M U S T D O
E X C U R S I O N S F O R S E A S O N !
Snorkel Snorkel
• ISLAND CREATURES & WILD HISTORY
LEARN ABOUT SOME OF OUR ISLAND WILDLIFE AND HOW THEY CAME TO BE IN THE USVI
• THE HAUNTING OF ST. THOMAS
LEGENDS AND STORIES BEHIND SHIPWRECKS, HAUNTED PLACES AND MYTHS ON ISLAND.
• FRIGHT FEST
STAY UP TO DATE ON HALLOWEEN PARTIES AND EVENTS IN ST THOMAS!
HALLOWEEN AT HOTEL 1829
Hosted by The Josh & Hotel 1829 �� Hotel 1829, Charlotte Amalie �� Friday, October 31 | ⏰ 7–11 PM st
Step into St. Thomas’ most historic hotel for a night of haunted fun! Explore spooky corners, sip Halloween cocktail specials with Neptune’s Nectars, enjoy themed bites + trick-or-treat baskets, and dance to DJ Legit Don’t miss the Best Dressed Costume Contest with prizes. ✨ Come dressed to haunt… come play if you dare. 04
Table of Contents
11
Island Creatures: Wild Histories
Learn info and origins about some of our favorite island wildlife.
16 The Haunting of St. Thomas Caribbean legends, ghost tours and parties going on this month
20 Hike & Soak Beach Guide
Discover hiking trails that lead to some of the most incredible beaches.
22 The Sea Remembers
Tales of shipwrecks, lost treasure, pirates and creatures from the blue in this spooky feature.
Legends & myths of the Caribbean
St. Thomas Dining Guide
Find out who’s open this time of year in your part of the island.
32
Where to Stay on Island
We feature the most popular and up and coming places to stay in every part of the island to suit varied interests.
40 Beyond the Beach
We take a look at some of the most loved excursions on island and what to book for next season!
Thank You to Businesses and Upcoming Topics
Appreciation to St. Thomas businesses and see what’s next for November.
Reception of historic Hotel 1829 in St. Thomas.
O T E S
NOctober in St. Thomas means one thing: spooky season has arrived! The air is a little cooler, the nights are a little longer, and the island feels alive with legends, ghost stories, and parties that light up the town. From haunted tours through Charlotte Amalie to costume contests and Halloween bashes, there’s no shortage of thrills waiting for both locals and visitors. This issue dives into the mysterious side of the islands, from the haunted history of Fort Christian and Bluebeard’s Castle to the eerie lore of cursed treasure and restless spirits at sea. We’ll also explore St. Thomas’ own wildlife with tales of goats, donkeys, iguanas, and more.
E D I T O R ’ S
And because it’s season-opening time, you’ll find guides to excursions, off-season beaches and some of the best brunches and dining experiences around. By coming here now, you’re not only part of the fun; you’re helping kick off the season that sustains our island all year long. So, put on your costume, grab a haunted cocktail, and dive into this issue of St. Thomas Magazine. From spooky tales to sunlit adventures, there’s plenty to discover.
With island mischief, GG Editor, St. Thomas Magazine
UPCOMING EVENTS October 2025
Friday, October 3 from 5-10pm rd
OCT 3 First Friday by TapHaus Beer House
Every Sunday from 3-6pm
OCT 4 Sapphire Sundays at Sapphire Beach
Live music from local and visiting bands on one of the most beautiful beaches in St. Thomas! Sapphire Beach Bar hosts this weekly event with cabana rentals, free entry, great food and cocktails and good times
Every Sunday from 12pm-6pm
OCT 4 SUNDAZE @The Westin
Dive into the ultimate Caribbean poolside vibe at our SUNDAZE Pool Parties featuring the electrifying sounds of DJ CYPHA. Advanced Tickets Required: https://tinyurl com/westinsundaze
OCT 11 Harvest Festival & Pumpkin Patch @ Magens Bay
Join us for the VI Justice Harvest Festival & Pumpkin Patch!
