Chapter 12: The Ultimate Guide to Island Hopping from St. Thomas
Chapter 12: The Ultimate Guide to Island Hopping from St. Thomas
Discover the Virgin Islands Beyond St. Thomas
One of the greatest advantages of staying on St. Thomas is its location at the heart of the Virgin Islands.
Within a short boat ride, you can explore secluded beaches, protected national parks, world-famous snorkeling reefs, lively beach bars, and some of the Caribbean's most iconic destinations. In fact, many visitors are surprised to learn that some of the most memorable experiences of their vacation take place off St. Thomas rather than on it.
Island hopping allows you to experience several unique islands in a single trip, each with its own personality, scenery, and attractions. One island might offer hiking trails through a national park, another a floating taco bar in crystal-clear water, and another a quiet beach where your footprints are the only ones in the sand.
Whether you choose a ferry, a guided excursion, or a private boat charter, exploring beyond St. Thomas is one of the best ways to appreciate everything the Virgin Islands have to offer.
Why Go Island Hopping?
Although St. Thomas is packed with incredible beaches, restaurants, and attractions, every neighboring island offers something completely different.
Some are known for snorkeling.
Others for beach bars.
Some are nearly untouched by development.
Others are filled with charming towns, hiking trails, and historic landmarks.
Island hopping lets you experience several of these worlds in a single vacation without changing hotels or unpacking your luggage.
Best Islands to Visit from St. Thomas
1. Saint John
Travel Time: Approximately 20–30 minutes
If there's one island every visitor should consider, it's St. John.
Roughly 60% of the island is protected as Virgin Islands National Park, preserving pristine beaches, lush hiking trails, and some of the Caribbean's healthiest coral reefs. Famous beaches like Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, and Maho Bay consistently rank among the best in the world.
Popular activities include:
- Snorkeling
- Hiking
- Beach hopping
- Scenic drives
- Wildlife viewing
- Exploring Cruz Bay
Best For: Nature lovers, first-time visitors, families, photographers
2. Jost Van Dyke
Travel Time: Approximately 45–60 minutes by boat
Tiny, relaxed, and famous throughout the Caribbean, Jost Van Dyke is best known for its beach bars and carefree atmosphere.
Visitors often spend the day swimming in White Bay before stopping at legendary beachfront establishments like the Soggy Dollar Bar or Foxy's.
Popular activities include:
- Beach bars
- Swimming
- Snorkeling
- Live music
- Caribbean cuisine
Best For: Adults, couples, groups of friends
3. Virgin Gorda
Travel Time: Approximately 60–90 minutes
Home to one of the Caribbean's most famous natural attractions, The Baths.
Massive granite boulders create caves, tunnels, and crystal-clear pools unlike anywhere else in the region.
Popular activities include:
- Exploring The Baths
- Photography
- Snorkeling
- Swimming
- Hiking through the boulders
Best For: Adventure travelers, photographers, families
4. Water Island
Just a short ferry ride or boat trip from Charlotte Amalie, Water Island feels like stepping back in time.
Highlights include:
- Honeymoon Beach
- Golf cart rentals
- Fort Segarra
- Quiet beaches
- Relaxed island atmosphere
Best For: Families, couples, relaxing day trips
5. Christmas Cove
Located off Great St. James Island, Christmas Cove is one of the most popular boating destinations in the Virgin Islands.
Its calm anchorage attracts dozens of boats, while the clear water makes it a favorite snorkeling destination. Many visitors also stop to grab a slice from the famous floating pizza boat.
Best For:
- Snorkeling
- Swimming
- Boat days
- Families
- Lunch on the water
6. Lovango Cay
Lovango Cay has quickly become one of the Virgin Islands' most exciting destinations.
Known for its boutique resort, beach club, and beautiful snorkeling, it offers an upscale island experience just minutes from St. Thomas.
Best For:
- Luxury travelers
- Couples
- Snorkeling
- Beach clubs
- Dining
How to Island Hop
Visitors generally have three options:
Ferry
- Affordable
- Great for St. John and Water Island
- Fixed schedules
- Limited flexibility
Group Excursions
- Easy to book
- Multiple destinations
- Less expensive
- Fixed itinerary
Private Boat Charter
- Completely customizable
- Visit multiple islands
- Flexible schedule
- More privacy
- Access to hidden beaches and reefs
- Great for families and groups
Which Island Is Right for You?
| If You Want... | Go Here |
| Best beaches | St. John |
| National Park | St. John |
| Beach bars | Jost Van Dyke |
| Giant rock formations | Virgin Gorda |
| Quiet escape | Water Island |
| Floating pizza | Christmas Cove |
| Luxury experience | Lovango Cay |
