If you’re craving the sun, sand and sea breezes of the Caribbean, without the crowds of tourists – look no further than St Thomas!
This laid-back island is the more relaxed version of its popular neighbor, Puerto Rico. With fewer tourists and more locals, you’ll be warmly welcomed with ear-to-ear smiles from those who call St Thomas home.
Spend your days relaxing on the pristine beaches and soaking in the island’s culture. It’s the perfect place to unwind from the busy world we live in.
Deciding where to stay in St Thomas is one activity that may induce some slight stress. With many different areas to choose from on the island, you’ll want to decide which area is best for you and your travel needs.
As a clever person once said, “Work smarter, not harder” and I see that is exactly what you have done! You’ve come to the perfect place. I’ve compiled the top areas in St Thomas depending on your travel style and budget.
So, let’s jump into it and find which area is best for you.
Photo: @taya.travels
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If you’re in a rush to find accommodation, just go with the three below. These are my absolute favorite places in St Thomas! For those who want to stay in a specific neighborhood, keep on scrolling and you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for!
We’ve also searched high and low to find the right accommodation options for both luxury and budget travelers. Whether you’re looking for a bay resort with private beach access, a hot tub, a fitness center, and tennis courts. Or, maybe you just want somewhere on a budget that’s close to a beautiful beach. Well, we’ve got you covered.
Chateau Nightwind | Best Villa in St Thomas
Chateau Nightwind is the perfect choice for families looking for something that can fit the whole fam. Their suites can sleep anywhere from two to six guests, so it’s one of the best spots for families of all sizes. The property comes with a fully-equipped kitchen so you can whip up meals to share with the whole family. Magens Bay Beach is within walking distance.
One Perfect Day | Best Airbnb Villa in St. Thomas
This one is definitely worth splurging on if you want a luxurious stay. Airbnb Luxe properties are the most exclusive range of properties available on the website, with a whole host of additional services on offer. This nine-bedroom villa comes with airport transfers, a private chef, and childcare included for those that need it. Perfect if you want a night away from the kids!
Smitty’s Home Away From Home | Best Budget Stay in St. Thomas
Smitty’s Home Away from Home is a great place to stay if you’re trying to save some $$$ while staying on Saint Thomas. The host is extremely welcoming and makes you feel right at home. If you’re traveling light, this place is fab but there are a few stairs to climb so if you’ve got a few suitcases in tow, this may not be the best spot for you.
Downtown Charlotte Amalie
As the arrival point for all cruise ships to the island, Downtown Charlotte Amalie is a hive of activity. The neighborhood is known for its many jewelry stores, making it a paradise for shopping addicts.
Charlotte Amalie West
Charlotte Amalie West is the area surrounding the airport. Despite the convenient location, the accommodation in the area is among some of the most affordable on the island.
Red Hook
Nestled on the far east of the island, Red Hook is another major hub for tourists on St Thomas. Whilst we wouldn’t call the US Virgin Islands a major nightlife destination, the bars in Red Hook are great for getting you hyped.
Magens Bay
On the north side of the island, Magens Bay is the most famous beach in St Thomas. Despite this fame, it still maintains a calm atmosphere compared to the capital. For this reason, we reckon it is a great choice for families.
Frenchtown
Nestled between Downtown and Charlotte Amalie West, Frenchtown is in many ways the best of both worlds. It is a little bit quieter than the city center, but still comes with abundant tourism facilities.
St Thomas’ Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
St Thomas is quite a small island, but shouldn’t be missed if you’re traveling to the USA. The different neighborhoods across the island offer a diverse array of attractions including plenty of beautiful beaches, so there’s something for every traveler. Transport between most regions is fairly frequent, though there are some limitations when heading to the East End.
For the purpose of this guide, I’ve divided Charlotte Amalie into different neighborhoods.
Downtown Charlotte Amalie is likely the first place you will visit when you arrive. For first-time guests, there is a wealth of attractions on offer. It’s also a popular shopping destination, especially for jewelry.
Heading slightly west, Frenchtown has an entirely different atmosphere of Danish colonial architecture. The nightlife here is among the more upmarket options on the island, and the restaurants offer classy vibes and decadent cuisine. For this reason, it makes a great destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway.
Charlotte Amalie West is the neighborhood located right next to the airport. The university is also nearby, so you will find plenty of budget-friendly restaurants and bars in the neighborhood. St Thomas, like most of the Caribbean Islands, can get quite expensive – but those looking to save a pretty penny can find some hidden gems in the west of the city.