A day of fun, food, music, and community building all while supporting free legal aid and advocacy for Virgin Islanders Saturday from 12pm-5pm
OCT 12 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 2 and Last Sundays of the Mnth nd
October 31st -November 2nd
OCT 31
Halloween Weekend at XO Bistro
Three days and nights of freaks, fangs, vampires, and bottomless potions From a twisted circus on Friday to a gothic vampire ball on Saturday and a boozy, unholy brunch on Sunday, costumes are encouraged and your dark side is required
Friday, Oct. 31 from 7pm-12am st
OCT 31 Adult Howl-O-Ween Masquerade Ball @Antilles School
Step into a night of mystery and masquerade at the Howl-O-Ween Ball, with an elegeant sit-down dinner, live music, and dancing, all in support of Antilles School and the Humane Society of St Thomas To purchase your event tickets and explore sponsorship options go to https://givebutter com/howloweenstt
S T R E E T L E V E L
LIVE MUSIC ON ISLAND!
Oktoberfest at Sib’s on the Mountain �� Enjoy live music from Tim West Band, Drew Rock VI & Friends, and more at this festive fundraiser Proceeds support Pets with Wings and the Family Resource Center, Inc. A celebration for a cause, recommended by SLVI! OCT
OCT
Sessions on the Floor – Oct. 11 @ 7 PM �� Don’t miss Lorna Freeman and the Superior Court Rising Stars Youth Steel Orchestra at the Eldridge W Blake Sports & Fitness Center Tickets $75 | Info: (340) 693-1552
Check Out Guide #4 for Halloween Events this Month!
FOLLOWSTREETLEVELVIONFBFOR DAILYUPDATESONMUSIC&EVENTS! BIG LIST
09/28, 10/5, 10/26 AVAILABLE
St. Thomas may be best known for its beautiful beaches and colorful streets but explore a bit during sunrise or sunset and you’ll find another story: one told in pawprints, feathers, scales, and calls in the night. The wildlife of this island is a fascinating mix of native species and introduced companions; some brought by early colonizers, others that swam, flew, or drifted here over time. From the sunbathing iguanas to the cheeky donkeys on winding hillside roads, each creature has a story that stretches across oceans and centuries. In this feature, we’re diving into the wild origins of St. Thomas’ most visible animal residents. We explore how they got here, what roles they play, and how myth, memory, and science shape the way we see them today.
First up...the not-so-shy sunbathers: Green Iguanas: Invader, Native or Something in Between?
The green iguana (Iguana iguana) is now one of the most visible reptiles in St. Thomas, popping up at forest edges, beaches, and backyards. Genetic studies suggest they were here before the modern pet trade, possibly arriving via “rafts” after storms or through early human introductions. They’re primarily plant eaters, feeding on leaves, fruits, and flowers, which makes them part gardener’s nuisance, part natural pruner. Locals note that iguanas are especially common around restaurants and roadsides where they’ve gotten used to people, sometimes accepting handouts...which can change their behavior and bring human-wildlife conflict. They are natural swimmers with their elongated tails and regardless of the way they got here; tourists are urged not to harass them or be cruel....less the get a well deserved nip on the hand.
The white egrets of St. Thomas especially the graceful Great Egret and smaller Snowy Egret are a common sight in mangroves, salt ponds, and wet shores. Native to the Virgin Islands, they wade quietly in shallow water hunting fish, crustaceans, insects, and small amphibians. Their presence signals healthy wetlands and quiet waterways. Locals often spot them after a rainfall near creeks or along water’s edge, where their white feathers and yellow feet stand in sharp contrast to muddy water and greenery. These are one of my absolute favorite birds to see and photograph and I usually see them at low tide feeding on all the critters trying to get back into deeper water....especially crabs!
COQUÍ FROG: ORIGINS, CALL & LOCAL NOTES
“As soon as the sun sets, you hear them; the coquí frogs starting their two-tone call, ‘ko-kee… ko-kee’, filling the garden at Flamboyan or echoing over hilltops. It’s the sound that tells you St. Thomas is settling into night.”
