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Where to Stay in St Thomas

Where to Stay in St Thomas

St Thomas US Virgin Islands Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Luxury Resorts

  • Extensive Amenities

    Multiple pools, fine dining, concierge services.

  • Private Beach Access

    Many properties offer exclusive beachfront areas.

  • Full-Service Experience

    A pampered, comprehensive vacation is common here.

  • High-End Properties

    The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas, is an example.

Mid-range Hotels & Resorts

  • Comfort & Value

    A balanced experience of comfort and cost.

  • Common Amenities

    Pools and on-site dining frequently available.

  • Convenient Locations

    Many are beachfront or feature ocean views.

  • Examples

    Secret Harbour Beach Resort and Point Pleasant Resort are frequent choices.

Neighborhood Guide

St. Thomas has distinct areas, each with its own character.

Charlotte Amalie Downtown

Benefits
  • Central location, close to historic sites.
  • World-renowned duty-free shopping.
  • Easy access to safari taxis for other parts of the island.
  • Many dining establishments.
Considerations
  • Can be very crowded when cruise ships are in port.
  • Less direct beach access compared to other areas.
  • Can be noisy due to port recreation and city life.
  • Normal precautions at night.

Red Hook East End

Benefits
  • Lively hub with marina, restaurants, bars.
  • Main ferry the terminal for St. John.
  • Proximity to several good beaches.
  • Offers a neighborhood vibe.
Considerations
  • Can be busy and noisy, especially on weekends.
  • Traffic can be heavy.
  • Generally safe and well-lit.
  • Popular with locals and tourists alike.

Magens Bay Area North Side

Benefits
  • Proximity to among the world's's most beautiful beaches.
  • Quieter, more secluded atmosphere.
  • Stunning natural beauty abounds.
  • Mainly residential.
Considerations
  • More isolated, requiring transportation for most amenities.
  • Limited accommodation choices directly on the bay itself.
  • Generally very safe and peaceful.
  • Best visited during daylight hours.

Considerations

For peak travel times and holidays.

Properties book months in advance, with limited last-minute availability.

For off-peak travel.

More availability and deals appear, especially from September to November.

Booking Strategies

When planning your stay.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (December-May): Book 6+ months ahead.
  • Holiday Periods: Popular properties fill quickly.
  • Shoulder/Low Season (June-November): 2-3 months ahead generally suffices.
  • Flexible dates during low season often mean better rates.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • Global Platforms: Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, VRBO, Airbnb.
  • Direct Booking: Hotel websites may present loyalty perks or packages.
  • Local Agencies: Unique villas or specialized rentals might be available.
  • Online booking usually secures the best rate; walk-in negotiation is rare for established places.

Deposit & Cancellation Policies

Review carefully.
  • Policies vary by property and platform.
  • Many resorts require a deposit (one or two nights' stay).
  • Cancellation deadlines often apply (e.g., 30-60 days prior for full refund).
  • Familiarize yourself with terms to avoid penalties.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
  • Accommodation prices are highest during peak high season and major holidays.
  • Prices tend to drop significantly in the off-season.
  • September to November often see lowest prices due to hurricane risk.
  • Shoulder season balances good weather with better value.

Important Booking Notes

Direct Booking Advantage

Booking directly with properties sometimes brings loyalty perks or special packages not found elsewhere.

Local Agency Listings

Local property management agencies may feature exclusive listings for unique villas or specialized rentals.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance often mitigates financial losses from unexpected cancellations.

Accommodation Recommendations

A comparison to support you choose accommodation based on your financial limits and preferences.

Luxury Stays

The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas

Estimated Price: $600 - $1200+

  • Upscale amenities and private beach.
  • Exceptional service.
  • A pampered vacation experience.
  • Book The Ritz-Carlton
Margaritaville Vacation Club by Wyndham

Estimated Price: $300 - $700

  • Pools and activities for all ages.
  • Kitchenettes for convenience.
  • Spacious units.
  • Book Margaritaville

Mid-Range & Value Stays

Secret Harbour Beach Resort

Estimated Price: $300 - $600

  • Beachfront location with good snorkeling.
  • Condo-style units, many with kitchens.
  • Relaxed atmosphere.
  • Book Secret Harbour
Olga's Fancy Guesthouse & Apartments

Estimated Price: $150 - $300

  • Historic charm and local feel.
  • Good location near Frenchtown.
  • More rudimentary amenities.
  • Book Olga's Fancy

Family-Friendly Options

  • Resort Activities

    Many resorts offer organized activities for children.

  • Kitchenettes and Suites

    Found in several family resorts, providing meal flexibility.

  • Pool Access

    Multiple pools are often a feature, ideal for families.

  • Location Considerations

    Proximity to beaches with calm waters is a benefit.

Vacation Rentals & Villas

  • Privacy & Space

    Ideal for families or groups seeking more room.

  • Full Kitchens

    Meal preparation offers flexibility and saving money.

  • Stunning Views

    Many villas feature breathtaking panoramic ocean views.

  • Booking Platforms

    Widely available on platforms like VRBO and Airbnb.

Other Accommodation Types

Guesthouses & Boutique Hotels

Smaller, often locally owned properties present intimate, personalized experiences. Many appear in historic Charlotte Amalie or Frenchtown.

  • Unique character.
  • Fewer amenities than large resorts.
  • Local charm.
  • Often in historic buildings.
Homestay & Community-Based Options

Staying in smaller guesthouses or privately owned apartments offers local interaction. Camping is not typical on St. Thomas itself; nearby St. John has options.

  • Connect with island residents.
  • Experience local daily life.
  • Camping options are mainly on St. John (e.g., Cinnamon Bay).
  • More relaxedly structured options here.

General Advice

Check All Policies

Always review deposit and cancellation policies before confirming reservations, as they vary widely.

Consider Travel Insurance

Travel insurance often mitigates financial losses from unexpected cancellations or changes.

Embrace Flexibility

Non-rigid travel plans dates make possible better rates and fewer crowds, especially during shoulder or low seasons.

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