A GUIDE TO EVERYTHING THERE IS TO DO IN ST. THOMAS AND ST. JOHN, UNITED STATES VIRGIN ISLANDS
By Island Mike
340-201-6069
Here are a few alternatives to lying on a beach with a frozen drink. In no particular order…
- Go Scuba Diving
The Virgin Islands have a variety of sites for all levels of divers and is a great place to get certified. The Virgin Islands waters are full of wrecks, reefs and sea life. Shark, eel, ray and every fish imaginable are found in Virgin Island waters.
St. Thomas
Red Hook Dive Shop
340-777-3483
340-774-1350
Aqua Marine Dive Center
340-642-8701
Aqua Action Dive Center
340-775-6285
Coki Dive Center
340-776-4607
St. Thomas Diving Club
340-776-2381
Blue Island Divers
340-774-2001
St. John
Low Key Water Sports
340-693-8999
Cruz Bay Water Sports
340-776-6234
Maho Bay Water Sports
340-776-6240
- Bike Tour to the Beach in St. Thomas
Take a ride along the historic waterfront in Charlotte Amalie and enjoy a 3 mile ride to one of St. Thomas’ beautiful beaches.
340-201-6069
- Charter a boat, bare boat or crewed
There might not be a better way to see and enjoy all the islands have to offer. If you are an experienced sailor or yachtsman, a bare boat is an option. Or hire a captain and crew and leave the driving/sailing to someone else. If you bring your passport you can travel to the British Virgin Islands.
Captain/Crew Power Boats
Adventure Water Sports
340-998-6240
Nautica Mini Boat Adventure
340-775-9360
Double Fun Charters
340-513-4300
Vilocity Boat Rentals
340-677-0739
Magic Moments
340-775-5066
Hookin’ n Crookin
340-643-7222
Sail Boats
Island Girl
340-344-4285
Nightwind
340-998-3167
Island Sol
340-776-9463
Bare Boat
See and Ski
340-775-6265
Nauti Nymph
340-775-5066
Vilocity Boat Rentals
340-677-0739
- Take Sailing Lessons
There might not be a better way to see and enjoy all the islands have to offer. If you are an experienced sailor or yachtsman, a bare boat is an option. Or hire a captain and crew and leave the driving/sailing to someone else. If you bring your passport you can travel to the British Virgin Islands.
Learn a skill that will last you a lifetime.
Island Sol
340-776-9463
Fair Wind Sailing
866-380-SAIL
- Experience an Island Safari by 4-Wheel Drive
See all the beauty of the interior of St. Thomas or St. John and go to places and beaches that tourists seldom see.
Cruise Ship Excursions
340-775-5055
- Pier Fishing in St. Thomas
Throw a line in the water and fish for small and big game fish. Great for all ages and skill levels.
Loud Rooster Tours
340-201-6069
- Surfing
St. Thomas has some seasonal surfing that will satiate your need to get up on your board (the British Virgin Islands is the better island for finding some excellent waves). Check out Hull Bay or take a boat to Botany Bay. The best time for good surf are the winter months.
St. John also has some spots with smaller waves for the beginner. Try Surfer Gary @ 340-626-6377
- Learn Windsurfing
Windsurfing is popular in Virgin Islands. There are steady and strong winds on the east end of the island.
West Indies Windsurfing on Vessup Beach
340-775-6530
- Tee Off at Mahogany Run Golf Course
Play 18 holes on a beautiful course with the world-famous devil’s triangle.
340-777-6250
- Go Horseback Riding
There are two facilities available in Virgin Islands, one on St. Thomas and one on St. John. Ride beautiful horses and see beautiful trails.
St. Thomas
Golden Age Ranch
340-998-0291
St. John
The Carolina Corral
340-693-5778
- Take a Helicopter Sightseeing Tour or Helicopter Flying Lesson
Go for a flight-seeing tour or take an introductory flying lesson in a helicopter.
Caribbean Buzz
340-775-7335
- Go Fly Fishing for the elusive Bone Fish
While most anglers come to the Virgin Islands for world-class deep sea fishing, fly fishing for bonefish in the flats in St. John is a fisherman’s dream.
Arawak Expeditions
340-693-8312
- Historic Walking Tour
Go back in time 300 years to the times of pirates, privateers and explorers on this entertaining and educational walking tour in historic Charlotte Amalie.
340-201-6069
- Deep-Sea Fishing
Deep-sea fishing on the North and South Drop is a very popular recreational activity for visitors to the Virgin Islands. Game fish include marlin, yellowfin tuna, sailfish, swordfish, mahi mahi and barracuda.
