7 St Thomas Tourist Places: How To Make The Best Of Paradise

Cruise port guests looking for a quick but special escape to a tropical Eden should consider St Thomas in the Caribbean. With its pretty beaches, lush forests, and rich cultural legacy. This island has everything you need for the ideal day ashore. In this ultimate travel guide, we’ll take you on a tour of the best tourist places St Thomas has to offer. From the world-famous Magens Bay Beach to the historic Fort Christian, there’s something for everyone in this Caribbean Eden.

Overview of St Thomas, United States Virgin Islands

St Thomas is one of the three main islands that make up the U.S. Virgin Islands. Located in the Caribbean Sea, it’s a popular destination for travelers seeking sun, sand, and relaxation. The island boasts a rich past, diverse culture, and many things to do so enjoy.

1. Magens Bay Beach: A Slice Of Heaven On Earth

Location and distance from St Thomas Cruise Port

Magens Bay Beach, considered one of the best beaches near the cruise port, is just a 20-minute drive from the St Thomas Cruise Port.

Best Time To Visit Magens Bay Beach

The best time to visit Magens Bay Beach is during the dry season. Starting in December to April when the weather is sunny and pleasant. However, the beach can be quite packed during this peak season, so if you prefer a quieter time, consider staying during the cooler months of November or May.

Beach Conditions

Magens Bay Beach is known for its calm waters and soft, white sand. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking. Snorkeling is also possible, although the marine life is not as much as at other St Thomas beaches.

Top 5 Amenities List

1. Lifeguards
2. Restrooms and changing facilities
3. Beach chair and umbrella rentals
4. Water sports gear rentals
5. Beach bar and cafe

List of Nearby Places For Tourist to Dine in St Thomas

1. Magens Bay Beach Bar & Grill
2. Udder Delight
3. RooT 42 Bar and Grill
4. Charlo’s Cuisine
5. Sibs on the Mountain

History and Culture

Magens Bay Beach has been a favorite spot for both locals and tourists for decades. It was once a part of the Magens family estate and was later donated to the people of the Virgin Islands for public use. This lovely beach has been praised as one of the world’s most scenic beaches and persists to be a popular spot for respite and fun.

Table of Nearby Tourist Beaches And Places With Activities ST Thomas

5 Pros of Magens Bay Beach

1. Beautiful white sand and calm waters
2. Great amenities and facilities
3. Family-friendly climate
4. Easy access from the cruise port
5. A popular spot for weddings and events

5 Cons of Magens Bay Beach

1. Can be crowded during peak season
2. Entry fee required
3. Limited snorkeling options
4. Parking can be difficult during busy times
5. Nearby dining options are limited

2. Coral World Ocean Park: Close-up Encounters

Location and distance from St Thomas Cruise Port

Coral World Ocean Park is located on the east end of St Thomas, about a 30-minute drive from the cruise port. This popular attraction is adjacent to Coki Beach, another beautiful beach worth exploring.

Best Time To Visit Coral World Ocean Park

The park is open year-round, but the best time to see is is during the dry season from December to April. During this time, the weather is sunny and the park’s outdoor activities are more enjoyable.

Top 5 Amenities List

1. Marine exhibits and underwater observatory
2. Touch pool and shark encounters
3. Dolphin Splash and turtle encounter
4. Semi-submarine and snorkeling excursions
5. Gift shops and dining options

List of Nearby Places For Tourist to Dine in St Thomas

1. Dushi’s by the sea
2. The Green House Bar & Restaurant
3. Vinny’s Food Cart & Catering
4. Amalia Café
5. Coco Blue

History and Culture

Coral World Ocean Park opened in 1978, offering visitors a unique chance to explore the sea life and ecosystems of the Caribbean. The park has since grown its offerings, including educational programs, animal encounters, and conservation initiatives, making it a vital destination for those interested in in learning more about the ocean.

Table of Nearby Tourist Beaches And Places With Activities ST Thomas

5 Pros of Coral World Ocean Park

1. Unique marine exhibits and experiences
2. Family-friendly and educational
3. Options for close-up encounters with sea life
4. Lovely location near Coki Beach
5. Supports local conservation efforts

5 Cons of Coral World Ocean Park

1. Entry fee can be pricey
2. Can be crowded during peak season
3. Some exhibits may be under maintenance
4. Limited food options within the park
5. Requires vehicle from the cruise port

3. Fort Christian Rich Historic Past 

Location and distance from St Thomas Cruise Port

Fort Christian is located in Charlotte Amalie, the capital of St Thomas, and is just a short 5-minute walk from the cruise port.

Best Time To Visit Fort Christian

The best time to visit Fort Christian is during the dry season, starting in December to April when the weather is nice and the fort is more likely to be open for visitors.

Top 5 Amenities List

1. Guided tours of the fort
2. Fort Christian Museum
3. Scenic views of Charlotte Amalie harbor
4. Historic exhibits and relics
5. Convenient location near the cruise port

List of Nearby Places For Tourist to Dine in St Thomas

1. Gladys’ Café
2. The Green House Bar & Restaurant
3. Amalia Café
4. Virgilio’s Restaurant
5. Jen’s Island Café and Deli

History and Culture

Fort Christian was built in the 1670s by the Danish government to protect the island’s harbor and serve as a military base. Today, it’s the oldest standing structure in St Thomas and has been converted into a museum showcasing the island’s rich past and culture.

