave valuables unattended on the beach, lock your rental car, and stick to well-lit areas at night.
Do you need a passport to visit St. Thomas?
No. The US Virgin Islands are a US territory, so US citizens do not need a passport. You’ll go through customs but not immigration. A valid government-issued photo ID is all you need.
What is the best beach in St. Thomas?
It depends on what you’re looking for. Magens Bay is the most popular and family-friendly. Brewers Bay is best for sea turtle sightings. Lindquist Beach is the most peaceful. And Hull Bay is the local favorite with the most character.
Can you drink the tap water in St. Thomas?
The tap water in St. Thomas comes from desalination plants and is technically safe to drink, though many visitors and locals prefer bottled water for taste. Most hotels and restaurants serve filtered or bottled water.
What is the best way to get from the airport to Charlotte Amalie?
The Cyril E. King Airport is only about 10-15 minutes from downtown Charlotte Amalie by taxi. Taxis are available right outside the terminal and run on fixed rates set by the VI Taxi Commission. A rental car counter is also available at the airport if you prefer to drive yourself.
Plan Your St. Thomas Trip
St. Thomas has a way of surprising people. The island is smaller than you’d think but packed with more to do than you’d expect. Whether you’re here for a week of beach-hopping and boat days or a quick getaway between islands, the hardest part is deciding what to do first.
If you’re looking for a home base that puts you in the heart of it all, The Mary Anne Boutique Hotel is a six-room boutique hotel in Charlotte Amalie, steps from the historic district, restaurants, and the waterfront. We help every guest plan their trip with local recommendations like the ones in this guide.
Get in touch or check availability to start planning your St. Thomas trip.