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Great Bay Ritz-Carlton

4.2
·1k reviews·, U.S. Virgin Islands

Plush beachfront hotel in St. Thomas offering oceanfront views, multiple pools, and fine dining.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Sunset views are magical

CrowdMedium
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Great Bay (Ritz-Carlton) - Image 1

Great Bay Ritz-Carlton

Best Time

Evenings

Sunset views are magical

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Plush beachfront hotel in St. Thomas offering oceanfront views, multiple pools, and fine dining.

4.2
(1k reviews)

"The property itself is gorgeous - from the buildings to the beaches and walkways. Everything was well maintained and clean."

Vertical photo
TIP

✨ Club Level Perks

Consider the Club Level for enhanced amenities and snacks; it's often recommended .

🍽️ Dining Variety

Enjoy resort dining, but explore local town restaurants for dinner for a different experience.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Oceanfront Views & Suites

Oceanfront Views & Suites

Guest Rooms & Suites

Wake up to breathtaking ocean vistas from plush rooms and luxurious suites, some featuring expansive showers.

Infinity Pools & Waterslides

Infinity Pools & Waterslides

Pool Areas

Relax by multiple pools, including an infinity pool with stunning ocean views and a fun waterslide for all ages.

Alloro Italian Restaurant

Alloro Italian Restaurant

Alloro Restaurant

Savor delicious Italian cuisine with spectacular views, especially memorable during celestial events like a supermoon.

Pristine Beachfront

Pristine Beachfront

Resort Beach

Enjoy a well-maintained, clean beach area perfect for relaxation and swimming, though some suggest clearing more grass for better ocean access.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Island Pace

While the Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas offers luxury, remember you're on an island. Embrace a relaxed pace, especially with service. Some reviewers noted slower service or staff needing reminders, but many also highlighted exceptional individuals who made their stay memorable. Plan for a leisurely experience rather than rushing.

Club Level & Dining Decisions

Consider the Club Level for added amenities and snacks, as recommended by some guests.TikTok For dining, while some rave about the food, others suggest exploring local town restaurants for dinner, finding them more satisfying than certain resort options. Beachside food and breakfast buffets received mixed reviews.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Sunset views are magical
Crowd
Medium
When
Mornings
Why
Quieter pool and beach time
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#RitzCarltonStThomas #PlatinumElite #LuxuryTravel #MarriottBonvoy #IslandEscape #BeachfrontLuxury #CaribbeanGetaway #FiveStarExperience #EliteStatus #TravelInStyle #LuxuryResort #TropicalParadise #BonvoyTraveler #ResortLife #VIPTravel
@gigi152130
17 likes • 600 views

✨ Club Level Perks

Consider the Club Level for enhanced amenities and snacks; it's often recommended.TikTok+1

🍽️ Dining Variety

Enjoy resort dining, but explore local town restaurants for dinner for a different experience.

Would you stay in The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas Presidential Suite? I could literally just live in the shower and be happy 😂😍 #roomtourcheck #luxuryaesthetic #luxurytravels #travelinstyle #stthomas #stthomasusvi #stthomasvirginislands #caribbeantravel #travelwithme #bucketlisttravel #bucketlistdestinations #travelandleisure #explorerpage #fyp #luxuryresort #matadornetwork #matadorcreator @Matador | ...
@charliecoopertv
156 likes • 2.7K views
“✨ Luxury redefined in the U.S. Virgin Islands 🌴 The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas offers breathtaking oceanfront views, world-class dining, infinity pools, and private beaches 🏝️ Your dream Caribbean escape starts here! ⏳ Don’t wait — click the link in bio to get started today! #traveldeals #luxurytravels #fyptravel #tiktoktravel #travelagentsoftiktok
@hallmarktravels
832 likes • 51.5K views

🚗 On-Property Transport

Utilize the golf cart service for easy transport around the expansive property.Reddit

🦟 Bug Protection

Complimentary natural bug spray is provided in rooms; bring extra if you're sensitive.Reddit

