How to Get Around St. Thomas: Your Complete Guide

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St. Thomas welcomes over one million visitors annually, but many travelers arrive without a clear plan for getting around this beautiful Caribbean island. Knowing how to get around the island is going to be crucial if you want to enjoy your vacation! Multiple transportation options make exploring St. Thomas straightforward once you know your choices, though.

From rental cars to public buses, taxis to ferries, this guide covers every way to navigate St. Thomas during your vacation. You'll discover the best transportation methods for different situations, costs to expect, and insider tips to make your island adventures seamless.

Plus, we'll show you how to extend your journey to nearby St. John, where luxury experiences like the Finisterre Estate await.

Renting a Car: Freedom to Explore at Your Own Pace

Renting a car gives you the ultimate flexibility when getting around St. Thomas. You can explore secluded beaches, visit local restaurants, and stick to your own schedule without waiting for taxis or buses. Many visitors find this independence invaluable, especially when traveling with families or groups.

Car rentals also prove cost-effective for longer stays. Instead of paying for multiple taxi rides daily, you'll have unlimited transportation for a flat daily rate. Most rental agencies offer vehicles starting around $40-60 per day, making it budget-friendly for week-long vacations.

Important Driving Considerations

Before committing to a rental car, though, understand that St. Thomas follows left-hand driving rules—a legacy from Danish colonial times. American visitors often need adjustment time, particularly when navigating roundabouts and making turns.

The island's roads can be challenging. Steep hills, narrow streets, and limited parking in Charlotte Amalie require confident driving skills. Many roads lack guardrails, and GPS systems sometimes provide inaccurate directions on smaller routes.

So keep this in mind if you want to rent a car on St. Thomas.

Top Rental Car Companies

Budget, Hertz, and Avis maintain locations at Cyril E. King Airport and downtown Charlotte Amalie.

Book reservations in advance, especially during peak season (December through April). Many agencies require drivers to be at least 25 years old, and some charge additional fees for younger drivers.

Taxi Services: Convenient Door-to-Door Transportation

Taxis provide the most convenient way to get around St. Thomas without driving yourself. The island operates both traditional taxis and "safari taxis"—open-air trucks with bench seating that double as tour vehicles.

Most taxi drivers are licensed tour guides who offer commentary during rides. They know the best routes, can recommend restaurants and attractions, and often provide valuable local insights. This personal touch makes taxi rides educational and entertaining.

Taxi Costs and Tips

Taxi fares follow set rates established by the taxi association. Expect to pay $5-8 for short trips within Charlotte Amalie, $12-15 to popular beaches like Magens Bay, and $20-25 to Red Hook (the ferry terminal for St. John).

Always confirm the fare before starting your journey. Most drivers accept cash only, so bring small bills. Tipping 15-20% is customary and appreciated.

Finding and Booking Taxis

Taxis wait at designated stands throughout Charlotte Amalie, at the airport, and near cruise ship terminals. Hotels can arrange pickups, or you can flag down available taxis on main roads.

For guaranteed service, ask your hotel concierge to arrange taxis in advance. This proves especially helpful for early morning flights or dinner reservations at remote restaurants.

Public Transportation: Budget-Friendly VITRAN Service

The Virgin Islands Transit (VITRAN) system offers the most affordable way to get around St. Thomas. These public buses connect major towns, shopping areas, and some beaches, with fares typically under $2 per ride.

VITRAN buses run on fixed routes between Charlotte Amalie, Red Hook, and other key destinations. While not as extensive as mainland bus systems, they cover most areas tourists visit regularly.

Routes and Schedules

The main VITRAN routes connect Charlotte Amalie to Red Hook, stopping at shopping centers, residential areas, and transfer points. Buses generally run every 30-60 minutes during peak hours, with reduced service on weekends and holidays.

Route maps and schedules are available at bus stops and the main terminal in Charlotte Amalie. However, buses don't always follow strict schedules, so allow extra time for important appointments.

Tips for Using Public Transportation

Bring exact change in coins and small bills. Buses can become crowded, especially during morning and evening rush hours when locals commute to work.

Be prepared for a more authentic island experience. VITRAN buses offer opportunities to interact with residents and see neighborhoods you might miss in taxis or rental cars.

Ferry Services: Your Gateway to Island Hopping

Ferries provide the primary connection between St. Thomas and neighboring St. John. The most frequent service runs between Red Hook (St. Thomas) and Cruz Bay (St. John), with boats departing every hour during peak times.

The 20-minute ferry ride offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and surrounding islands. Round-trip tickets cost approximately $12 for adults, with discounts for children and seniors.

Ferry Schedules and Reservations

No reservations are needed for passenger ferries—simply purchase tickets at the terminal before boarding. First boats typically depart around 6:30 AM, with the last ferries leaving around 11:00 PM.

Always double-check the schedule online to confirm first, though.

Car ferries also operate between St. Thomas and St. John, though with limited schedules. These prove useful if you've rented a car and want to explore both islands.

Why Visit St. John

St. John offers a completely different experience from St. Thomas. Two-thirds of the island comprises Virgin Islands National Park, featuring pristine beaches, hiking trails, and coral reefs. The island maintains a more relaxed, natural atmosphere perfect for those seeking tranquility.

For travelers desiring ultimate luxury, St. John hosts exceptional accommodations like Finisterre Estate. This premier rental property, recently featured in Town & Country's St. John Travel Guide, offers unmatched views, world-class service, and full concierge support. Set atop emerald seaside cliffs, Finisterre provides an exclusive hilltop experience with six uniquely designed bedrooms and dramatic Caribbean Sea views.

Alternative Transportation Options

Charlotte Amalie's compact downtown area encourages walking. Most shops, restaurants, and historical sites cluster within a few blocks, making foot travel practical for exploring the capital.

However, St. Thomas's hilly terrain and tropical climate make walking challenging for longer distances. Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and plenty of water if you plan to walk extensively.

Bicycle Rentals

Limited bicycle rental options exist, primarily through hotels and tour companies. The island's steep hills and narrow roads make cycling more suitable for experienced riders seeking adventure rather than practical transportation.

Some companies offer guided bicycle tours that include transportation to starting points and support vehicles—a safer way to experience cycling on St. Thomas.

Ride-Sharing Services

Traditional ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft have a limited presence in St. Thomas. However, some local companies offer app-based taxi services with smartphone booking and payment capabilities.

These services typically cost more than traditional taxis but offer convenience and familiarity for visitors accustomed to ride-sharing platforms.

Making the Most of Your St. Thomas Experience

Getting around St. Thomas successfully requires understanding your options and matching them to your specific needs. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate VITRAN buses and shared taxis, while those seeking independence should consider rental cars despite the left-hand driving adjustment.

The best way to get around St. Thomas often involves combining multiple transportation methods. Use taxis for convenience, try public buses for authentic experiences, and don't miss the ferry ride to St. John—especially if you're planning to stay at exceptional properties like Finisterre Estate.

Start planning your transportation strategy before arriving, but remain flexible enough to adapt based on weather, crowds, and your evolving vacation priorities. With proper preparation and realistic expectations, getting around St. Thomas becomes part of the adventure rather than a logistical challenge.

Happy Travels,

The Team at Finisterre