After living in Red Hook, St. Thomas for 6 months a year, we know our way around the island pretty well! Here are my top five must-dos.
- Spend a day at Magen’s Bay
Ask any local and they will tell you Magen’s Bay is the most beautiful beach on the island. The water is clear, the sand is soft, and the drinks are strong. Upon arrival, there is a $5/pp fee to enter the beach in order to keep it well-maintained. The entrance of the beach is more crowded and there is a hopping bar with delicious Pain Killers (a local drink made with rum, coconut, and pineapple). The further you walk down the beach, the more quiet it gets. You will find plenty of shade and benches to park yourself and your cooler for a day of playing in the waves and sun.
2. Take the ferry to Cruz Bay, St. John
You can catch a ferry to Cruz Bay from two different locations on St. Thomas – one terminal is in Red Hook and the other is in Charlotte Amalie. From Red Hook, it is a short 20 minute, $12 each way ride to Cruz Bay. The ferry drops you off in the heart of town that is full of shops, bars, and restaurants that sit right on the water. If time permits, you can take a hike on the Lind Point Trail to Honeymoon Beach. The trail head is located a short walk from the ferry terminal. The hike is about 30 minutes each way and it is definitely worth the trip!
3. Get on the water!
The most important thing you can do is get out on the water! There are tons of floating restaurants that are only accessible by boat. This is the best way to meet fellow travelers and get to know the locals who will be your captain and crew. In order to do all of this, get on board a day-trip catamaran – some of my top recommended companies are Seas the Day, Ocean Surfari, and Stormy Pirates.
4. Scuba Dive off of the Saint James Islands
There is endless sea life and beautiful rock formations all around the island. This is your chance to snorkel up close next to a sea turtle in the clearest water you have ever seen.
5. Check out the local events
There is always something happening in St. Thomas. Whether it be Rock Deh Boat – an epic floating concert in Christmas Cove, or the Full Moon Party at Sapphire Beach. There is no shortage of parties and great energy on this tiny island.
