Things To Do
in Charlotte Amalie
Charlotte Amalie is the capital city of the U.S. Virgin Islands, located on the island of St. Thomas. It is a bustling port town known for its colorful Dutch Colonial architecture, duty-free shopping, and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore historic sites such as Fort Christian, dine on fresh seafood, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea from the town's hilltops.
Charlotte Amalie's warm climate and stunning beaches make it a popular destination for tourists seeking a tropical paradise.
- "Good morning" - Buenos dias
- "Good afternoon" - Buenas tardes
- "Good evening" - Buenas noches
- "Thank you" - Gracias
- "Excuse me" - Perdón
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $7
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $75
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Fort Christian, the oldest standing structure in the Virgin Islands, where you can explore the fascinating history and marvel at its architecture. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the grounds and take photos of the stunning views of the harbor.
Head to Market Square for lunch and explore local crafts, souvenirs, and delicious Caribbean food. Make sure to sample local delicacies from the vendors and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the market.
Relax at a nearby restaurant with a view of the sunset over the harbor. Enjoy a delightful dinner featuring fresh seafood while listening to the sounds of local music.
Begin your day with a snorkeling tour at Cinnamon Bay Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Equipment is available for rent, allowing you to explore the underwater world with ease.
After snorkeling, unwind on the beach and soak up the sun while enjoying a picnic lunch. Take advantage of the available watersports, including kayaking and paddleboarding.
As the sun begins to set, enjoy a beach bonfire if available, or head back to Charlotte Amalie for a casual dinner at a local bar. Sample tropical drinks and enjoy the relaxed island vibe.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and stunning natural scenery
- Rich history and vibrant culture
- Diverse recreational activities, including water sports and hiking
- Tax-free shopping and a variety of local markets
- Warm, tropical climate year-round
- High cost of living and expensive goods due to import taxes
- Limited job opportunities and economic stability
- Risk of hurricanes and tropical storms
- Potential for overcrowding in tourist areas
- Infrastructure challenges, including road conditions and public services
Best Activities in Charlotte Amalie
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vibrant underwater world around Charlotte Amalie, with its coral reefs and diverse marine life. Popular spots include Lindquist Beach and Buck Island.
Enjoy scenic hikes through the island’s lush trails, such as the Charlotte Amalie's sunrise hike to Blackbeard's Castle for panoramic views.
Paddle through the calm waters of the bay and nearby lagoons, taking in the stunning sights and sounds of the tropics.
Relax or engage in water sports at beautiful beaches like Magens Bay or Hassel Island, which offer soft sands and clear waters.
Take a guided tour of historic sites, including Fort Christian and the 99 Steps, to learn about the rich history and culture of the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Join a sailing excursion or boat tour to explore nearby islands, enjoy the sunset, and go island hopping in the Caribbean Sea.
Embark on tours to see local wildlife, including dolphin watching or visiting nature reserves to observe endemic species in their natural habitats.
Tours
Uncover the best of Charlotte Amalie with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Charlotte Amalie
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic site offering stunning views of Charlotte Amalie and the harbor, along with fascinating historical insights.
A scenic drive that provides panoramic views of the island, ideal for taking breathtaking photos of the sunset and the harbor.
The oldest standing structure in the Virgin Islands, it offers a unique perspective of the city and is great for historical photos.
Renowned for its picturesque beach, this location is excellent for capturing wide-angle shots of the coastline and vibrant sunsets.
The harbor area is great for photographing cruise ships, yachts, and the surrounding hills, making it a lively backdrop for photos.
Famous for its panoramic views of the BVI and St. Thomas, this spot is perfect for capturing sweeping landscapes.
A beautiful park that provides a serene atmosphere and great photography opportunities with its lush greenery and monuments.
A stunning beach location with crystal-clear waters perfect for vibrant beach photography and tropical scenery.
Food in Charlotte Amalie
Charlotte Amalie Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Caribbean dish made with leafy greens such as taro, amaranth, or spinach, cooked with okra, coconut milk, and spices. It's a staple in many local eateries including Glady's Cafe.
Must-Try!
Deep-fried fritters made from minced conch, flour, bell pepper, and various seasonings. Savored at popular spots like Cuzzin's Caribbean Restaurant & Bar.
A beloved local bread made from cornmeal, flour, sugar, and baking powder, often served with fish or stews. Try it at Harvey's or local bakeries.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Charlotte Amalie better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering fresh fruits, vegetables, and local snacks like pates and sugar cakes. Perfect for sampling authentic flavors and interacting with locals.
