25 Interesting Things To Do In St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands

St Thomas is the second largest of the United States Virgin Islands. It is one of the most picturesque islands in the world, with fine-sand beaches and warm weather.

With the coastline having more than 40 beaches, St Thomas is a beautiful vacation spot.

Furthermore, it offers a unique combination of history, nature, shopping, leisure, and relaxation.

Colonial-era buildings can be seen in densely populated retail areas.

Check out the fort Christan museum and learn about this amazing red structure, which served as the governor’s palace and also a police station at one time.

Learn how the Danes negotiated the hills of St Thomas using the 99 Steps.

Visit a few nearby eateries that specialize in regional specialties, including calaloo, fried pate, and shellfish.

Similarly, eat delicious rum cake, curried chicken, ripe plantains, and conch fritters, some of the local favorites.

St. Thomas is a nice island to unwind, forget about the hustles and bustles of the city.

From beaches to historical places and delicious foods, here are the best things to do in St. Thomas.

Things to do in St. Thomas

1. St. Thomas Historical Trust Museum

One of those great treasures to discover tucked away on a side street in the city is the historical trust museum in St. Thomas.

Located in a historic structure next to the Emancipation Gardens in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas Historical Trust Museum provides information on the island is a must-see for anyone in St. Thomas.

Furthermore, the intriguing collection of vintage furniture, historic St. Thomas photos, and intriguing antiques offers a view of St. Thomas in its earlier incarnations.

History aficionados are mesmerized by authentic items from the time of the pirates, the steamship era, and 100-year-old 3-D images.

In addition, you will get to see dozens of ancient photographs from the late 19th and early 20th centuries and an extraordinary collection of antique West Indian furniture.

Learn about the devastating tsunami that struck the United States in 1867 and the sinister menace that drove Washington to buy the islands from Denmark.

Although not big, but this museum is one of the best in town.

Open Monday through Friday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

The museum is free but you can also donate.

Address: St. Thomas, 5332 Raadets Gade, Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas 00804, US Virgin Islands

2. Aqua Marine Dive Center, St. Thomas

As Jules Verne said; “on the surface of the ocean, men wage war and destroy each other…just a few feet beneath the surface, there is a calm and peace, unmolested by man.”

This and more is what you will get to enjoy at the aquamarine dive center in St. Thomas.

The Aqua Marine Dive Center offers one of the best diving experiences in the city.

The Marine Center is one of the very few dive shops that offer all PADI courses, in addition to being the only SSI-approved dive shop in the US Virgin Islands.

To begin the trips, center staff members get to know the visitors better and then design a diving experience around what they want to see.

Each tour prioritizes safety and customer satisfaction and stops at a variety of locations.

You will get to explore shipwrecks, coral reefs, adventure tours for turtles, and also tours with unique underwater fish.

Visitors can charter a yacht, equip themselves with their gear, and travel to experience the many wonders of the sea.

Address: St. Thomas, Charlotte Amalie, US Virgin Islands

3. Fort Christian, St. Thomas

If walls could talk, the walls of this historical building will speak and share a lot of stories and you will love to listen.

Located in St. Thomas is this sizeable fort and it’s also the oldest building in St. Thomas and Virgin island.

Fort Christian has been guarding Charlotte Amalie Harbor for more than 300 years.

Fort Christian may have stories to tell about the Danish militia stationed there, about settlers being compelled to attend religious events there.

The tales might discuss the arrival and departure of pirate ships, and the rivalry at the numerous tiny bars that previously littered the area close to the fort.

The fort was named after King Christian V.

In 1977, the fort received the designation of the National Historic Landmark.

The museum has exhibitions on local flora and animals, a cane press, historical photographs and papers, and more.

In 2005, Fort Christian was closed for renovations.

The fort has undergone numerous modifications and extensions, and what tourists now see is a one-story Gothic revival building with a three-tiered tower in the middle.

You’ll see that the fort is painted white in some areas and red in others.

Address: St. Thomas, Forte Strade, Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands

4. Hassel Island

Does kayaking, or hiking sound fun to you? Then you will like it here.

