Curator’s statement
While planning a family beach getaway, I realized not all family members had their passports, which limited our destination options. Luckily, St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, home to some of the top beaches in the world, does not require passports! The beautifully renovated Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas is the perfect beach destination for several reasons. The resort offers a combination of luxury, comfort and a stunning natural environment that few other accommodations on the island can match. It's no surprise that it's rated as the best resort in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The resort staff were beyond friendly and there were endless activities accessible on or from the resort, which made it the perfect destination for a family vacation.
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Background:
The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas (a Marriott Property), recently underwent a remarkable $100 million transformation following the impact of Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017. Nestled amid lush tropical flora and offering views of Great Bay, this refreshed and renovated oasis seamlessly blends traditional architecture with contemporary comforts.
Accommodations:
Featuring 180 rooms and suites designed in serene neutral tones and adorned with delicate fabrics, the resort ensures that the focal point remains the expansive beaches just beyond the windows, providing captivating vistas of the Caribbean Sea.
Available Suites & Rooms:
With 180 rooms offering nine different categories, including Resort and Ocean View rooms, Club Level rooms, Ocean View suites and Presidential suites, guests are treated to luxurious amenities such as featherbeds, a pillow menu and premium bath products. The Club Lounge provides an exclusive experience with daily culinary offerings, while common-use items and games are available upon request.
On-site Dining:
Alloro (Italian)
Coconut Cove (Caribbean)
Salis (American)
Southwind (Coffee House)
Sea to Sails Experience (Freshly caught seafood on Wednesday evenings)
Resort Amenities & Activities:
Guests can indulge in the remodeled adults-only infinity-edge pool or the exciting new family pool complete with a slide. For the epitome of relaxation, consider upgrading to one of the brand-new pool cabanas on the deck. Additionally, the swanky Club Level experience offers over four food service preparations daily, along with an open bar.
Resort Activities:
The Lady Lynsey II: The Ritz-Carlton’s private luxury sailing catamaran
Pool cabana experience
Ocean view cabanas
Beachfront gazebo
Ultimate gaming experience: includes a Top Golf Swing Suite and Simulator
Cruz Bay Watersports: paddle boarding, kayaking, snorkeling and Hobie cats are available to use
Tennis courts
Ritz kids club
The Ritz-Carlton spa
The fitness center
Transportation:
Upon arrival, guests can fly into the Cyril E King Airport, conveniently located 10 miles and 35 minutes away. Transportation options include a shared public taxi for $25 per person or a private transfer arranged via the Concierge for $210 accommodating four people. The capital, Charlotte Amalie, is a 20-minute taxi ride, while the casual dining hub of Red Hook is just five minutes away. Guests can also opt for a 15-minute ferry ride from Red Hook to St. John, where they can explore the nearby Westin property, offering an opportunity to experience both islands.
It's important to note that the resort is situated on the opposite side of the island from the main town, which offers dining and shopping options. However, the secluded location offers its own advantages, outweighing the distance. Pros of the property include its private setting, convenient access to the lively dining and nightlife scene in Red Hook, proximity to the St. John ferry and complimentary beach water sports. One of the highlights is the opportunity to embark on a snorkel cruise aboard the Lady Lynsey catamaran directly from the resort. I highly recommend opting for club access for daily meals and drinks, and if you're seeking dining options off the resort that aren't too far away, The Easterly in the Red Hook quarter comes highly recommended.
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Need to know
With world class snorkeling and top-rated beaches, The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas is the perfect recommendation for clients who are wanting a luxury beach experience but do not have passports. This resort is perfect for couples, families, honeymoons, babymoons and even destination weddings. Club level rooms pack the most value with food and beverage services included all day!
Tip: pack your own water tumbler to use at the resort.
My Top Activity Recommendations:
Enjoy the non-motorized water activities directly on site at Cruz Bay Watersports.
St. Thomas Maho Bay Turtle Snorkel Sail - five hour trip picked up directly at resort.
Champagne Sunset Sail with open bar and appetizers - picked up directly at resort.
For seamless planning, I recommend booking the roundtrip airport transportation through The Ritz Carlton in a private black escalade.
For ultimate relaxation, book the 80-minute Seaside Cabana massage.
This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to St. Thomas.
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Travel Advisor
Julia Gowens
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