The Puerto Rican coquí (Eleutherodactylus coqui) is not native to St. Thomas: it was introduced here in the early 1990s via horticultural imports from Puerto Rico. What makes it especially memorable at night is its two-note call “ko-kee” sung by males after dusk, both to attract mates and to defend territory.
The coquí is tiny (around 1.5-2.5 inches) with color ranging from grey to grey-brown. Because it lays eggs in moist terrestrial settings (not needing standing water, no tadpole stage), coquí populations can thrive wherever there’s enough moisture and vegetation.
Goats are everywhere in St Thomas their bleating calls carry across hillsides, especially at dawn and dusk, and you’ll often spot them perched on what seem like impossible slopes, confidently scaling near-vertical drops in search of grass and shrubs. Brought here by colonizers in the 1600s, many goats have gone feral, leaving their mark on the island’s ecology while adding their unmistakable presence to daily life.
DONKEYS
Donkeys, once used to haul goods on St. Thomas’ steep roads and plantations, now roam free across the island. Their brays echo through the island and it’s not uncommon to meet one stubbornly blocking traffic on a winding hillside road....mostly in St. John.
DEER
White-tailed deer were introduced to St. Thomas in the 1700s for hunting, and today they still slip quietly through wooded areas. Occasionally, locals even spot them swimming between islands; a surprising sight of grace in open water.
BANANAQUIT
The bananaquit, a tiny blackand-yellow songbird, is one of the most familiar sights (and sounds) in St Thomas Known locally as the “sugar bird,” it flits through gardens and patios, dipping its curved beak into flowers and sometimes sugar bowls with a boldness far bigger than its size.
RED-FOOTED TORTOISE
Often seen on Water Island and St. John, these gentle reptiles are slow-moving reminders of the Caribbean’s natural heritage.
KEY FACTS
Origins – Native to South America, likely introduced to the Virgin Islands through human trade and transport centuries ago.
Appearance – Recognized by their dark shells with lighter patches and distinctive red or orange scales on their legs.
Diet – Omnivorous; feed on fruits, flowers, leaves, and occasionally insects or carrion
Habitat – Thrive in dry forests, gardens, and scrubby areas, especially where fruiting plants are found.
Behavior – Most active in the cooler morning and late afternoon hours; known for their long lifespans and calm demeanor.
ROLE & IMPACT
Help disperse seeds through their fruit-heavy diet
Considered a cultural symbol in parts of the Caribbean, often tied to local folklore.
While not native, they’ve adapted well and are now a familiar sight in certain island habitats.
FUN FACT
Red-footed tortoises can live 50 years or more in the wild, some even surpassing 70 years under human care.
follow caribbean mystics podcast for all things mysterious and spooky this month!
THE HAUNTING OF ST. THOMAS
Spirits, Stories & Guided Walks by Night
Haunted St. Thomas: Spirits, Stories & Guided Walks by Night
There’s more to St. Thomas than sunlit beaches and pastel buildings. As darkness falls, the island reveals a different side; one of whispered voices in colonial alleyways, restless souls from centuries past, and legends that still echo under moonlight This October, you can walk through that haunted history.
Echoes from the Past: Haunted History of St. Thomas Colonial Foundations and Ghosts of the Forts
Fort Christian, one of the oldest structures on the island, is said to house spectral presences in its old cells and thick walls. Rumors swirl of unseen footsteps, figures seen at windows at dawn, and strange lights in the ramparts. The island’s colonial period, from Danish rule, through piracy, slave trade, and upheaval left thick layers of stories and sometimes suffering, which locals believe still dwell in certain corners of the old quarters.
Pirate Betrayals & Jumbies
Pirate legends are everywhere in St. Thomas, and so are the more mystical tales: Jumbies (spirits in local folklore), the Cow Foot Woman, and other haunting figures from AfroCaribbean and indigenous beliefs. These stories often serve as warnings or moral tales, but they also linger in the collective memory and on ghost tours, guides love to share their favorite lore about love, vengeance, and betrayal.
