“IT’S A SMALL WORLD AFTER ALL”
COKI BEACH IS A VIBE
• ISLAND DINING GUIDE-WHAT’S GOOD WHERE YOU ARE
SMALL WONDERS OF STT
ST. JOHN CELEBRATION 2025 JUNE 28TH-JULY 4TH EVENTS, EXCURSIONS, FOOD, LODGING & MORE
St. John Celebration Week is a vibrant, week-long cultural festival held every summer to honor the island’s rich heritage and Emancipation Day. Visitors can expect a high-energy lineup of J’ouvert (sunrise street party), food fairs, boat races, village concerts, parades and a grand fireworks display over Cruz Bay Harbor The vibe is electric yet rooted in tradition, blending music, local cuisine, and community pride into an unforgettable celebration of freedom and culture in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Table of Contents
13
Why We Love Coki Beach
Featured article on one of the vibrant Caribbean beaches in the Virgin Islands.
16
St. Thomas Beach Guide
Four stunning beaches to visit in each part of the island..perfect for planning snorkel trips.
18
Microscopic Underwater
Underwater wonders captured by our island visitor, Kathleen Boyd.
22 St. Thomas Dining Guide
We explore some favorite restaurants listed by area of the island so you can plan from sunrise to sunset.
Where to
Stay on Island
Some favorites and info from each corner of the island.
32 Spotlight on Bolongo Bay
Find out why Bolongo Bay Beach Resort is our top choice for friendly vibes and all inclusive offerings.
36
St. Thomas Local Love
Come with us as we learn about our favorite local services and businesses in this feature article.
Thank You to Businesses and Upcoming Topics
Appreciation to St. Thomas businesses and see what’s next for August!
My Brother’s Workshop
Feature story and photos by KK Boyd
N O T E S
Welcome to this month’s issue of St. Thomas Magazine, where island culture, community, and Caribbean soul come to life. As we dive into the heart of summer, we’re thrilled to spotlight one of the most meaningful traditions in the Virgin Islands: St. John Celebration Week. From the rhythms of J’ouvert to the soulful Emancipation Day ceremonies and the vibrant Cruz Bay fireworks, this week is a powerful reminder of VI history, resilience and joy.
’ S
E D I T O R
But what makes this edition especially meaningful is our focus on local businesses, workshops and attractions that may go unnoticed by the typical online searches. Whether you’re a visitor or a proud local, this issue is a thank you to the island and people that we call home. Dive in, explore, and most of all, stay rooted in the beauty around you.
With island love,
GG Editor, St. Thomas Magazine
UPCOMING EVENTS July 2025
Saturday 11am
JUN 28 St. John Celebration Week 6/28-7/4
Head over to St. John for their kick off of Celebration Week! Live music all week, local vendors and shopping, kid’s activities and fireworks for July 4 ! Happening all week! th
Wednesdays 5-8pm
JULY 2 Sound Bite Wednesdays at Isla Blue x Sandbar
Join us every Wednesday night from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM for an evening of live acoustic music by Jon Gazi while enjoying the beautiful sunset. Spanish Tapas Specials: Costa Brava Hummus – $12, Coco Ceviche – $20, Shishito de Padrón – $14
Thursday All Day
JULY 3 US Virgin Islands Emancipation Day
Honor Emancipation Day on July 3rd with a powerful ceremony and cultural celebration in Cruz Bay, St John This annual event honors the 1848 abolition of slavery with music, dance, and community reflection starting at 1 PM at Slim Man's Parking Lot.
Sundays 3-6pm
JULY 6 Sapphire Sundays with Live Music
Sunday Funday kicks off every week at Sapphire Beach Bar Live music from 3-6pm and tons of great food and drink and beach vibes
Friday-Saturday
JULY 11 Bastille Weekend at Sib’s on the Mountain
Celebrate Bastille Weekend at Sib's on the Mountain with French-Caribbean flair, featuring live music, classic cocktails, and local favorites in a festive hilltop setting
Sunday July 13 and July 27th th
JULY 13
Bordeaux Farmer’s Market
Local farmers and artisans gather to share organic produce, handmade goods, and islandgrown flavors Come early for fresh fruits, bush tea, crafts, and a true taste of local community life. 10am-5pm
Friday 8-11pm
JULY 25 Fire Fridays at Buoy Haus
Ignite your weekend where the glow of fire dancers, music and artful cocktails come together for an unforgettable beachfront experience Feel the sand beneath your feet and let the magic of the night surround you at FIRE FRIDAY.
