Voted top restaurant by Caribbean Journal 2023
Blue 11 is an absolute must when visiting St. Thomas. Service can be a bit slow, but definitely worth the wait! Be prepared to sit down and enjoy up to a 7 course meal that will blow your mind.
St. Thomas, USVI Guide
Know Before You Go...®
With its busy ports, hundreds of shops and eateries, and numerous activities, it’s no wonder that St. Thomas is the most visited of the USVI. If you don’t mind crowds, this is a great place to rent a villa and explore another aspect of Caribbean life. Before planning your trip to St. Thomas, use the information on this page and others to learn more about the island and some of the things to see and do there.
Why St. Thomas, USVI?
- St. Thomas is home to the second oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere.
- St. Thomas is a popular destination for cruise ships, with over one million cruise passengers visiting the island annually.
- St. Thomas is home to the second oldest continuously operating legislative assembly in the Western Hemisphere.
- St. Thomas is the most populous of the U.S. Virgin Islands, with over 51,000 inhabitants.
- St. Thomas is a duty-free port, making it an ideal shopping destination for visitors.
St. Thomas, USVI Weather/Climate
Average Temperatures
| January |
84° F
|
° F
|
| February |
84° F
|
° F
|
| March |
85° F
|
° F
|
| April |
86° F
|
° F
|
| May |
87° F
|
° F
|
| June |
88° F
|
° F
|
| July |
89° F
|
° F
|
| August |
89° F
|
° F
|
| September |
89° F
|
° F
|
| October |
88° F
|
° F
|
| November |
87° F
|
° F
|
| December |
85° F
|
° F
|
Average Rainfall
| January |
1.8 inches
|
| February |
1.4 inches
|
| March |
1.5 inches
|
| April |
2.5 inches
|
| May |
3.4 inches
|
| June |
2.6 inches
|
| July |
2.4 inches
|
| August |
3.5 inches
|
| September |
4.8 inches
|
| October |
5.5 inches
|
| November |
5.3 inches
|
| December |
2.8 inches
|
History
St. Thomas is a beautiful island located in the Caribbean Sea and is part of the U.S. Virgin Islands. It has a rich history that dates back to the 17th century, when it was first discovered by European explorers.
The island was originally inhabited by the Ciboney, Carib, and Arawak tribes, but they were eventually displaced by the arrival of the Europeans in the 1600s. The first European to discover St. Thomas was Christopher Columbus on his second voyage to the New World in 1493. However, it was not until 1672 that the Danish West India Company established a settlement on the island.
St. Thomas quickly became an important trading center due to its strategic location in the Caribbean. The island’s deep harbor and natural resources, such as sugar, cotton, and indigo, attracted many European powers, including the Dutch, French, and British. The Danish West India Company was able to maintain control of the island, despite several attempts by other nations to take over.
In the 18th century, St. Thomas became a hub for the transatlantic slave trade, with thousands of enslaved Africans passing through the island’s port. The island’s economy grew as a result, with sugar plantations and rum distilleries becoming the main industries. However, the harsh treatment of enslaved people led to several rebellions, including the famous “Fireburn” revolt in 1878.
In 1917, the United States purchased the U.S. Virgin Islands, including St. Thomas, from Denmark for $25 million. This marked a significant shift in the island’s history, as it went from being a Danish colony to a U.S. territory. The U.S. government invested in infrastructure and development on the island, including a deepwater port and an international airport.
St. Thomas played a crucial role in World War II, serving as a naval base for the U.S. military. The island’s deepwater harbor was used as a refueling station for ships and a training site for soldiers. After the war, St. Thomas experienced an economic boom, with the tourism industry becoming a major source of income.
Today, St. Thomas is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture. The island is also a popular port of call for cruise ships, bringing in millions of visitors each year. Its rich history and unique blend of Danish, African, and American influences make St. Thomas a fascinating place to visit.
This one-of-a-kind excursion has you on your own personal underwater motor scooter - no diving experience is necessary!
B.O.S.S. is an acronym for Breathing Observation Submersible Scooter. BOSS is a unique and very exciting underwater motor scooter which works with the bell theory. Remember in school when you would turn a glass upside down in a sink of water and no water would enter the glass? It's the same concept with the BOSS unit. As we descend you, a seal is formed and you are dry inside the bubble! Location: Crown Bay Marina.
The steps lead high to a hill above Charlotte Amalie and the stone remains of an old fort, now part of the Inn at Blackbeard's Castle complex. Its a bit of a treck up the hill, but well worth it for the views.
