Dreaming of turquoise waters and island charm? I found that Saint Thomas blends Caribbean beauty, rich history, and endless adventures—perfect for beach lovers and explorers alike. From the moment you land at Cyril E. King Airport your days are filled with wonder, relaxation and good vibes. If you are a newlywed, be sure to check out these St Thomas honeymoon ideas.
Highlights:
Best Things to Do on Saint Thomas:
1. Dive Into Adventure with Aqua Marine Dive Center
© Aqua Marine Dive Center
Location:
St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands — right on Shoreline Drive, just steps from the sea.Why Dive with Them:
"The Aqua Marine Dive Center isn’t just another dive shop — it’s the only SSI-approved center in the USVI and hands-down the highest rated on TripAdvisor. And yes, they offer all the PADI courses too. Custom. Thoughtful. Safe. Exactly how diving should be."Who This Is For:
If you're a first-timer, a wreck junkie, a coral geek, or chasing turtles through technicolor reefs — this crew gets you. Small groups only. No crowded boats. Just you, your dive guide, and a world-class marine playground.What I Can't Stop Talking About:
The level of service. Every dive feels tailored. Exploring sunken ships one day, chasing turtles and reef fish the next. And if you want next-level? Charter a private yacht, suit up, and dive your own way with their expert team.- Connect: Before you even hit the water, they’ll sit down and figure out what you want to see — turtles, wrecks, reefs, weird fish — and map it all out just for you.
- Dive Deep: From coral gardens to historic wrecks, each tour is equal parts exploration and relaxation. These aren’t cookie-cutter dives — they’re personalized missions under the sea.
- Stay Safe: Safety isn’t just a checklist here — it’s core to everything they do. Every briefing, every plan, every dive is centered around making sure you feel confident and comfortable.
- Learn More: They offer every PADI course you can think of — from beginner to advanced specialties. It's a one-stop shop for leveling up your dive game.
Distance from Downtown Charlotte Amalie:
Roughly 10 minutes by car. Or hop on a scooter for a breezy shoreline ride.How to Get There:
Head to Shoreline Drive, St. Thomas 00802. Call ahead at 340-642-8701 to book your dive, charter a yacht, or chat with the dive masters.Shoreline Drive 100 USVI, St. Thomas 00802, U.S. Virgin Islands | Phone: 340-642-8701
2. Soak Up the Sun and Sand at Bluebeards Beach
© Courtesy of chasing moments - Fotolia.com
Location:
Frenchman’s Bay, St. Thomas, VI 00802 — tucked away on the island’s quieter side.Why Go:
Calm waves, no crowds, and just the right amount of breeze — it’s my go-to when I want to skip the chaos and actually hear the ocean. It’s not overrun, it’s not noisy — it’s just peaceful. But don’t worry, it’s not too quiet. You’ve got everything you need nearby without ever feeling commercial.Who This Is For:
If you want to unplug, spread out a towel, and soak in the sun without a soundtrack of party speakers — this beach is calling. It’s family-friendly without being hectic, and active enough for kiteboarders and windsurfers who crave a little thrill.What I Love Most:
"The mix. I can chill with a drink in hand, watch kiteboarders carve up the bay, or dip in the water with barely another soul around. Then grab lunch or hit a shop just steps away — no driving required."- Unwind: The calm bay and soft waves make it ideal for floating, wading, or full-on napping under the sun. It’s serenity without the effort.
- Play: Into kiteboarding, windsurfing, or kayaking? You’ll find just enough wind and space to get your fix without a traffic jam of tourists.
- Refuel: Hit up the restaurants and bars along the walkway — beachy vibes, good eats, and cold drinks just steps from the sand.
- Shop + Stay: Forgot sunscreen or looking for souvenirs? No problem. The beachfront shops have you covered. And if you’re not ready to leave, the nearby hotels and pools make it easy to turn a day trip into a full escape.
- Family-Approved: Whether you’ve got toddlers building sandcastles or teens testing out the paddleboards, this spot keeps everyone happy — without wearing you out.
Distance from Charlotte Amalie:
Roughly 15 minutes by car — close enough for convenience, far enough to feel like your own private slice of island.How to Get There:
Head toward Frenchman’s Bay on the south side of St. Thomas. Parking is available nearby, and walkways make it easy to navigate with beach gear or strollers in tow.Review:★★★★★ "Bluebeards Beach had warm water. We swam a lot and it was extra relaxing. Think palm trees, ocean breeze, total island vibes. We had our own snacks and drinks."