Village Nights, Live Music, Emancipation Day Program, J’ouvert, Adult’s Parade and Fireworks for the 4th!
STJ Parade & Fireworks
JULY 4TH!
June 21-July 4 , 2025 th
F R O M
Destinations: The Baths & White Bay
Duration: 9 hours
Company: Stormy Pirates
Excursions: The Baths, Spring Bay, Devil’s Bay, White Bay/Soggy Dollar
Meals: Snacks and open bar
Not Included: $85 cash for customs, gratuity for crew and towels/sunscreen
“DO IT ALL” TRIP WITH OCEAN SURFARI
Swim with turtles, explore beautiful beaches, dive a sunken shipwreck, enjoy pizza and relax for a sunset cruise home.
Includes Snorkel Gear
Open Bar
SCAN TO BOOK
Pizza
3 snorkel spots
Sunset Cruise
WHY WE LOVE
Everything You Need to Know About St. Thomas’ Most Colorful Beach
Looking for crystal-clear waters, vibrant Caribbean vibes, and some of the best snorkeling in the U.S. Virgin Islands? Look no further than Coki Beach in St. Thomas. This beloved spot offers more than just a place to swim...it’s a full-on island experience.
What Makes Coki Beach So Special?
Coki Beach is located on the northeastern shore of St. Thomas, just past Coral World Ocean Park Known for its bright turquoise water, white coral sand, and lively local scene, Coki offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural energy that makes it one of the most popular beaches on the island. 13
Snorkeling at Coki Beach
If you're searching for the best snorkeling beach in St Thomas, Coki is it The reef just off shore is home to colorful fish, sea urchins, coral formations, and sometimes even sea turtles
No boat required: Just walk in and snorkel
Snorkel gear rentals available on the beach
Great for beginners and kids too
Where to Eat at Coki Beach
You won’t go hungry at Coki Along the edge of the beach, you’ll find locally owned food stands and beach bars serving up everything from grilled mahi to jerk chicken and fruity cocktails
Top Local Bites: Conch fritters
Lobster...seriously get it!
Fresh catch
Frozen rum punches
The Vibe: Colorful, Local, and Lively
Coki Beach is where locals and tourists mix in the best way It’s vibrant and full of energy, with beach music, handmade souvenirs, hair braiding, and an unfiltered island feel.
Great for social travelers
Solo travelers will feel welcome Family-friendly on weekdays, more party-style on weekends
☀ Best Time to Visit Coki Beach When to Go:
Early mornings (8am–11am): Best snorkeling and calmest atmosphere
Weekdays: Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibes
Avoid cruise port days if you want a quieter visit (check the port schedule online)
Bonus Tip: Visit Coral World next door and make a full day of it!
Plan Your Visit to Coki Beach
Location: Northeast coast of St. Thomas, near Coral World
Entry: Free access, but bring cash for food & rentals
Amenities: Snorkel gear, beach chairs, umbrellas, food stands, restrooms
Final Take: Is Coki Beach Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. Whether you’re in it for the snorkeling, the food, the beach vibes, or the chance to experience a slice of real island life, Coki Beach delivers It’s bold, beautiful, and unforgettable.
Don’t forget your reef-safe sunscreen, waterproof phone case, and sense of adventure!
