Growing up in Southern California I spent so much of my childhood at the beach. Being a redhead, I spent it slathered in sunscreen every couple hours, under the umbrella, fighting my mom about wearing a hat when none of my siblings were forced to, and playing in the surf. I love to swim, body surf, boogie board and dig my feet in the wet sand. I love what warm salty air does to my skin and though I hated it as a child, I love how my freckles seem to stand out more at the beach. I spent a lot of time at the beach as a teenager. I went to think, to drink in the sounds and the scents on quiet days between classes and work. I have always felt the ocean in my soul. (I thank my mother for that one.)

I am a water baby.

I moved to a “land locked” state 10 years ago. Yeah, we have lakes and rivers. Those are fun, but they are not beaches. So, once a year I try to get out and get back to the beach.

One of my favorite destinations so far has been St. Thomas USVI. 

How to get there – While we visit by ship and only have one day to spend in this Caribbean oasis, flights are also pretty affordable during the winter months. (Skyscanner is a great place to check those flights. From Columbus, Ohio In February I have seen flights for under $400 RT.)

Where to stay – St. Thomas has a myriad of options. AirBnB, Hotels, Hostels and resorts! Try sites like Hostelworld, AirBnB, Booking and Hotels.com.

Things to do! – You can always relax on a beach or go snorkeling. But St. Thomas is more than just breathtaking beaches and turquoise water.

• Charlotte Amalie – Take a self-guided tour of the capital, stop and see Fort Christian, built in 1680, and the 1860s Government House. The shopping is great in the capital too, so don’t miss that!
  • 99 Steps! – Located in Charlotte Amalie and there are actually 103 steps. A great spot for photos as it is flanked by lush flowers and built in the 1700s.
• The Beaches – You can’t miss the beach while you are in St. Thomas, but you can miss out on the crowds by going to a lesser-known beach. Coki, Morningstar or Sapphire beaches will be less crowded, but if you don’t mind the crowds, head to Magens Bay.
• Pirates Treasure Shipwreck Museum – History and interactive exhibits will be found at this new museum. Here you can learn about shipwrecks from all over the world as well as extreme weather, deep sea technology and experience a “Pirate Encounter”.
• Blackbeard’s Castle – A tower built by the Danish in 1679 that offers 360-degree views of St. Thomas.
• Taste of St Thomas Tour – Take in the local flavors and sights on a tour! A great way to take in the highlights and history as well as the colorful flavors offered by this great island.
• Adventurous Tours and Low-Key Tours – St Thomas Adventure Tours offers a variety of tours for the adrenaline seekers and the adventure hunters. Snorkeling, Hiking, Rock Climbing, Kayaking, Zip-lining etc. There are many other tour companies with various family-friendly, relaxing or adventurous options. Check out Godfrey Tours and Sunny Liston Tours which have seen great reviews.

So, get out there, seek that adventure and dig those toes in the warm wet sand of St. Thomas. It will NOT disappoint!

“Keep your heart open, a suitcase packed and wander often, for the world is wide and adventure awaits.” ~ Emylee