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Top 7 Things To Do On St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands (And Tips!)

St. Thomas is one of three U.S. Virgin Islands and has an area of about 32 square miles. It was originally settled by the Ciboney or Siboney people before eventually being colonized by the Dutch and owned/occupied by the United States. It has an international airport and a pair of cruise ports, and it's a hot tourist destination with beautiful weather year-round. It is home to the banana daiquiri (available with or without alcohol) and drivers need to go on the left side of the road. It's a perfect spot for shopping, water sports, culinary adventures, nightlife, and so much more. Because it's an older island, there are plenty of historical landmarks and other sights to see while you're visiting. So pack light, bring your passport, and dive right into the top seven things to do on the island of St. Thomas below.

Magens Bay beach on St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

Go Beach-Hopping


The number one thing to do on your trip is to see many of the fantastic beaches around the island. After all, this is likely one of the main reasons you're visiting in the first place (other than to enjoy the gorgeous weather). But with so many options to choose from, where do you go first? If there isn't a beach close to where you're staying, take the drive to Magens Bay, one of the top beaches in the world. It's well-trafficked and for good reason. It's clean and pristine with beautiful clear blue waters and a stunning view. Don't want to go into the water? Check out the hiking trails for a spectacular view. Because it's the most popular beach on the island, it does get crowded so go early in the morning or later in the evening, or visit on a non-cruise ship day. For more info, my full ode can be read here.


Other beaches to check out are Hull Bay Beach, Coki Point Beach, and Sapphire Beach. The remote Hull Bay Beach is less easy to get to but it's worth it if you want to venture into the water or sunbathe on the beach without a crowd. There are, unfortunately, plans to further develop Hull Bay Beach and you'll see many signs put up by locals on your way in.

99 Steps in downtown Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas

Explore Charlotte Amalie


The capital city is a destination in its own right. You can visit historic sites like the St. Thomas Synanagogue, which is the second oldest in the United States having been constructed in 1833, or Fort Christian, built in the late 17th century. The town also has a lengthy history of pirates, the evidence of which can be found in this post. At the top of the 99 Steps landmark (which is actually 102/103 steps depending on how you count!) is Blackbeard's Castle. I also recommend checking out the Charlotte Amalie Overlook, which brings us to our next must-do.

View of St. Thomas from the Paradise Point Overlook

Ride the Skyride to Paradise Point


For one of the best views of St. Thomas and the surrounding islands, take the ride up to the Paradise Point lookout. It takes less than 10 minutes and you'll get stunning views of Historic Downtown Charlotte Amalie, the surrounding harbor, and Puerto Rico and the British Virgin Island of St. Croix on a clear day. There's also a bistro restauant if you get hungry so stop by for lunch and great photo opps. If you don't want to pay the $24.95 USD tram ride fee for adults ($16.95 USD for children), you can drive up all the way if you have a car.

View from Drake's Seat Overlook, St. Thomas

Visit Drake's Seat


For more incredible panoramic island views, drive up to Drake's Seat on your way to or from Magens Bay. It's so-named after explorer Sir Francis Drak, and though it hasn't been confirmed that he used this as a vantage point to keep an eye on pirate ships, it's a popular belief that he did. This lookout point is on the Northside of the island and you'll see Magens Bay, the surrounding islands, and St. John. It's not frequently visited; there's a roadside pullover with a sign and across the street, there's a forest green bench labeled "Drake's Seat" where you can sit and watch for incoming ships or just take in the views. Come at night for a gorgeous sunset.


Shop


This one is self-explanatory. St. Thomas is home to some of the best shopping across the islands, especially if you're looking for jewelry. And if you're looking to shop, Charlotte Amalie is the place to go. There are local markets you can explore and if you disappear down alleys that still have the original Dutch colonial architecture, you'll find hole-in-the-wall restaurants and bargains to be had. I recommend leaving with a pair of earrings or a ring featuring blue bit, a mineral that is home to St. Thomas, or Larimar, which is only found in the Caribbean.


Hang Out in Red Hook


Outside of Charlotte Amalie, Red Hook is one of the best places to find good food, bars, and shops. Take a stroll along the marina and grab dinner, or go on a fishing or boating excursion. It's a quaint town to hang out in if you've already exhausted everything in Charlotte Amalie or where you're staying or you can do the next (and final) thing on the list.

View of ferry at Cruz Bay port, St. John

Take The Ferry To St. John


While you're in the Red Hook area, hop on a ferry and visit the U.S. Virgin Island of St. John. You'll land in Cruz Bay, one of two major hubs on the island, and you'll be within walking distance to cute shops and eateries. Explore the many beaches or visit the bays to go snorkeling, and then grab a bite to eat.


Did I miss anything? Let me know in the comments down below!


Before you leave: if you're a vegan traveler, check out my Vegan Food Guide to St. Thomas.

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