St Thomas, a gem of the Caribbean, captures the hearts of travellers with its shimmering waters, verdant landscapes, and lively culture. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an adventure junkie, or just looking to relax, St Thomas has something for you. Dive into our curated list of things to do in St Thomas, including exploring the vibrant area of Red Hook and the historic Charlotte Amalie, for a trip you won’t forget.
9+ Fun Things to Do in St Thomas USVI
1. Explore The Beaches
Among the myriad things to do in St Thomas, beach hopping stands out as the beaches of St Thomas are world-renowned, each boasting unique attributes!
To name a few, Magens Bay is famed for its calm, sheltered waters and vast expanse of white sand, making it perfect for families. Hull Bay, in contrast, is a secluded retreat, known amongst surfers for its waves. Lindquist Beach is all about serenity with its crystal-clear waters making it an excellent spot for snorkelling. Then there’s Sapphire Beach, where water sports enthusiasts can find jet skiing and windsurfing opportunities.
To truly appreciate the beaches, consider spending a day hopping between them, going on a snorkelling or tour, trying your hand at watersports, and tasting the different atmospheres and activities each offers.
2. Experience St Thomas’ Skyline: The Paradise Point Cable Car Adventure
Imagine floating above the tropical landscape, seeing St Thomas from a bird’s perspective. The Paradise Point Cable Car offers precisely this.
Starting from the heart of the shopping district, the cable car steadily ascends, giving evolving views of the harbour, dotted with yachts, cruise ships, and the distant, hazy outlines of neighbouring islands.
At the summit, you will find the Harbour View Cafe. Here, you can enjoy a Bahama Mama or Bushwacker (my favourite!) cocktail.
If you’re looking to shop, local boutiques sell unique souvenirs so that a part of St Thomas always stays with you.
3. Unwind and Play at Chicken n Bowling
Located in the heart of St Thomas, directly across from the cruise ship dock, Chicken n Bowling is traditional bowling with an upgrade with modern tech and vibrant neon lights, creating a great atmosphere with music and good vibes.
But it’s not just bowling. You can grab a bite to eat and test your skills at table tennis or pool, as well as plenty of other games. You don’t expect to be doing this when you’re in the Caribbean, do you?! That’s why Chicken n Bowling is one of the best, fun things to do in St Thomas USVI.
4. Explore Red Hook
Red Hook, a vibrant marina town, is the pulse of St Thomas’s east end. Despite having a busy ferry terminal, it’s more than just a gateway to other islands; the town is an experience in itself.
Things to Do in Red Hook, St Thomas
While here, one of the best things to do in Red Hook St Thomas is to experience its bustling atmosphere, nightlife and sample local dishes. The area offers a blend of shops, restaurants, and bars.
Our favourite things to do in Red Hook are:
- Duffy’s Love Shack: This is a popular bar that offers quirky drinks and a lively atmosphere, especially on live music nights.
- Secret Harbour Beach: With its tranquil bay, is a snorkelling paradise. The Secret Harbour Beach Resort backs the beach but this doesn’t detract from its beauty. You can find out more information and travel tips for Secret Harbour in our guide to St Thomas’ best beaches.
- Sunset Grille Restaurant: As the sun sets, the Sunset Grille’s terrace, located on Secret Harbour Beach, is the place to be. This lively restaurant offers a blend of gourmet dishes with panoramic sea views.
- American Yacht Harbour: Opposite Duffy’s Love Shack, this marina is a great spot to watch boats come and go. There are also plenty of restaurants here and small boutique shops too.
5. Go on a Day Trip to St John USVI
While St Thomas brims with attractions, neighbouring St John offers a different kind of allure. Most of the island is the Virgin Islands National Park, with marked trails guiding hikers through tropical forests and to ancient petroglyphs. Not only this but the island is known for having some of the most pristine beaches in the Caribbean!
Undoubtedly, the best way to visit and enjoy St John is to go on an organised boat trip or charter a boat (more on this below). You can then explore quiet coves, secluded bays, and even the boat-exclusive taco stand, Lime Out VI. Alternatively, there is a frequent ferry service from Red Hook (St Thomas) to Cruz Bay (St John).
