St. Thomas, USVI Guide

Know Before You Go...®

A gateway to the Virgin Islands, St. Thomas balances convenience with Caribbean flair. Luxury villas in St. Thomas offer panoramic views of Charlotte Amalie and the surrounding bays. Villa rentals in St. Thomas are perfect for travellers who want island access with upscale amenities.

Why St. Thomas, USVI?

  • St. Thomas is home to the second oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere.
  • St. Thomas is a popular destination for cruise ships, with over one million cruise passengers visiting the island annually.
  • St. Thomas is home to the second oldest continuously operating legislative assembly in the Western Hemisphere.
  • St. Thomas is the most populous of the U.S. Virgin Islands, with over 51,000 inhabitants.
  • St. Thomas is a duty-free port, making it an ideal shopping destination for visitors.
  • Browse our St. Thomas, USVI vacation rentals.

St. Thomas, USVI Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
84° F
° F
February
84° F
° F
March
85° F
° F
April
86° F
° F
May
87° F
° F
June
88° F
° F
July
89° F
° F
August
89° F
° F
September
89° F
° F
October
88° F
° F
November
87° F
° F
December
85° F
° F

Average Rainfall

January
1.8 inches
February
1.4 inches
March
1.5 inches
April
2.5 inches
May
3.4 inches
June
2.6 inches
July
2.4 inches
August
3.5 inches
September
4.8 inches
October
5.5 inches
November
5.3 inches
December
2.8 inches

History

Part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Thomas is a stunning island in the Caribbean Sea. Since its initial discovery by European explorers in the 17th century, it has had a fascinating history.Part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Thomas is a stunning island in the Caribbean Sea. Since its initial discovery by European explorers in the 17th century, it has had a fascinating history.

The Ciboney, Carib, and Arawak tribes were the first to live on the island, but in the 1600s, European settlers drove them out. During his second expedition to the New World in 1493, Christopher Columbus became the first European to find St. Thomas. The Danish West India Company did not, however, establish a foothold on the island until 1672.

Because of its advantageous position in the Caribbean, St. Thomas soon rose to prominence as a major trading hub. Numerous European countries, notably the Dutch, French, and British, were drawn to the island by its deep harbor and abundant natural riches, which included sugar, cotton, and indigo. Despite multiple attempts by other countries to seize control of the island, the Danish West India Company managed to hold onto it.

Thousands of enslaved Africans traveled through the port of St. Thomas throughout the 18th century, making the island a major hub for the transatlantic slave trade. As a result, sugar plantations and rum distilleries emerged as the primary businesses, contributing to the island's economic growth. But the brutal treatment of slaves sparked a number of uprisings, such as the well-known "Fireburn" uprising in 1878.

The United States paid $25 million to Denmark in 1917 to acquire the U.S. Virgin Islands, which included St. Thomas. A significant shift in the island's history occurred when it transitioned from being a Danish colony to a U.S. territory. The U.S. administration contributed to the island's growth and structure, establishing an international airport and a deepwater port.

St. Thomas played a crucial role in the Second World War as a naval base for the American Navy. Its deepwater harbor served as a military training ground and a ship refueling station. The growth of the tourism sector as a major source of income contributed significantly to the post-war economic boom on the island of St. Thomas.

Today, St. Thomas is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture. The island is also a popular port of call for cruise ships, bringing in millions of visitors each year. Its rich history and unique blend of Danish, African, and American influences make St. Thomas a fascinating place to visit.

Transportation on St. Thomas, USVI

Getting to St. Thomas, USVI and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Passport: Valid for the duration of your stay.
  • Visa: Not required for U.S. citizens. Most other nationalities do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
  • Return or Onward Ticket: Proof of departure from St. Thomas is required.
  • Travel Authorization: No pre-arrival authorization is needed for U.S. citizens, but foreign nationals may need to complete a health declaration or entry form depending on current regulations.

Departure Tax

There is no departure tax on St. Thomas, as it is a U.S. territory.

