St. Thomas is a tropical paradise in its own right, but let’s face it—when you’re in the US Virgin Islands, it would be a shame not to explore all the incredible places nearby. Luckily, Two Tickets To Paradise Cottage is the perfect base for a day of adventure, offering easy access to some of the best neighboring islands and hidden gems around St. Thomas. Whether you’re in the mood for exploring lush landscapes, lounging on pristine beaches, or immersing yourself in local culture, there’s a day trip that’s perfect for you.
So pack your sunscreen, grab your camera, and let’s take a look at the top 5 day trips from St. Thomas that you absolutely need to take.
1. St. John: A Nature Lover’s Dream
Just a short ferry ride from St. Thomas, St. John is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The island is home to the Virgin Islands National Park, which covers about two-thirds of the island, offering lush forests, scenic hiking trails, and some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.
Start your day trip with a visit to Trunk Bay, where you can snorkel along an underwater trail and swim in crystal-clear waters. If you’re more into hiking, don’t miss the Lind Point Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the coastline. For those interested in history, the Annaberg Sugar Mill Ruins give you a glimpse into the island’s colonial past.
Pro Tip: The ferry ride from St. Thomas to St. John is a scenic treat, so be sure to have your camera ready!
2. The British Virgin Islands (BVI): Island Hopping at Its Best
If you’re looking to cross international waters (in style, of course), a day trip to the British Virgin Islands (BVI) is a must. The BVIs are just a short boat ride from St. Thomas, and the possibilities for adventure are endless. Spend the day island-hopping to iconic destinations like Virgin Gorda, home to the famous Baths—a natural wonder featuring giant boulders and crystal-clear swimming pools.
Another popular spot is Jost Van Dyke, where you can visit the world-renowned Foxy’s Bar and enjoy a cold drink while taking in the stunning views. If you’re looking for a laid-back day of beach hopping, Tortola and its surrounding islands offer some of the most beautiful, secluded beaches in the Caribbean.
Pro Tip: Remember to bring your passport, as you’ll be traveling to a different country!
3. Water Island: The Hidden Gem of St. Thomas
For a more relaxed, less touristy escape, head to Water Island, a hidden gem located just off the coast of St. Thomas. This quiet island is perfect for those who want to enjoy a peaceful beach day away from the crowds. Honeymoon Beach is the main attraction, where you can swim in turquoise waters, rent kayaks, or simply kick back and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
What makes Water Island especially unique is its laid-back vibe and charming atmosphere. There are no large hotels or crowds—just a small, welcoming community and plenty of natural beauty to explore. It’s a great option if you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of St. Thomas for a day.
Pro Tip: You can take a short ferry ride from St. Thomas to Water Island—less than 10 minutes, and you’ll feel like you’ve entered another world.
4. Culebra, Puerto Rico: A Tropical Paradise Just a Short Flight Away
While it’s a bit farther than some of the other options, a day trip to Culebra, Puerto Rico, is an unforgettable experience. Known for its pristine beaches, Culebra is home to Flamenco Beach, often ranked as one of the best beaches in the world. The soft white sand and crystal-clear waters are the perfect setting for a relaxing day of sunbathing, swimming, or snorkeling.
You can easily catch a flight from St. Thomas to Culebra, and once you arrive, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a tropical paradise untouched by the crowds. The laid-back vibe and natural beauty of the island will make you want to extend your stay.
Pro Tip: If you’re a fan of snorkeling, make sure to check out Carlos Rosario Beach—it’s one of the best spots for underwater exploration on the island.
5. Buck Island Reef National Monument: Snorkel in Protected Waters
For a day trip that’s all about marine life and pristine waters, look no further than Buck Island Reef National Monument, located just off the coast of St. Thomas. Known for its protected coral reefs and diverse marine life, Buck Island is a snorkeling paradise.
The Buck Island Reef National Monument features an underwater snorkel trail where you can get an up-close look at vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and even sea turtles. If you prefer to stay dry, the island also offers beautiful beaches and picnic areas where you can relax and take in the stunning surroundings.
Pro Tip: Be sure to bring your snorkel gear (or rent some from a local shop), and make sure to stay hydrated while exploring this beautiful and protected area.
Ready for Your Next Adventure?
St. Thomas is an incredible destination on its own, but the surrounding islands offer even more opportunities for exploration. Whether you’re looking for hiking, pristine beaches, or even a little island-hopping to other countries, there’s no shortage of exciting day trips just a short drive or boat ride away.
And the best part? After a day of adventure, you can return to the comfort and tranquility of Two Tickets To Paradise Cottage, your home base for exploring the beauty of the US Virgin Islands. Relax by your private pool, sip a cocktail at the tiki bar, or simply enjoy the stunning views of Hull Bay.
Ready to start planning your next adventure? Head to our reservations page to book your stay at Two Tickets To Paradise Cottage today. Let the island exploration begin!
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