
Charlotte Amalie Waterfront St Thomas
Vibrant waterfront hub in St. Thomas, offering duty-free shopping, diverse dining, historic sites like the 99 Steps, and stunning harbor views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

Charlotte Amalie Waterfront St Thomas
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vibrant waterfront hub in St. Thomas, offering duty-free shopping, diverse dining, historic sites like the 99 Steps, and stunning harbor views.
"A lively promenade with shops, restaurants, and beautiful harbor views, perfect for exploring."

E-Scooter Adventure
Download the VIBES app for easy e-scooter rentals to explore the waterfront! :scooter:
Climb the 99 Steps
Conquer the historic 99 Steps for amazing views and a glimpse into Danish history. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Charlotte Amalie Waterfront Promenade
Downtown Charlotte Amalie
A lively promenade offering stunning harbor views, shops, and restaurants. Perfect for a leisurely stroll.

The 99 Steps
Near Blackbeard's Castle
Historic Danish-built steps offering a challenging climb and rewarding panoramic island views.

Yacht Haven Grande
Waterfront
A modern marina with upscale dining, boutique shopping, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Waterfront Charm
Navigate with Ease
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
E-Scooter Adventure
Download the VIBES app for easy e-scooter rentals to explore the waterfront! :scooter:
Climb the 99 Steps
Conquer the historic 99 Steps for amazing views and a glimpse into Danish history. :athletic_shoe:
Waterfront Stroll
Enjoy the paved walking path along the waterfront, close to shops and history. :walking:
Local Eats
Seek out local restaurants for authentic flavors beyond the usual tourist spots. :forkandknife:
Tips
from all over the internet
E-Scooter Adventure
Download the VIBES app for easy e-scooter rentals to explore the waterfront! :scooter:
Climb the 99 Steps
Conquer the historic 99 Steps for amazing views and a glimpse into Danish history. :athletic_shoe:
Waterfront Stroll
Enjoy the paved walking path along the waterfront, close to shops and history. :walking:
Local Eats
Seek out local restaurants for authentic flavors beyond the usual tourist spots. :forkandknife:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Charlotte Amalie Waterfront for its vibrant atmosphere, scenic harbor views, and convenient access to shopping and dining. The historic 99 Steps are a popular, albeit challenging, highlight offering great photo opportunities. Some find the area can be crowded, especially when cruise ships are in port, and advise being mindful of tourist traps.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From the cruise ports like Havensight Mall or Crown Bay Center, you can easily reach the Charlotte Amalie Waterfront by taxi, a short ride-share, or even by renting an e-scooter via the VIBES app. Many visitors also enjoy a scenic walk along the waterfront path.
Yes, the waterfront area is very walkable, with a paved promenade perfect for strolling. For exploring further into downtown or to attractions like the 99 Steps, comfortable shoes are recommended.
You'll find taxis readily available. For a more eco-friendly and fun experience, consider renting e-scooters through the VIBES app, which can take you from Havensight or Crown Bay to the waterfront and downtown.
Yes, taxis are the most common way to get from the Cyril E. King Airport (STT) to Charlotte Amalie. The ride is relatively short and offers scenic views of the island.
The waterfront promenade is generally accessible. However, some historic areas and attractions like the 99 Steps may present challenges due to their nature. It's advisable to check specific attraction accessibility beforehand.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Charlotte Amalie Waterfront itself is a public area and does not require tickets for entry. You can freely explore the promenade, shops, and restaurants.
The 99 Steps are a public historical landmark and do not have an entrance fee. You can climb them at your own pace.
E-scooter rental costs vary based on duration and usage. It's best to check the VIBES app for current pricing and any available packages.
While not always advertised, you can often find local guides offering historical walking tours of Charlotte Amalie. Inquire at local information booths or with taxi drivers.
Most shops and restaurants along the waterfront operate during typical business hours, often extending into the evening. Hours can vary, especially on weekends and holidays. It's wise to check specific establishments if you have a particular place in mind.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the Charlotte Amalie Waterfront promenade for its views and atmosphere, the historic 99 Steps for a climb and panoramic vistas, and Yacht Haven Grande for upscale shopping and dining.
The waterfront offers a mix of duty-free shops, local boutiques, and souvenir stores. You can find jewelry, clothing, local crafts, and more.
Absolutely! The waterfront and surrounding downtown area boast numerous restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, from local Caribbean dishes to international fare. Yacht Haven Grande also has several dining options.
To immerse yourself in local history, explore the historic Danish architecture downtown, climb the 99 Steps, and consider a guided walking tour that delves into the area's past.
Generally, the main waterfront and well-lit areas are considered safe for evening strolls. However, as with any urban area, it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in less populated side streets.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfront offers great shots of the harbor and boats. Climbing the 99 Steps provides stunning panoramic views of the town and sea. The colorful architecture downtown is also very photogenic.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful golden hour hues. Midday sun can be harsh.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is acceptable in shops and restaurants. However, it's always polite to ask permission before taking extensive photos, especially if it might disrupt other patrons or staff.
There are usually no specific restrictions on photography in public areas like the waterfront. However, be mindful of private property and always respect individuals' privacy.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing both wide harbor views and details of the architecture. A smartphone with a good camera is also perfectly adequate for most visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the 99 Steps can be a bit challenging for very young children, older kids might enjoy the climb and the rewarding views. Many restaurants along the waterfront are family-friendly, offering diverse menus. For a more relaxed experience, look for spots with outdoor seating where kids can have a bit more space.
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilize e-scooters for short distances if they prove more economical than taxis for your itinerary. Many shops offer duty-free prices, which can be a good way to get value on souvenirs or gifts. Walking is your best friend for exploring the downtown area and avoiding transportation costs.
couples
The 99 Steps offer a fun, active date, followed by exploring the charming streets of downtown Charlotte Amalie. Renting an e-scooter for a shared adventure can also add a playful element to your day.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Charlotte Amalie by E-Scooter
These eco-friendly scooters are GPS-tracked and offer a unique perspective of the area. They're perfect for zipping between shops, restaurants, and scenic viewpoints along the waterfront promenade. It's a popular choice for visitors looking to cover more ground with ease and enjoy the Caribbean breeze.
Remember to download the VIBES app before you arrive or upon arrival to get started. It's a modern and convenient way to experience the charm of Charlotte Amalie, especially if you want to avoid extensive walking or waiting for taxis.
A Glimpse into History: The 99 Steps
Climbing these steps is a popular activity for visitors, offering not only a physical challenge but also a rewarding experience. At the top, you're greeted with breathtaking panoramic views of the harbor, the town, and the surrounding islands. It's a fantastic spot for photos and to appreciate the island's geography.
These steps are also conveniently located near other historical sites, such as Blackbeard's Castle, making them a great starting point for a historical exploration of Charlotte Amalie. For those staying in the hills, like at the Harborview estate, the 99 Steps are a direct link to the waterfront.
Dining Delights at the Waterfront
Visitors often rave about the fresh seafood and local Caribbean flavors. Exploring the restaurants around Yacht Haven Grande provides a more contemporary dining scene, while venturing into downtown Charlotte Amalie can uncover hidden gems with authentic island cuisine.
When planning your dining, consider the time of day. Evenings can be particularly lively, with many restaurants offering a vibrant atmosphere. It's always a good idea to check reviews or make reservations, especially during peak tourist season, to ensure a table at your desired spot.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit