As the sun rises over the sparkling waters of the Caribbean Sea, the vibrant and charming town of Charlotte Amalie West welcomes visitors with open arms. The stunning destination, located on the island of St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands, is a true paradise that is just waiting to be explored.
Charlotte Amalie West is a town that is steeped in history and culture. Its colorful buildings, narrow streets, and quaint shops harken back to a time when pirates roamed the seas and things were simple and uncomplicated.
Today, visitors can stroll through the town’s historic district and explore its many treasures, from the centuries Old Fort Christian to the bustling marketplaces that are filled with local handicrafts and unique souvenirs.
But Charlotte Amalie West is more than just a place to soak up history and culture. It is also a place where visitors can indulge in the finer things in life, from world-class cuisine to luxurious spas and resorts. Whether visitors want to spend their days lounging on the beach or exploring the island’s lush tropical forests, there is something for everyone in Charlotte Amalie West.
Travelers looking for a destination that will leave them feeling inspired, invigorated, and uplifted, look no further than Charlotte Amalie West. This charming town is a true gem of the Caribbean and one that is just waiting to be explored.
Things To Do
Charlotte Amalie West is a vibrant and colorful city located on the stunning island of St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and unique culture, this city offers an abundance of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Let’s explore some of the top things to do in this dynamic and exciting city.
1 Shop At Havensight Mall
St. Thomas mountain view early morning
Patrons of Havensight Mall, a convenient shopping option located right on the Cruise Ship Dock, enjoy a hassle-free shopping experience for their duty-free purchases. With fewer crowds to deal with, visitors have more time to peruse the well-stocked stores of all the major retailers.
-
Address
: 83JH+XRP, St. Thomas, St Thomas 00802, U.S. Virgin Islands -
Hours
: Monday – Saturday 10AM-5PM
2 Take A St. Thomas Mangrove Kayak, Snorkel & Lunch Tour
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Scuba diver off the coast of U.S. Virgin Islands Charlotte Amalie West
Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime with the Hike & Snorkel Cas Cay excursion! Explore the island’s stunning volcanic cliffs, geological blowhole, and rubble beaches with a 45-minute guided hike.
Enjoy a delicious picnic lunch with the local guide, then jump into the crystal-clear waters of the mangrove nursery for a 45-minute guided snorkeling session.
Thingstobring:
- Bathing suit
- Towel
- Clothing to get wet
- Sun protection
- Footwear to get wet
They provide all necessary equipment, including snorkels & masks, kayaks & paddles, life jackets, and a safety briefing. Lunch is homemade local Caribbean or American-style cuisine that will have travelers’ taste buds dancing.
Be mindful of the delicate ecosystem and refrain from using fins in the mangrove lagoon. Join the tour for an unforgettable day of adventure and exploration!
3 Enjoy A Flavors Of St. Thomas Walking Food Tour
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Caribbean Sea life underwater
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Address
: EcoTours 6526 Estate Nadir #2 St. Thomas, V.I. 0080 -
Duration
: 5 hours -
Cost
: $149 per adult, $89 per child, $15 per youth(2-6 years old)
Foodies will love tasting the Caribbean on an immersive food tour that involves exploring (by walking) and dining out.
4 Experience History Through A St. Thomas Synagogue Tour
Church at St. Thomas U.S. Virgin Islands
Visit the oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere for a dose of history.
Call ahead to book a tour
5 Detour To The Pirate’s Treasure Museum
St. Thomas U.S. Virgin Islands
Learn about some of the Virgin Islands’ history by discovering nearby shipwrecks at the Pirate’s Treasure Museum.
6 Ride The Tree Limin’ Extreme Zipline
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Charlotte Amalie West U.S. Virgin Islands
A real adventure in paradise is zip lining in St. Thomas, where travelers can see the sights while zooming along at high elevations.
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Address
: 7406 St Peter Mountain Rd, Saint Peter, St Thomas 00802, U.S. Virgin Islands -
Hours
: Monday – Saturday 9AM-5PM -
Duration
: 2 to 2.5 hours -
Cost
: $139 per adult
7 Get An Adrenaline Rush At Coral World Ocean Park
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Charlotte Amalie West Virgin Islands
Interact with the sea life in up close and personal experiences at Coral World Ocean Park. While swimming and scuba diving are a great way to view local wildlife, the Ocean Park has hands-on exhibits and in-depth info about the local animals in St Thomas’ waters.
