A Local’s Guide to St. Thomas
With no passport needed for US citizens, it’s easy to see why the US Virgin Islands rank among the top ten most popular destinations in The Caribbean. Boasting a delightful mix of tropical beaches, cultural richness, and historical significance, St. Thomas offers much more than just duty-free shopping. So, where do the locals hang out on St. Thomas? Let’s find out!
Red Hook
Spending time with locals in Red Hook is one of the best ways to experience island life on St. Thomas. Located just 7 miles from Charlotte Amalie on the island's east end, Red Hook is famous for its casual beach bars, live music, and popular eateries. Enjoy waterfront views while sipping a beer and enjoying pizza at Island Time Pub, indulging in a burger at Tap and Still, or savoring delicious seafood at Caribbean Fish Market. The vibrant party scene for twenty-somethings can be found at hot spots like Iggies and Irish Molly Molone’s.
Beach Hopping Around St. Thomas
While most beachgoers flock to the renowned Magen's Bay, locals on St. Thomas prefer soaking up the sun at Coki Beach. Just a quick 2-minute stroll from Coral World Ocean Park, Coki Beach features several food trucks, a stunning yet less-crowded white sand beach, and some of the island’s best snorkeling, where colorful tropical fish abound in the crystal-clear waters. Another popular spot on the east end is the picturesque Lindquist Beach. Though it charges a $5 entrance fee, the nominal cost is well worth it for access to this pristine, mangrove-fringed beach where local families come to swim, picnic, and BBQ.
Water Activities
In addition to snorkeling and swimming, Hull Bay Beach on northern St. Thomas is the go-to spot for surfing. If you’re interested in kayaking and birdwatching like a local, make your way to Mangrove Lagoon, where you can navigate the narrow channels while spotting brown pelicans and stingrays. With year-round water temperatures averaging around 80°F, scuba divers enjoy vibrant dive sites like Coral Bowl (also known as Joe's Jam) and wrecks, including the Cartanser Senior.
Exploring Restaurants on St. Thomas
Experience local cuisine on St. Thomas by checking out some of these beloved island eateries:
Glady’s Cafe (breakfast & lunch only) - a bit tricky to find but absolutely worth the visit for the hot sauce alone; don’t miss their fantastic conch chowder!
Cuzzin’s Restaurant - a consistently top-rated spot in Charlotte Amalie known for authentic Caribbean dishes like fried plantains and, of course, a potent rum punch.
Havana Blue - situated at Morning Star Beach Club, this upscale oceanview restaurant offers Latin American-inspired cuisine featuring seafood specialties.
Sunset Grille - located at Secret Harbour Beach Resort, this steakhouse boasts ocean views and is popular for its mouthwatering seafood dishes, including oven-roasted Caribbean lobster.
Frenchtown
Connecting with locals in St. Thomas is effortless when you visit the numerous waterfront restaurants and bars in Frenchtown. You can chat with fishermen as they unload their catch or delve into the area's St. Barts heritage at the French Heritage Museum.
Island Hopping
No trip to St. Thomas is complete without exploring the nearby islands of St. John and Water Island, as well as Tortola in the British Virgin Islands. St. Thomas residents often venture out to enjoy the tranquil beaches and the breathtaking Baths at Virgin Gorda, or simply to relax with the locals at Pusser’s Road Town Pub. While many cruise itineraries already include these popular destinations, it’s always beneficial to heed the advice of the locals.
EDITOR'S NOTE
Guests planning to cruise the Caribbean must bring a valid passport or proof of citizenship along with a government-issued photo ID.
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