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EVENTS, EXCURSIONS, FOOD, LODGING & MORE
• BEST BEACHES TO VISIT
KING OF THE WING JUNE 14TH
The 14th Annual King of the Wing Contest will be held on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at Magens Bay Beach in St. Thomas, USVI featuring a live performance by Grammy Award-winning artist Lupe Fiasco
This year's event will benefit the Coral Reef Academy, a special education school for students with autism, ADHD, and those with developmental disabilities. King of the Wing is an annual chicken wing cookoff and fundraiser featuring teams from local restaurants, businesses, organizations, and home cooks competing for the best chicken wing recipe. It is a family-friendly event
Find out why Sapphire Beach on St. Thomas is the ultimate for day trips and longer stays.
Check out these favorites for the best turtle spotting, local food, peaceful mornings and one of the top ten in the world!
Explore the beautiful waters of St. Thomas and learn about some amazing marine life.
Find out where to eat from morning breakfast to late night fun.
Some favorites and info from each corner of the island.
What is it and WHY you need to visit for the day or longer.
We catch up and learn a few things from island photographer, Nick Heinemann.
Appreciation to St. Thomas businesses and see what’s next for July!
Welcome to the very first issue of St. Thomas Magazine...your friendly resource for all things vibrant, local, and unforgettable on our beautiful island!
Whether you’re planning your first trip to paradise or you’re a return visitor who just can’t stay away, this guide was created with you in mind. Our goal?
To connect you with the hidden gems, small businesses, and local experiences that make St. Thomas so much more than just a pretty beach.
With love, St Thomas Visitor’s Guide N O T E S
E D I T O R ’ S
Each month, we’ll bring you insider tips, real stories from island locals, and curated recommendations you won’t find in your average brochure From the best sunset spots to where to get the freshest meals, we’re here to help make your vacation easy and memorable.
We’re thrilled you’re here, and we can’t wait to help you discover the best of St Thomas
UPCOMING EVENTS June 2025
Every Sunday from 3-6pm
JUN
1 Sapphire Sundays-Live
Music
End your weekend with the best “Sunday Funday” on island at Sapphire Beach! Live music from 3-6pm, great island food and cocktails and Sapphire Beach as your perfect setting! Call 340.244.0156 to reserve your private cabana for the afternoon.
Friday, 8 pm
JUN 6 First Friday on Waterfront
Head to downtown Charlotte Amalie, Waterfront, for First Friday! Tons of drink and food specials, local vendors, llive music and great vibes. Shops stay open and the fun flows freely throughout downtown. Safe parking at Yacht Haven Grande.
JUN
7
A Sip of Sanity @XO Bistro
Fall down the rabbit hole for a curious evening of cocktail alchemy and eccentric elegance Themed drinks sponsored by Hendrick’s Gin & Stoli Vodka Live DJ Set by CarBar starting at 10:30pm Saturday, 10pm
Wednesday, 7 pm
JUN 11 Full Moon Party
Head to Sapphire Beach Bar for the monthly Full Moon Party! Live set by DJ Cypha, Moko Jumbies, Fire Dancers & More A local island favorite get VIP treatment and bottle service with cabana rentals. Call 340.244.0156 to reserve.
Saturday, 11am
JUN 14 Annual King of the Wing Contest
Head to Magens Bay for the island’s KOW contest! Try different varieties from local vendors and vote for your favorite Live music and tons of fun at one of the Top 10 beaches in the World!
Friday, 8pm
JUN 27
Fire Friday @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. Free Entry!
Saturday, 11am
JUN 28 St. John Celebration Week
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
Saturday June 14 , 2025 th Event starts at 11:00am
Destinations: The Baths & White Bay
Duration: 9 hours
Company: Stormy Pirates
Not Included: $85 cash for customs, gratuity for crew and towels/sunscreen baths
Excursions: The Baths, Spring Bay, Devil’s Bay, White Bay/Soggy Dollar
Meals: Snacks and open bar
“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
ST THOMAS ON A BUDGET $$
Adventure Trips
Hike & Snorkel Tour (3hrs.)