A bustling hub for street food where visitors can savor dishes like pate, stewed meats, seafood, and fried plantains. It's a great place to soak in the island's food culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Charlotte Amalie has a rich cultural heritage influenced by various traditions. It's important to respect local customs by participating in cultural events and recognizing significant holidays, such as Emancipation Day and Carnival.
While the climate is tropical, it's advisable to dress modestly when visiting religious sites or local neighborhoods. Wearing appropriate attire shows respect for the local culture and values.
Greeting locals with a friendly 'Good morning,' 'Good afternoon,' or 'Good evening' is appreciated. This sets a positive tone for interactions and reflects respect for the community's hospitality.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Charlotte Amalie with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Charlotte Amalie
Ensure a smooth experience
In Charlotte Amalie, it is customary to tip service workers such as waitstaff, bartenders, taxi drivers, and hotel staff. A standard tip is typically around 15-20% of the total bill. It's also common to tip tour guides and other service providers.
Payment methods in Charlotte Amalie include cash, credit cards, and debit cards. U.S. dollars are the official currency, and most businesses accept major credit cards. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or markets where card payment may not be accepted.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Charlotte Amalie.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the peak tourist season in Charlotte Amalie, when the weather is pleasantly warm and dry. Expect sunny days and comfortable temperatures, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities, beach lounging, and exploring the island's attractions. However, hotels and flights may be more expensive due to high demand.
Spring is a great time to visit Charlotte Amalie as the weather remains warm, and the crowds begin to thin out after the winter season. You can expect mild temperatures, occasional showers, and plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and water sports. Prices for accommodations may start to decrease as the peak season ends.
Summer in Charlotte Amalie is hot and humid, with temperatures often in the high 80s to low 90s°F. This season is considered the off-peak time for tourism, which means fewer crowds and more affordable rates for hotels and activities. However, be prepared for occasional rain and the possibility of hurricanes, particularly in August and September.
Fall is also considered the off-peak season, with warm temperatures and an increased likelihood of rain, especially in September. As hurricane season is still active, visitors should stay informed about weather conditions. Despite the risks, this period offers lower prices for travel and a chance to enjoy the island with fewer tourists.
Charlotte Amalie at Night
Hiking in Charlotte Amalie
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic walking trail that leads through lush tropical vegetation with stunning views of the ocean and nearby islands.
Located on Hassel Island, this area has hiking trails that offer historical insights and beautiful views of the harbor and Charlotte Amalie.
A popular hiking spot that provides access to the famous Magens Bay beach, featuring trails with panoramic views of the bay and surrounding hills.
A moderate hike that leads to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain, offering breathtaking views of Charlotte Amalie and the surrounding waters.
While primarily a cable car attraction, the hike up to the ride provides a great trail with views of the city and an opportunity to see local flora and fauna.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Charlotte Amalie through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Charlotte Amalie by plane.
The main international airport serving St. Thomas, located approximately 3 miles from Charlotte Amalie.
Located on Beef Island in the British Virgin Islands, this airport is about 36 miles from Charlotte Amalie, accessible by ferry.
Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport serves Tortola and is about 36 miles from Charlotte Amalie, generally connecting through STT.
Located in San Juan, Puerto Rico, approximately 75 miles from Charlotte Amalie, this is a major hub for international flights.
Situated on St. Croix, about 40 miles from Charlotte Amalie, serving both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant demographic group in Charlotte Amalie, often with deep historical roots in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Includes individuals of European descent who reside in the area, often involved in various sectors of the economy.
A growing demographic representing individuals from various Latin American countries, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
Includes residents from other Caribbean islands, contributing to the multicultural atmosphere of Charlotte Amalie.
A smaller demographic group that includes people from various Asian countries, involved in local businesses and communities.
The Soul of Charlotte Amalie
Discover the essence of Charlotte Amalie through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is highly popular in Charlotte Amalie with many local leagues and community events promoting the sport.
Soccer is played by many youth and adult leagues, with an increasing interest in the sport throughout the community.
American football has a following in Charlotte Amalie, with local teams participating in various competitions.
Beach volleyball is a common recreational activity on the islands, contributing to its popularity among residents.
Rugby has gained traction, with clubs forming and participating in regional competitions.
Athletics, including track and field events, are supported in schools and local sports clubs, fostering young talent.
Given the island's coastal location, activities such as sailing, snorkeling, and diving are integral to the local sports culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Charlotte Amalie.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places in Charlotte Amalie offer vegetarian options such as veggie roti, tofu dishes, and plant-based sides.
Several restaurants provide vegan-friendly meals like roasted vegetable platters, quinoa salads, and fruit smoothies using locally sourced ingredients.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy gluten-free dishes like grilled fish, tropical fruit bowls, and rice-based meals at accommodating eateries across the city.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Charlotte Amalie with these cultural adventures.
