As the gateway to the US Virgin Islands, St. Thomas is an appealing Caribbean island getaway for cruising enthusiasts of all skill levels looking for some sun, some sand, and a lot of duty-free shopping using the common currency and language of the mainland United States.
Things To Do
Beach time is a priority on St. Thomas. Magens Bay on the north shore is considered not only the island’s top beach but also among the world’s finest thanks to its white sand, clear waters and excellent amenities. However, such acclaim means Magens Bay can get crowded, especially on weekends and when cruise ships are in port. Head over early for more privacy and extra time to explore the Discovery Nature Trail. For a quieter setting, pack a picnic and opt for the calm waters of Lindquist Beach, where snorkelers sometimes spot sea turtles. For guaranteed animal sightings, visitors head to Coral World Ocean Park for its undersea observatory tower and close-up encounters with dolphins, sea lions and sharks.
Charlotte Amalie is best known for its duty-free shopping, particularly its abundance of high-end jewelry stores along Main Street and in Yacht Haven Grande, Crown Bay Center and Havensight Mall. Art aficionados can check out Gallery Camille Pissarro, housed in the childhood home of its namesake 19th-century impressionist painter. The charming Mango Tango Art Gallery features works by several Caribbean artists.
The infamous pirate Blackbeard was rumored to haunt St. Thomas long before vacationers and shoppers did. For a fun look at the island’s swashbuckling days, visit the engaging Pirates Treasure: A Shipwreck Museum in Charlotte Amalie. Check out weapons, coins and other plunder, and learn about shipwrecks in the Virgin Islands and the deep-sea technology used to unearth them. The museum is next door to Skyride to Paradise Point, a gondola that takes riders up 700 feet to one of the island’s most picturesque panoramas and lauded restaurants.
Food and Drink
Prime at Paradise Point earns raves for its refined steakhouse fare, attentive service, solid wine list and stunning views overlooking Charlotte Amalie. Gladys’ Café is a laid-back local favorite for breakfast and such West Indian classics as curry goat and stewed chicken. Amble down the cobblestone Palm Passage for an alfresco meal of top-notch Spanish tapas at Amalia Café. Customers particularly praise the seafood fare, such as Galician-style octopus and zarzuela de mariscos (seafood casserole). Hop in your dinghy and head to Christmas Cove for Pizza Pi, an authentic brick-oven pizzeria aboard a 37-foot motorsailer. Its menu includes gluten-free options, frozen drinks, and signature pies with novel ingredients and names such as Moko Jumbie and Peachy Goat.