Located on the western shore of St. Thomas bay, Hassel Island was once connected to St. Thomas island.

The island was used for industrial and military purposes over the years, as well as housing a leprosarium.

Hassel Island later housed a U.S. naval station before being bought by a family to supply water for its distilleries.

The 135-acre island has a number of historical remnants if you love historic artifacts.

These artifacts include British fortifications and the remains of a marine railway from the 20th century.

In addition, the island is now largely a national park and a well-liked destination for tourists in St. Thomas.

The greatest ways to discover Hassel Island are through kayaking, hiking, or snorkeling tours, all of which combine a history lesson with an eco-adventure for guests.

Hassel Island tours are offered by the St. Thomas Historical Trust.

The three-hour tour visits every historical point on the island and departs from Frenchtown.

It is advised to make reservations two days in advance because the tours are demand-driven.

5. Bluebeards Beach, St. Thomas

St. Thomas being an island, you should expect beaches. Beautiful and amazing beaches.

Bluebeards Beach is a public beach that is open to the public and one of the beaches in St. Thomas.

The beach is located in a tranquil, somewhat isolated cove and is great for people who wish to enjoy the waves without the usual beach congestion.

On the walkways that run alongside the lake, you will find a variety of restaurants, bars, hotels, swimming pools, and stores.

The good about here is that the environment is ideal for simply relaxing, taking a dip, and enjoying the beauty and weather.

It is incredibly friendly whether you are traveling with an extended family or just you and your spouse.

People who prefer kiteboarding, windsurfing, and kayaking are also particularly fond of Bluebeards Beach.

Address: St. Thomas, Charlotte Amalie, US Virgin Islands

6. The 99 Steps

One of the best picturesque places in St. Thomas is the 99 steps.

The 99 steps is also one of St. Thomas’ most recognizable landmarks.

Charlotte Amalie, the island’s capital and busiest cruise ship port, is where 99 Steps is situated.

Nearly every slope that rises from the city’s harbor is traversed by the steps.

Furthermore, since the time of its construction in the 1700s, it has gained fame.

These were built from the bricks used as ballast by ships that arrived from the ancient world and were used to make getting around the island simpler.

There are lizards and chickens, nice flowers, and you will be rewarded with a great view of the harbor at the top.

Indeed, this place is an interesting site for a photographer. There are some cool shots to capture when you reach the top.

The stunning view of the bay is something to behold.

Address: St. Thomas, Charlotte Amalie, US Virgin Islands

7. St. Thomas Food Tours, St. Thomas

You can take this tour to learn about St. Thomas’ culinary heritage.

The idea for Thomas Food Tours came from a woman who realized that the Virgin Islands are best experienced through their delectable cuisine.

In addition to tasting some of the island’s most culturally significant foods, such as kallaloo, pate, dumplings, and johnny cakes, visitors also learn about the dishes’ origins and the people who made them.

This tour is perfect for you if you’re the kind who enjoys trying out different cuisines.

Your meal tastes will be complemented by the Bushwacker, a local rum, coconut, and chocolate frozen beverage from the island.

Furthermore, during your tour, you can enjoy local cuisine while also learning about the island’s history through its architecture, art, and a variety of other aspects.

Even better, visitors can enroll in a culinary lesson led by a regional chef in one of the affiliated eateries.

You’ll leave this tour with a greater connection to and admiration for St. Thomas after sampling a variety of the island’s delectable cuisine.

Address: St. Thomas, Charlotte Amalie, US Virgin Islands

8. St. Thomas Scuba and Snorkel Adventures

Do you want to go snorkeling through caves in secluded reefs?

How about scuba diving in some of the best-kept secrets in St. Thomas?

If these sound fun to you, then you need to have the St. Thomas scuba and snorkel adventures.

You will be provided with custom eco-tours above and below the stunning waters of the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean at St. Thomas Scuba & Snorkel Adventures!

With the assistance of professional tour guides, visitors can design a tour that will precisely meet their needs.

Activities include scuba diving in remote places and snorkeling in caverns and remote reefs.

Night snorkeling is also available, and it’s a unique experience.

Hiking on unmarked routes and kayaking in the Caribbean are also available.