You don’t need a cabana at the Ritz. But you also don’t need to settle for average. #RitzCarltonVibes #StThomasLuxury #CabanaGoals #VIPBeachDay #RitzCarltonEscape #LuxuryDayPass #TravelInStyle #CaribbeanLuxury #ResortReset #BeachsideVibes #UnwindAndRecharge #TropicalDream #fyp #ritzcarltonstthomas
@keepcalmandtravelon_
11 likes • 462 views

Tips

from all over the internet

✨ Club Level Perks

Consider the Club Level for enhanced amenities and snacks; it's often recommended.TikTok+1

🍽️ Dining Variety

Enjoy resort dining, but explore local town restaurants for dinner for a different experience.

🚗 On-Property Transport

Utilize the golf cart service for easy transport around the expansive property.Reddit

🦟 Bug Protection

Complimentary natural bug spray is provided in rooms; bring extra if you're sensitive.Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The resort offers stunning backdrops for photos, especially during sunset.TikTok+1

What Travellers Say

4.2
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Guests often praise the Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas for its stunning beachfront location, well-maintained grounds, and the exceptional hospitality of specific staff members who go above and beyond. However, some reviews note areas needing updates and mixed experiences with dining and overall service consistency.

"We stayed here for two nights in November as part of a work excursion. We were greeted upon arrival by a staff person with a cool towel that smelled like lavender. It was very refreshing. We were escorted to check in which was easy and quick. Out bellman, Bruce, escorted us via golf cart to our building and helped us to the room. He gave us some helpful information and assured us that if we needed a ride anywhere on property we just needed to all. It was the most hospitable welcome at a hotel I have ever experienced.

Our room was clean and comfortable. We had a great view of the property. I was happy to see some complimentary natural bug spray in our room - the one thing I forgot to bring. There was also bug spray in one of the closets.

We went to the Italian restaurant in property for drinks. The staff there were friendly and professional. The drinks were great.

We participated in a group event at Sails the next night. The food there was buffet style for us and it was delicious. All service staff were friendly and professional.

There were pools, restaurants and a coffee shop onsite.

The property itself is gorgeous - from the buildings to the beaches and walkways. Everything was well maintained and clean.

The concierge was helpful with deciding on an activity. We took the water taxi to St John and back.

We arrived via taxi so I scant comment on any parking situations but I am sure they have that handled well.

I can’t say enough good things about this property. We had a great time."

Miss Val

"I would love to give this property a 5 star however, there was a few issues I saw that could have made this a true Ritz experience. I will start with the negatives and end with all the positives.

Firstly, the hallways and some of the surroundings for the elevators needed updates, this was the first thing we noticed upon arrival. The rooms themselves were done really well and were very clean and the grounds were kept well maintained. The ladies who serviced our rooms, especially our evening service were amazing!

There was also a few missed opportunities for the views from the pools and the jacuzzi, mostly the main pool which blocked out the ocean because of the shrubs in front of it. This could be an amazing pool if the shrubs were cut down below the pool wall to be able to see into the ocean. The very small area of the pool that did have a view was nice but the glass tiles of the pool were broken in that area and could be a hazard. Also, I felt that they could have cleared at least 10 to 20 ft of the beach of all the grass to give guests a better, more swimmable beach and enjoy being in the ocean, however, the snorkeling was amazing but you had to swim out quite far to see any sea life.

When it came to the food, the beach side food we ordered was so good, the fries and the fried shrimp, but the food we tried at one of the restaurants left us unsatisfied. So we didn't go to any of the restaurants for dinner and drove down to town every night to enjoy our meals. The breakfast buffet was also so-so when comparing to other resorts of similar caliber but the eggs and omelet Marie made us were always amazing!

Finally, the staff, mostly we saw a lot of people who seemed unhappy to be there, and moral seemed low for many. We were told while having a conversation with one of the staff that they had to keep an eye on the time because they had to clock out or else they would get written up, which I thought was absurd.