While you’re in St John, for a dose of history, go hiking on the well-marked trails or visit the Annaberg Sugar Plantation, where you can recount the island’s colonial past. Or, if you’re like us, spend the day hopping between the infamous Trunk Bay, Hawksnest Bay, and Cinnamon Bay. We personally loved Cinnamon Bay!
St John perfectly complements a St Thomas vacation, making a day trip to this beautiful island essential.
How to Go from St Thomas to St John
To go from St Thomas to St John, as mentioned, you have several options:
- The Ferry from Red Hook: Often regarded as “The Peoples Ferry”, this is the most cost-effective and widely-used route. The ferry departs hourly from St Thomas’s Red Hook and St John’s Cruz Bay (passing each other on the way).
- Private Boat Tour: You should consider a private boat tour as the best way to get to St John from St Thomas. This offers a unique experience allowing you to explore secluded bays, eat at the boat-exclusive taco stand, Lime Out VI and thoroughly enjoy the views of the mountainous coastline.
- Ferry from Charlotte Amalie: Catching the ferry from Charlotte Amalie is ideal if you’re arriving in St Thomas by cruise, staying in Charlotte Amalie, or don’t want to travel to the Red Hook on the east end. While pricier and a longer journey, it cuts out the commute to the east end.
6. Discover Mermaids Chair
This is a secret treasure of St Thomas! And you know we love discovering a hidden gem over here.
Mermaids Chair, on St Thomas’ west end, is a tiny stretch of beach where the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean meet. As you walk the thin strip of sand, on one side you have calm, lapping waves and on the other, the rugged, deeper expanse of the Atlantic.
Visiting Mermaids Chair is about timing, as it’s best experienced during low tide when the sandbar reveals itself. And remember to pack your drinks and snacks because Mermaids Chair has no amenities.
With panoramic views and waves softly brushing against your feet, Mermaids Chair offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle.
How to get to Mermaids Chair, St Thomas
To access Mermaids Chair, direct your GPS towards The Preserve at Botany Bay. Once there, give your information to the security staff and start a 30-minute, 1.3-mile walk on the paved path.
If you prefer to catch a ride, there’s a shuttle to nearby Sandy Bay at 8:30 am and 12:30 pm, with a return trip at 4 pm. From Sandy Bay, Mermaid’s Chair is a short stroll away.
7. Top Things to Do in Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas
Charlotte Amalie, the capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands, is a vibrant port town with a rich history and plenty of attractions which definitely deserve to be explored during your visit to the island.
There are plenty of top things to do in Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas, and here are 8 of the best:
- 99 Steps: One of the town’s most famous landmarks, these historic steps were built in the mid-1700s by the Danes, who occupied the islands, and offer breathtaking views of the city and harbour from the top. Don’t be fooled by the name; there are actually 103 steps, but “99 Steps” remains an endearing relic of the island’s past.
- Stoll the Long Bay Waterfront: The Long Bay Waterfront promenade offers a 1.2 mile (1.9 km) paved walk for pedestrians, providing a break from the usual trails and narrow streets of the USVI.
- Fort Christian: Built in the late 1600s, this is the oldest standing structure in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Originally built by the Danes as a defensive bastion, it has since served numerous roles – from a Governor’s residence to a church and even a jail. Today, it’s a designated National Historic Landmark and houses the St Thomas Museum.
- Emancipation Garden: This park commemorates the emancipation of slaves in the Danish West Indies in 1848. It’s a serene place to relax and take in the surrounding historical buildings.
- Shopping on Main Street: Charlotte Amalie is renowned for its duty-free shopping. Main Street, or Dronningens Gade, is lined with boutiques selling jewellery, electronics, alcohol, and more.
- Blackbeard’s Castle: This historic tower offers panoramic views of the town and harbour. Legend has it that the pirate Blackbeard once used the tower as a lookout!
- Historic Churches: Visit St Thomas Reformed Church, Frederick Lutheran Church, and the Cathedral Church of All Saints, all of which reflect the island’s colonial past.