Similarly, meditation diving is one of the most unusual experiences, allowing guests to dive into the crystal-clear waters and have a meditation experience unlike any other.

Find a huge variety of fish, coral, crustaceans, and even larger marine life like sea turtles and, sometimes even dolphins!

Sight iguanas, mongooses, or wild parrots as well!

Address: St. Thomas, Charlotte Amalie, US Virgin Islands

9. St. Thomas Synagogue

Enjoy some quiet reflection while learning more about the religious significance of this location.

The Synagogue, formally known as Beracha Veshalom Vegimulth Hasidim, translating to blessing and Peace and Loving Deeds was built in 1833.

Furthermore, it is the oldest continuously used synagogue under the American flag, and the second-oldest in the Western Hemisphere.

The synagogue contains mahogany pews, sand floors, and a domed roof with lovely chandeliers.

You will see a 1,000-year-old menorah from Spain and French Baccarat crystal chandeliers.

There’s also a hand-carved ark containing six scrolls with Torahs, four of which are more than 400 years old and two of which are more than 200 years old.

In addition, the structure received the designation of a National Historic Landmark in 1997.

Jewish or not, everyone feels welcome and at home there.

Watch a 20+ minute video about the history of the people and places in the museum at the back before exploring.

Everyone should visit the synagogue, regardless of their religion!

Address: St Thomas, 2116 Krystal St, Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands

10. Pirates Treasure Museum

As Steve Jobs once said, why join the navy if you can be a pirate?”

Climb aboard and get ready for an exciting journey through a fun shipwreck adventure.

If you like pirates, this museum is full of interesting facts, traditions, pirate practices, ships, and legends.

Discover interactive, hands-on exhibitions that tell the stories and reveal the treasures of deep-ocean research.

You can explore a fascinating trove of historical information and pirate legend.

Similarly, the museum also highlights shipwrecks and artifacts from the Virgin Islands.

Visitors are completely immersed in the world of pirates and the technology utilized in deep-ocean research during the experience, which blends historical and interactive exhibitions.

The museum has displays of the objects recovered from the water and videos that depict the sinking of various ships.

Address: 17-1 Estate Thomas St. Thomas Virgin Islands VI, St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands

11. Caribbean Buzz Helicopters

If you’d like to have a beautiful aerial view of St. Thomas and the Virgin Islands, you should consider having helicopter tours.

The experience of flying above the islands with one of Caribbean Buzz Helicopter’s professional pilots will be unforgettable.

Caribbean Buzz Helicopters, with bases in both the British Virgin Islands and the United States Virgin Islands, provides the pinnacle helicopter experience.

Whether you are seeking Heli-tours, charters, or airport transfers, you will get it here.

Aerial beach scrabble, detours to isolated islands, and spectacular aerial photography are just a few of the activities available to visitors.

In addition, visitors can be guaranteed to fully appreciate the islands’ splendor thanks to the helicopter tours.

A couple of the trips are the 30-minute Helo Sunshine tour, which travels east of St. Thomas.

There’s also the Full Moon Tour, which takes place every month and allows tourists to see the islands at night.

Address: 8202 Lindbergh Bay St. Thomas, VI 00802 Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands

Planning a trip outside of St. Thomas? Why not check out our list of things to do in St. Croix?

12. Lindquist Beach, St. Thomas

Want to swim and explore one of St. Thomas’s most exquisite and pristine beaches? Come to Lindquist beach.

It is a portion of Smith Bay Park, a 21-acre protected area.

Swimming is ideal in this stunning, blue water’s crystal clarity.

Bright white sand with a slight hint of pink lines on the shore.

Furthermore, there are plenty of shady spaces to set up your chairs, blankets, or towels.

In addition, this is also an ideal place for families and friends, as there are picnic tables.

The smooth sand is ideal for playing Frisbee, creating sand castles, and taking a stroll down the shore.

If you want to be adventurous, you can even go snorkeling.

None of those doesn’t interest you? Consider relaxing while taking in the stunning view of St. John and the British Virgin Islands. You will enjoy the view!

