Part of the United States Virgin Islands, St Thomas is a vision of sandy beaches, aquamarine bays and jungle-clad mountains. It's the most built-up island in the Virgin archipelago, with luxury resorts dotting the coast and cruise ships bobbing in the bay.

Things to do

Saint Thomas is a sunseekers paradise, with a string of beaches often hailed as the most beautiful on the planet. Heart-shaped Magens Bay is a firm favourite, luring beachgoers in with its golden sand and emerald hillsides. You'll also find water-sports operators renting stand-up paddleboards and kayaks.

For a glimpse at the island's European roots, spend the day exploring Frenchtown. Built in the 19th-century, it’s dotted with brightly-painted buildings and houses a collection of cafes, souvenir stalls and waterfront restaurants. Don't miss Hook, Line & Sinker, a laid-back seafood bistro overlooking the Frenchtown docks.

Charlotte Amalie's 99 Steps viewpoint boasts some of the best views on Saint Thomas. The staircase winds through a canopy of trees to Blackbeard's Castle, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over the town and harbour.

Known as the "Fourth Virgin", Water Island sits just off Charlotte Amalie. It's home to magnificent stretches of sand like Honeymoon Beach, which boasts fantastic snorkelling just offshore. You'll also find plenty of food stands selling cold drinks and fish tacos.

Getting around

Rental cars and taxis offer transport around Saint Thomas, while local buses are available around the island. St Thomas is serviced by two main airports, Cyril E King and the Seaplane Terminal, which are a short drive from Charlotte Amalie.