3. Explore Untouched Beauty at Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge
© Courtesy of BlueOrange Studio - Fotolia.com
Location:
Christiansted, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands — a short boat ride off the northeast coast.Why It Stole My Attention:
The Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge might only be 45 acres, but don’t let the size fool you — this place is wild, rare, and totally off the radar. "You’ll want to team up with a local tour operator to really unlock what this island is hiding."Who Should Explore:
If you’re into untouched nature, surreal underwater landscapes, rare species, and lighthouse backdrops — this is your kind of place. Great for divers, snorkelers, wildlife watchers, and adventurers who don’t need a paved path to get excited.- Tour Smart: There are no signs, maps, or guides on the island — go with a local charter and you’ll get the full story, from reef ecology to colonial ruins.
- Go Wild: Look for migratory birds, rare reptiles like the Antillean skink, and nesting sea turtles in Turtle Cove — this island’s got secrets hiding in every corner.
- Dive In: The surrounding reefs are stunning — some of the best diving and snorkeling in the USVI, with technicolor coral and marine life that don’t shy away from a crowd.
- Step Back in Time: Don’t miss the 1916 Danish lighthouse — it’s a surreal, cinematic moment set against wild island terrain.
Distance from Christiansted:
Just a short boat ride — most tours depart directly from Christiansted Harbor. Ask around for half-day or full-day options.How to Get There:
Book a charter or guided tour in Christiansted. You can’t visit solo unless you’ve got your own boat — and even then, local insight is gold.4. See the Islands From Above with Caribbean Buzz Helicopters
© Caribbean Buzz Helicopters
Location:
8202 Lindbergh Bay, St. Thomas, USVI 00802 — launch point for sky-high adventures across the Virgin Islands.Why Fly With Them:
Caribbean Buzz Helicopters isn’t just a flight — it’s an experience you’ll talk about for years. "Their pilots know the islands like the back of their hand, and every ride feels like part tour, part thrill, part dream."Who This Is For:
Families, couples, adrenaline junkies, photo-obsessives — basically anyone who wants to see the islands from a whole new angle. It’s a can't-miss for special occasions, epic proposals, or when you just want to turn your vacation into a full-blown movie moment.- See It All: Opt for the Helo Sunshine Tour for a 30-minute loop east of St. Thomas — island-hopping in the air, camera ready.
- Crank the Thrill: Take the Helo Sunshine - Doors Off Tour if you’re after wind-in-your-hair adrenaline. Same route, but wildly more intense.
- Snap the Shot: This is hands-down the best way to get aerial photography of the Virgin Islands. Bring your camera — you’ll thank yourself later.
Distance from Downtown Charlotte Amalie:
Just 10 minutes by car — you're wheels-up before your coffee cools down.How to Get There:
Head to Lindbergh Bay near the airport. Call 340-775-7335 to book your ride or custom tour in advance — these flights are in demand, and for good reason.Romantic Activities on Saint Thomas:
5. If You Love Crystal-Clear Waters, Swim at Coki Point
© Courtesy of Andrea Izzotti - Fotolia.com
Location:
St. Thomas, USVI 00802 — where the party meets the paradise.Why It’s Always a Vibe:
Coki Point Beach is the kind of place that sticks with you — golden sand, bathwater-warm waves, and a vibe that’s equal parts chill and electric. "Most came for the views, but stay for the energy."Who It's For:
If you're down for snorkeling in crystal-clear water, grabbing fish tacos with your feet still in the sand, or dancing barefoot after dark — Coki’s your scene. Great for families in the day, party-seekers at night, and cruise-goers who want a blast without wandering too far.What's Amazing at Coki Point:
The reef is right there, just steps from shore — perfect for spontaneous snorkeling. And when you're done floating with fish, you can snag a drink from a beachside bar, grab a wrap skirt from a local vendor, and settle in for people-watching that’s top-tier.- Swim + Snorkel: The water here is absurdly clear, with reefs so close to shore you don’t need a boat to dive in. Rent gear right on the beach and go.
- Eat + Drink: Whether it’s beachside grills or street food carts pumping out jerk chicken and rum punch, the flavors hit hard and fast.
- Stay Social: This beach is on nearly every tour itinerary and close to cruise ship ports — it gets busy, it gets loud, and it’s never boring.