Hidden Histories & Forgotten Places
Some of the most chilling spots are less obvious: hidden burial grounds, old alleyways behind colonial houses, the remains of structures like hospitals or plantations that no longer exist but whose stories live on. Many tours lead you to 99 Steps, through narrow lanes of Charlotte Amalie, where the present feels thin and the past feels alive.
Buoy Haus at Frenchman’s Reef, St. Thomas
Condo at Sapphire Beach Resort, St Thomas 17
Humane Society Halloween Celebration 2024, Photo credit VI Source
GHOST TOURS THIS MONTH
�� VI Ghost Tours
Walk the shadowy alleys of Charlotte Amalie with local guides sharing pirate lore, colonial hauntings, and jumbie tales. A mix of history and spine-tingling folklore.
�� Book: vighosttours.com • �� ~$45 • ⏱ 1.5–2 hrs
�� Marriott Ghosts & Legends Tour
From the Marriott’s Frenchman’s Reef, explore Fort Christian, the 99 Steps, and haunted hotels while hearing chilling island legends.
�� Book: Marriott Activities • �� ~$40–50 • ⏱ 2 hrs
�� American Ghost Walks – Charlotte Amalie
Led by professional storytellers, this tour dives into the haunted history of Charlotte Amalie with tales of pirates, colonial spirits, and jumbie folklore. Expect dramatic storytelling in some of the city’s most atmospheric spots.
�� Book: American Ghost Walks • �� ~$45 • ⏱ ~2 hrs
October 31st
Hike&Soak Hike&Soak
MAGENS BAY NATURE TRAIL
→ MAGENS BAY
THIS SHADED TRAIL WINDS THROUGH TROPICAL FOREST AND BIRD HABITATS BEFORE DROPPING YOU RIGHT AT THE ISLAND’S MOST FAMOUS STRETCH OF SAND A HIKEAND-SWIM COMBO THAT’S HARD TO BEAT.
HULL BAY HILLSIDE PATHS
→ HULL BAY
HULL BAY HAS HIDDEN TRAILS THAT CLIMB THE SURROUNDING HILLS, OFFERING PANORAMIC VIEWS OF THE RUGGED NORTH SHORE DESCEND BACK DOWN FOR A LAID-BACK SWIM OR SURF CHECK AT THE BEACH BELOW.
OfftheBeaten Path OfftheBeaten Path
MERMAID’S CHAIR TRAIL → MERMAID’S CHAIR
AT THE FAR WESTERN TIP, THE TRAIL THROUGH THE BOTANY BAY PRESERVE ENDS AT A STUNNING SANDBAR WHERE TWO SEAS MEET. ONLY ACCESSIBLE AT LOW TIDE, WHICH MAKES THE REWARD FEEL EVEN MORE MAGICAL.
STJ: REEF BAY TRAIL
→ REEF BAY BEACH
BEST HIKED RIGHT AFTER A RAINFALL, THIS LEGENDARY ST. JOHN TRAIL COMES ALIVE WITH LUSH GREENERY AND A WATERFALL ALONG THE WAY. THE PATH WINDS PAST ANCIENT PETROGLYPHS AND SUGAR MILL RUINS BEFORE OPENING ONTO REEF BAY BEACH; A SECLUDED SHORELINE THAT FEELS LIKE A REWARD FOR THE JOURNEY.
The Sea Remembers: Ghosts & Legends
Beneath St. Thomas’ Waves
The Caribbean Sea around St. Thomas glitters by day... turquoise, inviting, alive with fish and coral. But look closer and the water also holds centuries of secrets. Sunken ships, pirate betrayals, and whispers of curses drift through these depths, reminding us that beauty and mystery often share the same tide. This Halloween, we dive into the eerie side of the sea: haunted wrecks, restless spirits, and legends that refuse to be forgotten.