Address: St. Thomas, Charlotte Amalie, US Virgin Islands

13. Plantation Crown and Hawk Botanical Garden

Plantation Crown & Hawk Botanical Garden is housed within a former sugar mill plantation and is perched atop Crown Mountain.

The botanical garden began at the end of the 19th century and has since developed into a lovely and peaceful location that is worth seeing.

Aside from the breathtaking views, the beautiful gardens, plant maze, waterfall, and pathways will captivate you the entire time.

There are many great locations to explore at your leisure in this lovely garden.

The well-kept gardens and walkways take you to rescue wildlife, including macaws, peacocks, and tortoises, as well as majestic plants and flowers.

Furthermore, you don’t necessarily need to rush through; instead, one may take their time to appreciate the splendor and reflect on the proprietors’ clear expertise and commitment to keeping such a priceless piece of natural beauty.

The garden is ideal for a stroll and even more ideal for special occasions like weddings or business outings because it has lovely locations, a superb bar, and first-rate gourmet service.

In addition, for those who prefer a leisurely and enjoyable island shopping experience, there is also a well-stocked gift shop.

The fact that the garden is on a terraced slope high up overlooking both the Atlantic and the Caribbean, you will get some amazing views.

From the wonderful sky deck views, a waterfall, an orchid garden, a gift store, to the peacocks and other wildlife, the paths are all just waiting to be explored!

Address: St. Thomas, Charlotte Amalie, US Virgin Islands

14. Coki Point, St. Thomas

Located next to coral World Marine Park, Coki beach is a relatively small but gorgeous beach.

Many people adore it because of the fun atmosphere and simple snorkeling.

On weekends, local families predominate on the beach, while weekdays are dominated by cruise ship guests.

Around the beach are stands selling almost anything beachgoers would need, including eats, drinks, and trinkets. Rentable chairs and umbrellas are offered.

Similarly, there is a well-known dive center by the name of Coki Dive Center that provides certification, beach and boat dives, and introductory dive options for both adults and kids.

You can even arrange a parasailing excursion. SUP is also offered.

If you are a foodie, don’t worry, as a number of food sellers and a souvenir shop are present at Coki Point. Burgers, wings, ribs, and steaks are available, along with regional fares like pates, fresh seafood, lobster, and more.

There are several locally produced beers and alcoholic beverages, as well as fruit drinks, including tamarind and mango.

Address: St. Thomas, Charlotte Amalie, US Virgin Islands

15. Magen’s Bay Beach

Perhaps you want a more beautiful, pristine, and popular beach? Magen’s beach is just the right one.

Magen’s Beach is St. Thomas’s most popular beach and is rated one of the most beautiful in the world. In short, you need to see it to appreciate it.

With parking, lifeguards, equipment rentals, freshwater showers, restaurants, and bars, this gorgeous beach is a place to be.

It’s the ideal location for watersports, picnicking, sunbathing, people-watching, and other activities thanks to the tranquil turquoise ocean, a vast stretch of palm-fringed white beach, and top-notch amenities.

Kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding are popular because of the quiet, waveless waters.

Watch out for squid and sea turtles, and in the summer, be careful of jellyfish.

The wait staff at the conveniently positioned bar will come to you on the beach and collect your order, so you won’t have to move much. There are numerous picnic tables, showers, bathrooms, and changing rooms.

Though this is one of the few beaches that you have to pay to enter, you won’t regret every dime spend on it. In fact, this is a must-do in St. Thomas.

Address: St. Thomas, Charlotte Amalie, US Virgin Islands

16. French Heritage Museum

A little of history, yes?

The history of the French Heritage Museum is lengthy and fascinating.

The structure was initially constructed as a fire station in the 1950s, and it has since served as a kindergarten and a medical facility.

The building was damaged by Hurricane Marilyn in 1995, but the Frenchtown Civic Organization painstakingly repaired it.

The two modest buildings that make up the French Heritage Museum are lovely examples of the old vernacular architecture that was previously prevalent in Frenchtown and is still in use to some extent today.

Now open to the public, the museum highlights the rich French heritage and culture of the Virgin Islands.

Similarly, for the enjoyment of visitors and future generations, there are numerous displays and exhibitions.