Black Pearl Sportfishing
340-775-9982
Peanut Gallery Charters
340-642-7423
Blue Fin II
340-775-6691
Double Header
340-777-7317
Mixed Bag
340-513-0389
Marlin Prince
340-693-5929
- Snorkel with the Turtles
Enjoy snorkeling in crystal clear waters and dive down below the ocean’s surface and swim with the turtles.
Heavenly Days
340-775-1800
- Take a Kayak Tour
Take a guided group tour or rent a kayak and explore on your own.
Arawak Expeditions
800-238-8687
340-693-8312
340-201-6069
VI Ecotours
877-845-2925
Hidden Reef Ecotours
877-529-2575
- Try Underwater Spear Fishing
Where fishing meets hunting. All gear provided.
Swashbucklin Tours
340-244-8600
- Kite Surfing for New or Experienced
Instructor Jon Moore has been giving kite lessons on St. Thomas since 2004 and knows how to make the most out of a wide range of wind and weather conditions.
Adventure Water Sports
340-998-6240
- Hike the Trails of The National Forest in St. John
No guide necessary for these trails. Grab a map from a park ranger’s office or see below and hike one of dozens of trails to see old ruins, petro glyphs and breathtaking views.
- Visit a Mini-Museum or Landmark in Charlotte Amalie
The offerings are small and quaint. But provide a brief respite from the jewelry shops and bars.
Seven Arches Museum (call to schedule a visit)
340-774-0205
French Heritage Museum (call to schedule a visit)
340-714-2583
Blackbeard’s Castle
340 776-1234
Caribbean Genealogy Library
340-714-2136
St. John Historical Museum
contactus@stjohnhistoricalsociety.org
- Visit Annaberg Plantation on St. John
The Virgin Islands National Park Service has prepared a self-guided tour of the historic Annaberg Sugar Mill Ruins. The walk through this partially restored old sugar factory provides a great deal of insight into the history and culture of St. John during the plantation and post-emancipation eras.
National Park Service web site
www.nps.gov
- Discover the Stars of the Caribbean
Not regularly opened to the public, call Professor Morris and see if you can schedule an appointment at the observatory. 340-693-1391
- Visit One of the Oldest Jewish Synagogues in America
Everything in the historic St. Thomas Synagogue building is original, dating back to 1833. This beautiful synagogue is an architectural and historical gem in the middle of the Caribbean. 340-774-4312
- Jet Pack Experience
Basically it’s like a jet pack above the water. Fly like Ironman.
340-626-8500
- Discover the Botanical Gardens at the Great House
Nestled high in the volcanic peaks of St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands sits St. Peter Great House and Botanical Gardens with streaming waterfalls, tropical bird aviaries, fish ponds, more than 20 varieties of orchids and 150 species of Caribbean plants and fruits. (340) 774-4999
- Self-Guided Historic Tour of Charlotte Amalie
Grab one of the definitive historical reference guides for identifying old Charlotte Amalie.
“The Danish West Indies in Black and White”.
- A Day Trip to Tortola (Passport Required)
Climb aboard a ferry for a pleasurable 30-40 minute ride and arrive in Tortola (cost is about $60 roundtrip). Enjoy incredible beaches, amazing dive sites, swimming with dolphins (see #28), big waves, hiking, museums and more…all with a British twist.
Smith’s Ferry 340-775-7292
Inter Island Boat Service 340-776-6597
Native Son 340-774-8685
- Swim with the Dolphins in Tortola (Passport Required)
Simply awesome. 866-393-5158
- Skydiving
Imagine the views high above the islands. Imagine staring down at them while aboard a small plane, right before jumping out of the plane! For beginners or experienced divers, check it out!
340-277-3925
- Gawk at the Megayachts and Go Shopping at Yacht Haven Grande
Head to Yacht Haven Grande for some shopping in boutiques and luxury design stores including Gucci, Coach and Salvatore Ferragamo. Then grab lunch at Fat Turtle and gaze at the mega yachts docked right beside you.
Restaurants
Fat Turtle
Fresh Bistro
Grand Cru
- Bourdeux Farmer’s Market
A small Rastafarian community on the west end of St. Thomas has fresh produce, juices, honey and handmade crafts and foodstuffs. On the last Sunday of every month.
- Explore the West End of St. Thomas
Get on a main road and head west, and don’t worry it’s nearly impossible to get lost. The west end is sparsely populated and has little in the way of attractions or accommodations but it does have views of Puerto Rico, Culebra and Vieques. If you have 4WD don’t be shy about exploring some of the back roads. You may happen upon a secret beach or rarely-discovered, breathtaking views.
