In contrast to the British Virgin Islands, the US Virgin Islands comprise of solely three islands, with St. Thomas being the most renowned.
This mountainous, idyllic island with its white sand beaches and shimmering bays attracts thousands of visitors each year and is the perfect holiday destination for those who appreciate island living. Saint Thomas boasts near-perfect weather year-round and offers the perfect combination of a cosmopolitan and sophisticated atmosphere.
In Charlotte Amalie, the capital of the islands, one can experience a wealth of shopping and dining opportunities, as well as a vibrant nightlife scene. The island is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Visitors can fill their time with kayaking, going on a snorkeling tour, windsurfing, sailing, scuba diving, or merely pick the perfect spot on the beach and enjoy the warming rays of the Caribbean sun. Additionally, the island is home to a wide variety of sea life and tropical plants for those who love nature.
It’s easy to see why Saint Thomas is a prime holiday destination for people all around the world. Keep reading to discover a list of all the must-see attractions to add to your Saint Thomas itinerary.
The 28 Most Popular Things To Do In Saint Thomas
28. Mango Tango Art Gallery
4.8 (25 reviews)
Credit: Philip Reiche, Google Maps
Location: 4003 Dorothy “Dotsy” Lockhart Elskoe Dr, Raphune, St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands
Tel: 340 777 3060
Web Address: http://mangotangoart.com/
The Mango Tango Art Gallery is one of the best St. Thomas attractions for lovers of all things beautiful. Since it’s beginnings in the late 80s and 90s, the gallery has held six shows each month to showcase meaningful fine art by a wide variety of artists.
Additionally, the gallery sells original works by artists, art prints, cards, and historical maps – ideal for souvenir shopping.
27. Neltjeberg Bay
5.0 (28 reviews)
Location: St Thomas 00802, USVI
Often considered one of the hidden gems in St. Thomas, Neltjeberg Bay has one of the best and most secluded beaches on the island. This quiet beach forms a perfect half-moon, with soft golden sand and a light surf. It offers a welcome respite after a busy day of sightseeing.
Keep in mind that you would need to bring your own food and drinks, as this secluded beach is undeveloped.
26. The Virgin Islands Children’s Museum
4.7 (57 reviews)
Credit: The Virgin Islands Children’s Museum, Google Maps
Location: Buccaneer Mall, Rte 30, St. Thomas, St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands
Tel: 340 643 0366
Web Address: http://vichildrensmuseum.org/
The Virgin Islands Children’s Museum (VICM) is an educational and interactive space ideal for families visiting St. Thomas.
The Museum hosts a variety of child-friendly programs, such as Toddler Tuesday and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Additionally, there is a wide range of events held all throughout the year, making sure you’re young ones are well-entertained.
25. Frenchtown Brewing Company
4.9 (58 reviews)
Credit: Frenchtown Brewing Company, Google Maps
Location: St Thomas, 24A Honduras, Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands
Tel: 340 642 2800
Web Address: http://frenchtownbrewing.com/
This three-barrel nano-brewery opened in 2015 and specializes in craft beer. It draws visitors from all over the world looking to try an authentic “island hopped” beer. Located in Hop Alley, Frenchtown offers both seasonal brews and house favorites. Frenchtown beers can also be found served in restaurants across St. Thomas.
Visitors to the brewery can also get a refillable stainless steel cup, ideal for use on one of the island’s stunning beaches.
24. Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral
4.7 (61 reviews)
Credit: Thank You (22.5 Millions+) views, License, Flickr
Location: 21-22 Kronprindsens Gade, Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands
Tel: 340 774 0201
Web Address: http://cathedralvi.org/
This historic church is one of the most stunning in the Caribbean, and is considered a national historic landmark.
It also functions as the seat of the St. Thomas’ Diocese and the mother church. The interior of the cathedral is especially worth seeing, with stunning artwork and beautiful stained-glass windows.
It is an ideal attraction for art and history lovers, and an excellent addition to your itinerary if you’re planning to explore the lovely village of Charlotte Amalie.
23. Secret Harbour Beach Resort
4.5 (73 reviews)
Location: St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands
Secret Harbour Beach Resort is the ideal place for relaxation and rejuvenation. The resort is ideal for families, with world-class amenities and a spacious beachfront. Here, visitors can enjoy the clean, clear water and soft sand, making it a great spot for swimming. It also doubles as an ideal honeymoon beach for couples.
