St. Thomas is a fantastic destination for a family road trip. With a rental car from Alamo, Enterprise, or National, you can explore the island at your own pace. Here are the best road trip ideas for families on St. Thomas.
1. The North Shore Beach Tour
Drive along the north coast of St. Thomas, stopping at multiple beaches:
- Start at Magens Bay for swimming and beach time
- Continue to Hull Bay for a quieter local experience
- Visit Coki Point for snorkeling
- End at Sapphire Beach for sunset views
2. Mountain Top and Scenic Overlooks
Drive up to St. Thomas's highest viewpoints:
- Head to Mountain Top for panoramic views of the island and Magens Bay
- Stop at Drake's Seat for one of the most famous views in the Caribbean
- Continue along the ridge road for additional scenic stops
3. Charlotte Amalie Historic Tour
Explore the historic capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands:
- Park downtown and walk the historic Main Street
- Visit Fort Christian, the oldest standing structure in the USVI
- Explore Blackbeard's Castle and historic government buildings
- Shop at the duty-free stores along the waterfront
4. Red Hook and East End
Explore the laid-back east end of St. Thomas:
- Drive to Red Hook for dining and shopping
- Visit Sapphire Beach for snorkeling
- Continue to Vessup Bay for a quieter beach experience
- Watch the sunset from the east end
5. Botanical Gardens and Nature
For families who love nature:
- Visit the St. Peter Greathouse and Botanical Gardens
- Explore the Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden
- Drive through the lush inner island terrain
Tips for Family Road Trips
- Start early: Beat the heat and crowds by heading out in the morning
- Bring plenty of water and snacks
- Have a cooler with ice for drinks
- Plan bathroom stops at beaches with facilities
- Take breaks — driving on St. Thomas requires extra concentration
- Download offline maps before heading out
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen and apply frequently
Choosing the Right Vehicle
For family road trips on St. Thomas, an SUV from Alamo, Enterprise, or National is ideal. It provides ground clearance for beach access roads, cargo space for gear and coolers, and comfortable seating for the whole family.
