7 Fun Attractions on St. Thomas to Enjoy
With its beautiful beaches, it is easy to forget about the numerous exciting activities available on the island of St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, that do not involve sunbathing on the sand!
The following seven attractions on St. Thomas are magical and educational activities to pursue during your next trip to this idyllic Caribbean gem.
- Interact with Animals and Sea Lions
If you’re seeking an informative and interactive experience with animals and sea life, a trip to Coral World Ocean Park is a must.
Located on the island’s east end, Coral World Ocean Park provides visitors with opportunities to engage with wildlife, such as swimming with sea lions and dolphins, as well as learning about and observing majestic sea turtles and intriguing sharks. An aviary at the park features tropical birds, including parrots and other exquisite birds of the Caribbean.
Guests can also explore an underwater ocean observatory with large windows to allow a unique and up-close glimpse into marine life.
- Go Zip Lining
Fly above the island on a zip line when you’re on St. Thomas! “Tree Limin’ Extreme Zipline,” located on the island’s north side, allows sightseers a thrilling chance to zip along the mountaintop and witness astonishing scenery as well as tropical critters like iguanas.
“… [The] zipline course is situated high in the rainforest of St. Peter Mountain, where you will catch breathtaking views of Magen’s Bay, the BVI, and beyond,” according to the Tree Limin’ Extreme website.
- Take a Gondola Ride
Consider taking a relaxing and delightful ride on the “St. Thomas Skyride” gondola. The gondola, which begins its journey near downtown Charlotte Amalie, transports folks up the lush mountainside to approximately 700 feet above sea level and provides plenty of social media-worthy photos.
The gondola’s destination at the top of the mountain is called “Paradise Point.” This spot offers magnificent views of St. Thomas Harbor and the surrounding islands. Tropical treats and gifts are also available for purchase at Paradise Point.
- Enjoy a World Famous “Banana Daquiri” Tropical Drink at 1200 Feet
If you’re looking for another superb view and a tasty, tropical drink, head over to “Mountain Top.” The massive duty-free gift shop is positioned at the very top of the northside of St. Thomas, and the views from the expansive outdoor deck are simply spectacular. From this vantage point above Magens Bay, at approximately 1200 feet above sea level, it is possible to see the British Virgin Islands and beyond.
(Don’t forget to stop at the bar at Mountain Top to order one of the famous “banana daiquiris!” The delicious “pina coladas” are certainly worth a try, too.)
- Tour the Island by Taxi
To see multiple areas and learn about the isle’s history in a relatively short time, consider signing up for a tour of St. Thomas. Numerous local taxi/tour companies offer tour packages, and this option can allow guests to traverse much of the tropical island comfortably and quickly.
- Self-guided History Stroll
Many of the historical sites in the US Virgin Islands can be visited on foot, including several destinations in Charlotte Amalie.
A visit to the National Historic Landmark, “Fort Christian,” a Dano-Norwegian fort located by the harbor and constructed beginning in 1672, can be explored. The museum on site will allow guests to learn about the early days of St. Thomas.
“The museum has exhibits on the history of the Virgin Islands from the Stone Age to the present, as well as a natural history section, a furniture collection from the Danish period, and an art gallery,” according to the National Park Service website.
A walk through the center of Charlotte Amalie and up to the famous “99 Steps” (in actuality, there are 103 stairs which were constructed in the 1700s out of Danish “ballast bricks”) is a fantastic way to get some exercise and learn about the island’s past. Additionally, “99 Steps” leads directly up to “Blackbeard’s Castle” and the “Three Queens Monument” fountain, which are other striking historical landmarks. (While the Blackbeard’s Castle is currently undergoing repairs and is closed to visitors, viewing the grounds surrounding the castle provides an exciting experience.)
- Explore the Waterfront and Main Street
A stroll along the Waterfront and down Main Street in Charlotte Amalie allows guests to appreciate the downtown surroundings and discover various shops and art galleries.
Be inspired while looking at artwork completed by local artists in the famous “Palm Passage” alleyway. Grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants overlooking the harbor.
With the endless opportunities that await visitors, now is the perfect time to travel to the enchanting island of St. Thomas!
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