LifeisBetteratthe LifeisBetteratthe
BREWER’S BAY
LOCATED ON THE WEST SIDE OF THE ISLAND NEAR THE AIRPORT, BREWER’S IS KNOWN AS THE SPOT FOR TURTLES ON STT THIS BEACH IS QUIET AND EASY TO SWIM AND EXPLORE. NEARBY ATTRACTIONS INCLUDE EMERALD BEACH RESORT AND WATER ISLAND FERRY
HULL BAY
A QUIET ESCPAE FROM THE REGULAR HOTSPOTS, THIS LOCAL FAVORITE IS A GREAT PLACE TO EXPLORE NATURE, HAVE SOME GREAT FOOD AND VIBES AND WATCH THE SURFERS WHEN THERE’S A GOOD NORTH SWELL IN! TUCKED AWAY NORTHSIDE
Sip,Swim&Soak
Sip,Swim&Soak upthe upthe
LINDQVIST BEACH
LOCATED ON THE EAST END OF THE ISLAND, LINDQVIST HAS LONG BEEN A LOCAL FAVORITE AND A QUIETER ESCAPE FROM THE CROWDS TOURISM IS PICKING UP HERE AND AGAIN, BEST VISITED ON A NONCRUISE SHIP DAY. ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL SPOT FOR MORNINGS
SAPPHIRE BEACH
SAPPHIRE LITERALLY HAS EVERYTHING YOU COULD EVER ASK FOR IN A BEACH LOCATION! GREAT FOOD, COLD DRINKS, LIVE MUSIC, TONS OF ON SITE EXCURSIONS AND THE MOST BEAUTIFUL BEACHFRONT CONDOS ON ISLAND!
E X P L O R E T H E
ST. THOMAS
As a freediver and Marine Biology graduate myself, I gave up a long time ago on my dreams of swimming with dolphins all day! Not to say I won’t jump at the opportunity but there is a whole world down there that we would never notice unless we stop to explore. Slow, methodical...almost meditative searching is how our island visitor, Kathleen Boyd got all these incredible shots Most taken from Coki Beach and Secret Harbour, we were blessed to be able to share some of her amazing finds on her last trip here in June
Kathleen Boyd, better known as KK is a retired Scuba Dive instructor currently living in Curacao She prefers shallow shore diving as to grant her time and space to really look for these animals. It’s nice to know that we have such a variety of wildlife literally steps away from the shoreline in St Thomas
Pictured above, we have the Lettuce Sea Slug, aptly named due to the fringe-like patterns of its flesh. These are considered sap-sucking slugs and can be found in a variety of colors (white, green, yellow, blue and the rarest, pink). These slugs reach a maximum length of 2 inches.
Below, we have the Red Snapping Shrimp. This one was photographed in the sand at Coki when it had ventured away from its partner. anemones.
Lettuce Sea Slug at Coki Beach, STT Photo by KK Boyd
Red Snapping Shrimp in anemoone in Coki Beach
Photo by KK Boyd
These Emerald Green Crabs have got to be some of the tiniest species yet...reaching a max length of 1.5 inches. They are scavengers who also eat algae and can be found clinging to coral and under crevices It also will use anemones as cover when threatened. This one was found at Secret Harbour on a coral head
One of the prettiest micro creatures we have and one of KK’s favorite to photograph is the Flamingo Tongue Sea Snail. The unique patterns on the snail are the actual skin of the animal and just like fingerprints, they are unique to each individual. This patterned skin is the actual mantle of the snail and will be retracted when in hiding. They can reach a max length of 1.8 inches.
Below, we have the Arrow Crab and Bluebell Tunicates Arrow Crabs are really cool and resemble spiders. They can be found in crevices and around anemones and prefer to avoid direct sunlight. These crabs can attach coral and plants to themselves to avoid predation as well as some toxic animals to prevent them from being eaten
Bluebell tunicates are a colorful favorite on island and are related to sea squirts These animals come in a variety of colors and can either live alone or in colonies They filter feed by taking in large amounts of water through their siphon, keeping the nutrients they want and expelling the rest through the second siphon
Pictured from left to right: Bluebell Tunicates at Coki, Emerald Green Crab at Secret Harbour, Flamingo Tongue Sea Snail and Arrow Crab Photos by KK Boyd
EQUIPMENT, LOCATION AND HOW TO FIND THEM
As we mentioned before, looking for the smaller critters takes a bit of patience and curiosity. KK is a diver and has the luxury of being able to spend long sessions underwater which I think is the best way to find and photograph these creatures. She says her most memorable time diving is when she first found a tiny, tiny nudibranch which then led to her focus on macrophotography. When I go free-diving, I will take my time and explore the shoreline at very shallow depths and even weight myself to the bottom to get a better angle on hidden spots.
