Last Updated on March 30, 2024
Are the beaches in the U.S. Virgin Islands calling your name? I don’t blame you—they’ve called mine too!
USVI has plenty to attract with white sands, turquoise waters, fun activities, old forts, a history of pirates, and coral reefs to explore.
But traveling to any unfamiliar place brings insecurities with it. You might be wondering: Is St Thomas safe?
The answer is yes. St. Thomas is a reasonably safe destination.
In fact, 1.6 million cruise ship passengers traveled through this popular tourist destination in 2022.
It’s a safe bet that even more went in 2023–not to mention the thousands of people who flew into the airport.
Based on the sheer number of people who visit, it’s fair to say it’s a pretty safe place. Most tourists have a good experience.
Of course, nowhere is risk-free.
St Thomas suffers from a high crime rate which includes petty crimes, property crimes, sexual assaults, and drug-related offenses.
Some areas of the island are safer than others, and it’s best to avoid walking around after dark.
Solo and female travelers should implement additional safety measures, which I’ll go into later.
Hurricane season on the Caribbean islands can cause weather-related issues, too.
But all of that doesn’t mean you can’t have an amazing vacation in St. Thomas.
Let’s examine the island’s safety concerns in more detail so you can make an informed choice.
If your decision is “I’m absolutely going!” don’t miss the necessary precautions mentioned in the safety tips section.
Table of Contents
Is St. Thomas Safe For Visitors?
Before going further, let’s review a few important facts about this dreamy location.
First, St. Thomas is located in the US Virgin Islands (USVI), a U.S. territory about sixty miles east of Puerto Rico in the Caribbean Sea.
Unsurprisingly, the United States Virgin Islands are right next to the British Virgin Islands.
St. Thomas is one of the three main islands in USVI, alongside St. Croix and St. John.
However, many more tiny islands and cays dot the surrounding waters.
Verdant greenery, white sand beaches, tropical weather, coral reefs, mouth-watering cuisine, and more make St Thomas a great place to visit.
But is it safe?
While it’s true that St. Thomas has its fair share of crime, petty theft is the most common offense in tourist areas.
Other common types of crimes on the island are less likely to affect visitors. These include violent crimes, aggravated assaults, robberies, burglaries, and motor vehicle theft.
Most travel advisories recommend exercising some precautions.
For example, the Canadian government travel advisory warns about bag snatching and theft of unattended items.
It also warns that female solo travelers might be subject to verbal abuse and harassment.
Check out the safety tips section for advice to keep yourself and your family safe while in St. Thomas.
Safety For Families And Solo Travelers
St. Thomas is reasonably safe for families and solo travelers.
That said, following common sense safety practices and government agencies’ recommendations is always a good idea.
Families love traveling to St. Thomas because there are many fun activities to enjoy.
You and your kids can have an incredible time at the beaches, Coral World Ocean Park, and the Pirates Treasure Museum.
Race up the historic ninety-nine steps to Blackbeard’s Castle, or check out Fort Christian, which once protected the Danish King.
Solo travelers can also have a wonderful and safe time on St. Thomas.
However, solo travel is more risky in general than travel in a group.
Mitigate these safety concerns by:
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Choosing lodging with security, preferably where other guests are present, as opposed to an isolated vacation rental.
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Joining guided group tours. This way, you can meet other travelers while safely seeing the sights.
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Giving a family member or friend your itinerary and lodging details and checking in with them regularly.
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Avoiding unsafe areas when you’re alone, especially after dark.
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Never accept drinks from a stranger or leave your food or beverages unattended.
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Choosing reputable transportation and tours.
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Signing up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program
Experience the best adventure in St Thomas with this top-rated tour! 👉 Turtle Cove Catamaran Snorkel & Sail Adventure at Little Buck Island St. Thomas ⛵️
How About Safety At Night?
Although Numbeo, a safety survey site, ranks St. Thomas as being quite safe to walk around during the day, it isn’t safe to walk around at night.
That doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy nightlife, but stick to reputable establishments, drink responsibly, and only go out with people you trust.
Catch trustworthy transportation back to your hotel.
Which Parts Of St Thomas Are Safe, Risky?
Just as you’d avoid back alleys and certain neighborhoods in urban areas in the mainland U.S., there are unsafe places to watch out for in St. Thomas.
