From Sand to Sea, These are the Best Things to Do in St. Thomas
With no passport needed for U.S. citizens to visit its sun-splashed shores, St. Thomas is a perennially popular getaway in the U.S. Virgin Islands. With so many options to relax on the beach or enjoy the crystal-clear, turquoise waters, it's up to you to choose your own St. Thomas adventure.
Hit the Beach
With some of the most swoon-worthy beaches in the Caribbean, St. Thomas serves up many choices for sand and sun. The protected sweep of sand at Magens Bay, on the north side of the island, is horseshoe-shaped and bookended by headlands that keep its waters calm for swimming. Stop at the overlook along the hiking trail here to spot native and migratory birds before walking down to the powder-fine, chalk-white sands.
On the island's quieter east end is Secret Harbour Beach, situated along another protected bay that locals love — and where you'll find a tiki bar blending tropical frozen concoctions.
Chad Windham
Chad Windham
Snorkel on Your Own or With a Guide
One of the most serene experiences you can have comes while floating on the surface of soothing Caribbean waters with a window into what's below. And St. Thomas' coral-rich underwater world is worth seeking out.
To snorkel right from the beach, head to Brewers Bay Beach on the island's south side, where you'll have a chance to spot sea turtles in the shallows (look for them weaving through patches of seagrass). You can also snorkel with turtles and other sea creatures by booking a catamaran trip into Virgin Islands National Park, where the animals arrive in Maho Bay to feed in the shallows.
Another fun option is to take a guided snorkeling excursion into a mangrove nursery where juvenile fish start their lives in protected waters. The trip is paired with kayaking and hiking on pristine Cas Cay island.
Kayak or SUP, Anyone?
St. Thomas' calm seas practically beg you to get in. One of the most accessible ways is to pick up a paddle for a kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP).
You can rent both at Sapphire Beach and enjoy views of St. John, another of the U.S. Virgin Islands, across the water. Windsurfing equipment and snorkel gear are also available at Sapphire Beach.
Chad Windham
Bolongo Bay on St. Thomas' southern coast is another spot with reliably calm waters and on-site rentals that make it a cinch to paddle out. Or you can opt for a guided kayaking trip to Bird Island and the mangrove lagoon that are perfectly timed for enjoying the golden hour at day's end.
Want To Go?
With breathtaking views of Pacquereau Bay, Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove is your tropical haven. Situated on a hillside overlooking the blue waters of the bay, you have direct access to the beach for laying out and soaking in the sun. When you aren’t enjoying the surf and sand, head to nearby Charlotte Amalie for one-of-a-kind dining and shopping you can only find in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Come back to the resort for rest and relaxation. Head to the fitness center for a quick workout or lay in the sun by the pool. And with separate living and sleeping areas in your villa, your whole family can relax the way they want. Enjoy the flavors of the islands as you cook a meal in your villa’s fully equipped kitchen or read outside on the patio. If cooking in your room isn’t on the menu, enjoy a delicious meal at the resort’s Sunset Cove Bar & Grille for food and drinks in a casual setting.
The Ritz-Carlton Club®, St. Thomas
Enjoy luxury oceanfront accommodations in one of the most sought-after destinations in the world. Sitting right off the coast, The Ritz-Carlton Club®, St. Thomas, provides direct access to the white-sand beaches and calming ocean waves of the idyllic Great Bay. With everything the Club has to offer, you’ll never need to leave the property to experience upscale comfort and entertainment.
When you aren’t relaxing by the beach or poolside, settle into the neighboring Ritz-Carlton® hotel’s European-style spa and health club featuring sauna, steam room, massage, and specialty treatments. Don’t just get in the water, spend some quality time above it on a 53-foot luxury catamaran. This exquisite boat is available for day sails, sunset cruises, and private charters.
Before heading to your room, stop at Coconut Cove Beach Bar & Grill for a perfectly cooked meal and craft cocktail. Once you’re in your room, put your feet up in comfort. Lay in your king-size bed surrounded by eloquently adorned furnishings and trim. And finally, relax knowing that a dedicated Club Concierge is there to service your every need during your stay.
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