BeachExcursions
CulturalTours
Sapphire Beach, St. Thomas
Sapphire Beach
STAY•PLAY•DINE•AND MORE
Explore Sapphire Beach on St. Thomas for all of your vacation needs. From beachfront rentals, on-site excursions, tons of dining options and a variety of other services; you may not need to ever leave your condo!
Fantastic Food
Sapphire has tons of options for dining to keep you satisfied from morning to night. Breakfast Options include: Sudi’s and Beach Buzz. Lunch & Dinner: Sapphire Beach Bar, Paradise Pie, Sudi’s and SeaSalt.
And don’t forget about SeaSalt’s Saturday Brunch with DJ Niko and the best pancakes and Lobster Biscuits & Gravy!
On Site Excursions
From sailing to snorkeling, jet skis, parasail, Seabobs, BVI trips to renting your own boat for the day, Sapphire literally has every excursion under the SUN!
The snorkeling at Sapphire is AMAZING! We’ve seen turtles, octopus, Nurse Sharks, eels, reef fish and so much more...and gear rentals are available at the Beach Bar Again, hardly a reason to leave property!
Fish tacos at Sapphire Beach Bar
GoMojo Tender Rentals at Sapphire
DayinSt.Thomas DayinSt.Thomas
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.
MAGENS BAY
A NORTHSIDE AND TOURIST FAVORITE MAGENS IS GORGEOUS AND HAS LONG STRETCHES OF WHITE SAND. GEAR RENTALS AND FOOD ALSO AVAILABLE HERE. THERE IS A SMALL FEE FOR ENTRANCE AND IT’S BEST TO VISIT ON A NON-CRUISE SHIP DAY.
iintheSun ntheSun
LINDQVIST BEACH
LOCATED ON THE EAST END OF THE ISLAND, LINDQVIST HAS LONG BEEN A LOCAL FAVORITE AND QUITER ESCAPE FROM THE CROWDS. TOURISM IS PICKING UP HERE AND AGAIN, BEST VISITED ON A NONCRUISE SHIP DAY ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL SPOT FOR MORNINGS.
COKI BEACH
WELL KNOWN AS A LOCAL FAVORITE COKI IS ALWAYS A GREAT TIME EASY SNORKELING FOR BEGINNERS WITH FOOD TO FEED THE FISH. FOOD AND DRINK ON SITE AS WELL AS DIVING AND CORAL WORLD NEXT DOOR TRY THE CONCH FRITTERS, THEYRE AMAZING!
st. thomas
Living on St Thomas means the ocean is your backyard, and spending time underwater becomes a natural part of daily life. It’s not uncommon to take a quick snorkel break between errands or wind down the day with a sunset swim. The underwater world here is endlessly fascinating, and the sense of connection to nature is unmatched. Each reef and bay holds new surprises, from schools of tangs swirling in the shallows to octopuses blending effortlessly into coral beds.
Green sea turtles are a favorite among locals and visitors alike, and Brewer’s Bay is one of the most reliable spots to find them grazing peacefully along the seagrass beds These turtles can live for over 80 years and return to the same beaches year after year. Equally fascinating is the Caribbean reef octopus.
Known for its intelligence and ability to rapidly change color and texture to match its surroundings. These shy but curious creatures often go unnoticed during the day but become bold and active once the sun goes down another reason island nights are just as magical as the days. When I go searching for them, I keep my eye out for piles of shells, usually right outside of a coral head or rocky area Often you can find them hiding far back in their den trying to stay hidden till you pass by.
Green Sea Turtle at Leinster Bay, St John
Caribbean Reef Octopus seen in the coral on St. Thomas
Nurse sharks, often seen resting in the san along reef edges, are gentle giants of th bottom-dwellers pose no threat to humans crucial role in keeping the ocean ’ s ecosystem You’re most likely to spot them at deeper sn sites near Cow and Calf Rocks off the south St. Thomas or along the reef walls near L Observing them calmly and from a distance they remain undisturbed in their natural envir
Green moray eels are another thrilling encounter while exploring the reefs. With t color and serpent-like movements, they o coral crevices with only their heads expos fooled by their open mouths, this is just how they breathe These eels can be seen at spots Cove and Waterlemon Cay on St. John, e rocky outcroppings and coral tunnels Tho appear intimidating, they are shy by nature avoid contact.