“It’s a meditative experience searching for the smaller animals in the shallows.”
Most visitors focus so hard on the bigger charismatic animals such as turtles, rays and reef fish but I find that my best moments are finding these alien like creatures that you forget even exist here. Plus, if you stay shallow, you don’t have to worry about holding your breath on long deep dives...a very calming experience
To photograph these microscopic wonders, KK uses the Olympus TG6 with an underwater case combined with the Sea Life Sea Dragon 2300 light as most of these animals are hidden pretty well in crevices and under coral; places where not a lot of light is available. I also use the TG6 and the camera’s built in microscope mode is one of the best for beginners and advanced as it focuses well and gets incredible detail without a lot of programming or frustration. KK says one of her favorite spots to find micro-life is Coki Beach and we are grateful to her for exploring and sharing with us!
A small nudibrach with KK’s fingernail for scale.
LEARN TO
Beginner with no experience needed $150/pp
What’s Included
Certified dive instructor/guide
Dive and snorkel gear
Shorty wetsuit
Water, soda, light snacks. FUN!
The captains Rum Punch.. if he likes you and decides to share once you’re done diving!
What to Bring
swimwear, sun protection (sunshirt/rashguard, hat, sunglasses, reef safe sunscreen) towels or other creature comforts for the boat ride personal snack or drink if you have specific dietary needs
Gratuity for the crew whom you’re guaranteed to love!
J U L Y 2 0 2 5
ST. THOMAS DINING GUIDE
Let’s Explore Local Favorites in Your Neighborhood...listed by location for ease and planning.
Gladys’ Cafe Downtown
Cariga’s Island Cafe Frenchtown Deli & Coffee Shop
Northside
Northside Grind
Breakfast, lunch, coffee and drinks! Open from 7am-3pm
The Shack at Hull Bay
Fresh lunch and dinner options tucked in at Hull Bay!
Brook’s Bar
Local favorite with authentic food and drinks and friendly vibes.
Old Stone Farmhouse
Dinner on the mountain.
Gorgeous date night or celebration, intimate setting.
East End
Lattes in Paradise
Coffee, breakfast and lunch overlooking the marina Red Hook
Tarpon’s Table
Breakfast, lunch and dinner Casual, friendly vibes at the marina.
Cariga’s Island Cafe
Cozy, island favorite located in East End, St Thomas Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Duffy’s Love Shack
East End fun with nightly specials and Wednesday Lobster!
Island Time Pub
Some of the best pizza on island Located in Red Hook
Three Palms
Date night with a view. New Orleans inspired, balcony view
Bernie’s Bar & Grill
Lunch, dinner and late night hot spot Live music on occasion and friendly locals. Open till 2am
The Shack at Hull Bay
Southside
Stir It Up Bakery
Coffee-shop and delicious breakfast options in Havensight
Oasis at Bolongo Bay $$
Bar and restaurant for lunch, dinner and friendly atmosphere.
Mim’s Seaside Bistro
Beachfront, dinner spot with intimate setting and local seafood
Prime at Paradise Point
One of the best sunset views on island Date night dinner spot Box Bar
Outdoor favorite in YHG with great drinks and live music Friendly staff
West End
Frenchtown Deli & Coffee $
Local favorite serving breakfast, lunch and dinner
Cuveé $$
Upscale, intimate setting in Frenchtown for dinner.
Smoke Up VI
Great BBQ get it till it’s gone Located in Crown Bay
T’s Restaurant & Chicken Fry $ Local, flavorful and huge portions! meat, crab legs and sides!
Emerald Beach Resort $$
Multiple food options including beach bar and dinner vibes.
Beachfront, casual dress T’s Restaurant & Chicken Fry
Smoke Up VI Stir It Up Bakery Box Bar in Havensight
bistro • bar • balcony
Come for the food, stay for the view!