eneath the waves of St Thomas lies a graveyard of ships, each carrying stories as heavy as the anchors that dragged them down. Divers who explore these sites often describe an unnerving stillness...as if the sea itself is holding its breath. Whether lost by storm, war, or intentional scuttling, these wrecks hold both history and mystery and many swear they also hold something less explainable
Cartanza Senora
Once a cargo ship ferrying goods through the Caribbean, the Cartanza Senora was seized for smuggling in the 1970s before being sunk as an artificial reef. Now resting in about 85 feet of water, the vessel sits eerily upright on the seafloor, its cabins and passageways encrusted with coral. Divers often report an unusual sensation here; the feeling of being watched as they pass through its narrow corridors. Some tell of lights flickering in the shadows of the hull, though no one has ever explained their source Schools of fish swirl through the rooms where crew once slept, giving the wreck both life and a ghostly sense of presence
Miss Opportunity
One of the most haunting wrecks in the Virgin Islands, the Miss Opportunity was a WWII hospital ship that sank in 1944 under mysterious circumstances. At nearly 300 feet long, she lies broken but still imposing in deep water. Inside, divers can find rusted hospital beds, medical trays, and other relics of her service. The ship’s history gives her a particularly chilling aura...what could be more unsettling than exploring dark corridors once used for the sick and wounded? Many divers admit they cut their explorations short here, unnerved by the sense of voices or movement in the shadows. Nicknamed “Miss O,” this wreck has earned a reputation as a dive for the brave
WIT Shoal II
The WIT Shoal II, a 330-foot freighter scuttled in the 1980s, is one of the Caribbean’s largest wreck dives. Its sheer size makes it feel like an underwater ghost town, with dark cargo holds and stairwells that seem to swallow light. Barracuda often hover in the shadows, adding to the wreck’s intimidating presence; many divers describe the atmosphere as strangely “heavy,” as though the ship remembers every life it carried.
Cartanza Senora, photo by Freedom Tour Travel Miss Opportunity, Photo by: Serenity Stream Photography Wreck of WIT Shoal II, Photo by DreamWrecks
PIRATE CURSES & LOST TREASURE
If there’s one thing the Caribbean has never run short of, it’s pirate legends. St. Thomas, once a bustling port and notorious haven for swashbucklers, still carries whispers of curses and gold hidden away.
Bluebeard’s Watch
Bluebeard’s Castle has stood high over Charlotte Amalie since the late 1600s, built by the Danish as a lookout to guard against English attacks. Over the centuries it shifted from fort to private residence to hotel. Despite its name, the tower was never home to the pirate Bluebeard; the legend came from a European folktale that later blended with local lore. Still, visitors today report unexplained footsteps, cold drafts, and flickering lights, keeping its ghostly reputation alive.
“The sea gives and the sea takes and no man keeps stolen treasure without paying the price ”
The Fort’s Forgotten Cells Fort Christian, built by the Danish in 1672, has served as a fortress, courthouse, prison, and government center over the centuries. Its cells once confined pirates, rebels, and townspeople, while plague victims were said to be buried nearby Today, as the oldest surviving structure in the Virgin Islands, it carries the weight of that long history and visitors still whisper of cold drafts, unexplained sounds, and the uneasy sense that not all who entered ever truly left.
The Curse of the Gold
Perhaps the most chilling tales are of cursed treasure. Divers and explorers whisper of gold coins and relics found offshore that brought nothing but bad luck; sudden illness, lost ships, even unexplained deaths. Whether guarded by spirits or the sea herself, one thing is certain: fortune in St. Thomas has always come with a price
Bluebeard’s Castle in downtown St Thomas
creatures of the blue
The waters around St. Thomas shimmer with tropical beauty but after dark or in shadowy depths, the sea takes on a more mysterious tone From toothy predators to otherworldly creatures, these residents of the reef often feel like they’ve swum straight out of a ghost story.
Caribbean Reef Octopus Masters of disguise, octopuses slip through the reef like shapeshifters With the ability to change color, squeeze into impossible spaces, and vanish in a puff of ink, they’ve earned a reputation as tricksters of the sea. In island lore, an octopus sighting is sometimes seen as a warning...a clever spirit keeping watch over the deep
Lionfish
Strikingly beautiful with flowing spines, lionfish are also venomous invaders. Introduced accidentally, they spread silently through reefs, their presence a reminder that danger often hides behind beauty At night, their ghostly outlines drift over coral heads like slow-moving phantoms.