Distance from Charlotte Amalie:
Roughly 25 minutes by car — a quick ride for a full-day escape or sunset send-off.How to Get There:
Grab a taxi or rental and head northeast toward Smith Bay. You’ll hear the music before you see the sand. Parking’s available, and once you’re on the beach, everything else is right at your feet.6. Discover Marine Life Up Close at Coral World Ocean Park
© Coral World Ocean Park
Location:
6450 Coki Point, St. Thomas, USVI 00802 — just steps from Coki Beach, but a whole different kind of wild.Why It’s a Must-Do:
If you think aquariums are just for kids, Coral World Ocean Park will totally flip that idea on its head. This five-acre adventure zone is part zoo, part reef lab, part thrill ride — and yeah, it’s epic. "You’re not just looking at marine life through glass here — you’re getting in the water, on the floor of the ocean, and face-to-face with the creatures that make the Virgin Islands so wild and wonderful."Who It’s For:
Families? Absolutely. Solo travelers and couples? Totally. If you're into animals, ocean science, underwater adventure, or just want a break from the beach scene — this spot hits every note.What Blew My Mind:
You get to feed stingrays and hold an iguana. It’s hands-on, full-sensory, and just the right amount of wild.- Meet the Wildlife: From stingrays to sea lions, sharks to iguanas, you’ll be closer to nature here than almost anywhere else in the Caribbean.
- Dive Deeper: Don’t miss the Sea Trek Helmet Dive — you’ll literally walk the ocean floor without needing to scuba. It’s surreal and unforgettable.
- Explore More: Wander through the butterfly garden, climb into the undersea observatory, and hit the nature trails that weave through the park — there’s a surprise around every corner.
- Get Hands-On: Safely feed and interact with marine animals, join educational talks, or take behind-the-scenes tours with expert guides who really know their stuff.
Distance from Charlotte Amalie:
Roughly 25–30 minutes by car — a scenic ride that drops you into a full-on ocean safari.How to Get There:
Head toward Coki Point on the island’s northeast coast. Parking is available on-site, or grab a cab and make it part of your Coki Beach day trip — they’re right next door.6450 Coki Point, St. Thomas, USVI 00802 | Phone: 340-775-1555
7. Step Into History at Fort Christian, Saint Thomas
© Courtesy of steheap - Fotolia.com
Location:
Forte Strade, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas 00801, USVI — right in the heart of the island’s historic capital.Why It’s Worth a Stop:
Walk through the gates of Fort Christian and you’re stepping into over 300 years of Caribbean history. Built between 1672 and 1680 during the Dano-Norwegian rule, this place isn’t just a fortress — it’s a storybook made of stone. It’s the oldest standing structure in the Virgin Islands, and today it doubles as the St. Thomas Museum, filled with art, artifacts, and straight-up island legends.Who Should Check It Out:
History buffs, culture lovers, and anyone curious about how pirates, colonizers, and Amerindians all collide in one place. It’s also perfect if you want a break from the beach but still crave something unforgettable.- Time Travel: Wander through the 17th-century fort and stand where soldiers once defended the harbor — it’s real, raw history.
- Dive Deep: Inside, explore the St. Thomas Museum, packed with everything from colonial artifacts to Amerindian relics that tell stories long before Europeans ever arrived.
- Admire the Architecture: After multiple renovations, the fort now sports a unique Gothic revival style with a signature three-tiered clock tower that gives the whole place a moody, medieval vibe.
- Snap and Stroll: The location in Charlotte Amalie makes it perfect for a quick culture stop before hitting up shops, cafés, or the waterfront promenade.
- Get Context: This place ties the island’s complex past together — colonial conquest, resistance, trade, and transformation — all under one red roof.
Distance from the Cruise Terminal:
About 5–10 minutes by car or an easy stroll from downtown — ideal for a quick hit of history before you sail off again.How to Get There:
Located in Charlotte Amalie, just follow the signs to Fort Christian or ask any local — everyone knows it. Parking is nearby, and admission is affordable (bonus: kids usually get in free).Forte Strade, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas 00801, USVI | Phone: 340-626-9195
Frequently Asked Questions:
-
What is Saint Thomas?
- Saint Thomas is one of the Virgin Islands, along with St. John, St. Croix, and Water Island.
- It is a popular holiday destination known for its sun, sand, and sea.
-
What makes Saint Thomas unique?
- The island has a rich history that is reflected in its people, food, and culture.
-
Is there more to do in Saint Thomas than visiting beaches?
- Yes! While the island is known for its pristine Caribbean beaches, there are many other attractions to explore.
-
What are some must-visit attractions in Saint Thomas?
- Some of the most interesting sites include:
- Blackbeard's Castle
- Coral World Ocean Park
- Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge
Map:
Plan Your Trip