St. Thomas and St. John’s coral reefs are a and activity Snorkelers can observe schoo like parrotfish, sergeant majors, and w between sea fans and brain coral. Pre ecosystems is essential; not only for th biodiversity they provide, but for the fut tourism and local fisheries Visitors are e avoid touching coral, refrain from feeding always wear reef-safe sunscreen to protec habitats
Pictured from left to right: Nurse Sharks at Salt Pond, St John, Porcupine Puffer at Sapphire Beach, St. Thomas, Blue Tang and Green Moray Eel at Sapphire Beach
WHERE, WHEN & HOW TO BEHAVE WITH WILDLIFE
Thomas
The best times to spot marine life in the Virgin Islands are early mornings and late afternoons when the water is calmer and the light is soft, making it easier to see through the shallows. During these golden hours, sea turtles tend to graze more actively, and reef fish emerge from their coral homes. Some species, like the Caribbean reef octopus, are more active at dusk and after dark, making evening snorkel tours especially rewarding. Calm bays like Secret Harbour, Maho Bay on St John, and Brewer’s Bay offer ideal visibility and the highest likelihood of unforgettable encounters
“Always keep a respectful distance from marine life, never chase or touch animals.”
It’s genuinely awe-inspiring to share the sea with such diverse and vibrant wildlife. The presence of creatures like nurse sharks, green sea turtles, moray eels, and reef squid is a reminder of the island’s rich marine ecosystem and how lucky we are to experience it up close. These animals are not just beautiful to witness, they play critical roles in the health of coral reefs and ocean balance.
To protect these species and ensure future generations get to enjoy them, it’s important to snorkel and dive responsibly. Always keep a respectful distance from marine life, never chase or touch animals, and stay aware of your fins so you don’t accidentally damage coral By practicing good ocean etiquette, every visitor becomes part of the effort to protect these magical underwater habitats.
Coral Reef habitat at Sapphire Beach, St
J U N E 2 0 2 5
ST. THOMAS DINING GUIDE
Here, we highlight some favorite spots for all your dining needs: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Bars
Cafe Amalia downtown
Breakfast & Brunch
Tarpon’s Table in Red Hook $$
Breakfast served daily till 11 am
Lobster Omelette is great!
Gladys’ Cafe
Charlotte Amalie, local favorite. Breakfast served till 11 am.
Caribbean Fish Market
Located at Elysian/Cowpet Beach. Sunday Brunch till 2pm.
SeaSalt at Sapphire Beach $$$
Located at Sapphire Beach.
Saturday Brunch with DJ Niko served till 2pm.
Lunch & Casual
Agave in Red Hook
Casual Mexican food and great Happy Hour Margaritas!
The Patio at Sunset Grille
Beachfront casual at Secret Harbour with gorgeous sunsets.
Cariga’s Island Cafe
Cozy, island favorite located in East End, St Thomas
Duffy’s Love Shack
East End fun with nightly specials and Wednesday Lobster!
Island Time Pub
Some of the best pizza on island Located in Red Hook
Petite Pump Room
Local flair with waterfront views and conch, lobster and painkillers
Tap & Still
Great burgers and wings, multiple locations on island
Dinner Favorites
Cuvée
Intimate setting in Frenchtown. Outstanding steak and lobster
Prime at Paradise Point
Known for beautiful sunsets and delicious filet.
The Fish Bar
Northside fresh catch and views
Virgilio’s
Best Italian dowtown and a famous tableside Cesar!
Raw Sushi
Red Hook favorite and amazing sushi and Happy Hour.
Bars & Nightlife
The Box Bar $$
Great drinks, outdoor setting, located in Havensight
The Pelican Shop $$ Downtown waterfront cigar bar with outdoor seating.
Bernie’s Bar & Grill
Fun local favorite in East End, live music some nights
One Pub
Open late in Red Hook...the place to go for fun and karaoke
Xo Bistro
Open till 2am, martinis, drink specials and intimate ambiance.