The amenities include WiFi, a fitness center, and a swimming pool. Guests can dine at the restaurant and bar or go on boating excursions. There is also the option of renting snorkel gear or scuba diving equipment.
22. Plantation Crown and Hawk Botanical Garden
4.0 (83 reviews)
Credit: Manoj Yadav, Google Maps
Location: 2-A Estate Crown and Hawk, St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands
Tel: 340 776 0041
Web Address: http://plantationbotanicalgarden.com/
If you’re fond of nature, be sure to stop by Plantation Crown and Hawk Botanical Garden on your trip to St. Thomas. It is one of the island’s newer attractions, and offers visitors a chance to explore the lush, tropical forest. The garden is located on the estate of a five-and-a-half-acre sugar plantation, which dates back to the late 1700s.
Here, visitors can enjoy an orchid garden, a waterfall, stunning views from the deck, tours of a sugar mill, and souvenir shopping in the gift shop.
21. Mermaid’s Chair
4.5 (108 reviews)
Credit: Matt Wade, License, Flickr
Location: 2-A Estate Crown and Hawk, St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands
Mermaid’s Chair, named after a large chair-shaped rock jutting out from its turquoise waters, is one of the best beaches in St. Thomas. It offers excellent hiking and snorkeling opportunities, as well as soft sand for sunbathing.
Mermaid’s Chair can be reached by snorkeling, boating, kayaking, or hiking. However, it is recommended to reach it via the ocean as the hiking trails are not maintained well, and the rocky areas can be dangerous.
20. VI Jet Boat Tours
4.9 (109 reviews)
Tel: 340 775 9360
Web Address: http://vijetboat.com/
If you’re looking for something more adventurous on your trip to St. Thomas, be sure to try out a VI Jet Boat Tour. Visitors can experience all the thrill and exhilaration that comes with plowing through the water at high speeds, making sharp turns, and fishtailing. These tours are also ideal for history lovers, as the captain stops at various local points of interest and historical sights.
19. Little Magens Beach
4.7 (121 reviews)
Credit: Liz Faulk, Google Maps
Location: 8168 Crown Bay Marina, Suite 505, Charlotte Amalie, 00802, US Virgin Islands
This area forms part of the larger Magens Bay. Little Magens is made up of a few small coves, with soft white sand and turquoise water. It can be accessed via the larger Magens Bay and offers a more secluded area for swimming and sunbathing.
Another attraction to this little beach is that it is considered clothing-optional and gay-friendly. However, keep in mind that public nudity is prohibited in the U.S. Virgin Islands. This means that foregoing your clothing at Little Magens Bay, is at your own risk.
18. New Horizons & Breakaway Charters
4.5 (131 reviews)
Credit: Tori Cutlip, Google Maps
Location: 6720 Estate Smith Bay, St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands
Tel: 340 775 1171
Web Address: http://toursandwatersportsinthevirginislands.com/
If you’re fond of adventure and exploring, be sure to try out New Horizons & Breakaway Charters while you’re in St. Thomas. It is an excellent way to explore this tropical island, and visitors have a chance to go snorkeling. There is an open bar, and the charter provides breakfast and lunch – ideal for a full day of activities.
17. Cruise Ship Excursions
4.6 (139 reviews)
Location: Suite 315 Building 3 Havensight Mall U.S., Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands
Tel: 340 775 5055
Web Address: http://cruiseshipexcursions.com/
If you’re visiting St. Thomas Island on a cruise, you may be looking for a cruise excursion to enjoy. There are various options to choose from, each well worth trying. These include kayaking, snorkeling, touring turtle cove in search of sea turtles, and sailing.
Booking an excursion is an excellent way of seeing more of the area and soaking up the rich culture of island living.
16. Sapphire Beach
4.5 (160 reviews)
Location: Smith Bay, St Thomas 00801, US Virgin Islands
Nestled on the Eastern coast of the island, Sapphire Beach is a spacious area with white, fine sand and calm waters. Here, visitors can go snorkeling to view tropical fish and beautiful coral reefs. Sapphire Beach is also considered an excellent area for windsurfing, and offers a wide variety of bars and restaurants to replenish your energy after a busy day.
15. Lindbergh Bay Beach
4.5 (216 reviews)
Credit: Viktoriia Bielkova, Google Maps
Location: Rte 302, Charlotte Amalie West, St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands
Web Address: http://stthomasusvi.thebeach.vi/lindbergh-beach.html
Another excellent hidden gem and a must-visit in St. Thomas is Lindbergh Bay Beach. There is a floating obstacle course and the option to go on jet ski rides. And, for those looking for something more relaxing, the is soft sand, calm water, and many curious tropical fish. This is also one of the best areas to collect seashells that wash onto the shore.
