St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands is a stunning island paradise, and getting around efficiently will ensure you make the most of your trip! Whether you want the freedom of a rental car, the adventure of an open-air safari taxi, or the convenience of a ferry, this guide covers all the best transportation options on the island. Remember there is no Uber or Lyft ride share on St. Thomas, but there are plenty of other options (we prefer a car rental – we suggest from the airport using Hertz or Enterprise).
1. Renting a Car 🚗 (Best for Exploring at Your Own Pace)
Renting a car is a great way to explore St. Thomas on your schedule. It allows you to visit remote beaches, scenic viewpoints, and local hotspots without relying on taxis.
🔹 What to Know:
- Drive on the left (Even though it’s a U.S. territory!)
- Most rentals are automatic transmission
- Gas prices are slightly higher than on the mainland
- Parking in Charlotte Amalie can be tricky—arrive early!
✅ Best for: Adventurers, families, and those planning to explore the island in depth.
🚘 Book a rental car in advance:
Compare Rental Prices
2. Taxis 🚖 (Best for Convenience & No Stress Driving)
Taxis are widely available and ideal if you prefer to sit back and enjoy the ride.
🔹 Taxi Types:
- Regular Taxis – Standard metered rides.
- Safari Taxis – Open-air trucks with bench seating (great for scenic rides!)
- Private Taxis – More expensive but offer personalized service.
💰 Rates are per person and set by the government (no meters). Always confirm the fare before hopping in!
✅ Best for: Cruise passengers, short trips, and visitors who don’t want to drive.
🚖 Find taxi rates here:
Official Taxi Rates
3. Public Transportation 🚍 (Best for Budget Travelers)
Public transportation in St. Thomas is limited but affordable. The main option is the VITRAN Bus, which services major areas of the island.
🔹 What to Expect:
- Routes cover Charlotte Amalie, Red Hook, and the West End.
- Fares range from $1 to $2 per ride.
- Service is infrequent, so plan ahead.
✅ Best for: Budget travelers and those with flexible schedules.
📍 Check VITRAN bus schedules:
View Bus Timetable
4. Ferries ⛴️ (Best for Island-Hopping Adventures)
Ferries are a fun and scenic way to explore nearby islands like St. John, Water Island, and the BVI.
🔹 Popular Ferry Routes:
- Red Hook to St. John – 15 minutes
- Charlotte Amalie to St. John – 40 minutes
- Crown Bay to Water Island – 10 minutes
- St. Thomas to Tortola – 45 minutes
✅ Best for: Day trips to St. John, Water Island, or the British Virgin Islands.
⛴️ Check ferry schedules & book tickets:
View Ferry Options
5. Walking & Biking 🚶♂️🚲 (Best for Exploring Local Areas)
Walking is a great way to explore Charlotte Amalie’s historic district, but keep in mind that St. Thomas is very hilly, and sidewalks can be limited.
🔹 Biking Info:
- Not very common due to steep roads & traffic.
- Some resorts offer bike rentals for short rides.
- Best areas for walking: Downtown Charlotte Amalie, Frenchtown, Red Hook.
✅ Best for: Exploring local shops, restaurants, and markets.
Final Travel Tips for Getting Around St. Thomas 🌴
- Taxis charge per person, not per ride—factor this into your budget!
- If renting a car, be comfortable driving on the left.
- Public transport is limited, so plan accordingly.
- Ferries are a great way to explore the nearby islands!
Which transportation method works best for you?
Drop a comment below and let us know how you plan to get around St. Thomas! 🚗🚖⛴️