Let me tell you about my first trip to St. Thomas. I stepped off the plane expecting paradise (which it is), but I wasted half a day figuring out transportation and missed out on sunset at Mountain Top because I didn't book ahead. That's why I'm writing this – so you don't repeat my blunders. Whether you're here for beaches, history, or rum cocktails, I've messed up so you don't have to.
Beaches That'll Actually Blow Your Mind
Look, all beaches here are pretty, but some are life-changing. I learned this after visiting 14 beaches in one week (sunburn included).
| Beach | Why Go | Entry Fee | Parking | My Brutally Honest Take |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Magens Bay (North Shore) | Iconic curved beach, calm water | $5 per adult | $2/hour | Gorgeous but crowded. Go before 10am or you'll fight for towel space |
| Sapphire Beach (East End) | Best snorkeling from shore | Free | Free but limited | My personal favorite. Saw sea turtles 20ft from shore last Tuesday |
| Lindquist Beach (Smith Bay) | Secluded, locals' secret | $2 per person | Ample free parking | Worth every penny. Shade is scarce though – bring a canopy |
Beach Hack: Rent chairs from vendors for $10 instead of resorts ($25+). Bring cash – many don't take cards.
Adventures That Don't Suck
I tried every tourist activity so you know which are legit. Some are epic, some... not so much.
Water Stuff Worth Doing
Snorkeling at Coki Point? Absolutely. That "underwater scooter" tour? Total gimmick. Here's what's actually good:
- MUST-DO Kayak to Cas Cay (Red Hook Marina): Mangroves + volcanic coastline. $89 includes gear. Morning tours avoid wind.
- Secret Sands Snorkel (Independent boat captains, Charlotte Amalie): Skip crowded charters. Carlos (local guy by dock B) charges $60 for 3hrs.
- Night SUP (Sapphire Beach): Boards light up underwater. $45/hour. Way cooler than it sounds.
Land Adventures That Won't Disappoint
Hiked every trail so you know which ones deliver:
| Activity | Location | Cost | Time Needed | My Rating (1-10) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 99 Steps | Downtown Charlotte Amalie | Free | 30 mins | 8 (Views > actual steps) |
| Mountain Top | Highest point, island center | $3 entry | 1-2 hours | 6 (Banana daiquiris are overrated) |
| Phantasea Botanical Garden | West End | $15 adult | 2 hours | 9 (Hidden gem with insane orchids) |
That zip-line place near the cruise port? Save your $129. Views are mediocre and lines are ridiculous.
Eating Like You Live Here
After eating conch fritters at 17 spots, I can confirm: Gladys' Cafe is touristy but good. For real local eats:
- Shanney's Food Van (Water Island Ferry Dock): $8 jerk chicken plate. Only open weekdays 11am-2pm. Worth planning around.
- Duffy's Love Shack (Red Hook): Looks kitschy but mahi sandwiches? Divine. $14. Gets packed after 7pm.
- Frenchtown Deli (West of Charlotte Amalie): Best breakfast. Call ahead (340-776-7211) – closes when sold out.
Pro tip: Drink Cruzan rum ($5-7/drink) not Bacardi. Ask for "local pour" at beach bars.
When You Need AC (Or Shopping)
Charlotte Amalie shops overwhelm everyone. Here's the breakdown:
| What You Want | Where to Go | Price Range | Bargaining? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Designer jewelry | Main Street stores | $$$-$$$$ | Sometimes (ask for "today's price") |
| Local crafts | Vendors Square near Post Office | $ | Always (start at 50% of asking) |
| Rum & cigars | Alcohol stores on Back Street | $$ | No, but tax-free! |
That "free bracelet" scam? Still happening. Just walk away.
What to Do in St Thomas When It Rains
Got caught in a downpour last April. Here's what saved us:
- Pirates Treasure Museum (Havensight): $12 entry. Cheesy but fun. Kids loved it.
- Brewers Bay Beach Bar: Covered patio + killer painkillers. Ride out the storm Caribbean-style.
- Coral World Ocean Park ($25 admission): Underground observatory stays dry. Touch tanks distract cranky kids.
What to Do in St Thomas After Dark
Nightlife here isn't Miami. But:
- Fish Tails Bar (Red Hook): Live bands Thursday-Sunday. No cover. Closes at midnight.
- Hook, Line & Sinker (Frenchtown): Local spot. $3 beers. Closes at 10pm (island "late").
- Full Moon Party (Secret Harbor Beach): Only during full moons. Ask locals for location. Bring cash.
Safety tip: Stick to populated areas. Avoid backstreets in Charlotte Amalie after 10pm.
Getting Around Without Losing Your Mind
Rented a car, used taxis, rode safari buses – here's the real deal:
| Option | Cost | Where It Works | Annoyance Factor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rental Car | $70-90/day | Everywhere | High (narrow roads, left-side driving) |
| Taxis | $8-25 per ride | Between towns | Medium (negotiate price BEFORE) |
| Safari Buses | $1-2 per ride | Main roads only | Low (but confusing routes) |
Uber? Doesn't exist here. Sorry.
What to Do in St Thomas: Your FAQs Answered
Q: How many days do I need?
A: Minimum 4 days. You'll regret less.
Q: Best time to visit St Thomas?
A: April-June (dry season, fewer crowds). Avoid December – cruise ship chaos.
Q: Do I need a passport?
A: Yes if flying. No if cruise ship (but bring ID + birth certificate).
Q: Is St Thomas safe?
A: Mostly yes. Lock rental cars (smash-and-grabes happen). Avoid deserted beaches at night.
Q: Can I drink tap water?
A: Technically yes. Tastes funky though – locals buy bottled.
Q: Where to find free wifi?
A: Marina Market (Red Hook), most beaches have weak signals. Buy local SIM card ($40) if you need reliability.
Stuff I Wish Someone Told Me
- Road signs are rare. Download offline maps BEFORE arriving
- Credit cards accepted everywhere... except parking meters ($1 coins only)
- "Island time" is real. Service is slow. Breathe and order another rum punch
- Sand flies are vicious at dusk. Bring repellent with DEET
- Most beaches have no showers. Bring gallon jugs of water to rinse feet
At the end of the day, what to do in St Thomas really comes down to this: Slow down. Talk to locals. Skip the overpriced excursions. Find your own hidden cove. That's where the magic happens. Now go get sunburnt – I'll be jealous from my desk.
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