Refreshments are also available for purchase right on the beach, making it a great spot to spend the entire day.
14. Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden
4.7 (222 reviews)
Credit: Rita Gonzalez, Google Maps
Location: 7D-5, ST THOMAS, VI 00802, US Virgin Islands
Tel: 340 774 2916
Web Address: http://stthomasbotanicalgarden.com/
Another great attraction for visiting nature lovers in St. Thomas is the Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden. The garden offers great views of the surrounding area, such as Magens Bay, St. John, Tortola, and the cruise harbor. It is also home to some of the most stunning flora in the world, with lush orchids and bromeliads.
On average, visits to the 2-acre property last around an hour, and snacks and drinks can be purchased on site. The garden also sells air plants and orchids in bloom.
13. Fort Christian
4.5 (256 reviews)
Location: St. Thomas, Forts Straede, Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands
Tel: 340 714 3678
Web Address: http://nps.gov/nr/travel/prvi/pr29.htm
Dating back to the late 1600s, this Dano-Norwegian-style historic building is a great attraction for any history lover visiting St. Thomas. This stunning piece of architecture plays host to the St. Thomas Museum, which houses historical artifacts and artwork from the Dano-Norwegian era. In the late 70s, the site was declared a National Historic Landmark.
Additionally, if you’re fond of exploring, Fort Christian is located in Charlotte Amalie – a charming little village with a lot to offer visiting tourists.
12. Pirates Treasure Museum
4.7 (277 reviews)
Credit: Visit USVI, Google Maps
Location: 17-1 Estate Thomas St. Thomas Virgin Islands VI, St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands
Tel: 340 775 9575
Web Address: https://piratemuseumstthomas.com/
Experience the interactive, hands-on exhibitions at the Pirate Treasure Museum and learn more about the fascinating artifacts found through deep-sea exploration. There is a wide range of objects to be enjoyed, such as authentic coins from shipwrecks and model ships.
This whimsical museum offers the perfect combination of history and legend, and makes for an ideal outing for the whole family.
11. Emancipation Garden
4.3 (300 reviews)
Location: Charlotte Amalie Street Thomas U S Virgin Islands
Dating back to the mid-1800s, the park and garden was built to celebrate the emancipation from slavery (as its name may suggest). The park features a beautiful bronze statue of a freed man joyfully blowing into a shell, as well as a Liberty Bell replica.
The area surrounding the garden also plays host to various other historic buildings, such as the Government House and Emancipation Garden Post Office. Additionally, there is a gazebo where live performances and concerts are held on a regular basis.
10. Tree Limin’ Extreme Zipline St. Thomas
4.9 (460 reviews)
Credit: Tree Limin’ Extreme Zipline St. Thomas, Google Maps
Location: 7406 St Peter Mountain Rd, Saint Peter, St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands
Tel: 340 777 9477
Web Address: http://ziplinestthomas.com/
If you’re looking for family-friendly fun and excitement, Tree Limin’ Extreme Zipline is the place to be. This amusement park is home to large ziplines that travel through the lush rainforest, and stunning views of the island and ocean from its many platforms. In fact, these stunning views have been ranked among the top ten views in the world by National Geographic. It is well worth a visit.
9. Parasail Virgin Islands
4.9 (494 reviews)
Credit: Parasail Virgin Islands, Google Maps
Location: Sapphire Beach Marina Slip #N20 6720 Estate Smith Bay, St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands
Tel: 340 227 8303
Web Address: http://parasailvirginislands.com/
Parasailing is a unique and fun activity, and one of the best ways to take in beautiful views of the Virgin Islands. With Parasail U.S. Virgin Islands, visitors take flight from the Sapphire Beach Marina to go on an unforgettable experience in the air. It is also safe for children, making it a great family-friendly activity to enjoy on a day out in St. Thomas.
8. Charlotte Amalie Overlook
4.8 (891 reviews)
Credit: Joe Lin, License, Wikimedia Commons
Location: 932G+48F, Hospital Ground, St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands
Another great hidden treasure in St. Thomas, enjoyed by travelers and locals alike, is the Charlotte Amalie overlook. It is especially popular around sunset when the views of the surrounding hillside and ocean docks are at their most stunning. Here, visitors can enjoy drums being played live and souvenir shopping. It is also one of the stops along many tours, which can be a great option if you’re looking for something more informative.