We always said hello first to all the employees, and everyone always responded but not always with a smile (could be a cultural thing?) so I do believe that this was not up to par with other Ritz or Marriott properties I've experienced where all of the staff greet you with a friendly smile and seem happy to be there. However, there were some people that really stood out to us and made our stay incredible. These are the super stars that I would make true examples of how to interact with guests and all of them showed a true passion for their jobs.

Starting with the wonderful Kimorah at the front desk who was so kind and really made our stay extra special in so many ways, and of course Adriana and Joe, the managers who were also just as kind and such a pleasure to meet, these 3 played a huge role in how much we enjoyed our stay at this property.

We also really loved interacting with Aaliyah at the SW, always greeted us with joy, and the other ladies at the SW as well but we specifically connected with Aaliyah! Lisa at breakfast was a pleasure to meet, she always brightened our morning when we walked in as she danced towards us and made us smile right away, ready to enjoy our breakfast. Valerie and the other servers were also incredibly friendly and made our breakfast enjoyable.

We really looked forward to seeing Patricio every morning at the club beach and seeing the passion he has for his job was such a pleasure. We truly missed him on his day off, he was the example of the Ritz hospitality for us. Another honorable mention was the concierge - Renita, she was so full of life and wonderful with suggestions about all the questions we had for her.

Overall we really loved our stay here at the Ritz, with a few improvements, this property could truly become something special! Thank you for having us and we look forward to seeing you again!"

A F

"Had a great time here for our 10 year anniversary! J’Lane at the front area when you pull in to walk in was always welcoming, sincere, and caring. Tessa at the pool area served us all day long with a smile and was always checking on us. We have stayed here before and always had a great experience. This time we found it for around $600/night which is a fair price for this location. The only thing that needs some attention is the Pizza from the Italian restaurant on site. Undercooked dough with virtually no sauce is no way to serve a pizza. It’s already a great item to markup. Don’t scare people away from ordering some late night Za’s. Great customer service all around and a special thanks again to J’Lane this guy was always on top of his customer service game."

Tyler Woogie

What People Like

Beautiful beachfront property
Exceptional staff service
Luxurious rooms and suites

What People Dislike

Areas needing updates
Inconsistent dining
Occasional service lapses

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Most travelers arrive via Cyril E. King Airport (STT) in Charlotte Amalie. From the airport, you can take a taxi directly to the resort, which is about a 20-30 minute drive. Some guests also arrive by ferry or private boat. The resort can assist with arranging transportation.

Yes, the resort offers parking for guests. While specific details on valet or self-parking costs aren't always clear, it's generally handled well for those arriving by car.Reddit

Yes, the resort offers a water taxi service, which is a convenient way to explore nearby islands like St. John.Reddit

Taxis are readily available for exploring beyond the resort. For on-property travel, the resort provides a golf cart shuttle service, which is highly recommended for navigating the grounds.Reddit

Direct flights to St. Thomas (STT) are available from several major U.S. cities, making it relatively accessible for many travelers.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While not strictly 'tickets,' booking your accommodation in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons. You can book directly through the Ritz-Carlton website or through travel agencies. Some TikTok creators mention upgrades or special packages.TikTok

Standard check-in time is typically 3:00 PM, and check-out time is 12:00 PM. It's always a good idea to confirm these times directly with the resort when booking.

Like most luxury resorts, there may be resort fees that cover amenities and services. It's advisable to check the resort's booking details or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on all applicable fees.

Some TikTok videos mention the possibility of day passes or cabana rentals for non-guests.TikTok It's best to contact the resort directly to inquire about availability and pricing for day passes.