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Address
: 6450 Coki Point, St Thomas, Virgin Islands 00802, U.S. Virgin Islands -
Hours
: Daily 9AM-4PM -
Cost
: general admission $23.50, dolphin moment $119, shark encounter $64
8 Take A Sip At Frenchtown Brewing Company
Tower in Charlotte Amalie West
Learn the rich history of one Caribbean brewing company and dazzle those tastebuds, too.
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Address
: 24A Honduras, Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas 00802, U.S. Virgin Islands -
Hours
: Monday – Thursday 11AM-5PM, Friday 11AM-6:30PM
9 Bask For The Day At Magens Bay Beach
Magens Bay Coast line
Head to Magens Bay Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world beaches in the world.
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Address
: Northside of St. Thomas -
Cost
: $4 per adult
10 Do Something Adventurous At Sapphire Beach
White sand beach in St. Thomas
At Sapphire Beach, travelers can rent water sports equipment and go kayaking, snorkeling, or paddle boarding.
-
Address
: East End of the St. Thomas
11 Best Time To Go
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Caribbean wildlife at St. Thomas U.S. Virgin Islands
Travelers planning a trip to Charlotte Amalie West may be wondering when the best time to visit is.
Winter (December -February)
For a fan of sunny skies and warm weather, the best time to visit Charlotte Amalie West is during the Winter months, from December through February, or Spring from March through May.
Spring (March-May)
During this time, temperatures hover around a comfortable 80° F (27° C), making it the perfect time to hit the beach and soak up some sun. Plus, the town is bustling with activity during this time with plenty of events and festivals to keep visitors entertained.
Fall (September – November)
For those looking to save money on a trip, consider visiting during the Fall. During these months, from September to November the crowds are smaller, and the prices are lower, making it an ideal time to visit for budget-conscious travelers.
The weather during these months is still warm and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the low 80s (around 24° C to 27° C). The rain is often heavy, it’s hurricane season.
Summer (June – August)
Summer in Charlotte Amalie West can be hot and humid, but it’s still a great time to visit for people that don’t mind the heat and rain. Summer temperatures can reach into the high 80s (around 31 C), but the town is less crowded and there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking and snorkeling.
Hurricane Season begins 1st through April 30th
No matter what time of year chosen to visit Charlotte Amalie West, visitors are sure to fall in love with its colorful streets, warm hospitality, and stunning natural beauty.
12 How To Get Around Charlotte Amalie West
St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
Charlotte Amalie West is the main town on the island of Saint Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Here are some of the best ways to get around Charlotte Amalie West:
Taxis
Taxis are the most common form of transportation in Charlotte Amalie West. Taxis are usually shared, which means that travelers may have to wait for other passengers to be picked up or dropped off. Taxis are metered, and rates are regulated by the government.
Car Rentals
Renting a car is another option for getting around Charlotte Amalie West. There are several car rental agencies in the town, and rates are generally reasonable. Driving is on the left side of the road in the Virgin Islands, so it’s important to take that into consideration when renting a car.
Public Transportation
The VITRAN bus system serves Charlotte Amalie West and other areas of Saint Thomas. Buses are inexpensive but can be slow and infrequent, so this may not be the most convenient option for visitors who want to get around quickly.
Walking
Walking is a great way to explore Charlotte Amalie West, as many of the town’s attractions are located within a short distance of each other. The town is relatively small and compact, and the streets are easy to navigate.
Scooters
Scooters are available for rent in Charlotte Amalie West, and they can be a fun and convenient way to get around. However, it’s important to be aware of the traffic and road conditions, as some of the roads can be steep and winding.
13 Where To Stay
Villa in St. Thomas U.S. Virgin Islands
Charlotte Amalie West has a wide range of accommodation options to fit every visitor’s budget and preferences. Whether searching for a luxurious hotel or a cozy inn, anyone can find the perfect place to stay in this vibrant town.
Here are some of the top hotels in Charlotte Amalie West to consider for the next trip.