Scooter Rental
340-344-2632
Budget Car Rental
340-776-5774
- Bushwacker Tour
The Bushwacker is the unofficial drink of the Virgin Islands. Spend a day barhopping and beachhopping tasting bushwackers to see who makes the best. Make sure they use nutmeg!
Here are some suggested spots:
Iggie’s at Bolongo Bay
The Bar at Magens Bay
Beachcomber Hotel at Lindbergh Bay
The Beach Bar at ferry dock in Cruz Bay, St. John
- Visit the Cliffs at Peterborg Point
Some of the most beautiful views of the North Side of the Island. Grab an island map or ask a local how to get there. Or try this, head towards Magen’s Bay and take the last turn to the right before you get to the beach. Follow the road to the end and you’re there!
- Find the Secret Beaches
Everyone knows about Magens, Lindquist, Lindbergh, Hull, Vessup and Secret Harbor. But there are at least a dozen beaches that you will never find in a guide book. Pristine beaches where you might not see another soul. The only way to find them is ask a local or start exploring! Or give me a call at 340-201-6069
- The Baths of Virgin Gorda (Passport Required)
The British Virgin Island of Virgin Gorda has possibly one of the most beautiful and memorable sites in the Caribbean. The Baths. You can grab one of the ferry’s mentioned in #27 or you can take a charter to see the Baths and the Caves at Norman Island.
Cruz Bay Watersports
340-776-6234
- Visit Drake’s Seat
A lookout point where you will see beautiful panoramic views of the Ocean and British Virgin Islands. Pack a few drinks, go to the top of Mafolie Hill and then turn left and go about 1,000 feet. Enjoy.
- Get an Island Tattoo
Think old sailor tattoo or find your inspiration in a Jimmy Buffett song. But go with something nautical and escapist.
Compass Rose Tattoo
340-774-1550
Jimmy Buffham’s
340-714-3693
- Taste a Mango straight from a Tree
The island is full of mango trees. Sometime between the months of April-June the trees will be full of them. If you see a tree hanging into the street, don’t be shy about grabbing a couple. It may take a few days to ripen (place it in a brown paper bag) but peel the skin and grab a paper towel because our mangos are juicy!
- Enjoy “Roti” Cooked Virgin Islands Style
A true local dish, potatoes, curry, with a filling of your choosing-shrimp, conch, chicken, vegetables, etc.
Many local restaurants have them. Our favorite? Ideal Roti in town. Or just ask a local where to get their favorite.
- Taste Some Local Cuisine
Ask your waiter if they have any local cuisine. Conch and rice with a side of fried plantains is about as good as it gets. For authentic local food, get away from the resorts and find a local spot. Try these:
Brooks Bar (near Magens Bay)
Petite Pump Room (near Seaplane)
Victor’s Hide Out (Ask for Directions)
- Go Hunting For Caribbean Lobster (or just go buy some)
Many will argue that the Caribbean Lobster is more flavorful and delicious than Maine lobster. There are a few ways to get your hands on some: pick up some live lobster at Food Center (near Red Hook), if you scuba dive, see if your dive boat will take you lobster hunting, or book a lobster hunting tour with Swashbucklin Tours.
See #1 for dive shops
Swashbucklin Tours
340-244-8600
- Go on a Sunset Cruise
Caribbean sunsets are best seen while on the deck of a boat floating in the Caribbean Sea. Most of the cruises have dinner and/or hor d’oeuvres.
Island Spirit
340-776-6234
Fury
800-621-3560
New Horizons
1-800-808-7604
- Take a Day Trip to Jost Van Dyke (Passport Required)
One of the most picture perfect beaches and bars await you at White Bay at Jost Van Dyke. The Soggy Dollar serves up excellent local food (read fried, greasy and delicious) and the infamous Pain Killer cocktail. The water and sand is pristine and perfect for a day of indulgent beach bumming.
Dolphin Water Taxi
340-774-2628
Island Spirit
340-776-6234
Aqua Blue Charters
340-344-1190
- Play Roulette at The Rock Lounge
Place your bets through a user friendly touch screen computer but watch the real roulette wheel and ball spin around while you can bet small or big! There is also a video blackjack game and the Virgin Islands’ version of slot machines. Located in Havensight at Port of Sale Mall.
- Attend a Carnival Show at Iggies
This famous evening features one of the liveliest shows on the island. Come for dinner or just come for the show. Any of the following might be performing: stilt walkers, fire dancers, limbo exhibitionists and steel pan bands. Truly a perfect night of fun. Iggies is located at Bolongo Bay.
