St. Thomas is the most visited cruise destination in the entire Caribbean — its combination of US-territory convenience (no passport required for US citizens, USD currency, English language), legendary duty-free shopping in Charlotte Amalie, and genuinely beautiful beaches and snorkelling makes it an almost universal inclusion on Eastern Caribbean itineraries. The island handles enormous cruise traffic daily while somehow maintaining its natural beauty and distinct West Indian character.
Note: Charlotte Amalie (the main port, at the foot of the hills with the colourful waterfront and Crown Bay terminal) was documented separately. This page covers the overall St. Thomas experience beyond what the Charlotte Amalie hub page covers — particularly the beaches, snorkelling, and day-trip options including the nearby British Virgin Islands and St. John.
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Know Before You Go
Know Before You Go: St. Thomas is a US territory — no passport required for US citizens (though a passport is required for the nearby BVI). Currency is USD. Driving is on the left (a legacy of the Danish era). The island has two cruise terminals: Crown Bay (Havensight/Charlotte Amalie) and West Indian Dock. Charlotte Amalie's shopping district has duty-free allowances of up to $1,600 per person for US residents.
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Hot Tip
Take the Skyride to Paradise Point — a 697-foot gondola ride above Charlotte Amalie to a hilltop observation deck with extraordinary views of the harbour, the cruise ships, and the surrounding islands. The views at sunset are particularly spectacular.St Thomas, US Virgin Islands – Quick Facts
CurrencyThe currency of the U.S. Virgin Islands is the U.S. dollar. Most, but not all, establishments accept major credit cards. ATMs are located in area banks. There is also a free-standing ATM on the West Indian Company Cruise Ship Dock next to the Welcome Center.
LanguageThe official language of St. Thomas is English, but it is common to hear French Creole and Spanish. If you need to ask a question, preface it with “Good Morning” or “Good Day” to get off on the right foot.
WiFi & Phone<p>Taxis operate fixed shared-van rates throughout the island. Charlotte Amalie: $4–$8 per person from either terminal. Magens Bay Beach (most popular): ~$8–$12 per person each way. The ferry to St. John (45 min from Charlotte Amalie Red Hook ferry dock):
Where You Dock in St Thomas, US Virgin Islands
Pier locations and what's available at each terminal.
The primary docks for cruise ships are Havensight Pier and Crown Bay (or Cruise Port of Charlotte Amalie). As mentioned before, St. Thomas is a much visited island and if there are more than six ships docking, additional ships will be anchored in the harbor and passengers will be tendered to the island.
Getting Around St Thomas, US Virgin Islands
Transportation options once you're ashore.
Walking
The infrastructure in St. Thomas has not been geared toward pedestrians. Sidewalks are scarce and not well maintained. Walking as a form of seeing the island is not really an option.
If your ship docks at Havensight Pier, it is about a 10 minute ride (by taxi or rental car) into downtown Charlotte Amalie. However, the dock at Havensight has more than 50 shops that are within walking distance. There is also a post office, ATMs, and a pharmacy. Just outside of the Havensight facility there are convenience stores, coffee shops and museums.
If you are looking for a bit more shopping, the Yacht Haven Grande Marina is within walking distance of the Havensight Pier.
Buses
The public transportation system in St. Thomas is called VITRAN. Bus fare is very inexpensive, and the bus travels a route through the main commercial area. If you choose this form of transportation, it might require a bit of walking from your stop to your desired destination. The buses are usually blue and white with VITRAN on the side. The routes do not cover all of the island, and the bus runs on island time which means it could be late, and most likely will be.
Water Ferries
There is water ferry service in St. Thomas, but it is primarily for resort guests. The Westin Resort operates a ferry for its guests. The Lovango Resort operates a ferry between St. Thomas and the Lovango Resort + Beach Club. The Marriott offers a ferry between their Frenchman’s Cove Resort and the harborside of Charlotte Amaile.
Water Taxis
There are water taxis that operate between the islands if you are interested in hopping from island to island. This is a private, personalized service that operates on your schedule for both day and evening trips.
Here are some of the water taxi services:
Seahorse Water Taxi (+1 833-340-0340)
Dolphin Water Taxi (+1 340-774-2628)
St. Thomas Water Taxi (+1 340-227-5144)
Taxis
There are “taxis”, but not the individual cab that you might be familiar with. It will be a van or safari truck that is going to the vicinity of your destination. It will most likely make several stops along the way. The price is per person. These drivers like to load up as many people as possible before departing, and will follow the main drag. If you are wanting to stray from the main drag, you might not be successful in finding a driver to do so.