Where to Stay
St. Thomas is a stunning Caribbean island known for its crystalclear waters, lush green hills, and vibrant culture. Whether you're exploring hidden beaches, enjoying world-class snorkeling, or wandering the historic streets of Charlotte Amalie, every corner of the island offers something beautiful and unique. From hidden trails to lively marinas, it's the perfect destination for both adventure and relaxation...all wrapped in tropical charm.
Beaches nearby
Local Restaurants
Villas & Lodging
Points of Interest
Excursions
Northside
What it's known for:
Dramatic green hills, hidden beaches, and a more residential, peaceful vibe.
Highlights:
Hull Bay: Local surfer beach, fishing boats, and the quietest sunsets on island.
Magens Bay: The most famous beach on St. Thomas calm, swimmable, and surrounded by rainforest
Peterborg Peninsula: Luxurious villas with sweeping views of the Atlantic
Lodging: Private villas, boutique Airbnbs, and quiet getaways
Why visit:
Northside offers a true “island local” feel, with cooler breezes, secret trails, and the best ocean views from above
Getaway Girlfriend
Two Tickets to Paradise Cottage www.twotickets.vi
Virgin View Villas www.virginviewvillas.com
The Hideaway at Hull Bay www.hideawayhullbay.com
Villa Tryst Vacation Rental www.searenaproperties.com
Stone Cottage Hideaway www.stonecottage-virginislands.com
Magens Bay
Hull Bay
Fish Bar, The Shack @Hull Bay
Mountaintop
Xtreme Zip Line
Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden
East End
What it's known for:
Lively resorts, day charters, restaurants, and easy ferry access to St. John and the BVIs.
Highlights:
Red Hook: Nightlife, dining, and the island’s main ferry port.
Secret Harbour & Sapphire Beach: Ideal for snorkeling and watersports.
Lodging: Resorts, beachfront condos, and luxury rentals.
Why visit:
East End is perfect for those who want convenience + adventure whether that means hopping over to Jost Van Dyke for the day or having happy hour steps from your condo.
Getaway Girlfriend
Sapphire Beach, St. Thomas www.sbrmbookings.com
Secret Harbour Resort www.secretharbourvi.com
The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas www.ritzcalton.com
Margaritaville St. Thomas www.margaritavilleresorts.com
Belle Vie at Sapphire Beach www.sunsweptvi.com
Sapphire Beach Coki Beach
Duffy’s Love Shack, Tarpon’s Table American Yacht Harbor
Secret Harbour
Moe’s, Food Center and Chelsea Pharmacy
West End
What it's known for:
Quiet beaches, cultural sites, and some of the island’s best off-the-beaten-path views.
Highlights:
Lindbergh Bay & Brewers Bay: Local favorites with calm waters and pelican sightings.
University of the Virgin Islands overlook: One of the best panoramic views on island
Hassel Island: Accessible by kayak or charter, full of Civil War-era ruins
Lodging: Fewer resorts, more local guesthouses or villa rentals
Why visit:
If you like quiet charm, history, and uncrowded beaches, West End offers a slower pace and a deeper connection to the island’s past.
Getaway Girlfriend
Emerald Beach Resort www.emeraldbeach.com
Mango Cove Villa www.mangocovevilla.com
Island View Guesthouse www.islandviewstthomas.com
Villa Milagro St. Thomas www.vrbo.com/1035172
Bella Fortuna www.airbnb.com/h/bellafortunastt
Brewer’s Bay
Emerald Beach Resort
Frenchtown
Cuvée, French Quarter Bistro
University of Virgin Islands
Botany Bay
Stumpy Bay
Water Island Ferry @Crown Bay
Southside
What it's known for:
Charlotte Amalie (the capital), shopping, cruise ships, and beautiful beaches just minutes from town.
Highlights:
Limetree & Morningstar Beach:
Gorgeous soft sand close to the airport.