Cuvée in Frenchtown RAW in Red Hook
GRAND OPENING
SeaSalt
SAPPHIRE BEACH CLUB
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
Why You Need a Day Pass to the
PINK PALM HOTEL
Come for a day, stay for the week!
Nestled in the heart of downtown Charlotte Amalie sits, Pink Palm Hotel. This super cute boutiqe getaway has on site pool, jacuzzi and their restaurant, El Barsito is perfect for happy hour and dinners with the best views on island.
This hotel has 28 rooms with King, Queen and Deluxe options to choose from. On site massage and surrounded by lush foliage...you will feel like you’re in your own private oasis whether for a day pass or longer trip!
Nearby attractions include shopping in Palm Passage, great restaurants such as Cafe Amalia, Greenhouse and Virgilio’s as well as local events such as First Fridays with music, vendors and late night offerings.
This is an adults only boutique resort...perfect for girl’s trips, friends and romantic celebrations.
Lunch 1-4pm, Dinner 5-8:30pm, Sun.Brunch 11am-2pm, Bar 11am-9pm
FOOD & DRINK
El Barsito, the hotel's signature restaurant, offers a delightful dining experience that captures the essence of Caribbean flavors with a modern twist. Whether you're joining for brunch, lunch, or dinner, the menu is crafted to satisfy every palate
Brunch Favorites:
Creamy Seafood Grits: A rich and savory dish that's become a weekend staple.
Build-Your-Own Breakfast Platter: Customize your morning meal with a variety of fresh ingredients.
Steak and Eggs: A hearty option for those looking to indulge.
Lunch & Dinner Highlights:
Tuna Tartare: Fresh and flavorful, a must-try starter.
Pink Palm Tacos: Available with shrimp, chicken, pork belly, or beef each offering a unique taste experience.
Crispy Chicken Brioche: A satisfying sandwich that's both crunchy and juicy OpenTable
Bar Offerings:
Signature Cocktails: Expertly mixed drinks that capture the island spirit.
Frozen Delights: Cool down with refreshing frozen cocktails, perfect for poolside sipping.
Wine & Beer Selection: A curated list to complement any meal
Enjoy the heated pool and jacuzzi overlooking Charlotte Amalie Harbor poolside paradise for both overnight and day pass guests
LOCAL THINGS TO DO
No kids, just calm. Pink Palm is designed for quiet escapes and elevated island vibes.
Want to venture beyond the poolside paradise? Here are some must-see stops just a short walk or drive from the Pink Palm:
99 Steps & Blackbeard’s Castle – Historic sites just uphill with incredible views.
Emancipation Garden – A peaceful spot to relax or explore local history.
Main Street Shopping – Duty-free deals on jewelry, fashion, and local crafts.
Waterfront Boardwalk – Great for sunset strolls or grabbing a drink.
Market Square – Soak up local culture, food, and flavors.
Ferry Terminal to St. John – Take a spontaneous day trip.
28 rooms with Nespresso machines, Ortigia bath products, and private balconies.
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Island Lens: A Conversation with
a St. Thomas Photographer
From sun-drenched beaches to sweeping mountaintop views, the island of St. Thomas provides the perfect canvas for capturing life’s most unforgettable moments. We sat down with local photographer, Nick Heinemann, whose lens has framed everything from romantic wedding vows and flying dress sessions to birthday celebrations and surprise engagements, all set against the island’s breathtaking natural backdrop.
Q: Ok, we gotta know since everyone here has a story...how and why did you decide to move to the Virgin Islands and what’s your experience been like operating your photography business here?