Moray Eels
Lurking in rocky crevices, moray eels are both fascinating and unsettling With their gaping mouths and sudden appearances, they’ve long been tied to local folklore as omens; creatures that guard hidden places and emerge when least expected.
Folklore of the Deep Island traditions also speak of creatures more mythical than real: sea spirits that lure fishermen, mermaids who appear in storms, and jumbies said to ride waves under a full moon. These tales remind us that the sea is more than a habitat; it’s a realm of mystery that demands respect
Pictured above: Caribbean Reef Octopus in St. Thomas and Green Moray Eel at Sapphire Beach to the right.
Mystical Practices & the Sea
For centuries, the people of St. Thomas have looked to the ocean with both reverence and caution Fishermen once poured the first sip of rum overboard before casting their nets, a gesture of respect to the spirits of the sea. Others left bits of tobacco or food as offerings, believing it would keep jumbies from disturbing their journey.
Stories also tell of protective rituals: sprinkling salt along the edge of a boat, carrying charms made of shells, or whispering prayers before crossing rough water These practices weren’t superstition alone; they were part of a cultural rhythm that honored the sea as a force both generous and unforgiving.
Today, while modern boats and technology have changed daily life, the old beliefs still echo. Locals speak of the ocean with a mix of affection and awe, aware that its beauty hides mystery and its gifts demand respect.
Old Fishermen’s Superstitions
The First Sip: Never drink the first swig of rum at sea; pour it into the water for the spirits.
Salt for Safety: Sprinkle salt on the boat’s bow to ward off jumbies before setting sail.
Whistling Ban: Whistling on board was said to “call the wind” and invite storms
The Lucky Catch: If a fisherman’s first cast caught nothing, he’d sometimes cut the line, leaving “bad luck” behind before trying again.
LEARN TO
Book Now
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!
O C T O B E R 2 0 2 5
ST. THOMAS DINING GUIDE
Find your favorite cup of coffee to your live musicafter dinner fun in this local guide.
PRIME at Paradise Point
Cocktails at SeaSalt
Latte’s in Paradise in Red Hook
Northside
Northside Grind $
Breakfast, lunch, coffee and drinks! Open from 7am-3pm
The Shack at Hull Bay $$
Fresh lunch and dinner options tucked in at Hull Bay!
Sib’s on the Mountain
Local favorite, casual food, live music and events 4pm-12am
Fish Bar
Dinner on top of the world!
Gorgeous date night with fresh catch and craft cocktails
East End
Lattes in Paradise $
Coffee, breakfast and lunch overlooking the marina. Red Hook.
Tarpon’s Table $$
Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Casual, friendly vibes at the marina
Oasis at Bolongo Bay
Cozy, island favorite located in East End, St. Thomas. Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Sapphire Beach Bar $
East End fun with the best fish tacos on island! Sunday Funday!
Island Time Pub $$
Some of the best pizza on island Located in Red Hook.
Sangria’s Beachside Bistro $$
Breakfast, lunch and dinner served beachfront with friendly vibes
XO Bistro
Lunch, dinner and intimate
cocktail setting. Late night fun and local favorite Halloween parties this month!
Southside
Barefoot Buddha $
Coffee-shop, healthy breakfast bowls and more in Havensight
Cutlass & Cane $$$
Waterfront views of the marina with steaks, seafood and craft cocktails
The Longboard at St. Thomas $$
A STJ favorite serving lunch and dinner on the beach at Limetree.
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
Dinghy’s Beach Bar & Grill $
Take the ferry over to Water Island for this great beachfront faavorite
Petite Pump Room $$
Breakfast and lunch, local fare and great views of the harbour Cuveé
$$$
Waterfront setting with intimate vibe, excellent food perfect date night
Emerald Beach Resort $$
Multiple food options including beach bar and dinner vibes
Beachfront, casual dress.