Outside of St Thomas, you will find a limited selection of destinations. Up on the north of the island, Magens Bay is one of the most sought-after resorts. It can get quite pricey, but the pristine beaches here are calmer. This makes it a fantastic option for families visiting the US Virgin Islands.
Last but not least, Red Hook is located in the far east of the island. Also known as the East End, this is where you will find some of the best nightlife in the territory. Transport from Charlotte Amalie stops in the evenings, so if you want to experience the nightlife and restaurants here you are better off sticking to accommodation within walking distance.
Still undecided? No worries, we’ve got more information about each neighborhood below – including our top accommodation and activity picks in each!
Want to save money on accommodation?
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1. Downtown Charlotte Amalie – Where to Stay in St Thomas for Your First Time
As the arrival point for all cruise ships to the island, Downtown Charlotte Amalie is a hive of activity. The neighborhood is known for its many jewelry stores, making it a paradise for shopping addicts. If you’re a first-time visitor, Downtown Charlotte Amalie is the perfect place to get your bearings before exploring the island further.
It’s right in the center of the island, so it’s also well-connected to basically everywhere else on St Thomas. If you’re sailing the Caribbean, you’ll likely enter around here. You’ll find a massive selection of tour companies in Downtown Charlotte Amalie letting you take in the various sights and sounds of the island. Prefer to go self-guided? Taxis rarely cost more than a dollar from Downtown to any other point on the island.
Pirate’s Pension | Colorful Hotel in Downtown
This vibrant resort has everything you could possibly need! All of the rooms come with private patios and sea views – the perfect setting for a laid-back breakfast or a glass of wine in the evening. There is a huge swimming pool on-site, as well as a children’s play park, tennis courts, and a fitness center. It’s also only a short drive from Morning Star Beach – perfect for those who want to kick back and relax or maybe do a bit of scuba diving! If you’re looking for an epic beach resort then you can’t go wrong here.
Villa Point of View | Bright Bolthole in Downtown
The stunning views don’t end in Downtown Charlotte Amalie! This four-bedroom villa has a pool terrace and private patio with panoramic views across the Caribbean Sea. It’s nestled in the mountains in a gated estate, giving you some peace and quiet from the vibrant downtown core. We love the large barbecue area out on the terrace – perfect for rustling up a family dinner.
High View | Scenic Hideaway in Downtown
Nestled in the mountains above Downtown, this charming villa comes with sweeping panoramas of St Thomas. The popular neighborhood it is located in is known for its popular casual dining restaurants and boutiques. The property itself benefits from traditional furnishings and a huge swimming pool with views of the sea. Four of the five bedrooms also come with en-suite bathrooms. This place blows the best hotels on the island out of the water!
Things to See and Do in Downtown
- St Thomas is famed across the Caribbean for its shopping options – head into the heart of Downtown to discover why and pick up some goodies for yourself
- Climb up the 99 Steps – they can be somewhat challenging, but the view from the top of Blackbeard’s Castle makes the journey worth it
- The St Thomas Historical Trust Museum is a fascinating attraction on the odd occasion you’re on the island during a rainy day
- Go on a street food tour to taste some of the best Caribbean Cuisine Downtown has to offer
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Charlotte Amalie West – Best Place to Stay in St Thomas on a Budget
Charlotte Amalie West is the area surrounding the airport. Despite the convenient location, the accommodation in the area is among some of the most affordable on the island. Just like the nearby British Virgin Islands, St Thomas can become excruciatingly expensive, but the hotels and villas in Charlotte Amalie West often have some fantastic offers.
The neighborhood is also home to the University of the Virgin Islands! This means that many of the restaurants and bars in Charlotte Amalie West are more affordable than those in the heart of the town. If you still want to hit the beach? There are two to choose from in this part of the city – and both with smaller crowds.
Emerald Beach Resort | Budget-Friendly Hotel in CA West
Much rather stay on the beach? We totally understand – it’s the main attraction on the island! Emerald Beach Resort is a three-star hotel located right on the coast. Guests have their own private expanse of beach – and at a price that won’t break the bank. We also love the hot tub, fitness centre, beach bar and tennis courts available on-site. If you’re looking for a luxury hotel and beach resort on a budget then look no further.
