4 Things to Know Before You Visit St. Thomas: Essential Caribbean Courtesies and Travel Tips
A peek into the grounds at The Hideaway.
St. Thomas, located in the Caribbean, is a tropical paradise that attracts visitors worldwide.
With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and welcoming locals, it's no wonder that this island is a popular destination.
But before you embark on what’s sure to be the experience of a lifetime, there are a few things you’ll need to know to ensure a smooth trip.
Below are four things you should know before you set foot on island.
1. Travel and Practical Tips
Getting There:
St. Thomas has its own international airport, the Cyril E. King Airport (STT). No passport is needed for American citizens. Many major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta, and United, offer direct flights to the island. Additionally, inter-island flights from neighboring Caribbean islands are also available.
Cell Phones and Internet: St. Thomas has reliable cell phone coverage, and most international carriers offer roaming services if you plan to visit the British Virgin Islands for a day trip. However, checking with your provider regarding international plans is always a good idea to avoid unexpected charges.
Drinking Water:
Tap water in St. Thomas is not always potable and drinkable, as almost every business only collects rain water. Before ordering tap water at a restaurant be sure to ask your server if they recommend bottled water. Our estate proudly uses a triple-filtered ultraviolet system that cleans all water, making it potable and drinkable.
Renting a Car:
Renting a car is convenient for exploring St. Thomas at your own pace. Remember to “Keep Left,” as driving is on the left side of the road. Ensure you have the necessary permits and familiarize yourself with the local traffic laws before driving.
If you're the type of traveler who would rather sit back and relax while someone else takes the wheel, give our reservations team a call, and we will connect you with a private transportation service or taxi.
We understand that a luxury experience isn't just about the destination but also the journey. When you stay at The Hideaway at Hull Bay, our guest relations coordinators can help you secure hassle-free ground transport services to help ensure you're comfortable during your onsite stay.
Food Costs and Cuisine:
Culinary Experiences at The Hideaway.
St. Thomas offers a diverse culinary scene, ranging from local Caribbean delicacies to international cuisine. Indulge your senses with a custom dining experience with chef-crafted meals from the Hideaway Farm.
Our culinary experiences aren't just for resort guests – island visitors are welcome to dine with us by exclusive reservation. We are the island experts in delivering an elevated dining experience. Whether dinner on the farm or in our beautiful open-air pavilion, we'll provide you with a meal and ambiance you won't find anywhere else.
For more casual meals, give our next-door restaurant, The Shack, a try. The menu includes fresh daily catches, homemade pizza, and craft cocktails, all infused with ingredients harvested from the Hideaway Farm!
Food generally costs more in St. Thomas due to the need for imports. When you choose to stay at The Hideaway at Hull Bay, you can have your accommodations provisioned with all your favorite food items ahead of time.
Contact our team, and we'll ensure your preferred snacks, meals, and beverages are stocked and ready for arrival.
2. Where to Stay
Pool party at The Hideaway.
Choosing the right place to stay in St. Thomas largely depends on your personal preferences, budget, and the type of experience you're seeking.
Below are some following options to consider.
Hull Bay:
A picturesque setting, Hull Bay offers crystal-clear waters and a beautiful beachfront.
If you're searching for a tropical luxury experience, we recommend you stay at The Hideaway at Hull Bay, our very own private estate in St. Thomas that offers accommodations for a variety of group sizes and venue space for private events.
Our intimate and secluded property provides a serene escape for guests, upscale amenities and exclusive on-site experiences.
"Beach access couldn't have been better."
"Absolutely love this place. Perfect beach vacation. The staff was very accommodating, rooms and grounds were immaculate. The amenities were spot on. Beach access couldn't have been better. Very family friendly."
-Jay R.; Hideaway Hull Bay Guest
Charlotte Amalie:
The capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands, Charlotte Amalie offers a vibrant tourist atmosphere with a mix of historic charm. You'll find cobblestone streets and scenic Danish architecture in this area, as well as a variety of restaurants, shops, and attractions.
