Morning
Load up. Enjoy breakfast at Bleuwater, the Ritz-Carlton, st. Thomas’ signature restaurant. You can build your own omelet or enjoy smoked gravlax on a bagel. Bananas foster french toast is so rich and decadent, you’ll crave it again later.
Feel the burn. After breakfast, head to the town of Charlotte Amalie. On one of its side streets, 99 steps lead up, up, up to Blackbeard’s castle, a 17th-century watchtower named for the legendary pirate Edward teach. From the hilltop, take your own (or a guided) walking tour of old manor houses and enjoy the incredible views.
Midday
Treat yourself. Shopping on st. Thomas might mean that you pick up a beautiful new piece of jewelry — for which the island is known — or perhaps a bottle of rum or a piece from a local artist. In charlotte Amalie, try the pirate’s chest for kitschy souvenirs or grand jewelers for something a bit swankier.
One for the road. Before returning to the Ritz-Carlton, st. Thomas, grab a bite at Greengos Caribbean Cantina. This local favorite features southwestern and Latin-inspired cuisine, as well as a bright island atmosphere.
Afternoon
Beach it. After your morning trip to charlotte Amalie, relax for a while. The resort is on the white sands of Great Bay, a blue flag beach thanks to its environmental standards and water purity. If you’re not one to sit back and read a book, try your hand at a water sport. The resort offers stand-up paddle boards, kayaks, hobie cats and snorkel equipment.
Paddle out. Should you prefer a little adventure, instead of lounging by the beach, virgin islands ecotours offers a guided kayak tour through the mangroves and into the wildlife sanctuary & marine reserve winding shallow waterways. Keep your eye out for local marine life, including tarpon and stingrays while exploring the nature of St. Thomas. A 2.5-hour tour and a 45-minute snorkel make for an exciting way to explore the island’s unique ecosystems.
Evening
Eat well. Travel the short distance to Red Hook Plaza for dinner at XO Bistro. This casually elegant restaurant features an award-winning wine list and an extensive dinner menu of salads, surf (local, of course), turf, and pasta. After dinner, consider a cocktail — the pomegranate ginger sparkler is a light, refreshing way to end the evening.