Smitty’s Home Away From Home | Affordable Guest House in CA West
Smitty’s Home Away from Home is a great place to stay if you’re looking to travel on a budget. The host is extremely welcoming and makes you feel right at home. If you’re carrying light, this place is fab but there are a few stairs to climb so if you’ve got a few suitcases in tow, this may not be the best spot for you.
Omajelan Castle | Dreamy Home in CA West
This iconic St. Thomas home literally looks like a castle – but it’s actually super budget-friendly for all you get! You’ll be five minutes from the beach and 15 from downtown, taking in the lush Santa Maria mountains. With space for up to two guests, it’s the ultimate couples’ retreat in view of the ocean. Free private parking is right on site, as is an iconic porch to chill out on!
Things to See and Do in CA West
- Lindberg Beach is overlooked on many itineraries, but this just means you get to enjoy more of it to yourself
- Take the Skyride to Paradise Point for the very best views of the island!
- Brewers Bay Beach gets a little busier thanks to the student population, but also has some budget-friendly restaurants along the street
- Head down to Crown Bay Marina – there are a few companies in the area offering boat hire at favorable prices
3. Red Hook – Best Area to Stay in St Thomas For Nightlife
Nestled on the far east of the island, Red Hook is another major hub for tourists on St Thomas. Whilst we wouldn’t call the US Virgin Islands a major nightlife destination, the bars in Red Hook are great for getting you hyped. Taxis to the capital stop at 9 pm, so you’ll need to stay here to experience the nightlife.
During the day, Red Hook completely transforms. The restaurants still have a buzzing atmosphere, but the calm beaches are a great place to relax and sunbathe away the hangover. The nearby Sapphire Bay is also somewhere you just have to visit during your stay too.
Luxury Two-Bedroom Condo | Coastal Hotel in Red Hook
This gorgeous condo is among the most luxurious around! It comes with two bedrooms and two bathrooms so you can comfortably fit four people. Enjoy epic views and a bangin’ location in Red Hook. It’s just across the road from the St. John Ferry and close to lots of bars, clubs and restaurants.
Villa Nautilus | Peaceful Villa in Red Hook
Located in nearby Sapphire Beach, Villa Nautilus is a calm little hideaway for those that want to stay close to nightlife without compromising on a peaceful night’s sleep. The stunning interiors draw on Caribbean style to create a unique vibe that sets this apartment from other modern accommodations on the island. You’ll be so relaxed you’ll never want to leave!
Ocean Front | Calm Condo in Red Hook
Another great option in Sapphire Beach, this one is a little more affordable. It only has one bedroom, but there’s a sofa bed in the lounge – making it an affordable option both for couples and small families. The beach is right on your doorstep and the dining area comes with unparalleled views across Sapphire Bay. There’s also a great parasailing company a few steps away.
Things to See and Do in Red Hook
- You can hop on board a ferry to the capital for a relaxing alternative to taxis – or even visit Cruz Bay on St John Island
- Go on this epic kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking tour
- Lindquist Beach is another stunning stretch of sand that’s worth spending a day at
- Sapphire Beach is a calm oasis compared to Red Hook – and you can easily reach it on foot in about fifteen minutes
- Take a day trip to Coki Point Beach on the east coast. It’s undoubtedly the most beautiful on the island with the clearest water I’ve ever seen!
- Go parasailing over the incredibly clear water
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Grab an eSIM!4. Magens Bay – Best Neighborhood in St Thomas for Families to Stay In
On the north side of the island, Magens Bay is the most famous beach in St Thomas. Despite this fame, it still maintains a calm atmosphere compared to the capital. For this reason, we reckon it is a great choice for families with some of the best hotels for kids located here. If that’s not your scene then you’ll also find a luxury hotel here if that’s what you’re looking for.
It might have a calm atmosphere, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to do. The beach itself is just the beginning, there are some excellent hikes nearby. The restaurants in the area are a little more understated than those in the capital, giving you a calm and peaceful atmosphere by the sea.
Chateau Nightwind | Best Villa in Magens Bay
Chateau Nightwind is the perfect choice for families looking for something that can fit the whole fam. Their suites can sleep anywhere from two to six guests, so it’s one of the best spots for families of all sizes. The property comes with a fully-equipped kitchen so you can whip up meals to share with the whole family. Magens Bay Beach is within walking distance.
