SAINT THOMAS, USVI

St. Thomas, nestled in the U.S. Virgin Islands, beckons with its irresistible blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and vibrant culture. Imagine stepping onto powdery beaches, where the turquoise waters invite you to swim, snorkel, and discover colorful marine life. As you wander through the cobblestone streets of Charlotte Amalie, the island’s capital, you’ll encounter centuries-old architecture and learn about its rich past. But St. Thomas isn’t just about relaxation—it’s an adventure waiting to unfold. Beyond the duty-free shopping havens, venture into lush trails, ascend to the Mountain Top for panoramic views, and savor local cuisine bursting with tropical flavors. Picture yourself standing atop a hill, gazing out at the Caribbean expanse, the warm breeze carrying whispers of adventure. 

go

The best time to visit St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands depends on several factors, including weather, crowds, and events. Here are some recommendations:

Overall Best Time (January to April): The balmy dry season between January and April offers spectacular beach weather and huge cultural festivals. Carnival, the biggest annual event, takes place in April. During this time, people flock to the island to swim, snorkel, explore historic architecture, dine on Caribbean-spiced seafood, and browse funky local shops and galleries.
Late Spring (April to June): This period is consistently pleasant, with temperatures hovering around 86 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s a great time to visit St. Thomas due to minimal rainfall (only 7 monthly days of rain) and fewer crowds.
Avoid December: December tends to be wetter and ultra-crowded, so it’s best to skip this month if possible.

do

Here are some of the best must-do attractions:

Snorkeling: Explore the vibrant underwater world around St. Thomas. Popular spots include Sapphire Beach and Buck Island.

Mountain Top: Head to Mountain Top for breathtaking views of the island and enjoy a refreshing banana daiquiri while you’re there.

Emancipation Garden: Visit this historic garden in Charlotte Amalie. Don’t miss the Conch Shell Blower statue2.99 Steps Staircase: Climb the iconic 99 Steps in Charlotte Amalie. The base of the staircase is a great starting point for exploring the town.

Pirates Treasure Museum: Discover the island’s pirate history at this intriguing museum.

Relax at the Beaches: St. Thomas boasts beautiful beaches. Besides Sapphire Beach, consider Magens Bay and Coki Beach.

Zip Line Adventure: For an adrenaline rush, try zip-lining above the lush tropical trees.

Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden: Explore the diverse plant life at this tranquil garden.

eat

Here are some must-try foods:

Callaloo Soup: This popular Caribbean dish is made with callaloo leaves, a leafy green vegetable similar to spinach. It’s typically cooked with onions, okra, peppers, and coconut milk, resulting in a rich and creamy texture. If you want to experience the island’s African culinary roots, definitely try Callaloo Soup.

Conch Fritters: Conch, a type of sea snail commonly found in Caribbean waters, is the star of this appetizer. Conch fritters are made by mixing conch meat with flour, onions, peppers, and spices, then frying them into small, crispy balls. The chewy texture and savory taste make them perfect for seafood lovers.

Johnny Cake: A type of bread popular throughout the Caribbean, Johnny Cake is made with flour, water, and sugar. It’s often served with butter or honey and has a sweet taste and soft texture. Enjoy it as a delightful breakfast or snack.

Chicken Curry: While chicken curry is a traditional Caribbean dish, the people of St. Thomas have adopted it. The curry is made by slow-cooking chicken meat with a blend of spices and vegetables like onions, garlic, tomatoes, and thyme. The result is a rich and hearty flavor with tender meat that falls off the bone.

Rum Cocktails: St. Thomas’ cocktail scene celebrates the cultural importance of rum. You’ll find a variety of punches, piña coladas, and creative drinks like the famous “Painkiller” cocktail. Craft your own cocktail with the guidance of an expert bartender during the Flavors of St. Thomas Food Tour.

tips

Here are some essential tips to make your experience memorable:

Currency: The official currency of the U.S. Virgin Islands, including St. Thomas, is the United States Dollar (USD). You won’t need to exchange money if you’re coming from the United States, as USD is widely accepted. 

Stay Hydrated: St. Thomas has a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity. Make sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated during your visit.

Mosquito Repellent: Bring insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes.

Explore Beyond the Resorts: While the resort areas are lovely, venture out to discover hidden gems. Explore hiking trails, encounter captivating wildlife, and take in breathtaking panoramic views. Don’t miss the famous Mountain Top, the highest point on St. Thomas, where you can sip on a “Banana Daiquiri” while overlooking the Caribbean.

Immerse Yourself in Culture: Experience the vibrant Carnival celebrations and enjoy the lively local music known as “steel pan.” Visit Charlotte Amalie, the island’s capital, to explore beautifully preserved colonial architecture and landmarks.

Shop Duty-Free: St. Thomas is known for its duty-free shopping. Find bargains on jewelry, watches, and local handicrafts. Explore the best shopping spots during your stay.