We’ve been fortunate enough to visit countless islands, cities, and towns during our many years covering the cruise industry. From the bustling streets of Rome to the serene beaches of Bora Bora, each destination holds a special place in our travel journals. But there’s one particular spot that consistently brings a smile to our faces, a vibrant gem that effortlessly blends history, natural beauty, and a whole lot of fun for families: Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas.
For those of you planning your next cruise vacation, or perhaps considering your very first cruise booking, St. Thomas often features prominently on Caribbean itineraries. And for good reason! This U.S. Virgin Island offers a truly diverse experience, especially when you’re traveling with children. We’ve seen firsthand how easily families can create lasting memories here, whether they’re avid adventurers or just looking for a relaxing day off the cruise ship. So, let us share our top picks for making the most of your family’s visit to Charlotte Amalie.
Preparing for Your St. Thomas Adventure
Before we dive into the specifics of what to do, let’s talk a little about getting ready. St. Thomas is a popular cruise port, meaning it can get busy, especially on days with multiple ships. A little planning goes a long way to ensure a smooth and enjoyable day for everyone. We always recommend checking your ship’s docking schedule and the typical crowd levels for your arrival day. This can influence whether you opt for an early start or a more relaxed approach.
Navigating the Cruise Port
When your cruise ship pulls into Charlotte Amalie, you’ll likely dock at either Havensight (WICO dock) or Crown Bay. Both are well-equipped with amenities, including taxi stands, shops, and sometimes even a small market. Taxis are plentiful and readily available, and while there are set rates for various destinations, it’s always a good idea to confirm the fare before you start your journey. For families, open-air safari taxis are a fun and often more economical option for getting around the island, especially for shorter distances to town or nearby beaches. Many shore excursion options will also include transportation directly from the cruise port, which can be a real convenience.
Essentials for a Family Day Out
Packing a small day bag with essentials is key. Think sunscreen (reef-safe if possible!), hats, sunglasses, refillable water bottles, and any necessary medications. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially if you plan to explore the historic downtown area. If you’re heading to the beach, remember swimsuits, towels, and perhaps some beach toys for the little ones. Many of our recommended activities involve water, so quick-drying clothing can be a bonus. Don’t forget your camera to capture all those precious family moments!
If you’re planning a family trip to Charlotte Amalie, you might also be interested in exploring other travel destinations that cater to families. For instance, check out this article on family-friendly accommodations near the Manila cruise port, which offers a variety of options for families looking to enjoy their stay in the Philippines. You can read more about it here: Family-Friendly Hotels Near Manila Cruise Port.
Top Family-Friendly Activities in Charlotte Amalie
Now for the exciting part! Based on our extensive experience and countless conversations with fellow travelers, here are our top 10 family-friendly things to do in Charlotte Amalie. These options cater to a wide range of ages and interests, ensuring there’s something for everyone in your family to enjoy.
1. Ascend to Paradise via the Skyride to Paradise Point
This is often one of the first things we recommend to families, and for good reason! The Skyride to Paradise Point offers breathtaking panoramic views of Charlotte Amalie harbor, your cruise ship, and neighboring islands. The gondola ride itself is an adventure for kids, and once you reach the top, there’s even more to explore. They have shops, a restaurant (famous for its Bushwacker cocktails, but plenty of kid-friendly options too!), and often live music or cultural performances. It’s a fantastic spot for a family photo and a great way to get an overview of the island’s beauty without requiring extensive walking.
2. Dive into History at Blackbeard’s Castle
Perched atop Government Hill, Blackbeard’s Castle is a National Historic Landmark that offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s pirate past. While the name itself sparks imagination for kids, the actual experience is even better. The complex includes a historic Danish watchtower (which pirates supposedly used!), several pools, beautiful gardens, and stunning views. There are usually interactive exhibits and even costumed characters, making history come alive in a fun and engaging way for children of all ages. Walking the cobblestone paths and imagining pirates roaming these grounds is a truly unique experience.
If you’re planning a family trip to Charlotte Amalie, you might also be interested in exploring other Caribbean destinations. For instance, you can discover how to get from the Aruba cruise port to Oranjestad, which offers a vibrant atmosphere and plenty of activities for families. This article provides insights into the easiest ways to explore the island’s colorful capital, making it a great complement to your itinerary in Charlotte Amalie. For more information, check out this helpful guide on getting around in Aruba.
3. Explore Coral Reefs at Coral World Ocean Park
For families who love marine life, Coral World Ocean Park is an absolute must-do shore excursion. This incredible facility allows you to get up close and personal with a vibrant array of sea creatures without even getting wet (unless you want to!). Highlights include the Undersea Observatory Tower, where you can watch fish in their natural habitat, and touch pools where kids can interact with starfish and conchs. For those seeking more adventure, they offer optional add-ons like Sea Lion Encounters, Shark Encounters, and even SNUBA diving. It’s an educational and exciting experience that appeals to all ages, fostering an appreciation for the ocean’s wonders.
4. Relax and Play at Magens Bay Beach
Consistently ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches, Magens Bay is an idyllic crescent of soft white sand and calm, turquoise waters. It’s perfect for families because the gentle waves make it safe for even the youngest swimmers. You can rent chairs, umbrellas, kayaks, and paddleboards, ensuring a full day of fun. There’s also a concession stand for snacks and drinks, and restrooms and changing facilities are available. We’ve spent many a relaxing afternoon here, watching families build sandcastles, splash in the shallows, and simply soak up the Caribbean sunshine. It’s the quintessential beach day for any cruise vacation.
