🌴 St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands: A Week in Caribbean
Category: North America
By Rose-Tinted Journeys
Luxury travel, best served chilled.
If you’re dreaming of sun-drenched beaches, turquoise waters, and an island escape that blends adventure with pure relaxation, St. Thomas belongs at the top of your list.
Nestled in the U.S. Virgin Islands, this tropical haven promises postcard-perfect views, warm island hospitality, and unforgettable moments that rejuvenate the soul.
My home base for the week? The Marriott Morningstar Buoy Haus, an idyllic beachfront retreat that captures everything we love about the Caribbean — refined comfort, laid-back charm, and a front-row seat to the sea.
✈️ Day 1: Arrival & Settling In
Flying into Cyril E. King Airport, the island’s emerald hills and vivid turquoise waters immediately set the tone. A short drive later, I arrived at the Marriott Morningstar Buoy Haus, greeted with a cool welcome drink and that unmistakable Caribbean warmth.
My spacious room featured a private balcony overlooking Morningstar Beach — the gentle rhythm of the waves quickly became my soundtrack. After unpacking, I spent the afternoon lounging seaside before indulging in mahi-mahi tacos and rum punch at the hotel’s open-air restaurant — the perfect start to paradise.
🏝️ Day 2: Exploring Charlotte Amalie
The island’s capital, Charlotte Amalie, is a charming mix of colonial history, colorful architecture, and duty-free treasures. I wandered the cobblestone streets, climbed the iconic 99 Steps, and admired the view from Blackbeard’s Castle.
A stop at Emancipation Garden offered a moment to reflect on the island’s story before diving into conch fritters and a passion-fruit cooler at a local café. The evening ended poolside, toes in the water, rum in hand.
🌊 Day 3: A Day on the Water
No trip to St. Thomas is complete without time spent at sea. I joined a catamaran cruise to Buck Island, where I snorkeled among bright coral and sea turtles. As we sailed back, the crew served tropical cocktails under golden light — a quintessential Caribbean afternoon.
Back at the resort, I booked a sunset massage — the sound of waves and salt-tinged air made it pure magic.
⛴️ Day 4: A Ferry to St. John
Just a short ferry ride away, St. John offers untouched beauty as most of the island is part of a national park. At Trunk Bay, I snorkeled the underwater trail and then grabbed jerk chicken and coconut rice from a beachside food truck.
A short hike on the Reef Bay Trail led to ancient petroglyphs and a secluded beach — the kind of hidden gem that defines island life. I returned to St. Thomas with sandy feet and a full heart.
☀️ Day 5: Beach Day at Morningstar
Sometimes, the best plan is no plan. I spent the day unwinding on Morningstar Beach, alternating between a good book, refreshing swims, and beachside service from the friendly staff.
Dinner that night was all about local flavor — fungi and callaloo, accompanied by live music and ocean breezes.
🌴 Day 6: Adventure and Adrenaline
For thrill-seekers, St. Thomas delivers. I joined a zipline tour through the rainforest, soaring above the canopy with panoramic ocean views. Later, I made my way to Magens Bay, consistently named one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.
Between paddleboarding and sipping one of the island’s best piña coladas, it was the ultimate blend of fun and tranquility.
🌅 Day 7: Farewell to Paradise
On my final morning, I took one last stroll along the beach, collecting shells and savoring the calm. After breakfast, I reluctantly packed my bags — already plotting my return.
As my plane climbed over the sparkling sea, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for a week that was both luxurious and soul-restoring.
🌺 Tips for Your Trip
Getting Around:
Taxis are easy to find, but renting a car gives you more freedom to explore hidden beaches and local gems.
When to Visit:
The best weather is from December to April, when the skies are clear and the ocean is calm.
Packing Essentials:
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, light linen layers, and water shoes for snorkeling days.
Currency:
No conversion needed — the U.S. dollar is accepted everywhere.
💫 Why We Love It
St. Thomas offers that rare mix of five-star luxury, laid-back island rhythm, and authentic Caribbean culture. Whether you crave adventure, romance, or rest, this island — and the Marriott Morningstar Buoy Haus — will exceed every expectation.
Ready to plan your own Caribbean escape?
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