Call for directions and other events 340-693-2600
- Go Bar Hopping in Red Hook
If you want to sing karaoke, go dancing or just enjoy dinner and/or a drink you have probably a dozen options in a 500 foot stretch of road. A few are listed below.
Fishtails
XO
Molly Molones
Fatty’s
Caribbean Saloon
ITP
Duffy’s
Tap and Still
- Take an Island Tour on a Safari (our local public transporation)
If you want the true local experience, take an island ride on a safari. A safari is an open air converted truck bed with benches-you will see them constantly. They travel the main roads and have no set schedule but do not run after dark. When you see one coming just stick your arm out. The safaris run a loop from town towards the east end of the island. Cost? $2 per person for most trips.
- Visit the Butterfly Garden
The Butterfly Garden
340-715-3366
- Go Island Hopping
St. Thomas is the single best island in the Caribbean to go island hopping from. Spend a day or two exploring the beaches, tropical rain forests, mountains, food, shopping on nearby islands such as St. Croix, Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Vieques, Nevis, & Dominica.
Air Sunshine
1-800-327-8900
Sea Flight
340-714-3000
Cape Air
1-800-CAPE-AIR
Seaborne Airlines
340-773-6442
- Kayak Fishing in St. Thomas
Some of the best fishing in St. Thomas is right off shore. Kayaks have access to seldom fished locations.
340-201-6069
- Swim with Sharks or Turtles
Coral World Ocean Park on St. Thomas is a pleasant little aquarium and nature park. An underwater observatory and interactive exhibits make this a family favorite. Make sure you take advantage of the change to swim with the sharks or turtles.
Coral World Ocean Park
800-695-2073
- Discover the West End by Boat and Go Snorkeling, Fishing, Exploring, etc.
Grab a charter boat and head to the west end of St. Thomas. You will almost certainly be the only boat out there! Great views and shorkeling await. While there, be sure to check out Botany Bay and Mermaid’s Chair.
- Taste Cruzan Rum with the Flavors of Virgin Islands
Not difficult to do, but try all the flavors while you’re here. One of the easiest ways is to order a Cruzan Confusion drink which has many of the flavors. Mango, Pineapple, Strawberry, Banana, Coconut…yum!
- Escape to Water Island for a Picnic
Pack a small picnic (there is a small food stand at your destination that may or may not be open) and head over to Crown Bay. There is a small ferry boat that runs from the dock next to Tickles Restaurant to Water Island. When you land on Water Island follow the road as it turns to the right and runs into the beach at Honeymoon Bay. Usually about $6 per person each way.
- Get Engaged, Married or Renew your Vows
For couples wishing to renew their vows, get married or planning the perfect engagement – your ceremony can be as romantic as you desire. A quiet morning wedding on a beach, a sunset cruise or a picturesque luxury villa. For all the possibilities click below.
Blue Sky Ceremony
340-642-0195
340-201-6069
- Take a Walk on the Waterfront at Dusk
Park at Yacht Haven Grande and walk along the waterfront in downtown Charlotte Amalie. Turn around when you get to the sea plane. The water and lights are beautiful and picturesque.
- Drink Virgin Islands Beer
St. John’s own brewery brews up several delicious beers that capture the flavors of the islands. Grab a 12-pack and find a shady spot.
- Night Fishing
Night fish for sea monsters while sitting on the beach sipping a cold beer.
340-201-6069
- Go Bird Watching
While hiking in St. John or sitting on a beach, bring a guidebook and keep track of all the unique Caribbean birds.
A Guide to the Birds of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands
- Fish and Coral Watching
While Snorkeling or Scuba Diving bring a guide so you can identify all of the tropical fish and coral heads.
For identifying coral reef fish
- Go Running or Walking at Magens
Run/walk the beach, the road or the trail at Magens Beach. Get your exercise all while enjoying the beauty of one of the world’s most desired beaches. If you run on the beach one length is approximately .75 miles. If you run on the beach road adjacent to the beach, one length is approximately .55 miles.
- Take the Zipline Tour
Cruise through the treetops from some of the highest points on the island for views above Magen’s Bay and down to the British Virgin Islands. Enjoy approximately 2 hours of this exhilarating tour.
Tree Limin’ Extreme
340-777-9477
- Beach Bbq
An all-inclusive day at the beach includes kayaks, floating mats, burgers and hotdogs, snacks and all the rum you can drink!
340-201-6069
- Go Night Kayaking
A clear bottom boat with LED lights illuminates the night waters revealing fish, rays and turtles. An enjoyable and leisurely tour. Tour begins at the Marriott Frenchman’s Reef Hotel.
