my journal
a place for inspiration
Kennidy Hassell
February 11, 2023
Where to Stay
Our Airbnb house in St Thomas was truly a gem. Every morning we were treated to a stunning sunrise. Although the house was located on top of a mountain, getting to other parts of the island was a breeze, with most destinations just a 15-25 minute drive away.
When To Visit -December to April
One of the best times to visit St. Thomas is during the high season, which runs from December to April. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, with very little rainfall. This is also the busiest time of year, so be sure to book your accommodations well in advance to ensure availability.
The rainy season in St. Thomas runs from May to November, although the rain usually only lasts for short bursts during the day. This is also the time of year when the island is less crowded, making it the perfect opportunity for a more relaxed, laid-back vacation.
It’s important to note that the hurricane season in the Caribbean runs from June to November, although St. Thomas is rarely affected. However, it’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast and have a plan in case of inclement weather.
Flying in St. Thomas
Flying into St. Thomas on weekdays can be a great option if you’re looking to avoid crowds and long lines at the airport. During the week, there are generally fewer tourists and fewer flights, which can make the airport experience less hectic and more manageable.
However, it’s important to note that this can vary depending on the time of year and other factors such as special events or holidays.
When it comes to departing from St. Thomas on a Saturday, it can be busy, as this is a popular day for tourists to fly back home. Even though St. Thomas is part of the U.S., travelers still need to go through customs and immigration procedures when leaving the island.
Frequent visitors told me that the lines for customs on Saturdays can get extremely long. 2-3 hours was recommend to arrive before your flight. I always recommend getting Global Entry with your TSA PreCheck which will help you get through the airport faster.
Rental Car
While there are many ways to get around the island, including taxis and public transportation, a rental car is the most convenient and flexible option for exploring.
What to Do
Beaches, Snorkeling, Hiking, Boating
Boat Tour
The boat tour was definitely a must. I’d recommend going within the first 1-3 days of your trip. With a group a 6 we booked a private tour for a boat all to ourselves. With a private charter, you have the flexibility to customize your itinerary and set the pace of your excursion.
Definitely book earlier, everyone was booked out far in advance and since we booked last minute we didn’t have all the options available.
One thing to note about boat trips in St Thomas is that different companies may have different speeds, so it’s important to choose one that suits your preferences. When leaving from St Thomas, you’ll have to cross the bay to reach the best snorkeling and beach spots, which are often located on St Johns. However, if you opt to stay on St Johns, the pick-up point is much closer, and you won’t have to travel as far.
https://seasthedayusvi.com/full-day-charter-aboard-catamaran-sy-mazu/
Magen’s Bay
Wake Surfing in Magen’s Bay
Surfing in Hull Bay
A popular surf spot we saw on St. Thomas.
Food
The Shack
Best Truffle Fries I’ve ever had.
Secret Harbor
Sunset Grille/ Patio
Restaurants we didn’t try but that looked good
https://www.yelp.com/biz/1864-the-restaurant-saint-john
https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-easterly-saint-thomas?osq=the+eatery
https://www.yelp.com/biz/pesce-italian-st-thomas
St. John
We didn’t get much time in St. John’s but convinced they have some of the prettiest beaches I’ve ever seen. 75% of the island is a National Park. There are no entrance fees for either Virgin Islands National Park or Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument. However, visitors to Trunk Bay are required to pay an Expanded Amenity Fee $5 per person.
If you’re a photographer or someone who visits National Parks Frequently you can get the annual parks pass. https://store.usgs.gov/pass
St John’s is only asccesable by boat, or helicopter. If you’re doing a day trip or spending your whole time on the island you can take the car ferry over. There is a passenger ferry but definitely would have car for getting around the island.
Q – Where can I purchase food in the park?
A – Visitors can find food vendors at Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, Salt Pond, and Maho Bay
The Ferry
https://www.vinow.com/travel/virgin-islands-ferry-schedules/stjohn/
You can buy ferry tickers online but I recommend buying them in person on the ferry. To depart from St. Thomas, you must pay a $4 port fee, which is a standard fee for leaving the island. There are several ferry companies operating between St. Thomas and St. John, with ferries leaving approximately every half hour to an hour. t’s typically cheaper to book a round-trip ticket with the same company, as purchasing separate tickets with different companies can result in paying $50 each way.
Even if you purchase in advance it doesn’t guarantee you a spot. It’s basically a first come basis. Everyone gets in line for the ferry and when it’s full it leaves. We booked online, showed up for our 9am ferry about 20 minutes early, sat in a line of cars, missed the 9 am. Had to pay $50 for a different company. Keep your receipt for the ferries because that’s how you’ll show proof of payment for your return ticket. Ferry we took over only took cash for the payment.
How much per person for our trip About estimate $1210
(6 people in our group)
$565 airbnb for 5 days 4 nights
Rental car $125
Boat excursion $320
Ferry $20
Food $197
Islands I think would be cool nearby :The BVI look up the Baths, Calebra Puerto Rico
If you’re planning a wedding in St. Thomas, check out my blog all about how to plan your destination wedding here!
