St. Thomas Area Guide: Best Attractions, Beaches, and Popular Resorts in the US Virgin Islands

Planning a trip to St. Thomas? Whether you’re dreaming of relaxing on a white sandy beach, exploring local culture, or finding the best family-friendly spots, this area guide will help you navigate the island’s highlights

St. Thomas, a part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, has a vibrant history rooted in Caribbean culture. Originally inhabited by indigenous tribes, the island was later settled by the Danish in the 17th century. It became a bustling port for trade and piracy, with the town of Charlotte Amalie at its heart. In 1917, the United States purchased St. Thomas, and today it thrives as a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and lively culture.

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There is one airport into St Thomas – Cyril E. King Airport. To access St John and Water Island, you will need to fly into this airport. Taxi’s are available, but there is no public transportation directly from the airport.

Arriving into St Thomas – be sure to check with your accommodation before arriving, some offer pick up service/ shuttle service. Click here for current taxi rates around the island.

Departing from St Thomas, you will need to arrive at the airport a minimum 2 hours, 3 hours in peak season as you go through both customs and TSA to leave the island. There is one restaurant inside of the terminal as well as a few food stands and a coffee stand, but they are very expensive. I would recommend bringing food/snacks with you or eating before you arrive at the airport. There are no drinking fountains inside the airport so, unless your water is frozen, you will need to purchase inside.

About a 20-30 minute drive from the airport, you will find the East End. Here you will find Red Hook, Sapphire Beach, Margaritaville, Coki Point, Cowpet Bay, Ritz Carlton, Secret Harbor, and other popular tourist spots.

A popular tourist destination on the Eastern Part of the island, Red Hook is know for its restaurants, night life, excursion and dive businesses, shops, and more. You will also find the car ferry and passenger ferry terminals to St John, USVI. There are parking lots available but fill up in peak season.

Sapphire Beach is known for its crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and stunning views of nearby St. John and the British Virgin Islands. 3 condo communities share a beach, swimming pools, restaurants, coffee shop, bar, and shops. It’s a popular spot for snorkeling, thanks to its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, including colorful fish and sea turtles. The beach offers amenities like lounge chair rentals and watersports such as kayaking and paddleboarding. Its laid-back atmosphere, combined with easy access to restaurants and nearby Red Hook, makes Sapphire Beach a favorite for both locals and visitors.

A popular resort, Margaritaville Vacation Club is known for its laid-back atmosphere and nice suites with the famous margarita makers. A golf cart shuttle takes you around the property that features a pool, bar, restaurant, cafe, daily activities, and music. Although there is a beach on property, it is usually closed for swimming. One of the most famous beautiful beaches, Coki Point, is walking distance up the road. Margaritaville is also a quick taxi ride to Red Hook.

This area offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and is home to several resorts, including the newly reopened Frenchman’s Reef by the Westin, Marriott Frenchman’s Cove, Limetree Beach Resort, and the only St Thomas all-inclusive resort Bolongo Bay. It’s a quieter, more residential part of the island, but still conveniently lies in the middle of touristy Red Hook and downtown Charlotte Amalie.

Frenchman’s Reef by the Westin is a newly reopened luxury resort located on the southern coast of St. Thomas. Overlooking the Caribbean Sea, it offers modern amenities, including spacious rooms with ocean views, multiple pools, a spa, and on-site dining options. The resort is ideal for both relaxation and adventure, with easy access to nearby attractions like downtown Charlotte Amalie and its shopping and dining. Frenchman’s Reef provides a blend of upscale comfort and Caribbean charm, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking a high-end island experience

Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove is a tranquil retreat perfect for families and couples. This picturesque resort features spacious villa accommodations with full kitchens and private balconies, offering all the comforts of home with breathtaking ocean views. Relax by the infinity pool, take a trip down the waterslide, enjoy a meal at the beachfront restaurant, or spend the day lounging on the private beach. Conveniently located near Charlotte Amalie and other island attractions, it’s an ideal base for exploring or simply soaking in the beauty of the Virgin Islands.

Set on the serene south shore of St. Thomas, Limetree Beach Resort offers a peaceful escape with stunning oceanfront views. This laid-back resort features modern accommodations, a relaxing pool, and direct access to the secluded Limetree Beach. Whether you’re sipping cocktails at the beachside bar, exploring nearby attractions like Charlotte Amalie, or simply soaking up the sun, Limetree is a hidden gem for those seeking a blend of tranquility and adventure in the Virgin Islands.

Bolongo Bay Beach Resort is a true Caribbean treasure and the only all-inclusive resort in St. Thomas. This family-owned beachfront haven offers unlimited dining, drinks, and adventure, including a one-of-a-kind Rum Scavenger Hunt that’s as fun as it sounds! Guests can also enjoy paddleboarding, snorkeling with sea turtles, and dining at the iconic Iggies Beach Bar.

Downtown Charlotte Amalie, the capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands, is a vibrant hub known for its rich history, colonial architecture, and bustling waterfront. Visitors can explore historic landmarks like Blackbeard’s Castle and Fort Christian, wander through charming alleys filled with duty-free shops, or enjoy a meal at one of the many local restaurants. The harborfront offers stunning views of the Caribbean, making it a lively spot for both sightseeing and relaxation. Whether you’re interested in history, shopping, or dining, Charlotte Amalie is a must-visit destination on St. Thomas.

Located just steps away from the WICO cruise ship dock, Havensight is stocked with duty-free shops, local boutiques, and a variety of restaurants. It’s also the perfect starting point for exploring downtown Charlotte Amalie, catch a gondola on the sky ride to Paradise Point, visit the VI Children’s Museum, or discover shipwrecks at the Pirate Museum. There are usually plenty of safari taxis available on cruise ship days to transport you to St Thomas’ beautiful beaches.

Yacht Haven Grande, set against the backdrop of gleaming superyachts, is a vibrant destination that blends luxury and charm. This upscale marina features an array of high-end boutiques, local shops, world-class restaurants, and outdoor bars. Take a stroll along the scenic pathway connecting Havensight, Yacht Haven, and downtown Charlotte Amalie, or relax and soak in the breathtaking harbor views. Don’t forget to snap a photo on the oversized Adirondack chairs—a fun and iconic spot for visitors. Whether you’re docking your yacht or simply exploring, Yacht Haven Grande offers something special for everyone.