St. Thomas Half-Day Mountain Top & Beach Hopping Tour: A Review

If you are headed to St. Thomas and thinking about seeing some postcard views and hitting some shimmering beaches, you could be weighing a half-day mountain top and beach excursion. So, is that something to consider? I took the plunge, and honestly, it really gave me a sweet taste of what the island offers, so let’s get into my take on this whirlwind outing.

Setting off for Heights and Horizons

First off, getting picked up, very timely from the cruise dock, or a hotel, tends to be pretty smooth. That transportation part, it is certainly appreciated. Anyway, those open-air safari trucks they usually use, give you those warm Caribbean breezes right away. Almost like instant vacation vibes, is that something you look forward to? The roads up to the mountain viewpoints, a bit twisty, very much so, just prepare for a slight thrilling roller coaster of a car ride.

You’ll swing by spots to stretch your eyes and soul, such as Mountain Top, and depending on the tour, perhaps Drake’s Seat. So, prepare for a panorama of unmatched ocean blues sprinkled with island greens. You’ll hear snippets of island legends and historical facts usually, which, you know, really does add some depth to snapshots.

Beach Time Bliss

Beach time follows, and that is really where this tour shines. Magens Bay tends to be a common choice. Magens, is it a world-famous wonder? Honestly, pretty debatable, the gentle waves and that soft beach, so you will get why it has that reputation. If you’ve ever daydreamed of simply waltzing into some calm, tropical waters, so it will feel like that picture comes alive. The tour typically grants you a couple of hours here, very perfect for a swim, some sunbathing, or perhaps just chilling with a beverage.

Alternatives on the Shore

Other tours could, in some respects, point you to different coastal getaways. Sapphire Beach, might be less crowded, and you might find yourself face-to-face with iguanas roaming around. Coki Beach, very celebrated for snorkeling, and very adjacent to Coral World Ocean Park, which could lead to, if you fancy it, an impromptu visit to gawk at the ocean life after dipping in the water.

The Souvenir Stop and Cultural Bites

Before wrapping up, usually, anyway, there’s a quick stop where souvenirs shout, and local crafts try to get you to pick them up. It could be, in a way, somewhat touristy, that is, actually, but hey, if a memento whispers your name, just buy it! Maybe you get to sample a regional snack. Often, that banana daiquiri at Mountain Top is that sweet must have that many talk about.

Good to Know Before You Go

Sunscreen, it could be very, very vital. You are in the Caribbean sun, basically all the time. A towel, often not provided. Cash, for beach chair rentals or treats along the trip, so keep that in mind. In that case, could you just go beach hopping yourself? Totally, you could be; you may have to spend a bit more effort setting it all up. The tour is, it can be very convenient for time strapped travelers, or people that favor structure. Is that something you seek?

Overall Feelings

If you want a really speedy St. Thomas immersion, the half-day mountain top and beach experience could just be the thing. The landscapes can be breathtaking. The beaches can be relaxing. Sure, there are possible downsides. Possible tourist traps might irk some. Really, it’s up to you, and how high your expectations are, really. But honestly, so far as introductions go, it is pretty memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What to wear on the tour?

Just wear some swim gear under some comfy clothes. That, is actually, going to be super easy to move between photo ops and swim stops. Sandals or water shoes would be that wise decision.

Are drinks and food included?

Sometimes, it may very much depend on that tour company, that it does. Double check the fine print while booking or confirm with your tour conductor what comes with that price.

Is the tour family-friendly?

In many respects, it could be! Most of the beaches have pretty gentle waves, yet always oversee the small fries. As I was saying, so keep in mind those mountain roads that could get winding. But, if you ask me, so long as you are mindful, children usually do appreciate that sightseeing and a beach dip.

Is it wheelchair accessible?

Arguably, that could be something of note to check before reserving your space because not all transportation options cater well. Be sure that they actually can.

Can you change the plan with this tour?

No, the activities are fixed. You can be taken to multiple destinations on the island.