Luxury options:
-
Address
: 300B Chocolate Hole Rd Great, Cruz Bay, St John 00830, U.S. Virgin Islands -
Cost
: Rates start at $500 per night for two guests -
Amenities
: outdoor pool, restaurant, a spa, sauna, and a fitness center
- Address: 6900 Great Bay, Nazareth, St Thomas 00802, U.S. Virgin Islands
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Cost
: Rates start at $830 per night for two guests -
Amenities
: private white-sand beaches, top-tier dining, and an impressive spa
Mid-range options:
-
Address
: St. Thomas, 8070 Lindberg Bay, Charlotte Amalie West, St Thomas 00802, U.S. Virgin Islands -
Cost
: rates start at $238 per night for two guests -
Amenities
: restaurant, pool, beachfront, bar
Budget options:
-
Address
: 31 Kongen Gade, St Thomas 00804, U.S. Virgin Islands -
Cost
: rates start at $74 per night for two guests -
Amenities
: pool, restaurant, Wi-Fi
-
Address
: 8305 Scott Free Rd, St Thomas 00802, U.S. Virgin Islands -
Cost
: rates start at $99 per night for two guests -
Amenities
: pool, Wi-Fi, smoke-free property
No matter what travelers’ budgets or preferences are, there’s a perfect place to stay in Charlotte Amalie West.
14 Where To Eat
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City of St. Thomas U.S. Virgin Islands at night
Charlotte Amalie West is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of restaurants and eateries to suit every taste and budget.
Whether visitors are in the mood for fresh seafood, Caribbean-inspired cuisine, or international flavors, they are sure to find something to satisfy their cravings.
Here are some of the best places to eat in Charlotte Amalie West.
Breakfast
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Address
: St Thomas, Charlotte Amalie West, St Thomas 00802, U.S. Virgin Islands -
Hours
: Tuesday – Sunday 8AM-3PM -
Recommended
: sausage and egg croissant, French toast
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Address
: 5600 Royal Dane Mall Suite 9, Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas 00802, U.S. Virgin Islands -
Hours
: 8AM-3:30PM -
Recommended
: banana keftedes
Lunch
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Address
: 83MH+5QW, Estate Thomas, St Thomas 00802, U.S. Virgin Islands -
Hours
: 11AM-10PM -
Recommended
: pulled pork sandwich, brisket tacos
-
Address
: 5332 Raadets Gade suite 20, Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas 00802, U.S. Virgin Islands -
Hours
: Mon. – Thurs. 11AM-7PM Fri. & Sat. 11AM-10PM Closed Sunday -
Recommended
: fried bang bang red snapper sandwich, Angus burger
Dinner
-
Address
: 9617 Paradise Point 2656, St Thomas 00802, U.S. Virgin Islands -
Hours
: Daily 5PM-9PM -
Recommended
: steak, au gratin potatoes, mac and cheese
15 How To Spend The Perfect Day In Charlotte Amalie West
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View of St Thomas U.S. Virgin Islands
A perfect day in Charlotte Amalie West starts with a delicious breakfast at the charming Gladys’ Café. Enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee while savoring traditional Caribbean dishes like saltfish and dumplings or banana pancakes. After breakfast, head to Magens Bay Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Spend the morning lounging on the soft white sand, swimming in the crystal-clear water, and soaking up the Caribbean sunshine. For lunch, head over to The Smoking Rooster and indulge in some mouthwatering smoked meats and creative cocktails. Try the pulled pork sandwich or the brisket tacos, paired with a refreshing mojito or margarita.
In the afternoon, take a stroll through Charlotte Amalie’s historic district and explore the charming colonial architecture, colorful storefronts, and local markets. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the world-famous Blackbeard’s Castle, a historic landmark and popular tourist attraction.
As the sun starts to set, head to Prime at Paradise Point for a romantic dinner with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. Savor a delicious entrée while sipping on a glass of fine wine and enjoy the warm island breeze.
Finish off the perfect day with a nightcap at the local hotspot, Greenhouse Bar & Nightclub. Dance the night away to live music and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this popular nightclub.
No matter how travelers choose to spend the day in Charlotte Amalie West, they’re sure to experience the perfect blend of Caribbean charm, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences.
FAQ
Q: What’s the best side of St.Thomas island?
One of the most recommended locations to stay in St. Thomas is the East End, particularly in the vicinity of Red Hook. This area serves as a hub of tourist activities, offering convenient access to the nearby island of St. Thomas.
Q: What are the top attractions to visit in Charlotte Amalie West?
The most popular attractions in Charlotte Amalie West are its beaches, followed closely by wildlife tours and local history at Fort Christian and St Thomas Synagogue.
Q: Why is Blackbeard’s Castle closed?
One of the most renowned historical sites in St. Thomas is known for its rich history and beauty, Blackbeard’s Castle, is temporarily closed due to a natural disaster.
When open, this Walking Tour, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offers spectacular views, sparkling pools, life-sized pirates, and much more.
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