Driving

  • License: Visitors can drive with a valid foreign driver's license for up to 3 months.
  • Permit: A temporary driving permit is required, obtainable at the Department of Motor Vehicles.
  • Driving Side: Left-hand side of the road.
  • Road Conditions: Generally good, though some roads may be narrow and winding, especially in more mountainous areas.
Speed Limits: Typically 25-35 mph (40-56 km/h) in urban areas and 45-55 mph (72-88 km/h) on highways.
  • Traffic Rules: Be mindful of local traffic regulations, pedestrians, and driving customs. Watch out for pedestrians, cyclists, and animals, particularly in crowded areas.

Local Transportation

1. Taxis: In St. Thomas, taxis are easily accessible and a common way for visitors to get around. They are present in the cruise port, airport, and other tourist destinations. Before boarding the cab, it is advised to negotiate the fee.

2. Public Buses: The public bus system in St. Thomas is known as the "Safari" and consists of open-air buses with bench seating. They operate on set routes and are an affordable option for getting around the island. However, they can be crowded and not always reliable.

3. Rental Cars: For those who like to see the island at their own pace, renting a car is a fantastic choice. At the airport and in popular tourist locations, a number of automobile rental businesses are accessible. It's crucial to remember that in St. Thomas, you drive on the left side of the road.

4. Scooters or Motorcycles: Renting a scooter or motorcycle is another popular way to move around the island. This is a fantastic way to see the island's beautiful roads. However, it is important to follow safety precautions and wear a helmet.

5. Water Taxis: Water taxis are a fun and convenient way to travel between the islands in the USVI. They operate on regular schedules and can be found at the main ports and marinas. They are also a great way to see the beautiful coastline of St. Thomas.

6. Ferries: Ferries are another option for island hopping and can be used to travel between St. Thomas and the neighboring islands of St. John and Water Island. They are also a popular mode of transportation for day trips to nearby islands.

7. Walking: St. Thomas is a small island and many of its major attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to explore the island and soak in its natural beauty.

8. Bicycles: Bicycles can be rented in St. Thomas and are a fun and eco-friendly way to get around the island. There are also guided bike tours available for those who want to explore the island with a knowledgeable guide.

Know Before You Go...® - St. Thomas, USVI Travel Tips

Before making their way to St. Thomas, USVI , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in St. Thomas, USVI even more relaxing.

Capital: Charlotte Amalie
Population: 51,000 (estimated)
Size: 32 square miles
Electric Current: 110
Time: Timezone: AST, 2026-06-09 06:03:04
(GMT Offset: -4 hours, DST: No)
Official Language: English is the official language of St. Thomas, as it is a U.S. territory.
Currency:
  • The official currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD).
  • ATMs: Available in major towns and tourist areas.
  • Credit and Debit Cards: Major cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are accepted at most establishments.
  • Contactless Payments: Increasingly common in hotels, shops, and restaurants.
Tipping and Taxes:
  • Tipping: Tipping is customary but not mandatory. It is common to leave 10-15% in restaurants, and small tips are appreciated by taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides.
  • Hotel Tax: 12.5%
  • Sales Tax: 4% sales tax is applicable to most goods and services.
Dress Code: St. Thomas has a casual dress code, perfect for its tropical climate. Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for daytime activities, and swimwear is appropriate at the beach but should be covered when away from the shore. Smart casual attire is recommended for dining at upscale restaurants and resorts.
Topography: St. Thomas is one of the U.S. Virgin Islands, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rugged terrain. The island features steep hills and mountainous areas, with Charlotte Amalie serving as a bustling port city.
Telephone: * Country Code: +1-340 * Area Code: 340 * Mobile Networks: Widely available across the island. * Wi-Fi: Accessible in most hotels, resorts, cafes, and public spaces.

St. Thomas, USVI Weddings and Honeymoons

In St. Thomas, the process of getting married is simple and popular among destination wedding couples. Couples must apply for a marriage license at the Superior Court of the Virgin Islands. Required documents include:

  • Valid passports for both parties.
  • Birth certificates for both parties.
  • Proof of marital status: If divorced, a final divorce decree; if widowed, a death certificate of the spouse.
  • Proof of residence in St. Thomas (if applicable).
  • Affidavit of no impediment to marriage (a statement affirming both parties are legally eligible to marry).

The marriage license costs approximately US$50. Additional fees for the officiant may range from US$100 to US$300, depending on location and ceremony type. It is recommended to apply for the license at least 2-3 days before the intended wedding date.

See our favorite St. Thomas, USVI villas for weddings.

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