The Club Level offers exclusive access to a dedicated lounge with complimentary food and beverages throughout the day, personalized concierge services, and often priority check-in. It's a popular upgrade for many guests.TikTok+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The resort boasts multiple outdoor pools (including an infinity pool and one with a waterslide), a pristine beach, tennis courts, a fitness center, and various water sports. Concierge services can also help arrange off-site excursions.Reddit

The beach is generally beautiful and well-maintained. While some guests suggest clearing more of the beach grass for optimal swimming, snorkeling is excellent if you swim out a bit further.Reddit

Yes, the pools are generally heated, making them comfortable for swimming year-round. The resort features several pool areas, including a family-friendly option with a waterslide.Reddit

The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas offers several dining venues, including Alloro (Italian), Sails (buffet/events), and beachside food options. There's also a coffee shop. Some guests prefer dining in town for dinner.Reddit

While not explicitly detailed in all reviews, luxury resorts like the Ritz-Carlton typically offer spa services. It's best to check the resort's official website or contact them for current spa offerings and treatments.

🍽️ 🍴 Food & Dining

Reviews are mixed. Beachside food and breakfast buffets (especially omelets) are often praised.Reddit Alloro Italian restaurant offers great views and good food. However, some guests found certain restaurant meals and the pizza from the Italian restaurant to be disappointing, suggesting exploring local town eateries for dinner.Reddit

Yes, the resort generally offers options suitable for families. The beachside dining and buffet options are usually well-received by children. The resort also has a kids' area.Reddit

Luxury resorts typically offer room service. It's advisable to check the resort's in-room directory or contact the front desk for room service menus and operating hours.

Yes, the resort has a coffee shop, providing a convenient spot for morning coffee, pastries, or light snacks.

As expected at a luxury resort, food and drink prices are on the higher side. Dining at local restaurants in town can offer more budget-friendly alternatives for some meals.

📸 📸 Photography

The resort offers numerous picturesque locations, including the beachfront, infinity pool areas, guest room balconies with ocean views, and during sunset.TikTok+1 The architecture and landscaping also provide beautiful backdrops.

Absolutely! Rooms with oceanfront views offer stunning backdrops for personal photos and content creation. Many TikTok videos showcase these views.TikTok+1

The Presidential Suite is a highlight, and many guests capture extensive room tours and photos within it, showcasing its luxurious features.TikTok

Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is permitted. However, it's always wise to be mindful of other guests' privacy and avoid intrusive photography, especially in private areas.

The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most beautiful natural light for photography. Evenings are particularly stunning for capturing sunset views.TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas is a great choice for families. The resort features a fun waterslide in one of its pools, which is a big hit with children.Reddit The beach area is also suitable for family fun, and the resort offers a dedicated kids' area.Reddit While some dining can be upscale, beachside options and the breakfast buffet are generally kid-friendly. The spacious rooms and grounds allow for plenty of room to roam. Remember to pack sunscreen and bug spray, though the resort does provide some complimentary bug spray.Reddit

💍 Honeymooners & Couples

For a romantic getaway, the Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas offers stunning oceanfront views, especially during sunset,TikTok and luxurious suites perfect for couples.TikTok The Alloro restaurant provides a romantic dining experience with spectacular views.Reddit Consider booking a room with a private balcony to enjoy quiet moments together. While some reviews mention potential service inconsistencies, many couples have celebrated anniversaries and honeymoons here, highlighting the exceptional service from specific staff members who made their stay memorable.Reddit

✈️ Solo Travelers

Solo travelers can find a luxurious and relaxing retreat at the Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas. The resort offers a safe and beautiful environment to unwind. Some solo travelers have appreciated the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to enjoy the amenities at their own pace.TikTok The concierge can assist with planning day trips or activities, and the resort's dining options provide convenient choices. The Club Level can be a good option for solo travelers seeking added comfort and convenience.

