Does your Caribbean cruise include a stop in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands? If so, you’re in for a treat. St. Thomas is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine white sand beaches, and rich biodiversity. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, this island has something for everyone.
St. Thomas, USVI, is a popular port of call on cruises in the eastern Caribbean. The tropical island features stunning crystal-clear turquoise waters, beautiful white sand beaches, and rich biodiversity. The port city of Charlotte Amalie is steeped in history from its colonial Danish past and pirate activities.
During your cruise stop, you can snorkel in the serene waters of Magens Bay, shop at the vibrant Havensight Shopping Mall, or explore the historical landmarks in Charlotte Amalie. From the famous 99 Steps to Blackbeard’s Castle, history buffs will find plenty to explore.
With so many activities and limited time in port, how do you choose what to do? In this guide, I’ll share my top recommendations to help you make the most of your day in St. Thomas. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on the beach or an adventurous exploration of historical sites, you’ll find it here.
So, if you’re ready to start planning your day in port, read on and discover the best activities to do in St. Thomas on a cruise day.
Where Do Cruise Ships Dock in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas?
Cruise ships dock on the south side of St. Thomas in Charlotte Amalie, U.S. Virgin Islands. The two main docking piers are Havensight Cruise Pier and Crown Bay Cruise Terminal. These piers accommodate various major cruise lines, including Celebrity, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, and Cunard, among others.
On particularly busy days, when the docks are full, your cruise ship may anchor in the deep harbor bay of Charlotte Amalie. In such cases, tender boats will shuttle passengers ashore, ensuring a smooth transition to the island.
No matter where your ship docks in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, you’ll find the terminal facilities to be excellent. Both Havensight and Crown Bay offer a range of amenities, from shopping and dining options to tourist information centers. Taxis are readily available, making it easy to get to downtown Charlotte Amalie, where you can explore historic sites, duty-free shops, and vibrant local markets.
Where is Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas?
Charlotte Amalie, the capital of St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI), is a vibrant destination in the eastern Caribbean. Known for its deep-water harbor, it is one of the busiest cruise ports in the Caribbean. As the largest city in the Virgin Islands Archipelago, Charlotte Amalie offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern amenities.
Map of St. Thomas (USVI) and Charlotte Amalie
Arriving at Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
As your cruise ship docks at Charlotte Amalie, you get stunning views of the harbor bay and the surrounding hillsides. Depending on where you dock, you will you’ll find yourself either to the east or west of the city center. With limited time to explore this beautiful island paradise, making the most of every moment is essential.
Top cruise tip: Remember to take a photo ID and your ship card when disembarking, as you’ll need these to re-enter the pier.
Havensight Cruise Pier
The Havensight Cruise Pier, located east of Charlotte Amalie, is the largest and closest docking spot to the city. With three docking spots, this cruise terminal is conveniently adjacent to Havensight Shopping Mall, offering a variety of shops and dining options.
Right outside the gates, you’ll find numerous local taxis ready to take you to the island’s main attractions. Independent tour operators and local guides are also available if you prefer a more personalized experience. For those who have booked ship-operated shore excursions, guides will direct you to the designated tour buses.
A highlight near Havensight Dock is the Skyride to Paradise Point. This popular attraction provides breathtaking views of the island and is a perfect way to start or end your day in St. Thomas. While downtown Charlotte Amalie is about a 20-minute walk away, it’s not recommended due to the busy road and lack of shade. Opting for a taxi or tour bus is a safer and more comfortable choice.
Cruise Pier of Charlotte Amalie (Crown Bay)
The dock at Crown Bay, located west of Charlotte Amalie, can accommodate two cruise ships. The exiting gates are conveniently close to the ships, providing you with easy access to a well-appointed cruise terminal that offers numerous amenities and services. Just outside the pier gates, you’ll find a large shopping mall filled with duty-free shops, offering a great shopping experience.
After exiting the mall, you’ll find taxi operators, local guides, and independent tour companies ready to help you explore the island. If you’ve booked a shore excursion through your cruise line, your guide will escort you from the ship to the buses.
If you plan to explore the historic downtown area of Charlotte Amalie, taking a taxi is recommended. Although it’s only 2 miles (3.2 km) away, the walk isn’t pleasant and offers little of interest. However, if you’re interested in exploring Frenchtown, it’s a more manageable 15-minute walk from the port.
Transportation to Charlotte Amalie
Regardless of whether you dock at Crown Bay or Havensight Dock, taxis are the recommended way to get around the island. The taxi fare is around $5 per person from the pier terminals to the center of Charlotte Amalie. You can expect to pay around $15 to get to the other main attractions, like Magens Bay, Coral World, and Sapphire Beach.
Discovering Charlotte Amalie
Charlotte Amalie, the capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands, is a vibrant and bustling port city with a rich history. The town has historic colonial buildings from when the Danish ruled the island. Several fortifications from the 18th century, like Blackbeard’s Castle, Bluebeard’s Castle, and Fort Christian, are the most famous landmarks.
The best way to get a feel for the town is to stroll along the cobblestone streets lined with charming pastel-colored buildings. However, to get the best views of the horseshoe-shaped harbor, take the Skyline to Paradise Point, 700 feet above the harbor, or walk to Blackbeard’s Castle.
Exploring Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas on a Cruise Day in Port
St. Thomas is a popular cruise destination, with over 1.5 million visitors annually. Therefore, there are plenty of excursions and attractions to choose from.
If you’re a history buff, love architecture, or want to shop, choose guided tours based in Charlotte Amalie. There are around 20 historical landmarks to explore, including forts, castles, museums, and shopping malls. Walking around the town lets you sample Caribbean food, rum, and other local delicacies.
If beaches are your thing, take a shore excursion to Magens Bay or one of the other stunning beaches. The crystal-clear water around St. Thomas is ideal for snorkeling and exploring coral reefs and tropical marine life. The best snorkeling and dolphin encounters are at Coral World Ocean Park.
Things to Do in Charlotte Amalie on a Cruise Day
If you decide to spend your cruise day in Charlotte Amalie, you have several options to see what the city has to offer.
Visit the historical Blackbeard’s Castle in Charlotte Amalie
Blackbeard’s Castle is one of the most famous landmarks in Charlotte Amalie. You can enjoy stunning views of the harbor and city below from this historic site. Originally called Skytsborg (Danish for protection castle), the tower was built to protect St. Thomas from enemy attacks on Fort Christian.
Visiting Blackbeard’s Castle gives you a glimpse into the real Caribbean pirates. Captain Edward Teach (Blackbeard) was a real-life pirate portrayed in Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides. You can see a bronze sculpture of the pirate and get the best views of Charlotte Amalie Harbor.
Check ahead before planning to visit Blackbeard’s Castle. It is only open on specific days of the week, and work at the site may restrict access. Please note that you can walk around the grounds, but the castle isn’t open to the public.
Climb the 99 Steps at Government House
The 99 Steps connects downtown Charlotte Amalie to the hills above. The steps—there are actually 103 if you count them—are lined with palm trees and lush, tropical flowering shrubs. The steps start near the Government House on Kongens Gade. At the top, you are close to Blackbeard’s Castle.
Government House is a historic Danish Colonial building. The three-story building has balconies with stunning ironwork and white pillars. The building is hard to miss due to its brilliant white exterior. It is now the office of the governor of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Blackbeard’s Castle is a 5-minute walk away.
If you walk to Blackbeard’s Castle from the 99 Steps, you’ll pass the Three Queens Statue. This monument honors three historically important women of the Virgin Islands: Queen Agnes, Queen Mary, and Queen Josiah.
Emancipation Garden
The Emancipation Garden or park is a historical landmark in Charlotte Amalie that is worth visiting. The park commemorates the emancipation of enslaved people on July 3, 1848. It is located near the waterfront and close to Fort Christian, Post Office Square, and Government House. It’s a popular destination for cruise visitors to relax in the shade.
The park features stalls selling souvenirs, snacks, refreshments, and locally produced goods.
Fort Christian
Fort Christian is a must-see historic landmark in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas. Built in 1672, it is the oldest building in the U.S. Virgin Islands. It’s also a superb example of Danish-Caribbean architecture, featuring a vibrant red color with yellow accents. It’s strategically located in the center of the crescent-shaped harbor.
Located in the heart of Charlotte Amalie near Emancipation Garden, Fort Christian is now a museum with various exhibits of St. Thomas’s past. Most exhibits are artifacts from the Dano-Norwegian era. If you’re interested in the history of St. Thomas, visiting Fort Christian is worth the effort.