Adventure Center at the Marriott
340-774-2992
- A Night Snorkeling Tour
A powerful underwater flashlight pierces the dark waters and all manner of fish and sea life reveals itself. There is nothing as exhilarating as a night snorkel tour.
- Charter a Fully Provisioned and Crewed Luxury Sail or Power Yacht
Whether a few days or a week or more, cruising the Caribbean in a fully stocked and crewed boat is the ultimate Caribbean experience! And it is far more affordable than would think considering that everything is included! Pick from a yacht or catamaran.
Caribbean Charter Yachts
800-934-0047
340-774-5630
- Take a Water Walk to 2 Secret Beaches
Go to the far right side of Magens Bay Beach. Enter the water and stay along the shore line the water stays about shoulder high. First you will happen upon Little Magens (clothing optional!) and if you continue you will find another tiny stretch of idealic sand called Platform Beach.
- Take a JetSki Tour
Cruise on a guided Jet Ski tour through Charlotte Amalie Harbor and around Hassel and Water Islands. Whether there are only 2 of you or a group of six see parts of St. Thomas few have ever seen.
Water Tech Water Sports
340-776-8500
- Go Parasailing
You will experience a mixture of beautiful scenery, crystal clear waters, warm sea spray and exhilarating flight on this ride high above St. Thomas. Ride one at a time or in tandem.
Caribbean Water Sports
340-775-9360
- Take a Ride on a Jet Boat
A 650 HP turbo-charged boat will take you on an incredible high speed harbor and coastline tour. You will experience a mixture of beautiful scenery, warm sea spray and exhilarating speed along with breathtaking 180 degree spins, wild fishtails and awesome power brake stops.
Caribbean Water Sports
340-775-9360
- Rent a Kayak or Paddleboard
Explore the many bays and harbors on a rented kayak or paddleboard. Rent for the day or for a few days to really explore all the islands have to offer
St. Thomas
West Indies Windsurfing on Vessup Beach
340-775-6530
340-201-6069
St. John
340-714-2415
Also find daily rentails at:
Sapphire Beach
Magens Bay
Hull Bay
Maho Bay
- Magic Ice
An entire exhibit made of crystal clear ice consisting of beautiful sculptures, a kids slide, wedding chapel and a pirate ship bar, all made of ICE! Located on the Waterfront in downtown Charlotte Amalie, Magic Ice is open all year round Monday-Sunday 10am to 5pm.
Magic Ice
340-422-6000
- Explore Hassel Island
Rent a kayak, pack a picnic and lots of water, head to Frenchtown and disembark. Cross a short stretch of water and arrive in the sparsely populated Hassel Island. Old ruins, beautiful hiking trails and incredible views. There are no accommodations or facilities of any kind on Hassel Island so be sure to come prepared.
For a guided tour:
340-201-6069
- Get a Massage/Spa Treatment
Prana Spa
340-776-7899
Journeys Spa
340-775-3151
- Visit Mountaintop
A tourist trap to be sure, but it is worth the trip. High above Magens Bay is Mountaintop. A large and fun-filled souvenir shop along with a bar serving up Banana Daiquiris compliment the never ending views of St. Thomas, St. John and the British Virgin Islands. Mountaintop is relatively easy to find with a tourist map or directions from just about any local.
- Take the Blackbeard’s Walking Tour
In their own words, “With pirate hideouts, historic manor houses, botanical gardens, archaeological sites, sparkling pools, waterfalls, museums, bars, shops and much more, this national historic landmark is the Caribbean’s premier historical site.”
340-776-1234
- Lookouts
There are a few well mapped and travelled lookouts. The most famous is Drake’s Seat. The views are spectacular. But there are other lookouts that you won’t find on a tour map. And others aren’t even official lookouts. So as you tour St. Thomas or St. John keep an eye out for spots along the road that offer new and wonderful views of this paradise.
- Paradise Point and Skyride
A ski lift but thankfully no snow. Catch the Skyride up to Paradise Point for the best vantage point to look at the harbor and cruise ship docks. Paradise Point has a bar, live music and great souvenir shopping.
Skyride
340-774-9809
- Guided Hike and Boat Ride on Reef Bay Trail
Walk a rocky, but mostly downhill trail, to sugar mill ruins and a secluded bay. Book through the National Park and get transportation (taxi) to and from (boat ride) the trail.
340-779-8700
Want More Info? Questions?
Call me, Island Mike, on my cell phone at 340-201-6069
or
Email: info@virginislandsaver.com