5. Discover the Depths Aboard the St. Thomas Skyride to Paradise Point Atlantis Submarine Expedition
This unique shore excursion offers a fantastic alternative for families who want to experience the underwater world without getting wet. The Atlantis Submarine takes you to depths of up to 150 feet, providing incredible views of coral reefs, tropical fish, and even shipwrecks through large viewing ports. It’s a comfortable and educational experience, complete with expert narration that explains the marine life you’re seeing. Kids are usually captivated by the feeling of being in a real submarine and spotting all the colorful fish. It’s a wonderful way to explore the ocean’s hidden beauty, making it a memorable part of your cruise vacation.
6. Wander Through Historic Main Street (and maybe grab some souvenirs!)
While not an “attraction” in the traditional sense, a stroll down Main Street in Charlotte Amalie is an experience in itself, especially if you set expectations right. This historic area is famous for its duty-free shopping, which can be a bonus for parents, but there’s also a lot for kids to see. The architecture is charming, reflecting the island’s Danish heritage, and the narrow alleyways (called “guts”) are fun to explore. You can point out the historic buildings, search for unique souvenirs, and maybe even treat the kids to some local ice cream or a pastry. It’s a lively atmosphere that offers a taste of local culture and history.
7. Climb the 99 Steps (or more!)
Also known as the “Danish Steps,” the 99 Steps are a series of brick staircases built by the Danes in the 1700s. While the name suggests 99, there are actually more! It’s a fun, slightly challenging walk for families with older children, offering fantastic views as you ascend. It’s a piece of living history that connects different parts of the historic town. We always enjoy seeing the determination of kids as they count the steps and reach the top, feeling a sense of accomplishment. It’s a great way to combine a bit of exercise with sightseeing.
8. Kayak or Paddleboard through Mangrove Lagoons
For families who enjoy active adventures, a guided kayak or paddleboard tour through the mangrove lagoons is an unforgettable experience. Several operators offer these eco-tours, which are suitable for various skill levels. You’ll paddle through calm, sheltered waters, learning about the vital role of mangroves in the ecosystem and spotting local wildlife like juvenile fish, crabs, and perhaps even some birds. It’s a peaceful yet engaging way to connect with nature and enjoy the beautiful scenery of St. Thomas away from the bustling cruise port.
9. Sample Local Flavors at a Food Truck or Casual Eatery
One of the joys of travel is experiencing local cuisine. While Charlotte Amalie has many restaurants, we often find that some of the most authentic and family-friendly experiences come from casual eateries or even food trucks. Look for spots offering traditional Caribbean fare like conch fritters, Johnnycakes, or rotis. It’s an easy way to introduce kids to new flavors in a relaxed setting, and often more budget-friendly than formal restaurants. Many vendors are located near the cruise port or in the historic downtown area, making it a convenient stop during your day.
10. Take a Scenic Drive to Drake’s Seat
While requiring a taxi, a trip to Drake’s Seat is well worth it for the sheer spectacle. This historic overlook offers arguably the most iconic view in St. Thomas – the famous “million-dollar view” of Magens Bay, Hans Lollik Island, and the British Virgin Islands. Legend has it that Sir Francis Drake himself used this vantage point to spot enemy ships. It’s a fantastic photo opportunity for the whole family and provides a sense of the vastness and beauty of the Caribbean. The drive up is also scenic, allowing you to see more of the island’s lush interior.
Making the Most of Your Shore Excursion
We’ve shared our favorite family activities, but how do you choose and organize them for your cruise vacation? This is where a little strategy comes in.
Combining Activities for a Full Day
It’s often practical to group activities that are geographically close or that offer complementary experiences. For example, you could combine the Skyride to Paradise Point with a walk down the 99 Steps and exploring historic Main Street, as they are all relatively close to each other in the Charlotte Amalie area. If you opt for Coral World Ocean Park, you might pair it with some relaxing time at Coki Beach, which is nearby. Many cruise lines offer organized shore excursion packages that combine popular attractions, which can be convenient but may also be more expensive than doing it yourself.
Booking Your Adventures
When it comes to cruise booking, we always advise looking into shore excursions well in advance. You can book directly through your cruise line, which offers convenience and often a guarantee that you won’t miss your ship if there are delays. Alternatively, you can book independently through reputable local tour operators. Independent booking can sometimes offer more flexibility and potentially better pricing, but it requires more personal research and responsibility for getting back to the cruise port on time. For popular activities like the Atlantis Submarine or specific Coral World encounters, pre-booking is almost always recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak season.
Flexibility is Key
Remember, while planning is good, sometimes the best memories are made when you go with the flow. If your kids are having an amazing time building sandcastles at Magens Bay, don’t feel pressured to rush off to the next activity. A successful family cruise vacation is all about creating enjoyable experiences for everyone, and sometimes that means adapting to the mood of the day.
Reflecting on Your St. Thomas Experience
As your cruise ship prepares to set sail from Charlotte Amalie, we hope you’ll carry with you a collection of cherished family memories. St. Thomas truly is a special place, offering a blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty that appeals to travelers of all ages. From the thrill of the Skyride to the tranquility of Magens Bay, there’s a unique charm waiting to be discovered by every family.
We’ve watched countless families embark on their St. Thomas adventures, from first-time cruisers nervously stepping off the gangway to seasoned travelers eagerly revisiting their favorite spots. The consistent feedback? Charlotte Amalie delivers. It’s a port where the whole family can truly relax, explore, and bond over shared experiences. So, whether you’re planning your next big cruise vacation or just dreaming of your next port of call, consider adding Charlotte Amalie to your itinerary. We’re confident you won’t be disappointed. Happy cruising!