In the heart of the U.S. Virgin Islands lies St. Thomas, a stunning, mountainous gem just east of Puerto Rico offering visitors pristine sandy beaches, lush tropical landscapes, and a dash of lively Caribbean culture.

Famous for its turquoise waters and friendly locals, this island is a must-visit destination for cruisers seeking adventure, relaxation, and memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re drawn to snorkeling with sea turtles or savoring the island’s culinary delights, St. Thomas delivers.

Planning Your Trip

Careful planning for a trip to St. Thomas ensures you’ll make the most of your time on this wonderful island.

Decide in advance what type of experience you desire — be it adventure, leisure, or culture — then, book excursions early to secure your spot. Whatever experience you choose, be sure to carve out time to embrace the island’s magic beyond your planned itinerary.

Best Time to Visit

Like many Caribbean islands, St. Thomas boasts warm, year-round weather, with temperatures averaging between 77°F and 88°F. Gentle, consistent breezes provide a refreshing relief, ensuring you never feel too hot.

The best time to visit St. Thomas depends on what kind of experience you want to have. The island’s peak season runs from December to April, when the island is bustling with visitors escaping winter. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, consider visiting during the shoulder months of May or November.

Keep in mind that Hurricane season peaks from August to October, so it’s vital to stay updated on forecasts if cruising during that time.

How to Get There

Many major cruise lines dock at the vibrant Charlotte Amalie port, a bustling hub that connects cruisers to the island’s attractions in no time. Stays in port generally range from 6 to 8 hours, giving you plenty of time for shopping, sightseeing, and exploring.

Getting Around in St. Thomas

Navigating St. Thomas is easy, thanks to its convenient transportation options. Many tours include pick-up and drop-off services for hassle-free travel. For those venturing out solo, taxis and ‘safari buses’ provide reliable alternatives to traveling around the island’s steep, winding hills — a much easier option than driving an expensive rental car.

Active travelers will enjoy exploring on foot in areas like downtown Charlotte Amalie, though the hilly terrain might be a bit of a challenge for those unaccustomed to it.

Essential Travel Information

Understanding a few essentials can make your St. Thomas visit a breeze. This unique destination combines tropical charm with well-organized services, ensuring every cruiser enjoys a stress-free experience.

Entry Requirements

For many U.S. citizens, St. Thomas feels like a tropical home away from home. No passport is required for entry, though carrying ID is advised. Most cruise passengers won’t need to clear customs during a day visit, but double-check with your cruise line for specific instructions.

Currency

St. Thomas uses the U.S. dollar, making transactions simple for American visitors. Credit cards are widely accepted, though small vendors might prefer cash. If you need to exchange currency, ATMs are plentiful near the port.

Health and Safety

Stay sun-smart with sunscreen and hydration to safely enjoy the island’s tropical climate. This mindfulness extends to those potent cocktails in abundance on the island; try not to imbibe too much, as alcohol is dehydrating.

Don’t forget to pack a solid bug repellent — mosquitos are definitely a thing here. Seriously, they don’t mess around. On the bright side, the local clinics and emergency services are well-equipped to handle whatever comes your way.

While St. Thomas is generally safe, keep personal belongings secure and avoid wandering unfamiliar areas at night, especially on the backstreets of Charlotte Amalie.

Top Excursions and Tours

St. Thomas brims with exciting excursions tailored for every traveler’s taste. At Shore Excursions Group, we specialize in curating smaller, more personalized tours, ensuring every experience feels exclusive and memorable. Here’s a glimpse at some top adventures:

Aquatic Adventures

Dive into St. Thomas’s vibrant marine life with exhilarating water-based excursions.

Snorkelers will adore the Half Day Sail and Snorkel with the Turtles, one of the top St. Thomas island tours for first-time visitors. Enjoy a guided trip through crystal-clear waters to Turtle Cove, a wonderful marine sanctuary at Buck Island that is teeming with colorful fish and sea turtles just waiting to meet you. Learn more about this unforgettable experience here.

For a full-day aquatic thrill, the Full Day Multi-Adventure: Kayak, Hike & Snorkel combines paddling through mangroves, hiking volcanic cliffs, and exploring underwater ecosystems. Also on tap: a seaside picnic lunch and a unique hermit crab race! Check out this must-try tour here.