St Thomas Historical Trust Museum
Visiting the St. Thomas Historical Trust Museum on a walking tour of Charlotte Amalie brings some history and culture to your cruise day. Located near Fort Christian and the harbor, the museum has a range of artifacts and exhibits from the island’s past.
The museum is in a historic building dating back to the 19th century, adding charm and character. Its exhibits include a diving bell, pirate artifacts, antique photographs of the area, and stunning West Indian furniture from the 1600s. There are also fascinating 100-year-old 3-D images.
It’s necessary to book an appointment to tour the museum, and the tour takes around an hour.
St. Thomas Synagogue
The St. Thomas Synagogue is one of the oldest synagogues in America. Built in 1833, it houses a congregation founded by Sephardi Jews in 1796. Outstanding features of the building are its mahogany benches, ark, and bimah. Additionally, the synagogue has an 11th-century menorah. It’s also worth visiting to see its unique sand floor—one of a kind.
To tour the synagogue, you must book beforehand. Guided tours are free and donation-based.
Bluebeard’s Castle Museum
The Bluebird Tower Museum has a rich history dating to its construction in 1666. It was a lookout point for Danish troops to guard Charlotte Amalie from invaders. It’s now a fascinating museum with ancient Caribbean artifacts, shipwreck treasures, and pirate paraphernalia. You can also take spectacular photos from the harbor at the top.
You must book beforehand to arrange a guided tour of the museum.
Pirates Treasure Museum in Charlotte Amalie
The Pirates Treasure Museum is one of the closest attractions to Havensight Cruise Pier. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of pirates and their treasure, including the history of the Virgin Islands. The museum features interactive exhibits, authentic shipwreck coins, artifacts, and pirate displays. Allow one to two hours for the excursion.
Explore Frenchtown in St. Thomas, Charlotte Amalie
One of the hidden gems in Charlotte Amalie is Frenchtown. This quaint fishing village is where many French people settled on the island. The charming neighborhood of Frenchtown is a short distance—one mile—from the Crown Bay cruise ship dock. It offers a unique blend of French, Danish, and Caribbean influences.
Things to do in Frenchtown, Charlotte Amalie, include:
- Admiring the narrow streets lined with colorful Creole cottages
- Visiting the French Heritage Museum
- Touring the Frenchtown Brewing Company
- Relaxing in one of the French-inspired cafes or bistros
Panoramic views of Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas at Paradise Point
A must-see attraction for cruise passengers in St. Thomas is the stunning panoramic views from Paradise Point. Situated at the end of the Havensight Cruise Pier is the Skyride. Here, you can take a gondola to the lookout point at the top, where you can take breathtaking pictures of the harbor and surrounding Caribbean scenery.
After marveling at the Caribbean vista, you can enjoy a refreshing drink at the bar while taking in the sights or grab a bite to eat at the restaurant. There are also shops where you can pick up souvenirs to remember your visit.
Food Tour of Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
If you’re a foodie, you can enjoy a walking tour of Charlotte Amalie and try traditional Caribbean cuisine.
Most food tours include a knowledgeable guide, a tour of historical landmarks, and samples of Caribbean dishes. On such tours, you may get to try curried chicken, pulled pork tacos, and a unique dish known as ‘fungi.’ Fungi is a local staple made from cornmeal and often combined with okra, resulting in a firm yet slightly slimy texture similar to polenta or grits, usually served alongside fish or meat. You might also savor ripe plantain, callaloo soup, sailfish quiche, and conch fritters. To complement these dishes, you can refresh yourself with rum cocktails or tropical iced tea.
Havensight Shopping Mall, Charlotte Amalie
Suppose your cruise ship docks at the West Indian Company Dock (Havensight) in Long Bay. In that case, visiting the Havensight Shopping Mall in Charlotte Amalie is a must-do activity. This bustling shopping complex offers a wide range of shops, boutiques, and restaurants. You can find everything from jewelry and clothing to souvenirs and local crafts here.
In addition to locally produced goods, you can find various duty-free shops. These sell everything from alcohol to fine jewelry, local cigars, and Swiss watches. You can also sample authentic Caribbean cuisine at the mall’s restaurants and cafes.
Enjoy duty-free shopping in downtown Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
St. Thomas is one of the best Caribbean islands for duty-free shopping, and Charlotte Amalie is at its center. Downtown Charlotte Amalie is a shopper’s paradise, characterized by historic buildings constructed from cut coral and Danish bricks. These buildings are uniquely bonded with molasses mortar, a durable mixture developed historically in the Caribbean. Made from molasses, lime, sand, and water, this mortar was used to enhance the buildings’ strength and resistance to the salt-rich coastal environment. Start at Post Office Square and head along Main Street for a shopping bonanza.
Shore Excursions in St. Thomas
The best way to enjoy the beautiful beaches in St. Thomas is to book a ship-operated shore excursion or online with an independent tour operator. Other excursions away from the cruise port of Charlotte Amalie include ziplining, snorkeling, offshore fishing, and various water sports.
Enjoy a fun day in St. Thomas at Coral World Ocean Park
Coral World Ocean Park is consistently voted one of the top shore excursions in St. Thomas. It’s located a 25-minute drive from the terminal. The water attraction features interaction with dolphins, an undersea observatory tower, and a unique sea trek using specially designed helmets. Here, you can marvel at coral reefs and tropical marine life.
Located at Coki Point, Coral World is an interactive marine park with various water activities. You can get up close with dolphins, sting rays, sharks, sea turtles, and sea lions. Snorkeling excursions include encounters with juvenile sharks.
Coral World also offers underwater SNUBA excursions. You can enjoy the thrill of scuba diving without any previous diving experience. After the excitement of getting close to tropical marine life, you can relax at the beach cafe or bar, looking out over the Caribbean Sea.
Take in panoramic views at Mountain Top, St. Peter’s Mountain
Take a shore excursion that includes Mountain Top at St. Peter’s Mountain for some of the best panoramic views of the Caribbean. Located 1,500 feet above sea level, the top of the mountain has the largest duty-free shop in the Caribbean. It is also said to be the birthplace of the famous banana daiquiri.
Mountain Top offers stunning views of Magens Bay and many islands, alongside the Caribbean’s largest duty-free shop and the bar. Despite these being its sole attractions, they provide a worthwhile experience for exceptional Caribbean photos.
Excursions that include Mountain Top may also include Magens Bay Beach, scenic island tours, Coki Beach, and snorkeling.
Drake’s Seat
Drake’s Seat is a popular stop-off point on shore excursions, where you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of Magens Bay and the surrounding islands. The mountain viewpoint is a 12-minute drive from the Cruise Pier and is usually part of shore excursions to Magens Bay Beach, Phantasea Botanical Gardens, or Tree Limin’ Extreme Zipline.
Drake’s Seat is named after Sir Francis Drake, the famous English explorer. It is said that he sat at this vantage point to keep on the lookout for enemy ships. Tourists highly rate the viewpoint, saying it gives some of the best views of the Caribbean on the island.
Tree Limin’ Extreme Zipline
If you’re looking for the most exhilarating and adventurous activity in St. Thomas on a cruise day, visit Tree Limin’ Extreme Zipline. The six ziplines, eight aerial tree platforms, and two-foot bridges are above the rainforest’s canopy on St. Peter’s Mountain. As you zip between platforms, you get breathtaking island views in this adrenaline-pumping experience.
The Tree Limin’ Extreme Zipline is a 10-minute drive from the Havensight cruise pier. Expect to spend two to three hours at the attraction, so you should have plenty of time to take in other sights and attractions on the zipline shore excursion. You can also travel by taxi from the pier, and the fare is $15 per person.
Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden
A shore excursion to Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden allows you to enjoy walking through lush tropical rainforest. This stunning garden paradise contains lush greenery, colorful orchids, bromeliads, lilies, and exotic plants. The gardens also have peacocks, tortoises, parrots, and chickens. The winding paths also lead past waterfalls and ponds.
The gardens are on two acres of lush landscape and provide stunning views over Charlotte Amalie Harbor, St. John, and Magens Bay. It’s good to note that there are many steps in the park, so it’s unsuitable for people with mobility issues.