The Virgin Islands have been a lifelong dream for me. Truly ever since I watched Jack Cousteau as a child and my father having been a scuba diver, it has always been a dream of mine to be here After the 2017 hurricane Irma, made its way to where I was living at in the Florida Keys, I discovered what hurricanes were about. Having lost much through it myself, I decided to put my resume on Craigslist in the Virgin Islands of all places Surprisingly I was offered a 3 day working interview as my background in construction was of interest to a local property owner. Having successfully captured the position, I worked in property management and maintenance for about 4 & ½ years on St. Thomas. All the while, creating artwork and capturing photographs in any free moment I had. Building a business takes time and in a new location, the time varies. When things had advanced to the point where my artwork and photography was beginning to demand more of my time, my employer adamantly encouraged me to go after what I had created here on island
The Virgin Islands are a photographers dream. The colors, the water, the landscape and the people From a business aspect, operating a photography business on island is actually a challenge. One needs to prove their worth on a local level and international level. Your clients who are locally based, have typically seen it all with photography. One needs to provide a different perspective, a different angle or look to the imagery, in order for someone to take notice. On top of locally, one needs to appeal to an international audience as well due to the fact that we are a major tourism destination. One typically thinks a photographer just takes a photograph The successful navigation of what goes into making that photograph happen, is a never-ending process involving marketing, editing, equipment maintenance, customer service, bookkeeping and knowledge building as the photography industry is constantly evolving. Overall, my business experience in the islands has been more than I can ask for I have been fortunate enough to build relationships with other local photographers, of whom I appreciate and value their work. I’ve found a creative base of peers who provide creativity input, camaraderie and it is such a joy to see their successes along with their support of my success
Q: What do you love most about capturing special moments on island...especially events like proposals and flying dress sessions?
A. I am a hugely empathetic person. In the proposal styled sessions, I recognize the importance and associated butterflies that come with a request for someone to ask another, “Will you spend the rest of your life with me?” I pretty much live vicariously in those moments It actually helps the session become more creative for the client.
For the flying dress styled session, it’s more of an art in motion type of creativity that I am able to capture. The individuals are unique, the dresses and how they flow are unique, the location, landscape, water and sky are always unique. Combining all of the various factors into a single image or a grouping of images, is actually a creation of an individual work of art in my mind Each session, be it a family session, an engagement, an elopement or a commercial type session, is always different. I think the variety is what is the most appealing part of capturing the sessions
Q: Flying dress sessions have become so iconic...as a shy person myself; what is the process like, and how do you help clients feel confident in front of the camera?
A. “Take a deep breath. Now let it go.” I tell that to all of my flying dress clients. For many, it is a dream, to be captured in a session As some are shy and a bit uncomfortable, I remind them that this moment is all about them Some experience the sessions as an emotional release, a celebration of independence or an affirmation of their own beauty. While others view the sessions as a way to celebrate a milestone or special moment amongst friends and family
The sessions are by far the most creative and making it an enjoyable experience with laughter and sass, tends to allow the clients the ability to forget about the world around them. Most are flooded with compliments from onlookers like “Your beautiful!” Or “You look gorgeous!” In the end, the experience tends to
photoshoot and why?
A. For St. Thomas, there are a few idyllic locations. Sapphire Beach and Pretty Clip Point are unique in both their panoramic views and combination of sand and rocky peninsula Lines with various leaving palms and mangroves, the location is a personal favorite While Magens provides the quintessential beach shots near sunset along with the lighting of the sun perking through the prawns of the palm grove.
On St. John, Cinnamon Bay Beach gives the panorama of the BVI’s and turquoise waters combined with occasional crashing waves. Dennis Bay Beach is an amazing location for proposals! With a rocky outcropping and leaning beach palms, it is intimate and rarely crowded
Each client that has visited previously, has their own favorite for one sentimental reason or another such as “We were married here.” Or “Our family has been visiting this beach for 20 years ” It is truly amazing to hear their stories
Q: What’s one thing visitors often don’t realize about photographing in the islands until they arrive?
A. Topography and how it relates to everything around a photography session. For example, the sun sets at say 5:30pm. At Cinnamon Bay Beach, the sun is down past the hilltops at 4:15pm - 4:30pm at times of the year While the same principle applies to Magens Bay Beach at times of the year when the sun sets, as the hills along the north side of St. Thomas obstruct the sun 30 minutes prior to the actual sunset.
Coordinating session times with clients is the most important aspect to providing them with the type of imagery they are looking for.
Q: What tips would you give to someone planning a photoshoot on the island...especially for lighting, timing, and weather and have you ever used inclement weather as a tool or advantage when shooting?
