Quick Answer: St. Thomas is my absolute favorite Caribbean day – Magens Bay (top-10 beach in the world), Paradise Point Bushwackers, and duty-free shopping. US territory means USD everywhere.

St. Thomas: My Absolute Favorite Caribbean Day

Sailing into Charlotte Amalie harbor surrounded by emerald hills dotted with rainbow houses is pure magic – I'm always on the top deck screaming when Magens Bay appears around the bend. My perfect day: off the ship by 7:30 a.m. and in a shared safari taxi straight to Magens Bay (voted top-10 beaches in the world for good reason).

I rent two loungers and an umbrella (great value for the whole day) and float for hours in that ridiculous turquoise water. Around noon I head to Paradise Point tram for the best Bushwacker on the island and 360° views. Lunch is lobster rolls at Mafolie Hotel's hilltop restaurant (insane views). Afternoon is duty-free shopping downtown (I stock up on liquor and jewelry – no tax!). Sunset sail on The VI Cat or Heaven & Hell catamaran if I'm feeling fancy.

The Moment That Stays With Me: Floating on my back in Magens Bay with zero sound except my own heartbeat and realizing I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be.

Getting Around St. Thomas

Havensight dock – 15-min walk or quick taxi ride to downtown. Crown Bay – short taxi to town. Shared safari taxis to Magens Bay are the way to go.

  • Magens Bay: Shared safari taxi (great value)
  • Paradise Point: Tram from Havensight (reasonably priced)
  • Downtown Charlotte Amalie: 15-min walk or quick taxi

Positively Worded Word of Warning

The steep hills and open-air safari trucks are St. Thomas's way of giving you a free roller-coaster ride with million-dollar views!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Magens Bay entry fee?
A: Small entrance fee plus parking if you drive – totally worth it!

Q: Best place for painkillers?
A: Mountain Top – they invented them!

Q: Can I use USD?
A: Yes, US territory – dollars everywhere.

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