Plantation Crown and Hawk Botanical Garden
The Plantation Crown and Hawk Botanical Garden in St. Thomas, USVI, is a tranquil space in a former sugar plantation. The botanical gardens feature stunning orchids, tropical plants, peacocks, and tortoises. Additionally, you get terrific views of Inner Brass Island and Outer Brass Island. There is also a plant maze to explore.
As you step into the garden, you are surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. The Plantation Crown shore excursion is usually part of sightseeing tours of St. Thomas. Unfortunately, the gardens get mixed reviews, with many visitors commenting that it’s overpriced and lacks enough information about the plants.
Catamaran snorkeling excursions
Book a catamaran excursion to experience the wonders of the crystal-clear Caribbean waters. Most excursions depart from St. Thomas to the tropical paradise of St. John’s Island. Catamaran tours offer snorkeling opportunities at coral reefs to explore colorful underwater landscapes. The trip may also include food and an open bar.
You can also find catamaran excursions that take you around small islands and bays. Popular destinations near St. Thomas include the secluded beaches of Watermelon Cay, Cinnamon Bay, and Caneel Bay. You may also explore the serene waters of Honeymoon Beach on Water Island.
Take a kayak through the St. Thomas mangrove lagoon
Book a relaxing kayak excursion if you want to escape the cruise passenger crowds in Charlotte Amalie. The Cas Cay Mangrove Lagoon is a 15-minute drive east of the cruise pier. The self-guided tour includes a kayak, paddles, safety gear, and snorkeling equipment. As you paddle through the lagoon, you can observe lush vegetation and tropical birds.
This eco-friendly tour allows you to immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty. You can beach the kayak to explore deserted islands and snorkel in the crystal clear waters. Guided kayak tours may include hiking through the rainforest, viewing geological blowholes, and swimming in tidal pools.
Snorkeling or scuba diving in St. Thomas
St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands is an ocean paradise for snorkeling and scuba diving. The most popular places for underwater activities are on the island’s northern and eastern shores. The pristine water lets you observe healthy reef life and encounter sea turtles, sting rays, and colorful tropical fish.
Lindquist Beach is one of the best beaches for snorkeling adventures in St. Thomas. Other good beaches with snorkeling amenities include Lindbergh Beach, Secret Harbour Beach, and Coki Beach, with fantastic snorkeling near the shore.
Coki Beach offers spectacular reefs if you are a certified scuba diver. Some reefs are 40 or 50 feet long and ideal for beginner and experienced divers. You may spot barracudas, turtles, sting rays, and moray eels. There are also several shipwrecks to explore on various diving excursions around St. Thomas.
Enjoy a cruise day exploring Water Island
An excursion to Water Island is a popular way to escape St. Thomas on a busy cruise day. If your ship docks at the Crown Bay Pier, you are beside the Water Island Ferry departure point. The only transport on the island is golf carts, making it a fun way to spend the day.
Here are some of the best attractions on Water Island, St. Thomas, for spending a day in port:
- Snorkel in Limestone Bay, exploring Supermarket Reef with its unusual coral formations.
- Explore Fort Segarra, a defensive outpost from World War II with underground bunkers, gun turrets, tunnels, and an observation deck.
- Relax on Honeymoon Beach with its white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water surrounded by tropical palm trees. You can also grab a bite to eat at the popular Dinghy’s Beach Bar & Grill.
- Explore the clear blue waters on a kayak or paddleboard in Elephant Bay.
Day trip to St. John’s Island (USVI)
A day excursion to nearby St. John’s Island is the best way to escape the cruise crowds in Charlotte Amalie. Catamaran or powerboat trips are available from Havensight Cruise Pier or by taxi to Red Hook on the island’s east coast. St. John’s offers pristine beaches, lush tropical forests, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure.
St. John is one of the premier snorkeling spots in the Caribbean, and it has some of the most beautiful beaches you will ever see. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and exploring coral reefs that are teeming with tropical fish.
The ragged outline of the coast means there are plenty of secluded bays and deserted beaches to enjoy.
The best beach on St. John’s Island is Cinnamon Bay—an excellent place for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. It’s also less crowded than the ever-popular Trunk Bay. However, many say that Honeymoon Beach and Salomon Beach provide the best snorkeling opportunities on the island.
Offshore fishing charter from St. Thomas
If you love fishing, an offshore deep-sea fishing charter is ideal for a cruise day in St. Thomas. Suitable for all experience levels, fishing in the Caribbean Sea is a memorable experience. The clear blue waters around St. Thomas teem with fish like marlin, snappers, tuna, kingfish, and triggerfish.