A. Earlier in the morning is typically the cooler time of the day. In regards to flying dress sessions, as beautiful as the dresses are, one can become warm rather quickly This also allows for the clients to spend the day enjoying the beach and water or exploring the islands.
For a late afternoon or sunset session, bug spray is a must and I typically offer it to my clients as soon as we meet at the session location
Plan a session relatively early in you trip. Typically your second day of vacation. Get a little sun the first day but not too much. Wearing lobster red as a skin tone, is typically outside of what a client is desiring This also allows for the possibility of a backup session date due to weather.
Weather is variable at different parts of the year. Typically I allow for some time and date flexibility during the rainy season
Q: Can you share one of your favorite photo shoots and what made it so special?
A I was contacted by a mother who was coordinating a family photo session Her daughter was fulfilling her wish for a “Make A Wish” dream. After coordinating the dates, times and location, she inquired on the cost. I advised her that understanding the strength that her family and daughter have needed to maintain, in order to overcome a life changing situation, I would provide the session free of charge. Additionally, I provided her and her daughter with a flying dress session. My belief is that sometimes, we just need to do good deeds and this was one of those moments
Q: How can potential clients book with you, and what should they expect from the experience start to finish?
A I can be contacted primarily through Heinemannimages com Additionally, messaging options and my work may be seen through various social media channels under Heinemann Images, such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter
Once the client and I connect regarding what they are looking for in a session, we coordinate the date, time and location. The client is then provided a photography service agreement detailing the session and deposit requirements along with deposit service options. Upon booking, the client receives confirmation and is contacted the day prior to the session. This way we can determine if the weather will cooperate or if they experienced travel related issues to where we may need to make a session date or time adjustment.
The day of the session, the client and I meet at the predetermined location Sessions range from 45 minutes to an hour and a half on a typical session Depending on their session type, it can be longer. Upon session completion, a few preliminary edits are provided to the clients in about 48 hours This allows the client to share their images while still on vacation in many instances. All edited images and captured images are sent to the client on an SD card.
Interested in Booking: Call 954 290 7726 or email: heinemannimages@outlook com
Excursions & Activities
Ocean Surfari www.oceansurfari.com
Stormy Pirates www.stormypirates.com
EcoTours www viecotours com
Island Buddy www islandbuddy net
Neptune’s Fishin www.neptuneadventures.com
New Horizons/Breakway www funboatday com
Jammin Jeep Tours www jamminjeeptours com
GoMojo Tender Rentals www.gomojovi.com
NOVA Luxury Charters www.novachartersvi.com
STT Cutlural Tours www sttculturaltours com
St. Thomas Historical Trust www.stthomashistoricaltrust.org
Restaurants & Bars
Cafe Amalia www amaliacafe com
The Longboard STT www.thelongboardstthomas.com
SeaSalt www.seasaltvi.com
Petite Pump Room www petitepumproom com
Tarpon’s Table www.tarponstable.com
Gladys’ Cafe www gladyscafe com
Caribbean Fish Market www caribbeanfishmarketvi com
Agave www.agavevi.com
The Patio at Sunset Grille www sunsetgrillevi com
Cariga’s Island Cafe: Find Cariga’s on Facebook
Duffy’s Love Shack www.duffysloveshack.com
Island Time Pub: Find ITP on Facebook
Tap & Still www.tapstill.com
Cuvée www.cuveevi.com
Virgilio’s www virgiliosvi com
Restaurants & Bars cont.
Lodging and Resorts
Fish Bar www.fishbarvi.com
RAW Sushi www.rawvi.com
Box Bar www boxbarvi com
Bernie’s Bar and Grill: Follow Bernie’s on Facebook
One Pub: Follow One Pub on Facebook
XO Bistro www.xobistro.net
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 www.getawaygirlfriend.com
• St. John Celebration Week 2025
• Appreciating the local culture and the goods and services they provide. For information on St Thomas Magazine, send inquiries to: info@stthomasvisitorsguide.com • Behind the Scenes with Chef Nathan Neibaur
• The Microscopic Wonders of St Thomas