Charlotte Amalie: Duty-free shopping, colonial history, and historic architecture
Havensight: Cruise terminal, shopping center, and watersports options
Lodging: Hotels, beachside resorts, and in-town guesthouses
Why visit:
Southside gives you access to everything from walkable shopping to a quick beach escape, it’s perfect for short stays or convenience-focused travelers.
Getaway Girlfriend
Bolongo Bay Resort-All Inclusive www.bolongobay.com
Frenchman’s Reef www.frenchmansreefstthomas.com
Limetree Beach Resort www.clubwyndham.com
Bluebeard’s St. Thomas www.bluebeards.com
Olga’s Fancy in Frenchtown www.olgasfancy.com
Charlotte Amalie/Waterfront
Palm Passage VI
Havensight/Yacht Haven Grande
Cafe Amalia, Greenhouse, Virgilio’s Skyride to Paradise Point
Children’s Museum/Pirate Museum
Bolongo Bay Resort & Restaurant
Bolongo Bay Beach Resort
In this overwhelming day and age of AirBnB's and VRBO's, it's refreshing to find an actual All Inclusive on St. Thomas that cares! Bolongo Bay Beach Resort is just that.
Family owned and operated since 1989, Bolongo is a Virgin Islands treasure and one that we are proud to know personally and put our support behind. Hailed as the only all inclusive resort on St. Thomas, let's look at some of the highlights that make Bolongo Bay Beach Resort special. 32
The Resort
Adventure is everywhere at Bolongo Bay! This resort is not just a friendly escape but a hotspot for exciting excursions. You can take a hobie cat for a sail, snorkel the beach or indulge in a day or sunset sail on Heavenly Days. For a full list of activities, visit their excursions page.
The Rooms
When it comes to finding the perfect place to relax, Bolongo Bay Beach Resort’s accommodations are topnotch. Each room is tastefully decorated and designed to mirror the island's vibrant atmosphere.
With beachfront and ocean view options, you'll wake up to beauty everyday and be surrounded by the sights and sounds of the island. Explore room options and amenities HERE!
F U N O N S I T E A C T I V I T Y Bolongo hosts their on site “Snorkel Booze Hunt” where guests get to snorkel and reap the benefits of hidden bottles of rum.
The Friendly Vibe
The friendly staff plays a significant role in the community atmosphere. They readily share recommendations, enhance your experience, and cater to your needs with genuine care. For instance, they might suggest local spots for snorkeling or the best times to catch a sunset. This personal touch keeps guests returning year after year....which is evidenced by their "Friends of Bolongo Bay Resort" Facebook Group.
Unlike larger resorts, this intimate setting allows guests to feel at ease, ensuring a peaceful retreat while offering stunning views.
Food & drink
Dining at Bolongo Bay is a highlight of any stay, with an all-inclusive food and drink package that covers a wide variety of tastes. Imagine savoring dishes that range from Caribbean jerk chicken wings to Caribbean Lobster and Fresh Catch of the Day. With options available, guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner and never have the same thing twice...unless you want to, of course!
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Menu can be found HERE!
Celebrations
And don't forget, Bolongo is also a special place for celebrations. Many island weddings, vow renewals, Honeymoons and Birthdays have been shared here and the staff are always available to do everything to make your moment memorable.
Planning in advance can ensure that your whole family and friends group can join you on your stay and call this place home with the most welcoming help from the staff.
Why Bolongo
Bolongo Bay Beach Resort is truly an island favorite and the only true allinclusive destination in St. Thomas. With its charming family-owned approach, attentive service, and numerous included amenities, your stay will be unforgettable.
www.bolongobay.com
S t T h o m a s
Local Love: Celebrating the Heart of St. Thomas
At St. Thomas Magazine, we believe island living isn’t just about the beaches; it’s about the people, the flavors, the culture, and the soul of the community. That’s why we’re launching “Local Love”...a monthly feature celebrating the businesses, makers, and moments that define what it means to live and love in St. Thomas. From that first sip of bush tea at the weekend farmer’s markets to the stories behind your favorite locally-owned boutiques and food trucks, we’re highlighting what truly makes this island home.