TASTY Sips & Bites in Red Hook
3 Palms Bistro • Bar • Balcony
Sapphire Beach Bar
The Longboard St. Thomas
Where to Stay STT
Southside
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
Getaway Girlfriend
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
-a history of hospitality
Built in 1829 as a grand private residence and transformed into a hotel in 1906, Hotel 1829 has been welcoming guests for over a century. Perched above Charlotte Amalie with sweeping harbor views, a breezy veranda bar and the famous 99 Steps just outside its doors, this lovingly preserved landmark is alive with history and island charm.
Proudly the only property in the Virgin Islands recognized by Historic Hotels of America.
Original stone, A/C, mini-fridge King suite through Single Available
Historic bar and cocktail loungefeaturing craft cocktails and light bites.
Spacious and private facilities in each suite with luxury robes and gorgeous decor.
Luxury King-Private Balcony
Rumpourium-Bar and Bites En-suite, spacious facilities
Sundays are for
BRUNCH!
Signature Sips & Dishes �� Serving from 10am-2pm
Bananas Foster Flapjacks Cruzan dark rum, vanilla, cinnamon butter
Jerk Waffle & Chicken pecan-crusted, bourbon butter syrup
Classic Caribbean Breakfast — saltfish, sautéed spinach & okra, herb
butter johnny cake, boiled egg
1829 Coffee espresso, Cruzan vanilla rum & fresh cream
Bush Tea lemongrass, mint & tarragon, brewed island-style
Sip, savor and stay a little longer.
Hotel 1829, if you dare.... OCTOBER 31 FRIDAY
7:00PM-11:00PM
STEP INTO THE SHADOWS OF ST THOMAS’ MOST HISTORIC HOTEL FOR A NIGHT OF HAUNTED FUN EXPLORE SPOOKY CORNERS, SIP HALLOWEEN COCKTAIL SPECIALS FEATURING NEPTUNE’S NECTARS, AND SNACK ON THEMED BITES (PLUS A TRICK-OR-TREAT BASKET WITH NIPS!).
���� DJ LEGIT KEEPS THE PARTY ALIVE, WHILE HAUNT TAKES YOU ON A SPECIAL PROPERTY TOUR WITH GHOST STORIES THAT BRING HISTORY TO LIFE. THE BEST DRESSED COSTUME CONTEST BRINGS PRIZES FOR THE BOLDEST LOOKS. TWO BARS, SPOOKY VIBES, AND CENTURIES OF HISTORY…COME DRESSED TO HAUNT!
Beyond the Beach
BVI or BUST! and yes, you need your passport!
One of the best parts of visiting St. Thomas is how close you are to the British Virgin Islands; a completely different set of islands with their own magic. November is a perfect time to hop across the channel, with calm seas and cooler breezes. But how do you get there? Here are the three main ways:
Ferry Service: The Budget-Friendly Route
The easiest and most economical way to get to the BVIs is by ferry. Regular service runs from St. Thomas to Jost Van Dyke, Tortola, and Virgin Gorda.
Best for: Day-trippers who want to keep costs down
Pros: Simple, scheduled, no need to charter a boat. Perfect for solo travelers or small groups.
Cons: Less flexibility, fixed departure and return times, lines at Customs can eat into beach time.
The Best BVI Days
Start Here
Private Charters: The VIP Experience
For groups of friends, families, or anyone who wants full flexibility, a private boat charter is the way to go Charter companies in St. Thomas will handle your paperwork, supply a captain, and whisk you to snorkeling spots, beach bars, or secluded coves.
Best for: Groups, special occasions, travelers who want custom itineraries
Pros: Total freedom you choose your stops. Drinks, snacks, and snorkel gear often included.
Cons: More expensive, especially for small groups.
Popular Stops: The Baths at Virgin Gorda, Foxy’s on Jost Van Dyke, Cooper Island Beach Club
Shared Excursions: The Social Adventure
If you’re not traveling with a big group but still want the fun of a charter boat, sign up for a per-person excursion with companies like Ocean Surfari or Stormy Pirates These tours take you to some of the BVIs’ best beaches and snorkel sites, often with open bars and music on board.
