St. Thomas USVI, what are some MUST things see or do while visiting there?

Question

We will be visiting for 3 day winter holiday next week. Just myself, wife and 12 yo daughter.

Suggestions concerning your favorite shop, restaurant, beach, night club, etc. would be appreciated, as would any advice concerning places/activities to avoid.

Answer 1

Take the ferry boat leaving Charlotte Amelie port over to St.John island, about a 45 minute wonderful ride.  When returning, take the ferry from St. John to Red Hook, and then take a taki to your hotel.  That way you'll get to see the entire island (exceptions of course) from the sea (a beautiful boat ride, very nice) and by returning to Red Hook, and taking taxi back, you'll have a driver drive through the very steep, sharp angles of the roads.  I strongly suggest you leave the driving to a taxi driver; they're used to driving on the left side of the road, and the roads are, by American standards, rather scary.  You'll see.  (Note, the last ferryboat from St. Johns back to Charlote Amelia, leaves about 3 pm, much too early.  But the last boat to Red Hook, leaves about 10:30 pm, that way you can stay for dinner or on the beaches a whole lot longer, without the 3 pm deadline.  The price comparison is pretty much a wash.  

    I'd stay at the Frenchreef's Marriot and Morning Star if I were you.  You'll love it.  Best hotel on St. Thomas by far.  Beauiful views, as it sticks out on a penisula, so surrounded by water on all three sides.  Has several swimming pools, my favorit pool being the one at the beach.  But all are fine.  Very nice hotel.  This hotel also runs it's own private ferry boat to shuttle you to Charlotte Amelie for sighting.  Very convient, and much cheaper (and faster and more beautiful) than a taxi ride in clogged traffic.  The beaches on St. John island are among the top five beaches in the world.  You'll see why when you get there.  And don't forget to say "Good morning", it is the custom of their people.  You'll love it.  Have fun.

Answer 2

take ferry and spend one day on St. John, ferry available from downtown/waterfront or from Red Hook

Magen's Bay (looong beach)

take a tour w/ a knowledgeable taxi driver who can show you great views and mix it in w/ local customs, etc

daughter might enjoy Coral World

or Atlantis Submarine

day sails there can be superb

try some pate (pronounced pahTAY) at Ashley's near the airport - you can walk, it's right near the airport - try conch, shrimp, lobster or saltfish!

be sure to say "good morning (or afternoon or evening)" to everyone prior to launching a conversation -it's local custom and considered basic good manners!  

enjoy!

Answer 3

Here's my top ten list of things you absolutely must do when you visit:

1.  Stroll through and shop in historic downtown Charlotte Amalie.

2.  Visit the Coral World Marine Park

http://www.coralworldvi.com/

3.  Take a trip on the Paradise Point Sky Ride

http://www.paradisepointtramway.com/

4.  Swim in Magens Bay

5.  Take a ferry from Red Hook and visit St. John.   While you're there check out the National Park, the Annaberg Plantation ruins and one of the historic nature trails.

6.  Check out The Greenhouse on a Friday Night.  All the locals come out for calypso and soca music.

7.  If you don't mind spending a little extra, take a seaplane over to St. Croix.

http://www.seaborneairlines.com

8.  If St. Croix is too expensive, take a ferry to the British Virgin Islands.

http://www.tortolafastferry.com/

9.  Check out the Wyndham Sugar Bay Resort for minigolf, bumper boats and video games.

10. Visit the world famous Mountain Top for a great view and a banana daiquiri.

http://greathouse-mountaintop.com

Answer 4

Heres the link:

http://www.rcihnresorts.com/RT_partners/...