These displays and exhibitions feature remnants from the Virgin Islands, French West Indian crafts, and other works of art and craft.

View the century-old antiques in the museum, including fishing nets, accordions, mahogany furniture, pottery, and tools.

You will also see the photographs that depict the descendants of the French-Caribbean immigrants from St. Barthelemy who were established in St. Thomas.

The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Address: St. Thomas, Charlotte Amalie, US Virgin Islands

17. Ocean Surfari Fishing Charters, St. Thomas

If you want to explore the seas, swim, or even snorkel, Ocean surfari’s got you covered.

Ocean Surfari Fishing Charters, which is based in St. Thomas’ Red Hook Harbor, provides unforgettable ocean excursions that guests will remember and treasure during their trip to the Virgin Islands.

Half-day or full-day private deep sea or inshore sport fishing charters are one of the possible excursions.

Ocean Surfari is renowned for its fishing charters, but they also offer some incredible island excursions.

They also offer a private charter to a number of locations in the British Virgin Islands and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Activities can include exploring and finding secluded beaches and coves among the several islands, going island hopping and sightseeing, swimming and snorkeling, and bar hopping.

Address: Smith Bay Rd, Red Hook, St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands

18. Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden

This is the place to go if you want to view thousands of orchids, bromeliads, and exotic plants in bloom in their native habitats.

In short, it is an absolute must if you enjoy nature and the outdoors.

The gardens of Phantasea are a carefully curated assortment of exotic flowers, palms, trees, and other plants that can be found in the humid woods of the Caribbean and elsewhere.

In addition, some seasons produce more blooms and/or more types in bloom than others, so keep that in mind if you’re hoping to see a certain sort of plant in bloom.

For instance, spring and early summer offer the greatest range of blooming plants for orchid enthusiasts.

The garden is brimming with gorgeous blooming plants, including bromeliads, lilies, palms, and orchids.

Come unwind in the peaceful tranquility of nature while watching lizards scamper around and butterflies and birds soar across the garden.

Visit the local fauna, which includes parrots, tortoises, peacocks, and chickens.

They open from 9:00 to 4:00 every day except on Mondays.

Address: 7D-5, ST THOMAS, VI 00802, US Virgin Islands

19. Emancipation Garden, St. Thomas

A stroll around the Emancipation Garden in the heart of Charlotte Amalie provides a glimpse into the past.

The park was given its name in honor of the day, July 3, 1848, when Danish Governor Peter von Scholten freed slaves.

The park is a great location to unwind under a tree and organizes special events all year long, such as the yearly Emancipation Day celebrations.

The concept of this tiny green park may be summed up in one word: freedom.

On the park’s western edge, the Conch Shell Blower statue represents a slave who has just been set free.

Because it serves as a moving memorial to the history of the islands, the Emancipation Garden is worthwhile a visit.

Address: Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas 00804, US Virgin Islands

20. St. Peter Greathouse Estate & Gardens

Nestled on the peaks of St Thomas, St. Peter is one of the most attractive places in St Thomas with a beautiful view of Magen’s bay and other islands.

The focal point of these 11 lushly landscaped mountain top acres above Magens Bay is a restored colonial plantation great house that dates to the early 1800s.

The 2,000-square-foot building, which is accessible for tours, perfectly embodies West Indian colonial architecture.

Furthermore, the grounds feature the botanical gardens’ nature walk, waterfalls, fish ponds, a tropical bird cage, more than 20 types of orchids, and different sorts of Caribbean plants.

Your view is widened by an observation tower to at least 15 additional U.S. and British Virgin Islands.

Walking the grounds of this opulent home and gardens is something you should definitely do.

Browse the exhibition featuring local artwork or explore the former plantation home.

You are free to roam about the estate’s 11 manicured acres.

Follow a nature trail that takes you through nearly 200 varieties of tropical plants and an orchid jungle, or sip on a free rum punch.

The estate tower offers a panoramic view of the other Virgin Islands, and it is perched 1000 feet above Magens Bay.

Address: St. Thomas, Charlotte Amalie, US Virgin Islands

21. Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge, St. Thomas

The 45 acres of property that make up the Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge were created in 1969.

