St. Thomas vs. Nearby Islands: Which Day Trip Is Right for You?

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Quick Comparison

*Approximate travel times vary based on departure location, vessel, weather, and sea conditions.

1. St. John

Boat Time from St. Thomas

Approximately 20–30 minutes

St. John is the most popular day trip from St. Thomas, and for good reason. Nearly two-thirds of the island is protected as Virgin Islands National Park, making it a favorite for beach lovers, hikers, snorkelers, and photographers.

Best For

• First-time visitors

• Virgin Islands National Park

• Trunk Bay

• Cinnamon Bay

• Maho Bay

• Hiking

• Shopping in Cruz Bay

Perfect If...

You want to experience the classic Caribbean scenery that many visitors picture when they think of the Virgin Islands.

2. Water Island

Boat Time from St. Thomas

Approximately 10–15 minutes

Water Island is the closest island escape from St. Thomas. It feels worlds away despite being just minutes from Charlotte Amalie.

Best For

• Honeymoon Beach

• Swimming

• Paddleboarding

• Dinghy's Beach Bar

• Fort Segarra

• Relaxing

Perfect If...

You want a low-key beach day without traveling far.

3. Buck Island

Boat Time from St. Thomas

Approximately 20–30 minutes

Buck Island sits just off St. Thomas and is known for crystal-clear water, snorkeling opportunities, and uncrowded beaches.

Unlike Buck Island National Monument near St. Croix, this Buck Island is a much smaller island popular with local boaters.

Best For

• Snorkeling

• Sea turtles (when present)

• Swimming

• Private charters

• Quiet beaches

Perfect If...

Your priority is spending more time in the water than on land.

4. Jost Van Dyke

Boat Time from St. Thomas

Approximately 45–60 minutes

Jost Van Dyke is one of the British Virgin Islands' most famous destinations. Visitors come for White Bay, beach bars, and the island's relaxed atmosphere.

Because it's part of the BVI, you'll need appropriate travel documents before visiting.

Best For

• White Bay

• Beach bars

• Soggy Dollar Bar

• Couples

• Full-day charters

Perfect If...

You want a classic Caribbean beach-bar experience.

5. Norman Island

Boat Time from St. Thomas

Approximately 60–75 minutes

Norman Island has long been associated with pirate legends and is famous for snorkeling at The Caves and relaxing in The Bight.

It's one of the best destinations for travelers who want to spend most of the day on or in the water.

Best For

• The Caves

• Snorkeling

• Pirate history

• Scenic cruising

Perfect If...

You love snorkeling and marine life.

6. Virgin Gorda – The Baths

Boat Time from St. Thomas

Approximately 75–90 minutes

The Baths are one of the Caribbean's most photographed natural attractions. Massive granite boulders create pools, tunnels, and beaches unlike anywhere else in the Virgin Islands.

It's a longer trip but one many visitors consider well worth the journey.

Best For

• Photography

• Hiking

• Natural rock formations

• Adventure

• Iconic scenery

Perfect If...

You want to see one of the Caribbean's most unique landscapes.

Which Island Is Right for You?

Captain's Tip

Don't choose your destination based only on travel time.

Think about how you want to spend your day. A shorter ride to Water Island may be perfect if relaxation is your goal, while a longer trip to Virgin Gorda rewards travelers looking for a one-of-a-kind adventure.