Table of Nearby Tourist Beaches And Places With Activities ST Thomas

5 Pros of Fort Christian

1. A rich past and cultural experience
2. Convenient location near the cruise port
3. Guided tours available
4. Stunning views of the harbor
5. Numerous dining options nearby

5 Cons of Fort Christian

1. Short hours of operation
2. Small museum with few exhibits
3. Not wheelchair accessible
4. It can be crowded during peak season
5. It requires a short walk from the cruise port 

4. Charlotte Amalie A Hub For Local Culture And food

Location and distance from St Thomas Cruise Port

Charlotte Amalie, the capital of St Thomas, is just steps away from the cruise port. This historic city is easily accessible on foot and offers a variety of attractions, shopping, and dining experiences.

Best Time To Visit Charlotte Amalie

The best time to see Charlotte Amalie is during the dry season. Starting in December to April when the weather is nice and ideal for exploring the city.

Top 5 Amenities List

1. Shopping at duty-free stores and local markets
2. Historical sites, including Fort Christian, and Emancipation Garden
3. 99 Steps, a historic staircase offering scenic views
4. Diverse dining options featuring Caribbean and international cuisine
5. Guided tours and excursions

List of Nearby Places For Tourist to Dine in St Thomas

1. The Green House Bar & Restaurant
2. Virgilio’s Restaurant
3. Gladys’ Café
4. Amalia Café
5. Jen’s Island Café and Deli

History and Culture

Charlotte Amalie, named after a Danish queen, has a rich past dating back to the 1600s. The city’s architecture, including its red-roofed buildings and historic forts, reflects its Danish colonial past. Today, it’s a bustling port city, known for its duty-free shopping, historical sites, and vibrant Caribbean atmosphere.

Table of Nearby Tourist Beaches And Places With Activities ST Thomas

5 Pros of Charlotte Amalie

1. Convenient location near St Thomas cruise port
2. Rich past and culture
3. Excellent shopping options
4. Wide variety of dining options
5. Easy access to nearby beaches and attractions

5 Cons of Charlotte Amalie

1. Can be crowded during peak season
2. Limited parking options
3. Some areas may feel touristy
4. Traffic congestion during busy times
5. Pickpocketing and petty theft can be an issue; stay vigilant

5. Frenchtown A Charming Ward With French Roots

Location and distance from St Thomas Cruise Port

Frenchtown is located just west of Charlotte Amalie and is a 5-minute drive or a 20-minute walk from the cruise port. This charming neighborhood is known for its unique Creole architecture, lively air, and excellent dining options.

Best Time To Visit Frenchtown

The best time to visit Frenchtown is during the dry season, from December to April. The pleasant weather makes it enjoyable to stroll through the ward and share its vibrant air.

Top 5 Amenities List

1. Creole architecture and colorful buildings
2. Diverse dining options featuring Caribbean and global cuisine
3. French Heritage Museum
4. Frenchtown Brewing Company
5. Local art galleries and boutiques

List of Nearby Places For Tourist to Dine in St Thomas

1. Oceana Restaurant & Bistro
2. Pie Whole
3. de Frenchtown Bar
4. Twisted Cork Café
5. French Quarter Bistro

History and Culture

Frenchtown was settled by French settlers from the island of St. Barthelemy in the early 19th century. The area still retains its unique Creole and French influences, clear in its building style, culture, and cuisine. It’s now a thriving ward with a lively air, where visitors can enjoy a taste of St Thomas’ French roots.

Table of Nearby Tourist Beaches And Places With Activities ST Thomas

5 Pros of Frenchtown

1. Unique cultural experience
2. Excellent dining options
3. Charming Creole architecture
4. Local art galleries and boutiques
5. Close to Charlotte Amalie and the cruise port

5 Cons of Frenchtown

1. Limited attractions and activities
2. Can be crowded during peak season
3. Limited parking options
4. Not as many shopping options as Charlotte Amalie
5. Requires a short walk or drive from the cruise port

6. Mountain Top A St Thomas tourist Place Breathtaking View

Location and distance from St Thomas Cruise Port

Mountain Top is located on the highest point of St Thomas, about 7 miles from the cruise port. It can be reached by taxi or rental car, and offers dazzling scenic views of the island and the sea.

Best Time To Visit Mountain Top

The best time to visit Mountain Top is during the dry season. Starting in December to April when the skies are clear and the views are at their best.

Top 5 Amenities List

1. Scenic views of St Thomas and nearby islands
2. Mountain Top Banana Daiquiri, a famous local drink
3. Shopping at souvenir and local craft shops
4. Snack bar and picnic area
5. Lookout points and photo options

List of Nearby Places For Tourist to Dine in St Thomas

1. Sibs on the Mountain
2. THE PETITE PUMP ROOM
3. Mafolie Restaurant
4. Stone House Cafe
5. Northside Bistro

History and Culture

Mountain Top has been a popular tourist spot since the 1950s, is known for its lovely views and tasty banana daiquiris. It offers visitors a chance to take in the organic beauty of St Thomas and learn about the island’s past through informative displays.

