St. Thomas

St. Thomas is an inkblot, about 12 miles long and three miles wide. It is the second largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands and the most populous. A steep spine stretches from east to west, with the highest point at Crown Mountain, on the western third of the island.
Charlotte Amalie is one of the West Indies’ most picturesque harbors: layers of historic and modern homes, businesses, and churches rim the broad harbor. This is the center of business and government, plus an inviting historic town. The international airport is a short drive west, and ferries and seaplanes leave regularly with service to St. Croix, St. John, and Tortola.

Historically and today, St. Thomas is the hub of the Virgin Islands. As the center of business, commerce, services, and transport, St. Thomas long ago lost the quiet island feel of the other Virgin Islands. This is the “big city” of the Virgins—the place where people come to shop, celebrate, and meet up. At the same time, for those who call this island home, it is a small town where everyone knows each other.

The island’s long history has left historic attractions dating back to the earliest days of colonization—old churches and forts that bring an Old World feel to the capital, Charlotte Amalie, an attraction that is often overlooked in favor of the beaches of the east end and north shore. Magen’s Bay, the best beach on the island, is broad and quiet. On the east end, Coki Point and Sapphire Bay are alive with tourists and island residents.

St. Thomas is one of the best islands for family vacations. There are plenty of activities for children, ranging from underwater observatories to snorkeling, and parents will find pleasure in the dining, nightlife, and shopping of the city. Modern comforts like a large movie theater, fast-food restaurants, and American shopping malls will appeal to travelers who want to maintain a link to a familiar American culture.

You can also head off the beaten path to St. Thomas’s western end, where a small Rastafarian community lives, and drive through the winding, narrow mountain roads that pass vistas rivaling any in the Virgin Islands.

Historic Downtown Charlotte Amalie: Narrow, winding cobblestone streets are lined by old churches, forts, and warehouses that face the gleaming waterfront. (read more)

Frenchtown: Traditionally the home of French-speaking fishermen, this tiny waterfront community is now known for its classic architecture, fine dining, and hip nightlife. (read more)

Magen’s Bay: This public beach is the jewel of St. Thomas, with more than a mile of packed white sand, coconut palms, and clear water. (read more)

Coral World: This family-friendly ocean park makes it easy to enjoy the wonders of the undersea environment. Come here to see sea turtles, rays, sharks, iguanas, colorful fish, and much more. (read more)

St. Thomas Carnival: Calypso music, colorful costumes, local food, long nights, and traditional games and sports — that’s just some of St. Thomas’s annual Carnival. (read more)