Rental Cars
As the Virgin Islands are part of the United States, a valid U.S. driver's license is needed to rent a car. There are rental agencies on all three islands, and there are also car barges that allow you to get your vehicle from one island to another.
Just know that driving on the island can be hard on your nerves. The roads are narrow, winding, steep and bumpy. Although the island is owned by the U.S., driving on the island is on the left side of the road. The use of cellphones while driving is against the law.
Here are some rental car agencies on the island, and reservations are highly recommended.
Avis Car Rental (+1 340-774-1468)
Budget Rent A Car St. Thomas (+1 340-776-5774)
Dependable Car Rental (+1 340-774-2253)
This agency offers free pick up and drop off.
Things To Do in St Thomas, US Virgin Islands
Make the most of your time ashore.
Get Your Exercise. Climb the 99 Steps. (There are actually 103!)
Credit: Virgin Islands This Week
In the main town of Charlotte Amalie, the 99 steps is a favorite for photos. Built in the 1700s by the Danes, the bricks were brought over on sailing ships from Denmark. This port city is known for its hills, and the Danes built the steps to make it easier to get around.
St. Thomas Synagogue
This is the oldest synagogue building in continuous use under the American flag and the second oldest in the Western Hemisphere. It is also one of only five synagogues in the world with a sand floor which symbolizes the flight of the Jews out of Egypt.Coral World Ocean Park
This may seem like just another tourist attraction, but here you can get up close and personal with the sea life and learn just how important they are. A 4.5 acres marine park, they have an underwater observatory with 360-degree views of fish and other sea creatures. Especially wonderful for the kiddos, this Ocean Park will give you an appreciation for the marine life that call the oceans home.Pirates Treasure Museum
The interactive storytelling, some with VR, at this museum tells about the island’s history and the pirates that were part of it. There are areas for vacation photos and things for the kids to take part in. The souvenir shop has a collection of rare and antique coins. The Pirates Treasure: A Shipwreck Museum and Store is within walking distance of the Havensight cruise terminal.Frenchtown
Opposite the harbor from Havensight, this eclectic neighborhood is known for its bars and restaurants. It is the home of the descendants of immigrants from St. Bart. Get a feel for the residential district by walking west to the town’s winding street and tiny wooden houses. You will also find the Frenchtown Brewing Company located here. It is a mom-and-pop microbrewery that offers free tasting. Contact them in advance for tours.Visit The Beach
Coki Beach
Coki Beach, also called Coki Point, is one the more popular beaches on the island. Its calm waters make it ideal for swimming and snorkeling and it is a favorite destination for cruise ship passengers. There are also food stalls here.Sapphire Beach
The white sand of the beach also has some grape trees growing, which makes it great to relax in the shade. There is a marina here where you can jet ski, windsurf and parasail. There are also rentals for snorkeling gear and kayaks. There is the Sapphire Beach Bar for a meal or drink.Hull Bay
Off the beaten path, Hull Bay is where you will find most of the locals. From November to March, this is a favorite surfing area because of the north swells that come into the bay. This is not the best beach for families as there are not many amenities and the waters in this area require a bit more experience to navigate them.Magens Bay Beach
Considered to be the most beautiful beach on St. Thomas, it has a signature horseshoe shape and is flanked by mountains on either side. Paddle boards and kayaks are available for rent and there are bathrooms, picnic tables and rental shops at this bay. There is also a restaurant, bar and lifeguards on duty.Beaches & Outdoors in St Thomas, US Virgin Islands
The best beaches, parks, and outdoor experiences for cruise passengers.
Magens Bay Beach (north coast) — the most famous and most beautiful, a perfect sheltered bay. Trunk Bay, St. John (via ferry) — one of the Caribbean's finest. Coki Beach (east, near Coral World) — the best beach snorkelling on St. Thomas itself. Sapphire Beach (east) — popular for watersports.
Shopping in St Thomas, US Virgin Islands
Where to shop and what to look for.
There is no lack of shopping in St. Thomas and you would have a hard time seeing all there is to offer. As is the case whether you shop at home or abroad, it is best to have an idea of what an item should cost. There are some duty-free shops and prices may seem attractive, but make sure you know the average retail price to ensure you get a bargain.
Charlotte Amalie's main streets and alleyways are home to a multitude of shops - jewelry, tobacco, clothing and boutiques and art galleries. This area is located between the two cruise piers.