Expect to see:
• Farm-to-market freshness from locals and Market Square
• Boutiques & businesses run by bold, creative locals
• Restaurants and pop-ups that serve more than food, they serve connections
• Community events & festivals that locals care about
This is your guide to discovering St. Thomas, one story at a time.
Have a business or person you think we should feature in “Local Love”? Drop us a message, we’d love to share their story.
Rothschild Francis Market Square: The Historic Heart of St. Thomas
Nestled in downtown Charlotte Amalie, Market Square is one of the island’s most culturally significant landmarks. While today it serves as a lively farmers market and gathering space, its origins carry a deeper history. In the 18th and early 19th centuries, this square was a center of the transatlantic slave trade, where enslaved Africans were bought and sold during the Danish colonial era. Over time and through emancipation and resilience, it transformed into a place of community and commerce for the people of St. Thomas.
By the late 1800s and early 1900s, Market Square evolved into a vibrant public market where local farmers, artisans, and small business owners came together to sell their goods. That legacy lives on today. Every Saturday morning, the square fills with colorful stalls offering fresh local produce, bush teas, handmade crafts, and island spices.
Visitors can sample sweet mangoes, bananas, tamarind, passionfruit, and connect directly with the growers and makers who give the island its flavor.
Photos
Step Back in Time with the St. Thomas Historical Trust
If you're craving a deeper connection to the island beyond its beaches and boutiques, the St. Thomas Historical Trust Walking Tours offer a captivating look into the stories, architecture, and resilient spirit that have shaped this Caribbean gem.
Led by passionate local guides, the tours wind through the historic streets of Charlotte Amalie, revealing hidden courtyards, colonial-era buildings, pirate tales, and pivotal moments from the island’s Danish past. You'll hear stories of merchants, revolutionaries, and everyday islanders whose legacies still echo through the cobblestone streets.
Hassel Island Tours
For the truly adventurous, the Trust also hosts guided hikes on Hassel Island, a lush, rugged islet just across from the Charlotte Amalie waterfront. Once used by the Danish military and British Navy, it’s now a peaceful, partially-restored National Park site where you can explore historic forts, sugar mill ruins, and panoramic views of the harbor. Expect gentle hiking, rich storytelling, and unforgettable photo ops.
Tour Info
Walking tours typically run mornings on select weekdays
Hassel Island tours require advance booking and include boat transport
Walking/Museum tours are about ~$55/pp and require advanced notice
Visit: stthomashistoricaltrust.org
HOTEL 1829: A HISTORIC ISLAND GEM
Overlooking Charlotte Amalie from Government Hill, Hotel 1829 blends historic charm with boutique elegance. Originally built by a French sea trader in 1829, the hotel features coral-stone walls, stained-glass windows, and panoramic harbor views.
Today, it’s home to stylish guest rooms and the Rumpourium, a chic rum bar and garden restaurant. Just steps from Blackbeard’s Castle and the 99 Steps, Hotel 1829 offers guests a rich and refined way to experience the soul of historic St. Thomas.
GLADYS’ CAFÉ: A TRUE TASTE OF ST. THOMAS
Tucked inside Royal Dane Mall in downtown Charlotte Amalie, Gladys’ Café is a beloved local spot serving up authentic Caribbean comfort food with heart. Famous for her homemade hot sauces and warm hospitality, Gladys has created a space that feels like home; whether you're digging into curried goat, saltfish and johnny cakes, or just sipping something cool between shops.
With vibrant island flavors, live music, and a legacy of love, Gladys’ Café is a must-stop for anyone craving realdeal local dining in St. Thomas.
Gladys’ famous hot sauce found at her cafe in St Thomas
The Rumporium Lounge in Hotel 1829
My Brother’s Workshop
My Brother’s Workshop: Building Hope, One Skill at a Time
In a world where second chances can be hard to come by, My Brother’s Workshop is rewriting the story, right here in St. Thomas. Founded in 2007 by Scott Bradley, MBW is a nonprofit dedicated to empowering at-risk youth through mentorship, vocational training, education, and mental wellness support. What began as a humble woodworking program has grown into a life-changing organization offering hands-on training in carpentry, culinary arts, marine services, plumbing, sewing, engineering, and more. Young adults receive real-world experience, emotional support, and the tools to build not just a career but a life of confidence and purpose.
