Cruise Port Guide to St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
Nestled in the Caribbean Sea, St. Thomas is a vibrant jewel of the U.S. Virgin Islands. It’s a top cruise destination known for turquoise waters, lush hills, colonial history, and a lively shopping and dining scene. Whether you're stepping off the ship for just a few hours or enjoying a full day, there's no shortage of things to do near the cruise ports—and much of it can be enjoyed for free or on a budget.
Cruise Ports: Where You’ll Arrive
There are two main cruise ports in St. Thomas:
Havensight Cruise Port
Located just 1.5 miles from downtown Charlotte Amalie
Home to Havensight Mall – over 60 duty-free stores
Near attractions like the Paradise Point Tramway
Crown Bay Cruise Port
Located near the airport and west of Charlotte Amalie
Smaller but growing, with its own selection of shops and eateries
Close to Frenchtown, known for dining and nightlife
Shopping in St. Thomas
St. Thomas is a duty-free haven, especially for jewelry, electronics, liquor, perfume, and designer goods. Some top shopping areas include:
Havensight Mall
Right by the cruise ship dock (Havensight)
Brands: Cardow Jewelers, Little Switzerland, A.H. Riise, Effy Jewelry
Charlotte Amalie
Historic downtown with cobblestone streets and charming alleyways
Great for local crafts, spices, cigars, and high-end jewelry
Don't miss Main Street (Dronningens Gade) – a shopper’s paradise
Yacht Haven Grande
Upscale waterfront shopping near Havensight
High-end boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants
Vendor’s Plaza
Outdoor market near Emancipation Park
Great for souvenirs, sarongs, t-shirts, and handmade jewelry
Best Beaches Near the Cruise Port
Whether you want to relax, swim, or snorkel, St. Thomas delivers:
Magens Bay Beach
Most famous beach on the island (small entrance fee)
Calm waters, bar, restrooms, chair/kayak rentals
Sapphire Beach
Gorgeous views of St. John, excellent snorkeling
Free entry, bar and food available
Coki Point Beach
Popular and lively, with easy-access snorkeling
Vendors offer food, drinks, and gear rentals
Secret Harbour Beach
Secluded and peaceful, perfect for families
Has a bar/restaurant and restrooms
Lindquist Beach (Smith Bay Park)
Quiet, pristine, and picturesque
Small entrance fee; less crowded than others
Brewers Bay (near airport)
A favorite with locals, quiet with free parking
Sea turtles often spotted here while snorkeling
Where to Eat: Restaurants Near the Ports
From casual beach shacks to fine dining with a view:
Casual & Beachside
Hook’d at Red Hook – beachfront seafood & drinks
Sunset Grille at Secret Harbour – oceanfront dining
Mim’s Seaside Bistro – romantic seafood spot at Watergate
Local Favorites
Greengos Caribbean Cantina – creative tacos and margaritas
Gladys’ Café – famous for Caribbean cuisine and homemade hot sauce
Petite Pump Room – great for local dishes, near the ferry terminal
Upscale Dining
Prime at Paradise Point – upscale steakhouse with incredible views
The Twisted Cork Café in Frenchtown – fine dining with a wine bar vibe
Blue Eleven – modern Caribbean fusion, upscale atmosphere
Bars & Nightlife Hotspots
Near the Ports
Fat Turtle – fun waterfront bar at Yacht Haven Grande
Side Street Pub – cozy downtown spot with great cocktails
The Greenhouse – tourist-friendly bar and grill on the waterfront
Scenic & Beach Bars
Iggie’s Oasis – fun beach bar at Bolongo Bay
Duffy’s Love Shack – a quirky tiki bar in a parking lot in Red Hook
Island Time Pub – relaxed vibe with harbor views
Things to See & Do (Including Free Activities!)
Scenic & Historic Spots
Paradise Point Tramway: Ride the tram for panoramic views
99 Steps: Free to climb, leads to historic views
Blackbeard’s Castle (check if open): Historical tower with pirate lore
Fort Christian: Oldest structure in the Virgin Islands
Emancipation Garden: Free and informative spot to relax
Free or Low-Cost Activities
Window Shopping in downtown Charlotte Amalie
Beach hopping using public transport or shared taxis
Snorkeling at Brewers Bay or Coki Point (bring your own gear)
Island tour via taxi (about $25–$40 for a few hours)
Walk Frenchtown for a quieter look at island life
Explore local churches and step streets
Excursions & Day Trips
Coral World Ocean Park (near Coki Beach): Sea life exhibits and encounters
Day trip to St. John: Ferry from Red Hook to pristine beaches like Trunk Bay
Sail & snorkel tours: Half-day or full-day catamaran tours
Kayak mangrove tours: Explore local ecology by paddle
Scuba diving: Great dive sites near the coast and shipwrecks
Final Tips
Cash & Cards: USD is used. Most places accept cards, but some vendors prefer cash.
Getting Around: Taxis are everywhere—confirm prices before riding.
Time Management: Cruise ships stick to ship time, not always local time—plan accordingly.
Sunscreen: Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.
In Summary
Whether you're after a relaxing beach day, historical exploration, local cuisine, or a shopping spree, St. Thomas delivers a well-rounded Caribbean experience. With easy access from the cruise ports and a variety of free or budget-friendly options, it’s no wonder this port is a repeat favorite.
Don’t forget your camera, snorkel gear, and appetite—St. Thomas is ready for you.