St. Thomas: A Caribbean Hub of History and Beauty

Explore St. Thomas: where history meets paradise in the US Virgin Islands. Discover vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and duty-free shopping.

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St. Thomas, a vibrant island in the US Virgin Islands, blends rich history with stunning natural beauty. From its bustling capital of Charlotte Amalie to its picturesque beaches and historical landmarks, St. Thomas offers a diverse Caribbean experience.

A brief summary to St Thomas

St Thomas, VI

Local tips

Remember that traffic flows on the left side of the road.
Confirm taxi rates before starting your trip, as fares are per person and destination.
Pack sunscreen and stay hydrated; the Caribbean sun is intense.
Explore local cuisine beyond the resorts to savor authentic island flavors.

Getting There

Walking

Within Charlotte Amalie, many attractions are within walking distance. From the waterfront, you can easily walk to Fort Christian, the Legislature Building, and Main Street for shopping. Be aware of pedestrian crossings and varying sidewalk conditions.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available at the airport, cruise ports, and major hotels. They operate on a fixed rate per person, based on the destination. A taxi from Cyril E. King Airport to Charlotte Amalie costs approximately $12 for one person or $11 per person for two or more in the same group. From the airport to Red Hook, the rate is about $90 for 1-4 passengers. Be sure to confirm the rate with the driver before starting your trip. Taxis can also be hired for island tours at hourly rates. There are no Uber or Lyft services available.
Public Transport

VITRAN, the public bus system, offers a cost-effective way to get around St. Thomas. The fare is $1 per ride. Buses operate on fixed routes, primarily serving main commercial areas. Look for blue and white buses with VITRAN signage. A ride on the public bus costs $1. Exact change is required.
Ferry

Ferries connect St. Thomas to St. John, Water Island, and the British Virgin Islands. Ferries to St. John depart from Red Hook and Charlotte Amalie. The Red Hook ferry is more frequent, running hourly, and the trip takes about 20 minutes. A one-way ticket from Red Hook to Cruz Bay (St. John) is around $8. Ferries to Water Island depart from Crown Bay Marina; a round trip for visitors costs $20. Remember to factor in port fees and departure taxes for international ferry routes.

Discover more about St Thomas

St. Thomas, part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, is an island of contrasts, blending historical significance with modern attractions. Originally inhabited by Ciboney, Taino, and Carib tribes, the island's indigenous populations dwindled by the 1600s due to European diseases and other factors. Christopher Columbus claimed the island for Spain in 1493, but the Spanish didn't settle it. In the 17th century, the Dutch and then the Danish established a permanent presence, transforming St. Thomas into a hub for trade and sugar production. Charlotte Amalie, the capital, became a bustling port, attracting merchants and even pirates. The island's strategic location made it a key player in the slave trade. Today, St. Thomas is a major tourist destination, known for its duty-free shopping, beautiful beaches like Magens Bay, and historical sites such as Fort Christian. Visitors can explore the island's diverse culinary scene, enjoy water sports, and immerse themselves in the vibrant Caribbean culture.