One of MBW’s most beloved programs is the My Brother’s Workshop Café & Bakery in Charlotte Amalie, where trainees prepare and serve fresh breakfasts, lunches, and baked goods while learning every part of the business: from food prep to customer service. Every meal you enjoy directly fuels their mission.
�� How to Give Back:
Eat with purpose: Visit the Café & Bakery for a sandwich, smoothie, or locallyloved cinnamon roll.
Donate or sponsor: Financial support helps fund scholarships, job placement, and therapy services.
Volunteer: Lend your skills or mentorship: builders, bakers, teachers, and encouragers are always welcome.
Hire a graduate: MBW alumni leave with real skills and big dreams. Open doors when you can.
Spread the word: Share their mission, attend an event, or bring a friend to brunch with a cause.
In a community that values resilience and connection, My Brother’s Workshop is a shining example of what’s possible when we believe in each other and back it up with action.
My Brother’s Workshop
Excursions & Activities
Ocean Surfari www.oceansurfari.com
Stormy Pirates www.stormypirates.com
EcoTours www viecotours com
Phoenix Charters www charterphoenix com
OceanRunner www.oceanrunnerusvi.com
Visit USVI and USVI Festivals
Aqua Marine Dive www diveaquamarine com
GoMojo Tender Rentals www.gomojovi.com
NOVA Luxury Charters www.novachartersvi.com
St Thomas Historical Trust www stthomashistoricaltrust org
Restaurants & Bars
Cafe Amalia www amaliacafe com
3 Palms www.3palmsvi.com
Frenchtown Deli & Coffee Shop Follow on FB Northside Grind www northsidegrind com
Tarpon’s Table www.tarponstable.com
Gladys’ Cafe www gladyscafe com
The Shack at Hull Bay www theshackhullbay com
Brook’s Bar: Follow on FB
Old Stone Farmhouse www oldstonefarmhouse net
Cariga’s Island Cafe: Find Cariga’s on Facebook
Duffy’s Love Shack www.duffysloveshack.com
Island Time Pub: Find ITP on Facebook
Latte’s In Paradise www.lattes.vi
Cuvée www.cuveevi.com
Bernie’s Bar & Grill: Follow on FB
Restaurants & Bars cont.
Lodging and Resorts
Stir It Up Bakery: Follow on FB
Mim’s Seaside Bistro www.mimsseaside.com
Box Bar www boxbarvi com
Prime at Paradise Point www primeusvi com
Smoke Up VI: Follow on FB
T’s Restaurant & Chicken Fry: Follow on FB
Two Tickets to Paradise Cottage www twotickets vi
Virgin View Villas www virginviewvillas com
Hideaway at Hull Bay www.hideawayhullbay.com
Stone Cottage Hideaway www.stonecottage-virgin-islands.com
Sapphire Beach Resort www sbrmbookings com
Secret Harbour Resort www.secretharbourvi.com
Ritz-Carlton St Thomas www ritzcarlton com
Margaritaville St. Thomas www.margaritavilleresorts.com
Belle Vie at Sapphire Beach www.sunsweptvi.com
Emerald Beach Resort www emeraldbeach com
Mango Cove Villa www.mangocovevilla.com
Island View Guesthouse www.islandviewstthomas.com
Villa Milagro St Thomas www vrbo com/1035172
Bella Fortuna www airbnb com/h/bellafortunastt
Pink Palm Hotel www.pinkpalmhotel.com
Bolongo Bay Beach Resort (All Inclusive) www bolongobay com
Bluebeard’s St Thomas www bluebeards com
Olga’s Fancy www.olgasfancy.com
Frenchamn’s Reef www.frenchmansreefstthomas.com
Limetree Resort www clubwyndham wyndhamdestinations com
Villa Tryst Vacation Rental www.searenaproperties.com
Special thanks to our in house travel planner, Getaway Girlfriend. Complimentary services for those visiting the US Virgin Islands