The area was crucial since it hosted several migrating bird species all year long.

Although there are no visitor services, it might be advisable to go with a local tour company, given that visitors can explore the sanctuary on their own.

You will be able to experience all the unique features the area has to offer, like the 1916-built Danish lighthouse and the Antillean skink, a reptile that is exclusive to the Puerto Rico coast.

You will also love taking a hired boat trip in the nearby waters to view the magnificent reefs.

Divers, boaters, and snorkelers flock to this spot. In fact, it is a beautiful place to go snorkeling.

There’s a sunken ship to explore and big gorgeous sea turtles to admire!

The water is clear for a picture-perfect view.

Address: 3013 Estate Golden Rock #167, Christiansted, VI 00820, US Virgin Islands

22. Frederick Evangelical Lutheran Church

You want to know what it feels like to walk inside 350 years plus building?

Frederick Lutheran is the oldest church structure in St. Thomas.

The historic church is beautiful inside, with inlay work hovering above the pulpit, and “perfect posture” pews.

The Frederick Lutheran Church, which was constructed in 1666 during the time of the Danish West Indies Company, has been used for a variety of things over the years, including as a church and a school for formerly enslaved children.

This is a must-stop whenever you’re in St. Thomas to learn about its fascinating history.

Address: St Thomas, Norre Gade, Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands

23. Virgin Islands Children’s Museum

Check out this fantastic Children’s Museum if you’re looking for something fun and informative for your children or family.

Few museums are located on Virgin island, and even fewer are children’s museums.

This is a great museum with the aim of getting children engaged and interested in a range of scientific disciplines. It’s an incredibly engaging and interactive experience.

This place is all hands-on learning.

Everything from the earth, geology, engineering, creativity, and exploration are available.

You won’t regret a visit and your kids will want to come back again and again for more fun.

Even as an adult, you will be captivated by the facilities and just about everything.

Water table, giant kaleidoscope, indoor playground, scarf “flyer” and mango tree/ball ramp are some of the available facilities.

Bring your children. They will have a great time.

Address: Buccaneer Mall, Rte 30, St. Thomas, St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands

24. World Amber Museum

Want to see something beautiful and one of St. Thomas’s hidden gems?

The World Amber Museum is tucked away along Charlotte Amalie’s 99 Steps stroll.

The museum opened in February 2009, but it is already a popular destination for travelers.

It is, in reality, a model of a tropical rainforest that produces the light green amber of the Caribbean.

The displays are all made of amber and are spread across three mystifyingly lighted rooms.

Furthermore, when you exit the museum, a 20-foot-tall waterfall made entirely of amber pebbles will astound you.

The final space is a tiny jewelry store. They provide stunning jewelry, including necklaces, rings, and bracelets plated in gold or silver.

A 16-foot-high waterfall made of amber stones and the numerous antiquities and pieces of jewelry on display are both absolutely stunning.

Keep an eye out for this gem because it is very cleverly concealed.

Address: St. Thomas, Charlotte Amalie, US Virgin Islands

25. Sapphire Beach, St. Thomas

Sapphire Beach makes sure that the whole family has a nice day out by being equally great for leisurely tourists wishing to relax in the sun.

The man-made pool close to the beach is likewise a favorite spot for toddlers because it is inhabited by ducks and iguanas.

Adults go straight to the water sports booth to participate in activities like jet skiing, parasailing, kayaking, snorkeling, and windsurfing.

At Sapphire Beach, activities like beach volleyball are frequent, and afterward, guests can relax and refuel with a drink or meal at the outdoor grill.

The sea grape trees provide some shade for beachgoers wishing to relax and get a tan, and they may also be used to hire chairs from one of the neighboring kiosks.

Address: Buccaneer Mall, Rte 30, St. Thomas, St Thomas 00802, US Virgin Islands

Final Remarks

Visit colonial-era buildings, explore the numerous beaches, and eat delicious rum cake, curried chicken, ripe plantains, and conch fritters, some of the local favorites.

One word that sums this place up; is PARADISE.

Safe Travels!