Curator’s statement
I've been going to St. Thomas and surrounding islands twice a year for 40 plus years. It's special due to it's history, culture, people, beaches, restaurants and much more. I feel it's the nicest set of beaches easily reachable often direct flights from the US in just a few hours. It's the perfect balance of do nothing, pool beach every other day or fill your every day with boating, snorkling, night kayaking, diving, island hopping, skyride to Paradise Point and more! Eco friendly camping on St. John too, just a 20 minute ferry ride away.
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Things to do on St. Thomas
By far my number one activity is spending the day at Megan's Bay Beach. It is often named one of the 10 best beaches in the world. It's a heart-shaped bay. Amenities include chair and float rentals, restaurant, bar and clean restroom/changing rooms.
Next, check out the day boat sail. Take a catamaran or power boat depending on where you want to go. Choices include sail/snorkel over to St. John. See some snorkel stops on beautiful beaches often not accessible by car. Check out the Baths at Virgin Gorda.Take a full-day power boat out of American Yacht Haven in Redhook with additional stops in the BVIs including lunch! Although you don't yet need your passport for the USVI, always bring as BVIs gorgeous and literally only a 30 minute ferry to some.
Try night kayaking and night diving for the adventurous! Shop in downtown Charlotte Amalie. This is a must. There are no taxes, so there are incredible buys on jewelry, designer clothes, watches, linens and more. While in town, be sure to do the 99 Steps, St Thomas Synagogue and Pisarro museum in town.
Take the Skyride to Paradise Point and dine at the wonderful steakhouse at the top. Views best on islands and Prime Steakhouse never disappoints great for special occasions and groups. Enjoy some island-hopping via ferries and charters to St. John.
Places to eat & drink on St. Thomas
Prime at Paradise Point: Upscale steakhouse, exceptional food & service, killer views.
Oceana: Wonderful, creative cuisine, local seafood, steaks, good for vegetarians. Go early and enjoy the beautiful bar for a drink prior and don't skip dessert.
Amalia Cafe: Gorgeous open-air Spanish-themed restaurant in historic Palm Passage go after shopping for a refreshing drink and lunch.
Old Stone Farmhouse: Not to be missed! Take a taxi as it's hard to find on the Northside, near the closed golf course. It is a beautiful property, a 200 year-old restored plantation field house. It was a Danish Sugar Plantation, probably the best architecture of the era. There is a beautiful bar, courtyard and multiple quaint dining rooms. There are creative nightly specials. The Governor often dines here and there are many charity events, so book early.
Sunset Grille is at Secret Harbour Condominiums. There are two sides and one great for after beach. If you're in Redhook, stay on the East End of the island. Spend the morning at Linquist Beach, my second favorite, then hit Sunset's casual side for lunch. Or the dinner side is in my top three dining spots on island, for open-air views, service, creative, fresh seafood and a great wine list.
Speaking of Linquist Beach, when have you ever seen a Pizza Boat delivery? Well, Pizza Pi is just that! The best pizza in the Caribbean, the world's only sailboat pizzeria.
One more in town I can't leave out, Glady's Cafe, authentic Caribbean dishes, attracts more locals than tourists. Wonderful breakfast before hitting the shops or walking the 99 steps.
Need to know
Local islanders are very friendly and always speak saying good morning or good afternoon is expected and will get a lovely response.
Beach attire is not welcome in town, so always wear a dress or shorts when in town or going in to shops, be respectful.
Taxis are plentiful and rates are published. My best tip is find one you like, get their card and use them for the entire vacation. This is a great tip for many worldwide locations.
If going to dinner, preset a pickup time back to your hotel. If you decide to rent a car, they must be rented very far in advance, sometimes a year as visitors like me go often and many annual timeshare owners.
Dinner reservations are necessary. Generally make them 30 days before.
St. Thomas is the world's busiest cruise ship port. Avoid going downtown on the 4/5 ship days. It's too crowded, so check the newspaper/magazine or internet for ship schedules.
Lastly don't miss going to Yacht Haven Grande, it's where the really expensive yachts dock. Think Oprah, Larry Ellison, Mrs. Walton. It's the luxury brand shopping area, with great open-air restaurants.
Travel Advisor
Janice Nearenbell
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