Table of Nearby Tourist Beaches And Places With Activities ST Thomas

5 Pros of Mountain Top

1. Dazzling scenic views
2. Famous Mountain Top Banana Daiquiri
3. Shopping options for souvenirs and local crafts
4. Educational displays on St Thomas past
5. Close to several beautiful beaches

5 Cons of Mountain Top

1. Requires transportation to reach from the cruise port
2. Can be crowded during peak season
3. Limited dining options on site
4. Not as many activities as other attractions
5. Weather-dependent visibility

7. Hassel Island Mix Of Nature And History

Location and distance from St Thomas Cruise Port

Hassel Island is located in Charlotte Amalie Harbor, about 1.5 miles from the cruise port. Access to the island is primarily by water taxi or kayak.

Best Time To Visit Hassel Island

The best time to visit Hassel Island is during the dry season. Starting in December to April, when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities and exploring the island.

Top 5 Amenities List

1. Historical sites, including Fort Willoughby and Garrison House
2. Hiking trails with scenic views
3. Snorkeling at Careening Cove
4. Guided tours and eco-excursions
5. Wildlife spotting, including birds and iguanas

List of Nearby Places For Tourist to Dine in St Thomas

As there are no dining options on Hassel Island, visitors should plan to eat in nearby Charlotte Amalie or Frenchtown before or after their visit.

History and Culture

Hassel Island has a rich past, with remnants of Danish, British, and American military installations. The island was once a crucial defense point for the harbor and has been a part of the Virgin Islands National Park since 1978.

Table of Nearby Beaches with Activities

5 Pros of Hassel Island

1. Unique historical sites
2. Beautiful hiking trails
3. options for snorkeling and wildlife spotting
4. Guided tours available
5. Close to Charlotte Amalie and the cruise port

5 Cons of Hassel Island

1. Requires transportation by boat
2. No dining options on the island
3. Limited amenities
4. Can be challenging to explore without a guide
5. May not be suitable for those with mobility issues

Which St Thomas Tourist Place Is Better for You?

When deciding which St Thomas tourist place is better for you, consider your interests, likes, and the amount of time you have open. Each location offers unique experiences, from beautiful beaches to historic sites, shopping options, and cultural attractions.

1. If you’re a beach lover, Magens Bay, Coki Point Beach, or Sapphire Beach may be perfect for you.
2. If you’re interested in the past and culture, Charlotte Amalie, Frenchtown, and Hassel Island offer unique insights into the island’s past.
3. For those who enjoy shopping and dining, Charlotte Amalie and Frenchtown provide excellent options.
4. If you’re seeking stunning views and scenic beauty, Mountain Top and Hassel Island are ideal choices.

Ultimately, the best St Thomas tourist place for you will depend on your personal choice and the type of experience you’re looking for during your visit.  

What do you think about St Thomas tourist places?

St Thomas offers a diverse range of tourist attractions, catering to a wide variety of interests. With its beautiful beaches, historic sites, vibrant culture, and organic beauty, there’s truly something for everyone on this Caribbean island.

Hope this guide has given you a wide overview of the best tourist places St Thomas has to offer. With a better understanding of these attractions, you can now plan your visit and make the most of your time ashore.

5 FAQs St Thomas Tourist Places

1. How do I get around St Thomas Tourist places?

There are various transportation options on the island, including taxis, public buses (locally known as “safaris”), rental cars, and guided tours. Be sure to plan your transportation in advance to make the best of your time on the island.

2. Are there any safety concerns for tourist places in St Thomas?

While St Thomas is generally considered safe for tourists, it’s always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your possessions and avoid displaying valuable items. When exploring, stay in well-traveled areas and avoid venturing out alone at night.

3. What currency is used in St Thomas tourist places?

As St Thomas is a part of the United States Virgin Islands, the US dollar is the official currency.

4. Do I as a tourist need a passport to visit places in St Thomas?

US citizens do not require a passport to travel to St Thomas, as it is a US territory. However, a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, is required. Non-US citizens will need a valid passport and may require a visa, depending on their country of origin.

5. As a tourist can I use my US cell phone in most places in St Thomas?

Most major US carriers offer coverage in St Thomas. However, it’s essential to check with your carrier to confirm coverage and any additional fees that may apply.

As a St Thomas cruise port visitor, you have a limited amount of time to explore the island, but rest assured that even a short visit can be memorable. From the lovely beaches and crystal-clear waters to the rich past and vibrant culture, St Thomas offers an unforgettable experience.

Please note that some of the internal links used in this article include:

1. Popular Beaches Near the Cruise Port
2. Magens Bay vs Sapphire Beach
3. Swimming with Turtles in St Thomas
4. Getting Around St Thomas
5. Taxi from Cruise Port to Magens Bay
6. Magens Bay vs Trunk Bay

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