A Caribbean island with white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. Home to Fort Christian, a 17th-century Danish fortress, and popular for snorkeling and sailing.
Saint Thomas, a 32-square-mile island in the U.S. Virgin Islands, draws visitors with its Caribbean charm. You can relax on Magens Bay's white-sand beach, shop for duty-free goods on Charlotte Amalie's Main Street, or learn about the island's past at Fort Christian. From the top of Mountain Top, you'll see panoramic views of the surrounding islands. With its warm climate and easy entry for U.S. citizens, Saint Thomas is popular among both cruise ship passengers and longer-stay travelers.
Beaches and Water Activities
Saint Thomas has several beaches with clear waters. At Magens Bay, a mile-long crescent of white sand, you can swim in calm waters or try paddleboarding. Coki Beach is ideal for snorkeling, where you can observe fish just a few feet from shore. If you prefer a quieter spot, head to Secret Harbour, which has good conditions for snorkeling and diving.
Charlotte Amalie
Charlotte Amalie, the capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands, sits on the southern coast of Saint Thomas. The city's harbor, set in an extinct volcano crater, receives cruise ships daily. On Main Street, you'll find hundreds of duty-free shops selling jewelry, electronics, and local crafts. For a taste of history, climb the 99 Steps, a staircase built in the 1700s using bricks from Danish ships. At the top, you'll see Blackbeard's Castle, a watchtower linked to the island's pirate lore.
Historical Landmarks
Fort Christian, built in the 17th century, is the oldest structure in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The red fort now houses a museum about the island's history. Nearby, you can visit the second-oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere, which reflects the island's varied cultural influences. At the Pirates Treasure Museum, you can learn about the area's maritime past through interactive exhibits and artifacts.
Natural Sights and Viewpoints
For a bird's-eye view of the island and surrounding waters, take the Skyride aerial tram to Paradise Point. The observation deck, 700 feet above sea level, looks out over Charlotte Amalie and the harbor. From Drake's Seat, a lookout on the island's north side, you can see Magens Bay and the British Virgin Islands in the distance. At Coral World Ocean Park, you can observe marine life up close in aquariums and touch pools.
Getting Around
You can rent a car to explore Saint Thomas, but keep in mind that driving is on the left side of the road. Taxis are plentiful, including open-air "safari" trucks with bench seating that operate like shared buses. For trips to nearby islands, ferries run regularly from Charlotte Amalie and Red Hook to places like Saint John and the British Virgin Islands.
Local Cuisine
Saint Thomas offers both Caribbean and international dining options. Try local dishes like kallaloo (a spinach-like soup), fungi (a cornmeal side dish), and fresh seafood. Gladys' Café in Charlotte Amalie serves West Indian cuisine in a casual setting. For meals with a view, consider restaurants like Mafolie Restaurant or The Terrace on the Hill.
Practical Information
The U.S. dollar is the currency, and English is the primary language. U.S. citizens don't need a passport to visit, but it's helpful to bring one for identification. The weather is warm year-round, with average temperatures between 77°F (25°C) in winter and 82°F (28°C) in summer. Hurricane season runs from June to November, so check weather reports if traveling during these months.
