Start Here: Our St. Thomas Travel Guide
Welcome to the beautiful US Virgin Islands! Whether staying in St. Thomas or hopping over to other islands, there's no shortage of unique activities to make your vacation unforgettable. Here's a friendly guide with our recommendations to help you make the most of your time on these stunning islands.
1. Discover Local History and Culture
Get to know the land that you’re on and dive into the rich history of the islands by booking a Downtown Walking Tour from the St. Thomas Historical Trust or visiting Blackbeard’s Castle. This historic site, built in the late 1600s, offers a peek into the island’s pirate past and breathtaking views of Charlotte Amalie. Don’t leave without visiting the second-oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere! The original synagogue was built in 1796 and was rebuilt in 1833. Attend mass at Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral, completed in 1848, this small yet stunning cathedral serves as the seat of the Territory’s Roman Catholic Diocese. For more cultural exploration, wander through the charming streets of Charlotte Amalie, where you’ll find duty-free shopping, historic landmarks, and local eateries serving up delicious Caribbean cuisine. The best events listing can be accessed through the official tourism site of the US Virgin Islands.
The 99 Steps
Saints Peter & Paul Cathedral
St. Thomas Synagogue
Downtown Charlotte Amalie looking Southwest
Emancipation Gardens
Waterfront Walk
2. Enjoy the Local Flavors
Indulge in the local cuisine by trying some of the island’s specialties, like fresh seafood, conch fritters, and of course, locally produced rum and vodka. Stop by one of the many beach bars or restaurants for a taste of the islands. Our favorite go-to eateries are:
Ital Goodness
Speedy Redemption • Now located in Crown Bay Marina, this food was a weekly pilgrimage when they were located by the hospital in Sugar Estate. If you love food that fuels your soul, this will take you to heaven!
Love Livin VI • Eating to heal has never been more delicious. We love Dian’s menus and have catered special events with this deliciousness. You can order online by clicking the link provided.
Goddess B’s Magic Pot • Beranice’s food is not only delicious but healthy! Our favorites are her fresh ginger drink and ital soup, packed with greens and veggies. Contact her for homemade cakes, juices, and healthy treats!
Bordeaux Farmers' Market • On the second and last Sundays of the month, you can buy local produce and other items from local farmers and vendors promoting holistic healthy living. If you’re visiting around January keep an eye open for the annual Rastafari Agricultural and Cultural Vegan Food Fair. It’s a quick drive or moderate climb to the main road from Casa Buena Vista.
Caribbean Flavors
Glady’s Cafe • Casual dining at its best! Located in the historic district, they have served our community for over 30 years. Try some of the best conch fritters and take some of Glady’s hot sauce home.
Petite Pump Room Bar & Restaurant • A family-owned bar and restaurant located at the water’s edge of the scenic Charlotte Amalie harbor, nothing beats a seat on the balcony over the water. Indulge skillfully crafted tropical cocktails, savory local fare, and other favorites. Mike’s famous Painkiller and conch fritters are the highlights.
G & D's Seafood Restaurant • Want extra fresh seafood? This G & D’s will satisfy that craving. Immerse yourself in a truly local restaurant.
Mi Casita Caribbean Food • Another local hidden gem, this Dominican restaurant offers delicious food at great service and prices. Just writing this is making us hungry!
Caribbean Fish Market • Nested within the Elysian Resort, the allure of beachside dining and the cool breezes of Cowpet Bay bring locals and tourists alike. Delicious, every time.
American & European Flavors
Tap & Still • With Red Hook and Yacht Haven locations, this is a great choice if you’re looking for a quick bite and a drink. Order customized burgers among other selections.
Local Breweries • Take a sip at the Leatherback Brewing Company or the Frenchtown Brewing Company, which is tucked away at the bohemian fishing village of Frenchtown.
Amalia Café • Our open-air restaurant on the historic cobblestoned Palm Passage. Craving a taste of Spain in the Caribbean? This is the spot we have never left disappointed.
Pangea Terra Table • An old-time favorite, this open-air space is magical! They provide a small international menu that ensures the freshest, most flavorful dishes.
