Our Corner of Paradise
Welcome to St. Thomas! At Cruz Bay Watersports, we believe in authentic experiences that allow you to explore St. John like a local! The first step is familiarizing yourself with the history of the island. By the time our knowledgeable local crew takes you on your next adventure, you’ll already know the story behind each sight.
Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, St. Thomas Island may be modest in size—only 13 miles long and four miles wide—but it stands as the cosmopolitan gem of the U.S. Virgin Islands. This vibrant island is a paradise for adventurers and leisure seekers alike, offering an exquisite blend of shopping, nightlife, sailing, snorkeling, world-class golf courses, and breathtaking beaches that enchant couples and families.
Steeped in rich colonial culture and tales of legendary pirates, St. Thomas invites explorers to immerse themselves in its storied past and the early days of trading. Since its establishment, it has been the quintessential gateway for visitors to the local islands, serving as the primary hub for travel to the enchanting smaller isles nearby.
St. Thomas effortlessly combines the allure of historic tours and water activities with the serenity of its pristine beaches. The island’s eastern side, in particular, caters to travelers seeking indulgence, with its luxurious resorts offering unparalleled comfort and relaxation. Experience the timeless charm and endless adventures of St. Thomas with Cruz Bay today!
If you are seeking an endless summer, then St. Thomas is the place for you. The warm tropical weather ranges from about 77 to 82 F in the winter months.
We use the US/American dollar throughout the USVI. Banking services, automated teller machines, traveler’s checks, and credit cards are widely available and accepted.
The national language is English. Being a port location, there are eclectic blends of other countries and languages represented in the dialect. Spanish speakers are also abundant in the area.
As a territory of the US, Americans can travel to St. Thomas without a passport. For all other nationalities, a passport is needed for entry. More info can be found here: www.cbp.gov
The island is in the Atlantic Standard Time zone during the winter months and in the summer we are in line with the US East Coast Time zone. Daylight Savings time is not recognized in the USVI.
There is no need for any additional adapters if you are from the US, we use the same 110-volt outlets.
Taxis are easily accessible and are equipped to handle groups of four or more – some are even open-air buses so you can really take in the sights of the islands!
The main airport for the USVI is located in St. Thomas, The Cyril E. King Airport (CEKA), and it is serviced by several major airlines including American, US Air, and United Airlines.
The Roy Lester Schneider Hospital is a 169-bed acute care facility located on St. Thomas and it provides treatment and care for common ailments and emergency services.
Be careful driving in St. Thomas, we drive on the left side of the road! Seat belts are required for drivers and passengers. Cell phone use is prohibited while driving. US drivers can drive with a valid license.
Passenger ferries operate daily and frequently to take you to the surrounding islands. Schedules are available in town and at the Transportation Services in your hotel. There are also ferry services to the British Virgin Islands but plan ahead for a specific trip itinerary.
At Cruz Bay Watersports, we believe in authentic experiences that allow you to explore St. Thomas like a local! The first step is familiarizing yourself with the history of the island. By the time our knowledgeable local crew takes you on your next adventure, you’ll already know the story behind each sight.
St. Thomas, a jewel of the Caribbean, is steeped in a history as intriguing as it is luxurious. This island has long served as the gateway to the United States, its historical architecture echoing tales of adventure and intrigue. The island’s buildings, rich with the spirit of the past, showcase a blend of pirate lore, trade, Danish influence, and the legacy of slavery.
Imagine the thrill of standing at Blackbeard’s Castle, a majestic fortress built in 1679. From its heights, you can survey endless miles of ocean, much like the pirates who once roamed these waters in search of treasure. The thick walls and grand staircases of the castle hold centuries-old secrets, inviting you to explore their mysteries.
St. Thomas also boasts the oldest synagogue in continuous use in the United States, along with several other historic places of worship that have anchored both spiritual and civic life for generations. The island’s history of discovery is as rich as its landscapes. Long before the arrival of Europeans, St. Thomas was home to the Ciboney, Taino, Arawak, and Carib tribes. By the late 1500s, journals from explorers recorded their presence. However, the wave of settlers in the 1600s brought diseases that devastated these indigenous populations. Although figures like Christopher Columbus passed through, none made the island their home. Instead, St. Thomas flourished as a vibrant hub of trade, often echoing the spirited endeavors of pirates.
Today, St. Thomas captivates travelers and locals alike with its lush environment and idyllic island lifestyle. To experience the island’s unique blend of history and modern charm, book an exceptional experience with Cruz Bay today!
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