These steps were built in the 1700s, by the Danes. Historians believe these steps, along with many others that rise from the Charlotte Amalie harbor, were actually a result of bad planning on the part of Danish engineers who had never been to St. Thomas. The bricks used to build the steps were brought from Denmark in the hulls of sailing ships. (The 99 steps are in truth 103 steps.) At the top of the steps sits an old Fort (now part of the Inn at Blackbeard's). The view is the reason it was built there, so Danish soldiers could keep an eye out for enemy ships and protect Fort Christian from attacks. It is a National Historic Site and considered to be one of the oldest buildings on St. Thomas. The name Blackbeard refers to Edward Teach, a pirate who is said to have frequented the islands and spent quite a bit of time around the tower.
Transportation on St. Thomas, USVI
Getting to St. Thomas, USVI and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.
Entry Documents
- Passport: Valid for the duration of your stay.
- Visa: Not required for U.S. citizens. Most other nationalities do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
- Return or Onward Ticket: Proof of departure from St. Thomas is required.
- Travel Authorization: No pre-arrival authorization is needed for U.S. citizens, but foreign nationals may need to complete a health declaration or entry form depending on current regulations.
Departure Tax
There is no departure tax on St. Thomas, as it is a U.S. territory.
Driving
- License: Visitors can drive with a valid foreign driver’s license for up to 3 months.
- Permit: A temporary driving permit is required, obtainable at the Department of Motor Vehicles.
- Driving Side: Left-hand side of the road.
- Road Conditions: Generally good, though some roads may be narrow and winding, especially in more mountainous areas.
- Traffic Rules: Be mindful of local traffic regulations, pedestrians, and driving customs. Watch out for pedestrians, cyclists, and animals, particularly in crowded areas.
Local Transportation
2021
1. Taxis: Taxis are readily available in St. Thomas and are a popular mode of transportation for tourists. They can be found at the airport, cruise port, and major tourist areas. It is recommended to negotiate the fare before getting into the taxi.
2. Public Buses: The public bus system in St. Thomas is known as the “Safari” and consists of open-air buses with bench seating. They operate on set routes and are an affordable option for getting around the island. However, they can be crowded and not always reliable.
3. Rental Cars: Renting a car is a great option for those who want to explore the island on their own schedule. There are several car rental companies available at the airport and in major tourist areas. It is important to note that driving is on the left side of the road in St. Thomas.
4. Scooters or Motorcycles: Another popular option for getting around the island is renting a scooter or motorcycle. This is a great way to explore the island and its scenic routes. However, it is important to follow safety precautions and wear a helmet.
5. Water Taxis: Water taxis are a fun and convenient way to travel between the islands in the USVI. They operate on regular schedules and can be found at the main ports and marinas. They are also a great way to see the beautiful coastline of St. Thomas.
6. Ferries: Ferries are another option for island hopping and can be used to travel between St. Thomas and the neighboring islands of St. John and Water Island. They are also a popular mode of transportation for day trips to nearby islands.
7. Walking: St. Thomas is a small island and many of its major attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to explore the island and soak in its natural beauty.
8. Bicycles: Bicycles can be rented in St. Thomas and are a fun and eco-friendly way to get around the island. There are also guided bike tours available for those who want to explore the island with a knowledgeable guide.
Know Before You Go...® - St. Thomas, USVI Travel Tips
Before making their way to St. Thomas, USVI , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in St. Thomas, USVI even more relaxing.
| Capital: | Charlotte Amalie |
|---|---|
| Population: | 51,000 (estimated) |
| Size: | 32 square miles |
| Electric Current: | 110 |
| Time: | Timezone: -04, 2024-12-31 00:47:41 (GMT Offset: -4 hours, DST: No) |
| Official Language: | English is the official language of St. Thomas, as it is a U.S. territory. |
| Currency: |
|
| Tipping and Taxes: |
|
| Dress Code: | St. Thomas has a casual dress code, perfect for its tropical climate. Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for daytime activities, and swimwear is appropriate at the beach but should be covered when away from the shore. Smart casual attire is recommended for dining at upscale restaurants and resorts. |
| Topography: | St. Thomas is one of the U.S. Virgin Islands, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rugged terrain. The island features steep hills and mountainous areas, with Charlotte Amalie serving as a bustling port city. |
| Telephone: | * Country Code: +1-340 * Area Code: 340 * Mobile Networks: Widely available across the island. * Wi-Fi: Accessible in most hotels, resorts, cafes, and public spaces. |
St. Thomas, USVI Weddings and Honeymoons
In St. Thomas, the process of getting married is simple and popular among destination wedding couples. Couples must apply for a marriage license at the Superior Court of the Virgin Islands. Required documents include:
- Valid passports for both parties.
- Birth certificates for both parties.
- Proof of marital status: If divorced, a final divorce decree; if widowed, a death certificate of the spouse.
- Proof of residence in St. Thomas (if applicable).
- Affidavit of no impediment to marriage (a statement affirming both parties are legally eligible to marry).
The marriage license costs approximately US$50. Additional fees for the officiant may range from US$100 to US$300, depending on location and ceremony type. It is recommended to apply for the license at least 2-3 days before the intended wedding date.