Mafolie Hotel & Restaurant • The hotel's acclaimed Mafolie Restaurant offers an enticing dinner menu of island favorites and international dishes. Their reputation has been earned over time, and most of their kitchen staff have been in-house for over a decade.
Virgilio’s • The island’s finest Italian food space should be tried, part gallery, part restaurant; it will be a delicious sensory experience. We keep returning for the gnocchi with gorgonzola and spinach; they taste like my mother’s handmade gnocchis.
Oceana Restaurant & Bistro • Regarded as one of the island’s most iconic dining locations and a historic landmark, the estate was originally settled by the first Danish Governor of St. Thomas, Jurgen Iversen, between 1672 & 1679! Most tables in our open-air dining room offer unobstructed views of the sea, passing sailboats and landing seaplanes, spectacular breathtaking sunsets, and equally dramatic full moons rising. Our favorite spot for oysters and rosé on-island.
Prime at Paradise Point • This contemporary steakhouse has the best dining view. They have a wide selection of meat cuts and sides, handcraft their cocktails, and provide a sommelier-selected wine list. Make sure to reserve a table; they are always in high demand.
Old Stone Farmhouse • There’s something about Old Stone Farmhouse that tells you you’ve walked into a special place. They feature seafood, steakhouse, and vegetarian menus inspired by local Caribbean ingredients in the perfect blend of historic ambiance and cutting-edge cuisine. From the valet service to the dining experience, it will not disappoint. Like with Prime, make a reservation to guarantee a seat.
Our Obsession
Fish Bar • In the ten years we’ve lived on the island, we’ve seen this location change hands a lot and close not long after. We are so happy Fish Bar has stuck around because it is the best! The seafood is always fresh, the open-air setup is cozy and friendly, and they have some of the best cocktails and service, not to mention the stunning north view. The dish that keeps us coming back for more is the ceviche—a perfect citrus-cured daily fresh catch, red onion, roasted corn, cilantro, avocado, and coconut milk Leche de Tigre served with white corn tostadas. It tastes better than it sounds! There are no reservations, so get in on the earlier side, parking may be a bit hectic but it’s worth it.
Speedy Redemption
Amalia Café
Love Livin VI
Mafolie Restaurant
Glady's Cafe
Fish Bar
3. Explore the Best Beaches
Both St. Thomas and St. John boast some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. On St. Thomas, don’t miss Magens Bay, famous for its clear blue waters and soft white sand. It’s the perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying a tropical drink. Additional favorites include Honeymoon Beach on Water Island and Trunk Bay on St. John—a must-visit with its underwater snorkeling trail that lets you explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life right off the shore.
Non-reef safe sunscreen is illegal in the USVI. In July of 2019, legislation was passed in the territory outlawing the sale and usage of sunscreen that is harmful to the marine life, and potentially harmful to you! The ban went into effect in March of 2020 and it isn’t just for beach use, but for any use within the USVI. The toxic chemicals will find their way into the ocean, regardless of where you use them. Please help us protect our struggling reefs and purchase reef-safe products. Our favorite products are Sunbum Mineral (white packaging). You can read more about this topic in our blog.
By Ferry
Visit Honeymoon Beach on Water Island! The left side of the bay offers excellent snorkeling opportunities. The beach is typically peaceful on weekdays, with a slight increase in visitors when charter boats arrive in the afternoon. On weekends, especially Sundays, it’s a favorite spot for locals. You can also enjoy cold drinks and meals at one of the two beach bars, with Dinghy’s Beach Bar providing additional amenities like chair rentals, kayaks, and paddleboards. To get there, catch the ferry from St. Thomas Crown Bay Marina (right in front of Tickles), which runs on the hour, with returns from Water Island at a quarter past the hour.
If you want to splurge or are feeling extra fancy, you can plan a day trip at Lovango Resort and Beach Club off the coast of St. John on Lovango Cay. This resort delivers luxury amenities in a pristine, natural, and often untouched setting. The easiest way to get there from Red Hook or Cruz Bay is to catch a 15-minute ferry!