One Perfect Day | Luxurious Villa in Magens Bay
This one is definitely worth splurging on if you want a luxurious stay. Airbnb Luxe properties are the most exclusive range of properties available on the website, with a whole host of additional services on offer. This nine-bedroom villa comes with airport transfers, a private chef, and childcare included for those that need it. Perfect if you want a night away from the kids!
New Waterfront Villa | Holiday Home in Magens Bay
It doesn’t get any more luxurious than this! Overlooking the stunning Magens Bay, this iconic villa has some of the best views on the island. The balcony is right off the master bedroom, where you’ll wake up to the azure Caribbean Sea looking right at ya’. The owners also offer an affordable automatic jeep rental if you’d like to see more of Saint Tomas on your own. From the deck (which comes complete with lounge chairs) you may even be able to see wildlife like dolphins, turtles, and stingrays!
Things to See and Do in Magens Bay
- Magens Bay Beach is an attraction in its own right – considered by many to be the most beautiful beach on the island, you could spend hours here just basking in the sun
- Go on an iconic snorkeling tour around the Virgin Islands
- Peterborg is the name of the peninsula to the north of Magens Bay – there are some great hikes in this area, especially heading towards Picara Point
- Need something to get the kids excited? Tree Limin’ Extreme Zipline is an epic adventure park about two minutes outside of Magens Bay
- Take a stroll through the Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden that’s not too far away
5. Frenchtown – Romantic Destination on St Thomas for Couples
Nestled between Downtown and Charlotte Amalie West, Frenchtown is in many ways the best of both worlds. It is a little bit quieter than the city center but still comes with abundant tourism facilities. This neighborhood is known for its upscale restaurants and laid-back bars, making it my top pick for traveling couples.
As the name suggests, Frenchtown is a great place to learn about the French colonial history of St Thomas. This fascinating period in local history is still well preserved in the architecture, creating a romantic backdrop for capturing those all-important photographs.
The Mafolie Hotel | Best Hotel in Frenchtown
For a bit more of an upgrade, this charming one-bedroom hotel comes with stunning views across the Frenchtown Harbor. You’ll get to enjoy dazzling sunsets from the comfort of the outdoor terrace. With a bar and outdoor swimming pool on-site it is THE perfect holiday spot.
Frenchtown Studio | Best Airbnb in Frenchtown
This super cute studio has a lovely view of the bay, particularly from the furnished balcony. A traditional West Indies-style home, you’ll love the vibes of this place compared to a typical hotel. While there isn’t a TV, there is free wi fi and AC. The king bedroom is comfy and clean and ideal for couples or other groups of two. There’s also a filtered drinking water dispenser for your convenience – which includes being within walking distance of beaches, shops, and restaurants
Chateau Belle | Rustic Studio in Frenchtown
This one is a little more basic – but is a great choice for couples visiting on a budget. The studio is right in the heart of Frenchtown, so you’re only a hop, skip, and a jump away from delectable restaurants and laid-back bars. Despite the low price, you still get your own private balcony with gorgeous views over central Frenchtown.
Things to See and Do in Frenchtown
- Charlotte Amalie Harbour Seaplane Base is located in Frenchtown – you should try this unique form of transport at least once whilst you’re here
- The French Heritage Museum is the place to visit to learn about the turbulent French colonial period in St Thomas
- Self-catering? Head to Moe’s Fresh Market Waterfront to rub elbows with locals and grab some fresh ingredients for dinner
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in St Thomas
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of St Thomas and where to stay.
What To Pack For St Thomas
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
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Sea To Summit Micro Towel
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for St Thomas
One last thing before you jet off to paradise! Don’t let things turn into a nightmare if anything unexpected should happen and be sure to have good travel insurance.
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Final Thoughts on Where To Stay on St Thomas
St Thomas is a gorgeous destination nestled in the heart of the Caribbean! Only a stone’s throw away from Puerto Rico, it offers much of the same scenery without the busy crowds of Boricua and enjoys some amazing weather. The cultural attractions are pretty low-key, and you’ll find some fantastic deals on spacious villas and condos dotted around the island.
If I had to pick one destination that really stands out, it would be Red Hook. This neighborhood is close to all of the very best beaches and activities on the island.
That being said, the best destination for you all depends on what you want to get out of your stay. I hope I’ve managed to help you narrow down your options for your upcoming trip to St Thomas!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around USA.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in USA.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in USA instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in USA to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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