Descend beneath the surface of the Caribbean at this marine educational facility and aquarium that allows you to go beyond the traditional aquarium experience with activities like SNUBA and Sea Trek. SNUBA is a cross between snorkeling and scuba diving, where you breathe through a regulator attached to a 20-foot air hose, while Sea Trek is a guided underwater walking tour utilizing a helmet that allows you to breathe while walking on the ocean floor. See tropical fish and stunning coral reefs.

One of the most popular snorkeling destinations on the island is Sapphire Beach, located on the southeastern coast. The beach features clear turquoise waters and stunning coral reefs. As you swim around the outcroppings, you’ll be surrounded by coral species like staghorn coral, elkhorn coral, and brain coral. In addition, keep your eyes peeled for tropical fish like blue tangs, sergeant majors, and parrotfish. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a sea turtle!

Secret Harbour (though it isn’t too much of a secret) is a popular snorkeling and scuba diving destination on the southwestern coast of St. Thomas. Home to a wide variety of tropical fish species, sea turtles, and octopi in a protected reef, the beach’s rocky side walls and clear waters make for excellent visibility while snorkeling.

Some of the calmest, most paddle-friendly waters are found in the Cas Cay-Mangrove Lagoon Marine Reserve & Wildlife Sanctuary off St. Thomas, located near the island’s east end. Mangrove Lagoon is a protected area and home to mangroves, seagrasses, fish, and other marine life. Paddle through the lagoon’s tranquil waters and keep your eyes peeled for turtles, stingrays, and barracuda.

Water Island is just a short ferry ride from St. Thomas in Charlotte Amalie’s harbor and is perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. Enjoy the sights of the plush, white sands, crystal clear waters and the island’s vibrant greenery. It’s also a great way to see St. Thomas from a different perspective.

Double Header Sportfishing is a must-book charter that will help you experience some of the best sportfishing in the world. With over 25 years of experience, Double Header offers guided fishing trips for a half, 3/4, or full-day excursion in either their 40 ft. sportfishing or 37 ft. diesel-powered, open fishing boat. If you choose an inshore charter, you’re likely to catch tarpon, rainbow runner and possibly shark. The offshore charter is perfect for fishing Mahi, tuna and marlin.

Sailing the Cosmos has multiple tours available, from snorkeling and sailing around Sapphire Beach to sunset sailing with wine and cocktails. Take in the stunning views of the cliffs and coastline as you sail past popular spots such as Coki Beach and Lindquist Beach. Stop for a swim or some snorkeling, or sit back and relax on the boat’s deck with Sailing the Cosmos’ private “just sailing” package.

For folks seeking a taste of luxury, Waypoints Yacht Charters allows you to splurge on an all-inclusive luxury yacht charter to sail around St. Thomas. Customize the perfect day on the water and sail to destinations such as Honeymoon Beach and Water Island. Then, sit back and relax as a private chef prepares delicious Caribbean cuisine and the captain and crew tend to your every whim.

If big game fishing is your idea of paradise, St. Thomas comes equipped with charters to get you to the catch of a lifetime. Captain Alvin Fishing Charters is one of the best charters in the Charlotte Amalie area, offering access to some of the legendary fishing grounds of the North and South Drop. The charters vary in length, from three hours to an all-day affair and Capt. Alvin will fillet and clean up to 25 pounds of fish upon request. So here’s hoping you reel in a big one.