- Take a Food Tour: Sample the local cuisine – a blend of West Indian, American, and other influences. There are many food tours available that guide visitors through the best restaurants in Charlotte Amalie.
Top Tip: If you’re visiting Charlotte Amalie, it’s a good idea to wear comfortable shoes. The town’s streets can be hilly and sometimes uneven, but the sites and experiences are well worth the exploration!
8. Hop on a Ferry or Cycle Boat to Water Island
After checking off some top things to do in Charlotte Amalie St Thomas, consider hopping to Water Island for a tropical island escape! Often overshadowed by its bigger siblings, Water Island is tiny island only 10 minutes away from St Thomas. Water Island is the smallest of the US Virgin Islands, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in charm.
Honeymoon Beach, with its powdery sands and tranquil waters, is a must-visit on the island and there is a free shuttle from Water Island ferry dock to Honeymoon Beach.
Alternatively, you can hire a golf cart to explore the tiny island and traverse its scenic routes. One of the popular things to do on Water Island is visit the old military forts, remnants from WWII.
How to go from St Thomas to Water Island
An incredibly fun way to get from St Thomas to Water Island is to go on a cycleboat, where you can take your own drinks and snorkel and swim at Honeymoon Beach.
🛥 Book a cycleboat Water Island trip:
Alternatively, you get get the St Thomas to Water Island ferry. We struggled to find the right information for catching the ferry, so here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Location: Head to the “Tickles Dockside Pub” at Crown Bay Marina in Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas. This is where the Water Island ferry departs.
- Schedule: The Water Island ferry typically runs every hour from 8 am – 6 pm. However, the ferry schedule can change, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest times in advance.
- Tickets: Purchase your ticket directly at the ferry dock. It’s advisable to arrive a bit earlier, especially during peak travel times.
- Journey Duration: The ferry from St Thomas to Water Island is quick, typically taking around 10 minutes.
- Arrival: Once you arrive on Water Island, you’ll disembark at the main dock, a short walk or golf cart ride from popular spots like Honeymoon Beach. This is where the free shuttle bus to Honeymoon Beach will also be waiting (there is no need to pre-book this).
- Return: To return to St Thomas, simply catch the ferry from the same dock on Water Island back to the Crown Bay Marina.
Always check the latest ferry schedule and any travel advisories before planning your trip, as services may vary due to weather, holidays, or other factors.
9. Visit Coral World Ocean Park
Situated along the coastline, Coral World Ocean Park allows you to immerse yourself in the diverse marine life of the Virgin Islands.
You can marvel at vibrant coral reefs, observe deep-sea creatures, and interact directly with creatures, such as starfish and sea urchins in the touch tanks. The park also provides the opportunity to witness daily shows featuring sea lions, rays, and other marine animals.
You can take a guided tour if you’re keen to understand the intricate marine ecosystems and the park’s ongoing conservation efforts. Coral World has various policies and programs demonstrating its commitment to animal safety, happiness, and care.
More Fun Things to Do in St Thomas USVI
If you’ve explored the 9 best things to do in St Thomas and are thirsty for more, here are 3 additional spots to explore.
However, I’ve left them until last as these 3 places can get extremely crowded, especially when cruise ships are in port. So, they’re not up there as being some of the best, fun things to do in St Thomas, in our opinion. If you prefer less busy attractions, you might want to rethink visiting these or leave them for last. If you’re still eager, they offer unique views and experiences, but it is wise to visit during off-peak times.
Drake’s Seat
This historic lookout was once the observation point for Sir Francis Drake, the legendary English explorer. Today, it is a bench and lookout point that provides panoramic vistas of the Virgin Islands. This is a popular spot for photography and contemplation.
Charlotte Amalie Overlook
Perched high above the capital, this overlook provides sweeping views of Charlotte Amalie, its bustling harbour, and the archipelago beyond. It’s a perfect spot for capturing the city’s essence, from its colonial architecture to its modern vibrancy. You’ll also find plenty of souvenir stalls here if you want to support local businesses.