One of the best ways to avoid crime is to choose accommodations and activities in tourist-centric areas where law enforcement agencies are more active.
Most of the East End, Red Hook, Havensight, and Crown Bay (where the cruise ships dock), Water Island (and Honeymoon Beach), Magens Bay, and Main Street and Waterfront in Charlotte Amalie are generally safe environments.
However, you’ll want to avoid the back streets of Charlotte Amalie, especially after nightfall.
You should also steer clear of Frenchman’s Hill, Savan Street, and housing projects that tend to have higher crime rates (these often have “estate” in the name).
While Coki Beach is usually OK during the day, don’t go there after dark.
In fact, steer clear of all the beaches after dark unless you’re staying at a resort with a private beach.
In crowded places, keep a close eye on your belongings, don’t leave anything unattended, and stay alert to pickpockets.
Want to witness the beauty of St Thomas from above? Check out this Parasail Experience in St Thomas!
Is St Thomas’ Crime Rate High?
Yes. St. Thomas does have a fairly high crime rate. Fortunately, most crimes aren’t likely to affect visitors.
Let’s take a closer look at the numbers.
This FBI crime statistics report shows that there were 646 instances of property crime, 339 instances of theft, and 309 instances of violent crime in 2019.
According to a St. Thomas police report, there were 240 assaults, 109 drug-related offenses, 10 robberies, and zero homicides in 2022.
Although the incidence of crime has increased from year to year, it’s important to note that the population has as well.
In fact, the population grew by about 10% between 2016 and 2021.
Local authorities have addressed crime by increasing the number of officers on the island and working with community partners, such as the Canadian Mental Health Association, to improve public health services and housing issues that may cause crime.
Is It Safe To Travel To St. Thomas?
Yes–it is reasonably safe to travel to St. Thomas. However, as with international travel, it’s important to follow safety practices and use common sense when visiting.
For example, leave your valuables at home, choose safe lodging in safe neighborhoods, enjoy activities in reputable areas, and avoid risky behaviors like going out alone at night, irresponsible drinking, and engaging in illegal activities.
There’s also a risk of major hurricanes between June and November, with September and October typically being the worst rainy season months to visit. (If you’re wondering, the best time to visit is between December and May.)
The good news is that most crime is avoidable in USVI. Check out the safety tips for recommendations.
Is St. Thomas Swimmable?
Absolutely! St. Thomas has gorgeous beaches which are wonderful for swimming.
Magens Bay has lifeguards and swim zones, while Secret Harbor is fabulous for small children because it’s so tranquil.
Plus, there’s tons to see under the surface, so take your snorkel gear.
Virgin Islands National Park also has many pristine places to swim and snorkel.
Coki Beach, Sapphire Beach, and Lindquist Beach are additional spots to check out.
📌 Note: Some areas have strong currents and rip tides, so evaluate the conditions before you get in.
Potential hazards in the water include sea urchins and lionfish.
Looking for the best snorkeling tour in St Thomas? Check out the Snorkel Cat All Inclusive Adventure! 🐠
Is It Expensive?
Let’s face it, sparkling white sands, romantic beaches, and fun entertainment come at a price. St. Thomas isn’t cheap.
A single traveler will typically spend between $275 and $325 per day.
A family of four could spend anywhere between $1100 and $3925 a day depending on whether they choose budget or luxury options.
Ways To Save Money On St. Thomas:
✓ Visit during the rainy season, from April to mid-December, when resorts offer discounts of up to 50%.
✓ Opt for a vacation rental or hostel with a kitchen and buy food at grocery stores.
✓ Choose free activities such as swimming, snorkeling, geocaching, walking, and photography.
✓ Get a rental car and explore on your own.
Why Is St Thomas So Popular?
St. Thomas is popular because it is a paradise for anyone who enjoys white-sand beaches, snorkeling, diving, hiking, island-hopping, boat excursions, visiting pirate museums, and discovering old Danish forts.
Plus, U.S. Citizens don’t need special travel documents if traveling from a U.S. airport.
However, you’ll need to prove you’re a U.S. citizen as part of the exit requirements.
You won’t need to speak any foreign languages, which could be a perk.
St. Thomas Safety Tips
Buy Travel Insurance
It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance so you can afford medical services in the event of an emergency.