Best for: Solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking for a lively day.
Pros: More affordable than private charters, still includes top stops, food, and drinks Built-in social vibe
Cons: You share the itinerary with others, so less flexibility Insider Tip: Bring cash for beach bars like the famous Painkiller at Soggy Dollar on Jost Van Dyke.
Hendo’s Hideout at Jost Van Dyke
On the Water
Fishing Charters: Cast Into the Blue Offshore fishing in the Virgin Islands is legendary. Just minutes from the marina, you’ll find some of the deepest waters in the Caribbean, home to prized catches like mahi-mahi, wahoo, tuna, and marlin.
Half-Day Trips: Great for beginners or families. You’ll troll for mahi or tuna and still have the afternoon to relax at the beach
Full-Day Trips: For serious anglers, this is where the big game lives. You’ll head farther offshore, targeting marlin or wahoo in waters that drop thousands of feet deep.
Best Season: November kicks off wahoo season, with schools running strong through winter.
Insider Tip: Many charters will clean and fillet your catch...ask your hotel or a local restaurant to cook it for the freshest dinner you’ll ever have.
Be Your Own Captain with GoMojo Tender Rentals out of Sapphire Beach Marina!
Your own day of perfection awaits and is just a 20 min crossing over to the beautiful shoreline of St. John. Trunk Bay, Maho, Hawksnest, Waterlemon Cay and Christmas Cove (Home to Pizza Pi) are just a few of the amazing places available to you in your day All amenites provided and sizes from 15'-20' fully outfitted custom RIBs for your comfort and safety. 5 star rated excursion and a definite “Don’t Miss” for season....guests tend to book multiple times and always come back for the great service and FUN that they can’t get anywhere else on island!
On-Land Explorations: Jeep & Island Tours
If the sea shows you St. Thomas from the outside, then the hills, streets, and markets reveal its heart. November is the perfect time to head inland, when cooler breezes make exploring comfortable. Whether you’re bumping along rugged trails in a Jeep or tasting your way through historic streets, these tours connect you to the island’s spirit.
Jammin’ Jeep Tours ��
Locally owned and deeply rooted, Jammin’ Jeep Tours is known for guides who share more than just scenery
Alongside panoramic stops like Drake’s Seat and Mountain Top, you’ll hear stories of island history, culture, and daily life...making this much more than a sightseeing trip.
Island Buddy ��
For a mix of adventure and comfort, Island Buddy customizes Jeep excursions for small groups Expect everything from off-road trails to hidden beaches, with guides who double as photographers and storytellers.
St. Thomas Historical Trust Walking Tours ��
Step back in time with guided walks through Charlotte Amalie. You’ll explore cobblestone streets, 99 Step and colonial architecture while learning about the people and events that shaped the island.
STT Cultural Food Tour ��
The quickest way to connect with St. Thomas? Through its food. This tour takes you to local spots for tastings of island favorites like kallaloo, pates, and johnny cakes, while weaving in the stories behind each dish.
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
Northside Grind www.northsidegrind.com
Mim’s Seaside Bistro www mimsseaside com
Barefoot Buddha www barefootbuddhavi com
Sangria’s www.sangrasvi.com
Tarpon’s Table www tarponstable com
Fish Bar www.fishbarvi.com
The Shack at Hull Bay www.theshackhullbay.com
Oasis at Bolongo Bay www bolongobay com
Cutlass & Cane www.cutlassandcanevi.com
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
Salt Shack at Buoy Haus www frenchmansreef com
Mim’s Seaside Bistro www mimsseaside com
Box Bar www.boxbarvi.com
Prime at Paradise Point www.primeusvi.com
Oceana www oceanavi com
Emerald Beach Resort www.emeraldbeach.com
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
Morningstar Buoy Haus at Frenchman’s Reef www frenchmansreef com
Bolongo Bay Beach Resort (All Inclusive) www.bolongobay.com
Bluebeard’s St. Thomas www.bluebeards.com
Olga’s Fancy www olgasfancy com
Frenchman’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