Red Hook:
Located on the island's eastern side, Red Hook is a bustling area known for its marina and ferry terminal, making it a convenient base for exploring St. John and the nearby British Virgin Islands. This area has waterfront accommodations, restaurants, bars, and often, an abundance of international cruise ship passengers visiting for the day.
Magens Bay:
A stone’s throw from the secluded Hull Bay beachfront, you’ll find an excellent day trip destination in Magens Bay. With sea turtles in almost every direction you look and super yachts coming in and out, you’ll see right away why it is one of St. Thomas’ biggest tourist attractions! The Hideaway is just one bay over making it a very easy trip to get to Magens and back without stress. Pro Tip: Be sure to research the local cruise ship schedule if you want to avoid large crowds of tourists on the beach.
3. Caribbean Courtesies and Local Etiquette
Before traveling to St. Thomas, you'll want to familiarize yourself with Caribbean courtesies to respect local customs, and embrace the relaxed island lifestyle.
A hidden shower at The Hideaway.
Greetings are essential in Caribbean culture, so offer a warm "good morning,” "good afternoon," or “good night” when you meet someone or enter a new space.
Tipping etiquette is widely accepted and often expected. During your vacation, if someone goes above and beyond to meet your needs out of courtesy and gratitude, a tip is expected but always discretionary. In restaurants, the standard tip is 18-20%.
Politeness and patience go a long way when visiting St. Thomas– Embrace a polite and patient demeanor during your interactions with locals. The Caribbean pace of life is generally slower than what you might be accustomed to, so be understanding if things take longer than you may expect. Embrace the relaxed atmosphere and avoid rushing or displaying impatience. “Island time” is a beautiful thing and allows you the opportunity to be present.
Beach Etiquette:
St. Thomas boasts breathtaking beaches, and respecting beach etiquette is requisite.
Be mindful of local rules and regulations, namely designated swimming areas and coral reefs. Respecting and preserving the environment is essential. Dispose of trash responsibly, pick up after yourself before you leave the beach, and be mindful of fragile ecosystems, such as coral reefs and wildlife habitats. Be sure to check that your sunscreen is “Reef Safe.” If it is in an aerosol can, it probably isn’t.
If you visit Magens Bay, expect more crowds, and if you’re searching for something a little more off the beaten path, you may decide to indulge in the tranquil scenery of the Hull Bay beachfront where you’ll discover a laid-back beach vibe, unlike any other place on the island.
Island Hopping and Exploring
St. Thomas is a part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, which makes it an excellent base for exploring neighboring islands. Island hopping is a popular activity, allowing you to discover the unique beauty of St. John and Water Island.
Farm-fresh cocktails at The Hideaway.
Ferries and boat tours are available for easy transportation between the islands, offering a chance to experience the region's diverse landscapes and cultures.
The travel time by ferry in St. Thomas can vary depending on the destination and the ferry service you choose. Here are some estimated travel times for popular ferry routes from St. Thomas:
St. Thomas to St. John: This is a common ferry route, and the travel time is typically around 15-25 minutes. Several ferry companies operate between the islands, most often on an hourly basis for departures.
St. Thomas to Tortola (British Virgin Islands): The travel time from St. Thomas to Tortola can range from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the ferry service, the swell, and the specific route. Some ferries may require stops at other docks before reaching the final destination in Tortola. The two main stops to look for are West End and Road Town.
St. Thomas to Virgin Gorda (British Virgin Islands): The travel time from St. Thomas to Virgin Gorda is typically around 1-2 hours, depending on the ferry route and any stops along the way.
It's important to note that ferry schedules and travel times can be subject to change due to weather conditions, seasonal variations, and other factors. It's recommended to check the ferry company's website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on schedules and travel times.
Nightlife:
St. Thomas offers a vibrant nightlife scene, particularly in Havensight and Red Hook. From beachfront bars to live music, there are plenty of options to enjoy a night out on the town. Be sure to check out the local hotspots and soak up the Caribbean ambiance.
Snorkel Gear:
Snorkeling is a must-do activity in St. Thomas, given its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. If you plan to snorkel frequently, The Hideaway at Hull bay has a select relationship with third-party vendors who can accommodate snorkel gear rentals for our guests.