Protect your trip from cancellations and delays if you’re traveling during hurricane season.
Practice Situational Awareness
Being aware of your surroundings and noting anomalies can help prevent pickpockets from targeting you.
It can also help you notice dangers and give you time to leave a sketchy ally or avoid a dangerous ocean current.
Keep Your Hotel Room Locked
It is always a good idea to keep your hotel room locked both when you’re there and when you’re gone to prevent security breaches and theft.
Secure Your Valuables In Your Hotel Safe
Leave credit cards, valuables, and extra money in your safe to limit the amount you carry while you’re out and about.
That way, if you are pickpocketed, you won’t lose as much.
Don’t Keep Valuables In Your Rental Car
Don’t tempt anyone into breaking into your rental car. Keep valuables on your person, or out of sight, such as in the trunk.
Avoid Going Out Alone At Night
Walking around at night isn’t a good idea, especially outside tourist areas.
If you enjoy the nightlife, choose reputable locations to visit and try to go with a trustworthy group rather than alone.
Either way, drink responsibly.
Don’t Go To Beaches At Night
The beaches tend to be hotspots for illegal activities after darkness falls, so limit your beach time to daylight hours.
Stay Away From Unsafe Areas
Please note the safe and risky areas mentioned earlier in the post, and feel free to ask hotel staff and tour guides for recommendations.
Be Friendly To Locals
Basic courtesy includes greetings such as “good morning,” “good afternoon,” and “good night.”
Prevent Mosquito Bites
Wear insect repellent and long-sleeved shirts at dawn and dusk to prevent mosquito bites, which might transmit dengue fever.
What About Water?
Tap water is typically safe to drink in St. Thomas, but you should take bottled water with you to the beach to stay hydrated.
Safe Places To Stay In St Thomas
If you’re looking for safe places to stay in St. Thomas, look no further. Find accommodations in these areas, and you’ll be all set:
Downtown Charlotte Amalie
If you love being in the center of the action, downtown Charlotte Amalie is perfect.
This neighborhood is a great jumping-off point for first-time visitors to the island.
Charlotte Amalie West
Budget travelers will find affordable and safe places to stay in the west section of Charlotte Amalie, right near the airport.
Magens Bay
Traveling as a family? Magens Bay is a calm, family-friendly area with a wonderful life-guarded beach.
Frenchtown
Couples will love Frenchtown, which is sandwiched between Charlotte Amalie West and Downtown.
It’s a perfect combination of the two, with a quieter vibe but plenty of touristy things to do.
Red Hook
The eastern side of St. Thomas is also a bustling hub, with Red Hook, a prime nightlife destination, taking center stage.
End your day on a scenic sunset cruise and dinner! Book the Sunset & Harbor Lights Dinners Sail from the Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove! 🌅
Final Thoughts: Is St Thomas Safe?
In conclusion, St. Thomas is a safe destination for all types of travelers.
Whether you’re a solo traveler or someone traveling with your family, this Caribbean paradise is a reasonably safe place to visit.
You just have to keep in mind that there are certain areas that you need to be extra careful with.
Although the crime rate in St Thomas is fairly high, it is not something to worry about if you’re a tourist.
Just make sure to follow the necessary precautions, and watch for weather updates to avoid any risky situations, and surely you’ll be fine.
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Booking a last-minute trip to St. Thomas?
If so, we have you covered.
Top Tours in St. Thomas
Turtle Cove Catamaran Snorkel & Sail Adventure (The best snorkel and catamaran tour)
Parasail Experience in St Thomas (1-hour parasailing activity)
Snorkel Cat All Inclusive Adventure (Top-rated snorkeling tour)
Sunset & Harbor Lights Dinner Sail (The best sunset catamaran cruise)
St Thomas Mangrove Lagoon and Kayak & Snorkel Tour (top-rated snorkel & kayak tour)
Top Rated Hotels & Accommodations
The Green Iguana Hotel (Charlotte Amalie)
Sapphire del Mar B-106 (Beachfront St Thomas Accommodation)
Ocean and Magens Bay View @ Northstar Escape (Magens Bay)
The Mafolie Hotel (Mafolie US Virgin Islands)
Looking To Get Around In St. Thomas?
Check out rental car rates here! 🚗