Certified divers can take the plunge with the Two Tank Certified Boat Dive, exploring reefs and marine habitats with expert guides. Enjoy more personalized attention as you and your small group visit some of St. Thomas’ popular dive sites including Mingo Cay and the General Roger’s shipwreck (sites chosen based on the day’s weather and water conditions). Discover more here.

Cultural and Culinary Explorations

St. Thomas is as rich in culture as it is in natural beauty. 

Food lovers will relish the Historic Main Street Food Tour, a flavorful journey through local delicacies guided by knowledgeable locals. Experience the island through the eyes of the locals as you sample fresh seafood, kallaloo (stew), and more delights against the backdrop of historical downtown buildings. Tempt your taste buds here.

Another gem is A Taste of St. Thomas, blending culinary delights with cultural storytelling across five renowned restaurants. Indulge your way through the heart of downtown Charlotte Amalie, and polish your mixology skills as you learn the art of crafting the perfect Painkiller cocktail. Begin your flavor adventure here.

For a scenic overview, try the St. Thomas Island Overview tour, which combines breathtaking views and local insights. Take an exhilarating ride along Skyline Drive, seeing notable landmarks including Bluebeard’s Castle and Drake’s Seat before stopping at Mountain Top and sampling the world-famous banana daiquiri (purchase). Plan your trip here.

Relaxation and Scenic Experiences

If relaxation is your goal, St. Thomas delivers on all fronts.

The Coral World and Coki Beach excursion offers a day of serenity, blending beachside bliss with marine park exploration. Here’s your chance to get up close and personal with sharks, stingrays, and much more. The kiddos will love the animal feedings and presentations, and you will enjoy a refreshing snorkel or swim at the adjacent Coki Beach — a favorite with the locals. Dive into details here.

For an idyllic evening, sail off into the sunset with the Frenchman’s Cove Sunset Dinner Sail, pairing gourmet dining with stunning views. Relax on the catamaran with mouthwatering tequila jalapeño lime flank steak, a delectable taco spread (on Tuesdays), fine wine, and more while enjoying the twinkling lights of Charlotte Amalie Harbor. Reserve your spot here.

Seeking a private escape? The Private St. Thomas Jeep Adventure offers a customizable journey through hidden gems and iconic sights. Along the way, stop for a snorkel at Brewer’s Beach and search for hidden treasures as you browse the shops. Find out more here.

Travel Tips and Tricks

A few simple tips can elevate your St. Thomas experience. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the tropical heat. Familiarize yourself with local etiquette to connect warmly with residents. And finally, plan your excursions early to secure spots on top tours.

Packing Essentials

You’ll want to make sure you pack comfortable walking shoes to navigate the hills, winding roads, and uneven paths. Don’t forget a waterproof phone pouch for water-based activities. Lightweight rain gear is also handy for tropical showers or those occasionally windy nights.

Language and Communication

English is widely spoken in St. Thomas, making communication easy. Simple greetings (such as “good morning”, “good afternoon”, or “good night”) and smiles go a long way when meeting the locals.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs, including wearing modest attire when walking around town or dining in restaurants (leave the bathing suits and sarongs for the beach). Speaking of restaurants, a discreet 15 – 20% tip is often expected.

When at the beach, stick to designated swimming areas and be mindful of the fragile coral reefs. Respect the environment by using reef-safe sunscreen and picking up any trash.

Dos and Don’ts

Do:

• Relax and go with the (time) flow; life here runs on “island time”, so get ready to embrace the slow pace
• Bring sunscreen with you, as the same bottle of lotion can cost up to two to three times more if you wait to get it on the island
• Plan on drinking bottled water, as the tap water is not always drinkable (some businesses use rainwater cisterns)

Don’t:

• Expect your usual prices; everything here is more expensive than on the mainland
• Expect air conditioning, except for larger businesses; instead, rely on the constant breeze to help keep you cool

What’s the Best Way to Book Shore Excursions?

Glad you asked!  Visit Shore Excursions Group for a variety of personalized, high-quality tours. Whether you want to snorkel with turtles, taste local cuisine, or relax on sunlit beaches, we have something for you.

St. Thomas is a slice of paradise, ready to be explored, with experiences that are sure to inspire. Discover our curated tours and book your ideal St. Thomas shore excursion here.

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