Havensight Shopping Mall
This mall has numerous shops (over 50) and many eateries and is located at the Havensight Cruise Pier.Crown Bay Center
Located at the Crown Bay cruise port in Charlotte Amalie, there are many souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, books and sunglasses here. Numerous eateries are located in the center, too.Shops at Yacht Haven Grande - 0.7 miles from Havensight pier (15 min. walk)
You will find perfume, spa treatments, clothing and jewelry in the shops at Yacht Haven Grande. There are also a number of restaurants in the area.Mountain Top - 3.5-4 miles from both piers
You will find duty-free shopping and famous Banana Daiquiri here along with spectacular views of Magen's Bay.Fish Face - located downtown on the Palm Passage alleyway off Veterans Drive
A little bit different from the standard tourist offerings, Fish Face has many local artists featured in the store. You will find unique clothing, art and jewelry here.Kmart - located 0.8 miles from Havensight pier
Believe it or not, there is a Kmart in St. Thomas. While there are less than 10 Kmart stores left in the United States, St. Thomas still has a store, although there is some speculation that they might be considering closing: Kmart Shoppers In The US Virgin Islands Are Frustrated And Concerned Over Sparsely Stocked ShelvesDining in St Thomas, US Virgin Islands
Where to eat and drink ashore.
Old Stone Farmhouse - 4 miles from cruise terminals
Located at the former Mahogany Run Golf Course, this upscale restaurant serves American, Caribbean, and New American. This has been hailed as one of St. Thomas’ best restaurants because of its world-class food and intimate atmosphere. Try the pickled peach and fresh burrata salad, truffle honey stung chicken with lavender waffles and guavaberry syrup. Grilled yams and bluefin tuna will be accompanied by tomato bacon jam. The restaurant is in a historic sugar plantation stable with two-foot thick stone walls. Desserts and a wine list are also extensive in selections.
Amalia Cafe - less than 2 miles from cruise terminals
With a Spanish influence, Amalia Cafe is an open-air restaurant in downtown Charlotte Amalie that serves Spanish favorites along with daily tapas, soups, salads, chicken, and roasted duck. Grilled lamb chops, New York strips are available along with a Barcelona Burger. Champagne and Sparkling wines compliment your meal.E's Garden Teahouse and Things - approx. 2 miles from cruise terminals
If you are looking for a spot to catch your breath, E’s Garden Teahouse has more than just tea. Their saltfish quiche and salads are refreshing, too. There are over 30 varieties of tea, both hot and cold, and you will have plenty to look at as you sip, as the Teahouse sells art, jewelry and clothing made by local artisans.Cafe Amici - approx. 2 miles from cruise terminals
Located downtown Charlotte Amalie, the Mediterranean cuisine at Cafe Amici has local influences and the stone baked pizzas are some of the best on the island. The grilled tuna sandwiches are a favorite, too.The Mafolie Restaurant - approx. 3 miles from cruise terminals
Perched on a hilltop with spectacular views, just north of downtown Charlotte Amalie, the Mafolie Hotel & Restaurant has a continental menu with authentic Caribbean accents. Pot Fish is a specialty, and their kallaloo greens soup contains shrimp and crab. Filet mignon is glazed with local guava berry and the Danish barbecue ribs come with breadfruit mash.
Top Tours & Shore Excursions
Book before you board for best availability and pricing.
- Magens Bay Beach Break — Transport to the island's most famous beach. ~$20–$35 per person.
- St. John Day Trip & Trunk Bay — Ferry to the national park island and beautiful Trunk Bay. ~$45–$65 per person including ferry.
- Snorkel & Beach at Coki Beach — Guided snorkel at the island's best reef beach. ~$35–$55 per person.
- BVI Day Trip (Tortola/Virgin Gorda) — Ferry to the British Virgin Islands. ~$65–$90 per person.
- Charlotte Amalie Shopping Tour — Guided duty-free shopping experience. ~$20–$30 per person.
St Thomas, US Virgin Islands – FAQ
Common questions from cruise passengers.
What is the duty-free allowance in St. Thomas for US residents?
US residents returning from St. Thomas have a duty-free exemption of $1,600 per person — four times the $800 standard federal exemption for most international destinations. This is because the US Virgin Islands has a special duty-free status. Additionally, the first $1,000 over the exemption is taxed at a flat 5% (vs. the standard international rate of approximately 10%). Liquor allowances are also higher: returning from St. Thomas, US residents can bring back 5 litres of alcohol per person duty-free (vs. the standard 1 litre). This makes Charlotte Amalie genuinely excellent value for watches, jewelry, spirits, and tobacco.
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