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Drake's Seat: Panoramic Views of St. Thomas

Experience St. Thomas's legendary scenic lookout: panoramic views, rich history, and breathtaking beauty await at Drake's Seat.

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Drake's Seat, a legendary scenic overlook on St. Thomas, offers stunning panoramic views of Magens Bay, the British Virgin Islands, and the Atlantic Ocean. Named after Sir Francis Drake, it's a must-see for tourists and locals alike.

A brief summary to Drake's Seat

  • 933F+44Q, Rte 37, St. Thomas, St Thomas, 00802, VI
  • Visit website
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and optimal lighting for photographs.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities or vendors at Drake's Seat.
  • Be aware that the parking area is small and can fill up quickly, especially on busy days.
  • Combine your visit to Drake's Seat with other nearby attractions like Magens Bay Beach or Mountain Top.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving from Charlotte Amalie, take Route 30 to Route 37 and follow the signs towards Drake's Seat. The drive is approximately 20 minutes. Parking is free but limited. Be aware that the road can be winding and busy, especially when cruise ships are in port.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available from Charlotte Amalie or the Cyril E. King Airport. A taxi ride from Charlotte Amalie to Drake's Seat typically costs $10-15 USD. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Drake's Seat via public transportation, take a local bus or taxi to the Charlotte Amalie Waterfront ferry terminal. From there, several ferries operate. The F3 is the first ferry that goes to Drake's Seat in Saint Thomas. It stops nearby at 9:00 AM. The F3 is the last ferry that goes to Drake's Seat in Saint Thomas. It stops nearby at 5:30 PM.

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Discover more about Drake's Seat

Drake's Seat, perched high above Magens Bay on St. Thomas's north side, is a legendary scenic lookout offering breathtaking panoramic views. From this vantage point, visitors can see Magens Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, the British Virgin Islands, and surrounding islands. Legend has it that Sir Francis Drake used this spot to watch for enemy ships passing through the Sir Francis Drake Channel. While the historical accuracy of this legend is debated, it adds to the site's mystique. The overlook itself is simple, featuring a roadside pull-over with parking and an iconic green bench. Drake's Seat is a popular stop for island tours and a favorite spot for both tourists and residents. Many combine a visit with nearby attractions like Magens Bay Beach, Mountain Top, and Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden. President Harry S. Truman even visited Drake's Seat in 1948, further cementing its place as a significant landmark. Today, Drake's Seat is protected for future generations to enjoy its natural beauty.

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