By Kayak or Eco-tours
Explore the stunning landscapes of St. Thomas with a guided eco-tour, or kayak rental, and explore this breathtaking area on your own—perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Our favorite hosts and activities include:
Mangrove Lagoon Preserve • Paddle through narrow waterways lined with red mangroves and visit Cas Cay, a small island where you can swim, snorkel, and enjoy a coastal walk to the famous Red Point Blow Hole. Book your adventure with Virgin Islands Ecotours.
Night Kayak Tours • Kayaking after dark is a rare opportunity to do something different and exciting. Virgin Islands Ecotours offers sunset and night kayaking tours, while an illuminated kayak tours are available from the Marriott Frenchman's Cove Dock or the Elysian Beach Resort.
On Your Own • For those looking to rent a kayak, several watersports shacks on St. Thomas beaches offer rentals, allowing you to paddle within the bay.
By Snorkeling
Some of the best beaches on St. Thomas for snorkeling include Coki Point, Sapphire Beach, Brewers Bay, Hull Bay, Secret Harbor. St. John offers some great experiences at Salt Pond Beach, Trunk Bay, Watermelon Cay, and Jumbie Beach. Our very own Backefall Bay, aka Fortuna Bay Beach has great snorkeling. If you’re lucky you may even catch a glimpse of dolphins or whales from our decks!
Recovering Reef, Post Hurricanes Irma & Maria
Purple Sea Fan (Gorgonia ventalina)
Landing Gear from 70's Crash
Recovering Corals and Sea Shell
Long-spined Sea Urchin
Let go and let God ♥
4. Take in the Scenic Views
By Car
Head to Drake’s Seat on St. Thomas or the Mountain Top for panoramic views of the islands. These spots offer a stunning vantage point over Magens Bay and beyond, perfect for capturing postcard-worthy photos of your trip. Phantasea Botanical Gardens has great views of Magens Bay, Tortola, St. John, and the cruise ship harbor and an exquisite collection of orchids, bromeliads, and trees.
Hiking
For the more adventurous, hiking is a great off-the-beaten-path way to explore St. Thomas. Most of the St. John trails managed by the National Park Service are more structured and abundant, so looking them up is easier. Some of these locations are remote, so please always plan your day, and please bring a trash bag with you, leave no trace behind, and be respectful. These once lesser-known trails have been popularized by indexing on many hiking hubs online and have been beaten by unprepared (or uncaring) tourists.
Our favorite Rock City trails listed from west to east
Mermaid’s Chair Trail • Situated within a gated community, you must present an ID at the gated entry point and be prepared to leave your car outside on the road. Tallying a total of 3.6 miles out and back, this is a moderate hike on a mostly paved road. It's worth the hike if you’re not coming in through the water! Mermaid’s Chair is where you have the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Caribbean Sea on the other.
Santa Maria Trail • Hiking to Santa Maria Beach is considered a moderately challenging route, and it takes about less than a mile each way. Wear comfortable shoes, insect repellent, sunscreen, and be prepared to park on the road. A disused pink gate marks the entryway.
Brewers Rock Trail • A steep and rocky path, this trail is not for the faint of heart, but offers gorgeous panoramic south views. Don’t hike this on flip flops, bring insect repellent, water, and check the weather since the steep trail is dangerous to hike when wet. Follow the blue and red painted markings that help guide and keep you from getting lost.
Magens Bay Beach Trail • The Nature Conservancy, VI Department of Planning and Natural Resources, and Magens Bay Authority maintain this moderate 2.4-mile loop. Halfway through the loop, you can relax at Magens Bay Beach so bring comfortable shoes, towels, snacks, water, and sunscreen. You can also explore the Magens Bay Arboretum, a shady, restful grove of native and exotic trees that is also worth the trek. Keep in mind that it will get muddy after heavy rains.
