Find Serenity on St. Thomas
Sparkling blue waters, sugar-soft sand and spectacular sunsets are what await you on this tropical paradise
Nestled in the sparkling Caribbean Sea, just east of Puerto Rico, is the stunning and tranquil island of St. Thomas. This 32-square-mile oasis is the second largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands and boasts dozens of sunny beaches, picturesque landscapes, duty-free shopping and 18th-century architecture. Plus, its perfect temperatures and calm waters year-round make it the ideal destination for a relaxing getaway for everyone.
Begin your day by basking in the sun on popular Sapphire Beach. “We’ve made several trips here and it’s a gorgeous location for families with kids or couples,” says a reviewer from Maine. “There’s plenty of beach for lying out, cool snorkeling areas and a beach bar and grill offering some tasty options. The marina is also adjacent to the beach and offers some boating activities.”
To see what wonders await below the water, head to Lindquist Beach for a memorable snorkeling experience. Says Hannah W on TripAdvisor.com, “We saw squid, sea turtles and leopard rays—amazing!”
After toweling off, enjoy even more tranquil time in nature with a visit to Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden ($10 per person). “You meander along paths through a lush forest of trees and plants punctuated with vibrant orchids and fantasy-like flowers,” says a reviewer from Ohio. “You’ll also see a variety of birds, butterflies, reptiles and small amphibians.”
End your day with a drive to the top of St. Peter Mountain, where you can shop for locally handcrafted souvenirs, indulge in tasty refreshments like the famous banana daiquiri and marvel at the view as you enjoy the stunning Caribbean sunset.
Great day trip:
Water Island
Take the ferry ($10 round trip) for a short ride to picturesque Water Island, where you can rent a bicycle or golf cart to explore the island (there is no public transportation available). Once there, tour plantation ruins, see the underground Fort Segarra, unwind on the sun-kissed Honeymoon
Beach or enjoy tasty treats at Heidi’s Honeymoon Grill.
Coral
Don’t miss: World Ocean Park
Learn all about the local wildlife that’s found on and around St. Thomas with a visit to Coral World Ocean Park ($23 per adult). Guests can wander the park’s 5 acres to see everything from turtles and stingrays to iguanas and starfish.