Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas, US Virgin Islands

The idyllic white beaches and laid-back lifestyle of the US Virgin Islands make this a popular destination with visitors all year round, and the deep-water harbour of Charlotte Amalie have made this beautiful town the port of choice for ultra-luxury cruises in the region. Escape to this paradise for bright turquoise seas, tropical wildlife and the kind of views and attractions that will make it very, very hard to leave.

Sightseeing in Charlotte Amalie

Charlotte Amalie presents its visitors with a wealth of beautiful colonial architecture, and here you may get the chance to see a local watchtower hailed as ‘Blackbeard’s Tower’ – or visit the vivid red walls and towers of Fort Christian. However there’s also plenty to see as regards the island’s native wildlife, and there are no shortages of places to relax after your adventures either.

Coral World

This popular aquatic centre is dedicated to educating its visitors about the local marine life, and here you’ll have the chance to see native turtles, rays and sharks along with other tropical species. Swim with sea lions and feed colourful lorikeets, or take a dive deep underwater with a snuba adventure – without the need for any specialist training, unlike scuba diving.

Cas Cay

Some shore excursions may give you the opportunity to combine tours around St Thomas with journeys around Cas Cay, an eastern region of the island where you’ll find rich animal and plant life on a scenic hike. Try kayaking in the clear turquoise waters before you take a tour of the local Mangrove Wildlife Refuge. Later, you’ll travel to a mangrove lagoon, where you’ll be able to dive into the waters and snorkel amongst exotic native species.

Magic Ice Gallery

After all the heat and excitement of your adventures around the island, the Magic Ice Gallery makes the perfect place to cool off with a drink. Here you’ll be able to walk amongst crystal-clear ice sculptures, kept permanently frozen in this ice-cold gallery and bar. Enjoy a cocktail at the pirate bar before you wander around the statues, many of which depict the local wildlife in the area, as well as the island’s colourful history. Just prepare yourself for the beautiful heat and sunshine of St Thomas once you’re ready to leave...

Shopping in Charlotte Amalie

As the capital of the US Virgin Islands, you won’t struggle to find souvenir shops and boutiques around Charlotte Amalie’s centre. There’s a great choice of arts and crafts to choose from in the small local shops, and there are also plenty of galleries and jewellers to browse for locally-made creations. Shop for cosmetics and fragrances, or ask for some advice in one of the liquor specialists if you’re trying to choose between the vast varieties of local rum.

Eating Out in Charlotte Amalie

Being such a popular tourism destination in the Virgin Islands, Charlotte Amalie presents its visitors with a huge number of restaurants and cafes. The local seafood tends to come in the form of lobster and delicious grilled fish, but there are also Italian restaurants, rum shacks, bistros and beer gardens to choose from while you relax and unwind on this beautiful island.