Mermaid's Chair
Santa Maria Beach
Brewers Rock
5. Experience Thrills with Sailing, Diving, Ziplining
No trip to the Virgin Islands is complete without getting out on the water, one way or another. Charter a sailboat or join a guided tour to explore the nearby islands, go snorkeling in pristine waters or relax with a sunset sail around the coast. There are so many great options to choose from! Our favorite service provider is Stormy Pirates Charters; our experiences with them over the years have been spotless. They also make trips out to the British Virgin Islands, including Virgin Gorda’s Baths and Jost Van Dyke’s Soggy Dollar, which are simply a must-do if within your budget.
Pro Tip: You don’t need to bring your passport if you’re a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident traveling to the USVI, but if you’re planning on island hopping to the BVI and beyond, don’t forget it!
For adventure seekers, St. Thomas offers some thrilling experiences. We are divers, so we can only vouch for our favorite PADI-certified diving crew, but we have otherwise heard wonderful things about the local ziplining experience.
Diving • If you’re more into underwater adventures, St. Thomas and St. John have decent scuba diving spots, such as coral reefs and shipwrecks catering to beginners and experienced divers. Our go-to dive shop is Coki Dive Center, which offers boat, beach, and night dives.
Tree Limin’ Extreme Zipline • Situated through the lush rainforest canopy, you get some amazing views while having fun.
Island Hoping the BVIs
Diving with Coki Dive Center
Tree Limin' Extreme Zipline
6. Best Kept Secrets
We love alternative health services and overall approaches to life; that’s a commonality for people who find their way to St. Thomas. We have some wonderful spaces and practitioners on-island that will make you feel renewed in ways we can’t put into words. Here are some of our favorites:
Blue Zone Massage • This is our favorite massage provider! The best part is that they will come to you, so if you’re staying with us, you can have your massage under the shade of our screened deck while listening to the gentle lull of the Caribbean Sea or schedule it at your favorite beach.
Breathe St. Thomas • Breathe studio offers some of the most beautiful workshops in the USVI. Whether you’re looking for an Ashtanga Mysore class, kirtan circle, or painting workshop, be sure to follow them on Facebook to stay informed about any upcoming events during your stay. They are part of a non-profit organization that provide wellness programs to public school children.
Art Explorium • Amy is a gifted artist and a long-term resident. She offers the best paint and sip classes every Wednesday at the beautiful Tillet Gardens. Grab a bite at Roots Garden Lounge and have a wonderful and creative time.
Nirvana Temple • Nirvana Temple is the only Buddhist temple in the Caribbean, and it’s nestled in the heart of St. Thomas! It can be quite tricky to find current class schedules, generally there is a yoga or meditation class on Sundays at 9 a.m.
Serafina Wellness Alchemy • Dr. Tammi offers a holistic chiropractic method to heal chronic pain and rewire your nervous system. She was able to help us manage post-partum cervical spine pain in one single session; this practice is so powerful.
Dr. Namonyah Soipan • Namonyah is an acupuncturist and Chinese medicine practitioner with over 35 years of experience in Afrikan and Native American shamanic wisdom medicine. At her Center for Sacred Dialogue in St. Thomas, she offers various services, including classical acupuncture, medical cupping, acupuncture facelifts, and micro-needling.
For shopping of the best kind, indulge in Saje Sanctuary’s magical selection of goods and events, or shop for your modern mystic at Mystic By The Sea, which also carries arts and crafts from local artists.
Blue Zone Massage at Casa Buena Vista!
Breathe St. Thomas
Nirvana Temple
7. Relax and Unwind
If you’re after relaxation, spend a day at one of the quieter beaches like Secret Harbor, Brewers Bay, or Fortuna Bay Beach. These spots are ideal for unwinding, with calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling and fewer crowds for a more peaceful experience. Alternatively, you can always choose to relax away from the hustle and bustle of tourists in the secluded West End of St. Thomas and lounge by our pool while listening to the waves crash below in the privacy of your own villa. Sounds nice, right?
Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or simply a place to relax, St. Thomas is one direct flight away from a major East Coast airport. So pack your sunscreen, grab your camera, and book your next vacation with us. Cheers to your next island adventure!