Our Top picks
7. Bluebeard’s Castle
4.2 (399 reviews)
Credit: Bluebeards Castle, Google Maps
Tel: 340 774 1600
Web Address: https://bluebeards-castle.com/
Bluebeard’s Castle is both a resort and a 17th Century historical landmark in St. Thomas. The centuries old fortress was named after the famous pirate “Bluebeard”, but today the resort covers a large stretch of land on a hilltop. This offers visitors staying in one of its villas stunning views of the ocean and surrounding village.
The resort is also home to many amenities, including The Castle Gastropub, a café and pool bar, a coffee shop and deli, as well as a large pool deck.
6. Lindquist Beach
4.7 (566 reviews)
Location: St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands
One of the most beautiful and pristine beaches you will find on St. Thomas Island is Lindquist Beach. With its crystal-clear water and fine white sand, it is also one of the most popular. It is ideal for swimming and water sports, such as kayaking or paddleboarding.
However, there are several quiet, shaded spots if you’re looking for somewhere to relax or have a picnic. Additionally, Lindquist Beach has shallower areas with wade pools, ideal for families traveling with younger kids.
5. Drake’s Seat
4.8 (699 reviews)
Credit: Shanna Bailey, Google Maps
Location: 933F+44Q, Rte 37, St. Thomas, St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands
Web Address: http://vinow.com/stt/stt-a/general/drakes-seat/
Named after Sir Francis Drake, who is said to have frequented the area, Drake’s Seat is one of the island’s most popular lookout points. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding island as well as Magens Bay. It is an ideal place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
However, keep in mind that parking can be limited, and it could be best to arrive early.
4. Skyride to Paradise Point
4.5 (1,341 reviews)
Credit: Skyride to Paradise Point, Google Maps
Location: 9617 Estate Thomas Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands
And, if you’re fond of vantage points, why not make use of the Skyride? This aerial tram takes visitors all the way to the top of Paradise Point, where they can enjoy views from seven hundred feet above sea level. The Skyride itself takes less than ten minutes.
Once there, Paradise Point offers even more than just its breathtaking views. It is also home to restaurants and a bar, as well as opportunities for souvenir shopping.
3. Coral World Ocean Park
4.4 (1,410 reviews)
Location: 6450 Coki Point, St Thomas, Virgin Islands 00802, US Virgin Islands
Tel: 340 775 1555
Web Address: http://coralworldvi.com/
One of the must-add itinerary activities on any island trip is an aquarium. Coral World Ocean Park, located next to Coki Beach, is a marine park where visitors can enjoy things such as feeding sea turtles, watching seals do tricks, or scuba diving with dolphins! It is an excellent way to get up close to some of the beautiful ocean life the area has to offer.
Coral World Ocean Park is also a great attraction for families.
2. Coki Point Beach (Coki Beach)
4.6 (1,490 reviews)
Location: Coki Point Rd, St Thomas, 00802, US Virgin Islands
Web Address: http://stthomasusvi.thebeach.vi/coki-point-beach.html
As mentioned, Coki Beach (or Coki Point Beach) sits nestled against Coral World Ocean Park. It is one of the island’s most beloved beaches and is well known for its excellent snorkeling opportunities. It is free to access and home to refreshment stands, which means that visitors can easily spend a whole day there.
The beach has a vibrant, lively atmosphere. However, if you are not fond of crowds, it can be better to visit early in order to secure a spot and avoid the times of day when it gets busy.
1. Magens Bay Beach
4.7 (3,348 reviews)
Credit: Martin Stiburek, License, Flickr
Location: St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands
Web Address: http://magensbayauthority.com/
Located on the Northern side of the island, Magens Bay is perhaps the most popular beach in St. Thomas. It is a protected area, known for its iconic horseshoe shape and large stretch of golden sand. The area is popular among locals and visitors alike for its picnic, sunbathing, and watersport opportunities.
Besides water-based activities like swimming, this beach is also a great place to go hiking along its various trails. Here, visitors can enjoy stunning scenic views of the hillside and ocean, as well as view some of the local wildlife.
Final Words:
Thank you for reading our list of the best things to do in Saint Thomas, Us Virgin Islands! We hope it helped you plan the perfect itinerary for your next trip to this fantastic destination. Happy travels!
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