💰 Budget-Conscious Luxury Seekers

While the Ritz-Carlton is a luxury property, savvy travelers can find ways to manage costs. Look for off-season deals or package offers that might reduce the nightly rate, as one reviewer found a fair price around $600/night.Reddit Consider the Club Level as it can sometimes offset costs by providing snacks and drinks throughout the day, reducing the need for frequent restaurant visits. Exploring local restaurants in town for some meals, especially dinner, can also be more budget-friendly than dining exclusively at the resort.Reddit While not a budget destination, strategic planning can make a luxury stay more accessible.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas Experience

The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas aims to provide a luxury beachfront escape in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Guests often highlight the hospitable welcome and the gorgeous property grounds.Reddit The resort features multiple outdoor pools, including an infinity pool with ocean views and a waterslide, alongside a private beach area. Many visitors appreciate the spacious and clean rooms, with some opting for upgraded suites that offer expansive living spaces and stunning vistas.TikTok The resort also provides amenities like tennis courts and a fitness center, catering to a range of guest preferences.

However, the experience isn't without its critiques. Some reviews point to areas needing updates, such as hallways and elevator surroundings, and suggest improvements to the pool and beach areas to maximize ocean views.Reddit While many staff members are praised for their exceptional service, a few reviews mention instances of low staff morale or less-than-enthusiastic interactions, though this is often contrasted with the outstanding service from specific individuals.Reddit Dining experiences can be varied, with some guests finding certain resort restaurants less satisfying than expected, leading them to explore local culinary scenes.

Despite these points, the overall sentiment leans positive, with many guests celebrating the resort's beautiful setting, attentive service from standout employees, and the overall relaxing atmosphere.TikTok+1 The resort is particularly noted for its family-friendly amenities while still offering a sophisticated environment for couples and solo travelers. For those seeking a high-end Caribbean vacation, the Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas offers a compelling, albeit sometimes imperfect, luxury experience.

Dining Delights and Disappointments

When it comes to dining at the Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas, the experiences shared online paint a varied picture. Beachside food, particularly items like fries and fried shrimp, receives positive mentions for its taste and convenience.Reddit The breakfast buffet is also a highlight for many, with specific shout-outs to omelet stations and friendly servers like Lisa and Valerie who brighten mornings.Reddit Alloro, the resort's Italian restaurant, is frequently cited as a favorite, especially for its spectacular views and enjoyable meals, particularly when dining during significant celestial events like a supermoon.Reddit

However, not all culinary experiences hit the mark. Some guests have expressed disappointment with certain restaurant meals, finding them less satisfying than anticipated for a resort of this caliber. The pizza from the Italian restaurant has been specifically called out for being undercooked with minimal sauce, a point of contention for a potentially popular item.Reddit This has led some visitors to opt for dining in the nearby town for their evening meals, seeking more consistent satisfaction. The Club Level offers an alternative for snacks and lighter fare throughout the day, which many find to be a worthwhile addition.TikTok+1

Ultimately, while the Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas offers several appealing dining options, particularly for breakfast and casual beachside bites, guests might want to manage expectations for some of the more formal restaurant offerings. Exploring local eateries can provide a complementary and potentially more satisfying dining adventure.

Navigating the Property and Amenities

The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas is a sprawling property, and getting around is made easier by the resort's golf cart shuttle service. Guests are encouraged to call for a ride anywhere on the property, a service that has been highlighted as very hospitable.Reddit This is particularly useful given the distances between rooms, pools, restaurants, and the beach. The grounds are meticulously maintained, contributing to the overall luxurious feel, with beautiful landscaping and clean walkways.Reddit

The resort's pool areas are a major draw. There are multiple pools, including a main pool that some reviewers feel could offer better ocean views if landscaping were adjusted.Reddit However, the infinity pool provides stunning vistas, and a waterslide adds an element of fun for families and the young at heart. The beachfront is also a key amenity, offering a place for relaxation. While generally clean, some guests suggest clearing more of the natural beach grass to enhance the swimming experience and improve access to marine life for snorkeling.Reddit

Beyond the pools and beach, the resort offers tennis courts and a fitness center. The concierge service is available to assist with planning activities, including excursions like taking the water taxi to St. John.Reddit For those seeking a more exclusive experience, the Club Level provides additional amenities and services, often cited as a valuable upgrade by guests.TikTok+1

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