Mountain Top
Dominating the island’s skyline, Mountain Top provides views that leave one in awe. As the cool breeze caresses your face, savour the world-famous Banana Daiquiri, a drink that supposedly traces its origins to this very spot.
Free Things to Do in St Thomas, USVI
If you’re travelling on a budget and looking for exciting free things to do in St Thomas, the island doesn’t disappoint! This is a tropical paradise where fun doesn’t necessarily mean splurging.
Here are a myriad of activities that are completely free things to do in St Thomas:
- Beach Exploration: Dive into the pristine beauty of Magens Bay, Sapphire Beach, and Coki Point without spending a penny.
- Historical Walks: Take a stroll through the historic town of Charlotte Amalie, absorbing the colonial architecture and the vibrant street scenes.
- 99 Steps: Climb the famous 99 Steps in Charlotte Amalie for a picturesque view of the town and harbour.
- Sunset Gazing: Pick any beach or cliff and get ready to be mesmerised by the sunset. Bluebeard’s Castle, Secret Harbour, Lindbergh Bay, Brewers Bay and Mountain Top are some of the best places to watch the sunset in St Thomas.
- Window Shopping: Wander around the streets of Red Hook and Charlotte Amalie, browsing through the colourful marketplaces.
- Nature Trails: Explore the walking and hiking trails scattered around the island, leading to panoramic viewpoints. Some of the best hiking trails are the Magens Bay Beach Trail, Santa Maria Beach Path and Hull Bay.
You Might Love: What to Do in St Thomas on a Cruise: 14 Top Choices
Best Time to Visit St Thomas
St Thomas, like other Caribbean destinations, boasts of year-round warmth. However, the best time to visit is between December and April, the peak tourist season. The weather during these months is refreshingly mild and is typically free from severe tropical storms or hurricanes that can occur in late summer or early autumn.
May to November is considered the off-peak season due to higher chances of rain and hurricanes. On the plus side, travelling during this period might fetch you better deals on accommodation and activities. For those who want a balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds, visiting during the fringe months (late November or early December) can be ideal.
How to Get Around St Thomas
With so many things to do in St Thomas, understanding transportation to see the best of the island is essential.
Here are several ways to get around St Thomas:
- Buses: Known as “safaris,” these open-sided vans are an economical way to travel. They operate on fixed routes and are quite frequent during the day.
- Taxis: While they’re more expensive than buses, taxis offer convenience, especially if you’re heading to places not covered by bus routes.
- Ferries: Ideal for hopping between islands. For instance, a trip to Water Island or St John is best done by ferry.
- Rental Cars: To truly immerse yourself in what St Thomas island offers, we recommend hiring a car. It gives you the freedom to explore secluded beaches, hidden gems, and other lesser-known spots. Remember, driving is on the left side of the road in St Thomas!
Bonus Tips for Exploring the Fun Things to Do in St Thomas, USVI
Local Customs and Etiquettes
- Greetings: Always greet locals with a friendly “good morning”, “good afternoon” or “good evening” before starting a conversation. This is a sign of respect throughout the Caribbean and is often expected, especially in shops or restaurants.
- Driving: Driving is on the left side of the road in St. Thomas, but cars are typically American models with the driver’s seat on the left.
- Tipping: Tipping is customary, similar to the US, with 15-20% being standard for good service.
- Punctuality: “Island time” is a real thing in the Caribbean, including St. Thomas! Things may operate a bit slower than you’re used to, so patience is key. However, if you’re attending a planned event or dinner, try to be on time.
- Respect the Environment: St. Thomas is known for its natural beauty. Always dispose of trash appropriately, avoid touching coral when snorkelling or diving, and respect wildlife.
Final Thoughts on Fun Things to Do in St Thomas
St Thomas offers a diverse range of activities that cater to every traveller’s interest, from its pristine beaches to historical landmarks. The island seamlessly blends natural beauty with vibrant local culture, ensuring a fulfilling experience.
If you’re seeking a comprehensive Caribbean experience, St Thomas should be high on your list. Don’t just take our word for it, visit and see for yourself.
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