Exploring Charlotte Amalie

As the capital and largest city in the U.S. Virgin Islands, it only follows that Charlotte Amalie would be worth a visit. Located on St. Thomas, Charlotte Amalie is full of energy and activity options vacationers won’t want to miss.

Downtown Charlotte Amalie is a great place to browse the duty-free shopping, as well as enjoy elegant dining and exciting nightlife. The city offers countless dining options, ranging from chef-prepared haute cuisine to more casual and traditional island fare. For a taste of the lively nightlife scene, major resorts host the bulk of evening activities, though many smaller venues can be found if you’re in the mood for an open mic night or dancing to the beats of a DJ.

For shopping, one of the most popular areas is Yacht Haven Grande, located alongside Charlotte Amalie Harbor. The facility is home to a 48-slip marina complemented by a shopping galleria, dining and entertainment, and recreational amenities.

Visit the highest point on St. Peter Mountain above Charlotte Amalie at Mountain Top. At the 1,547-foot summit, visitors can revel in the panoramic views, enjoy duty-free shopping and taste the attraction’s popular banana daiquiri, with a recipe dating back more than 60 years.

Don’t miss the famous 99 Steps of Charlotte Amalie, for a workout you won’t soon forget. This national historic landmark was built was the Danes in the 1700s, and leads to the residential area above Charlotte Amalie and to Blackbeard’s Castle.