US Virgin Islands
St. Thomas experiences warm weather year-round. Average high temperatures typically range from 85 to 90°F (29 to 32°C). Average lows are usually between 75 and 80°F (24 and 27°C).
The island has a distinct wet season from September to November, with October receiving the highest rainfall. A drier season extends from February to July. Humidity levels remain consistently high, often above 70%, typical for a tropical environment. Gentle trade winds offer some relief from the heat, especially near coastal areas.
The main weather consideration is hurricane season, running from June 1 to November 30. The highest risk of storms occurs from mid-August to late October.
Travelers during this period monitor weather forecasts closely. Purchasing comprehensive travel insurance, such as a policy from World Nomads Travel Insurance, is highly advised for protection against trip disruptions.
December - May
Excellent weather, lower chance of rain, comfortable temperatures. All businesses operate at full capacity, with many events and activities.
Highest prices for flights, accommodation, and tours. Crowds at popular attractions. Requires booking well in advance.
June - August
Fewer crowds mean a more relaxed experience. Prices for flights and lodging are often lower than in high season. Still good weather for most activities.
Marks the official start of hurricane season. Heat and humidity can feel uncomfortable for some. Occasional rain showers are more frequent.
September - November
Lowest prices for flights and accommodation. The island has the fewest tourists, offering a quiet, uncrowded experience. Flexibility for spontaneous trips.
Highest risk of hurricane disruption, necessitating travel insurance. Some businesses may operate with reduced hours or close for renovations. Weather can be hot, humid, and rainy.
Excellent conditions for water sports exist year-round. Calmer seas and clearer visibility typically occur during the dry season (February-July). This allows for the best underwater experiences.
The cooler, drier months from December to May are most comfortable for outdoor excursions. Lower humidity makes walking and hiking more pleasant. The St. Thomas Carnival usually takes place annually in late April or early May; exact dates vary each year.
Clear visibility in dry season (Feb-July).
Enjoy the calm seas during dry months.
More comfortable in cooler, drier months (Dec-May).
Annual celebration in late April or early May.
Ideal in dry, low-humidity periods.
St. Thomas, as an U.S. Territory, streamlines entry for U.S. Citizens. Foreign nationals meet the same criteria for entering the United States.
No passport is strictly necessary for U.S. Citizens traveling from the U.S. Mainland. A passport is still advised for simpler re-entry, especially by air.
Entry requirements for foreign nationals are identical to those for entering the mainland United States. A valid passport is necessary.
Keeping all travel documents organized and accessible smooths your entry and departure processes.
St. Thomas presents a spectrum of experiences, from budget-friendly adventures to luxury getaways.
The official currency in St. Thomas, as in the rest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, is the United States Dollar (USD). This simplifies financial transactions for U.S. Travelers.
For international visitors, converting your home currency to USD before arrival or using ATMs is practical. ATMs are widely available, specifically in Charlotte Amalie, Red Hook, and at major hotels and supermarkets.
A daily cost estimate of $100 - $150 per person per day. This approach focuses on economical options for accommodation, food, and transport.
Expect to spend $80-$120 on basic guesthouses. Grocery shopping for meals.
Limited fine dining and private tours.
A daily cost estimate of $200 - $400 per person per day. This allows for comfortable stays, varied dining, and selected paid activities.
Mid-range hotels or vacation rentals ($150-$350). Mix of casual and mid-range restaurants.
Continuous luxury experiences may fall outside this bracket.
A daily cost estimate of $500+ per person per day. This covers high-end accommodations, fine dining, and exclusive activities.
High-end resorts ($400-$1000+). Indulge in fine dining, private charters, and spa treatments.
Budget constraints are generally not a main concern for this category.
| Category | Type | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | Budget Guesthouse/Apartment | $80 - $150 |
| Mid-range Hotel/Resort | $150 - $400 | |
| Luxury Resort/Villa | $400 - $1200+ |
Prioritizing health and safety during your St. Thomas trip for vacation enjoyment. The island is generally safe for tourists, but awareness and preparation make a difference.
No specific vaccinations are required for entry. Keep routine vaccinations up to date, as advised by the CDC. Consult your doctor 4-6 weeks before travel.
Use reef-safe Sunscreen with high SPF, wear Wide-brimmed hats, seek shade, and stay hydrated with Bottled water or a Reusable water bottle like a Hydro Flask.
Dengue and Zika are present. Use Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin, especially at dawn/dusk. Sawyer Products Premium Picaridin Insect Repellent is an effective choice.
Roy Lester Schneider Hospital in Charlotte Amalie is the main facility, offering emergency services.
Several private clinics and urgent care centers are on the island. For emergencies (Police, Fire, Ambulance), dial 911.
Tap water from municipal sources is desalinated and generally safe to drink. Food safety standards mirror the U.S. Mainland. Practice good hand hygiene.
Always have a small, general First aid kit for minor cuts and scrapes. Adventure Medical Kits are a good option. Consider a LifeStraw if planning off-grid exploration.
St. Thomas is generally safe, but petty crime like pickpocketing or vehicle theft may occur, especially in crowded tourist spots. Do not leave valuables unattended on beaches or in rental cars. Use hotel safes for passports and large sums of cash. Consider Pacsafe for anti-theft bags.
Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas. Maintain situational awareness, especially in busy places. Most tourist activities occur in well-trafficked zones, which are generally safe.
Areas outside the main tourist zones may have higher crime rates but are not typically visited by tourists. General common sense safety principles apply.
Hurricane season (June 1 - November 30) presents the main natural disaster risk. Monitor local news and weather advisories closely during this period. Hotels and resorts have emergency and evacuation plans in place.
Keeping emergency contact information readily available is a good safety measure.
For Police, Fire, or Ambulance, dial 911 (similar to the U.S. Mainland). For marine emergencies, contact the U.S. Coast Guard via 911 or VHF Channel 16.
As an U.S. Territory, U.S. Citizens do not have an embassy in St. Thomas. For assistance abroad, contact the U.S. Department of State.
Contact your country's embassy or consulate located in the United States (typically in Washington D.C.) for assistance. Have their emergency contact numbers available.
