The Caribbean island of St. Thomas presents a blend of history, nature, shopping, recreation and relaxation. Jungle-covered hills roll down to picturesque bays with white-sand beaches and turquoise water. Colonial-era architecture stands in busy shopping districts.
St. Thomas’ one major town is picturesqueCharlotte Amalie. Wander the narrow lanes to see Danish, Dutch, French and Spanish-built houses, many now hosting cafés and shops. Climb the 99 Steps, an 18th-century staircase nearBlackbeard’s CastleandFort Christian, built in the 1600s as a Danish stronghold.
Beyond Charlotte Amalie, scenic roads wind through wooded hills to views of the island’s magnificent coastlines. Go to animatedFrenchtown, a village renowned for its restaurants, taverns, nightclubs and Creole-speaking residents. Enjoy a scenic cable car ride fromHavensighttoParadise Pointand marvel at the views ofCharlotte Amalie Harbor.
Over 40 beaches decorate St. Thomas’ coastline, all within a 25-minute drive from Charlotte Amalie. Relax atMagens Bayor the lively resorts ofLindberg BayandMorningstar. Go fishing, sailing and scuba diving atRed Hookand snorkeling and windsurfing atSapphire Beach. Discover myriad marine life atCoral World Ocean ParknearCoki Beach. Watch planes land at the island airport while you swim in the calm waters ofBrewers Bay Beach.
The area is famous for discounted and tax-free shopping, too. Clothing, electronics, jewelry and perfume stores line the streets of Charlotte Amalie, most notablyDronningens Gade (Main Street)andVendors Plaza. Find more shops and malls at the main ports,Crown Bayand Havensight.
St. Thomas, the second largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, is located in the Caribbean Sea east ofPuerto Rico. Many visitors arrive by cruise ship or fly to Cyril E. King Airport and then get around via rented car. The U.S. Virgin Islands benefit from year-round warm temperatures, although hurricanes are possible between June and November. Combine your vacation with daytrips to the beaches of neighboringWater IslandandSt. John.