Most fishing charters depart from Red Hook or American Yacht Harbor on the east end of St. Thomas. Depending on your length of stay in port, you can book a four or six-hour excursion.
Typically, a four-hour fishing trip is suitable for inshore fishing for snappers, jacks, and barracuda. A six-hour trip to North Drop will increase your chances of catching tuna, marlin, and mahimahi.
The Best Beaches in St. Thomas
St. Thomas is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. The beaches are characterized by soft, white sand, crystal-clear blue water, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Let’s look at the best beaches in St. Thomas in detail if you decide to spend your cruise day at the beach.
No matter which beach you choose in St. Thomas, you will be amazed at the stunning views, warm waters, and plenty of opportunities for relaxation and adventure.
Relax at the stunning Magens Bay Beach, St. Thomas
Magens Bay has a world-renowned beach boasting crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white sand. It’s one of the most popular beaches and is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Lush green hills surround the horseshoe-shaped beach, and facilities include restrooms, snack bars, and rental equipment.
- Best for: Sunbathing, water sports, and hiking on the nature trails
- Amenities: Lifeguards, restrooms, beach bar, watersports rentals
- Distance from port: 15 minutes, 4 miles (6.4 km)
Enjoy water activities at Sapphire Beach, St. Thomas
Famed for its crystal-clear blue waters and stunning white sand, Sapphire Beach is one of the best on the island. Located on the east end of St. Thomas at St. John’s Bay, it offers a wide range of water activities, including snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, parasailing, and jet skiing. The calm waters make it an ideal spot for beginners and experienced water enthusiasts alike.
If you want to try parasailing, Sapphire Beach is the best destination. You get breathtaking views as you soar above the island’s coastline. You also get some of the best views of St. John’s Island. If you’re looking for adventure, all-terrain buggies are available near the beach.
- Best for: Jet skiing and parasailing
- Amenities: Beach bar, live music, boat tours, loungers for hire
- Distance from port: 20 minutes, 6 miles (9.6 km)
Snorkeling and diving at Coki Beach
Coki Beach is the go-to location for some of the best snorkeling and diving on St. Thomas. This beautiful beach is known for its crystal-clear shallow waters, vibrant marine life, and colorful coral reefs. It’s also beside Coral World Ocean Park if you want to experience the thrill of swimming with dolphins and sea lions.
Spending the day at Coki Beach gets you into the true Caribbean spirit. The beach has small bars offering cocktails, refreshments, snacks, and souvenirs.
- Best for: Snorkeling and diving
- Amenities: Bars, restrooms, water sport rentals, and jet skis
- Distance from port: 15 minutes, 5 miles (8 km)
Smith Bay Beach (formerly Lindquist Beach)
Nestled in Smith Bay is Lindquist Beach, a relatively secluded beach with stunning white sand and clear blue water. The rocky outcrops surrounding the bay ensure the water is always calm and suitable for swimming, even safe for kids. The soft white sands ensure paddling in the water is a pleasant experience.
While sunbathing on the lounge chairs, you can enjoy spectacular views of nearby islands like Thatch Cay, Grass Cay, and Jost Van Dyke. There is a small admission fee for using the beach facilities.
- Best for: Swimming and enjoying a peaceful day on the beach
- Amenities: Massage, beachfront spa, snorkeling, restrooms, picnic tables, lifeguards
- Distance from port: 15 minutes, 5 miles (8 km)
Morningstar Beach
Morningstar is one of the closest beaches to the Cruise Piers on St. Thomas. The attraction of the beach is its shoreline of smooth, soft sand. A range of facilities are available to enjoy your day at the beach. You can hire snorkeling gear, kayaks, paddle boards, jet skis, and umbrellas.
However, if you’re looking for a memorable day at the beach, it’s best to travel out of Charlotte Amalie. The beach gets quickly crowded with locals and tourists on cruise days, and the drinks are overpriced. Also, the chairs are only available for hotel guests, not cruisers.
- Best for: Proximity to the cruise pier, swimming, and snorkeling
- Amenities: Bathrooms, food vendors, swimming, snorkeling
- Distance from port: 5 minutes, 1.5 miles (2.4 km)
Swim and sunbathe at Secret Harbour Beach
Secret Harbour Beach has all you would expect from a Caribbean beach—soft white sand, coconut palms, and crystal-clear turquoise water. The water is always calm in the protected bay—Nazareth Bay. It’s also far enough away from the cruise port to mean it’s always quiet when ships are in port.
Secret Harbour Beach is ideal if you are looking for some relaxation on a beach in St. Thomas. You can relax in a hammock under a palm tree, swim in the clear waters, or visit the nearby beach bar.
- Best for: Swimming and enjoying a peaceful day on the beach
- Amenities: Beachfront bar, hammocks, restaurant, snorkeling, and diving
- Distance from port: 20 minutes, 6 miles (9.6 km)
Cruise Day in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas: FAQs
What currency is accepted in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas?
The official currency of the U.S. Virgin Islands, including Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas, is the United States Dollar (USD). Most businesses accept major credit cards as well.
What language is spoken in St. Thomas?
English is the primary language spoken in St. Thomas, USVI, making communication easy for visitors.
Is it safe to drink tap water in St. Thomas?
Tap water in St. Thomas is generally safe to drink. It has been desalinated and meets drinking water standards for the U.S. However, because of the desalination process, the water may taste “off.” Therefore, many cruisers tend to drink bottled water for its taste and extra peace of mind.
What is the time zone in St. Thomas?
St. Thomas operates on Atlantic Standard Time (AST), 4 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-4).
Do I need a visa to visit St. Thomas?
You don’t require a visa to visit St. Thomas if you are a U.S. citizen. However, you should check visa requirements if you are not a U.S. passport holder. It’s also vital to carry your photo ID and ship card to re-enter the pier.
Is WiFi available in public areas?
Free WiFi is generally available in Charlotte Amalie and other main tourist destinations. However, you’ll need to find a suitable hotspot that many restaurants, cafes, and bars provide. The most popular beaches also have WiFi to varying degrees of reliability.
What is the tipping etiquette in St. Thomas?
Tipping in St. Thomas is like the United States. Tipping around 15-20% in restaurants and bars is customary unless a service charge is already included. Tipping taxi drivers, tour guides, and shore excursion operators of 20% is also encouraged.
Can you rent chairs and umbrellas at Magens Bay?
Sun loungers, chairs, and umbrellas are available for rent at Magens Bay Beach for a small fee. Additionally, you can hire kayaks, paddle boats, paddleboards, snorkels, fins, and masks. However, there is plenty of natural shade around the coastline.
Is Magens Bay Beach free?
You must pay a nominal entrance fee of $5 for Magens Bay Beach, but admission for under 12’s is free. The fee helps maintain the facilities and conservation efforts.
How much is a taxi from Charlotte Amalie to Magens Bay?
Taxi fares from Charlotte Amalie to Magens Bay typically range around $15 per person one way.
Where can I walk around St. Thomas?
Walking in downtown Charlotte Amalie is safe, and you can visit many historical buildings and locations. You can visit museums, castles, and colonial buildings from the island’s Danish past. There are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars throughout the town where you can relax and soak up the Caribbean atmosphere.
Are there taxis at the St. Thomas cruise port?
Yes, taxis are readily available at both cruise ports in St. Thomas. Although you can walk to the center of Charlotte Amalie, it’s best to take a cab. Also, you can take a taxi to all the popular tourist destinations if you haven’t booked a shore excursion.
What is the prettiest beach on St. Thomas?
Most people agree that Magens Bay Beach is the most stunning beach on the island. In fact, Little Magen Bay was said to be one of former President Bill Clinton’s favorite spots on the island. The crescent-shaped bay has a beautiful beach, calm, crystal-clear waters, and soft sand.
Are there Ubers on St. Thomas?
No Uber services are available on St. Thomas or any of the U.S. Virgin Islands. The easiest way to get around the island on a cruise day is to hire a taxi or book a shore excursion with your cruise line or an independent tour operator.
Is Charlotte Amalie a tender port?
Most cruise ships dock in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, at the Havensight Cruise Pier or the pier at Crown Bay. However, on busy days, the port can become a tender port if more than five ships are docked. Therefore, you may need to take a tender (small boat) from the ship to the city.
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