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Updated Mar 06, 2025How to Plan the Ultimate Bachelorette Trip to St. Thomas
From shopping and nightlife to world-class beaches, check out the perfect spots for a memorable island getaway.
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by Kelsey Paine
Does your idea of the ultimate bachelorette party consist of sandy beaches, tropical drinks and gourmet meals? Think beyond the typical stateside destinations and consider the US Virgin Islands, a trio of easily accessible Caribbean islands that don't require a passport. Each island has its own unique identity, but with its cosmopolitan array of shopping, restaurants, culture, adventure and amazing nightlife, St. Thomas is the perfect setting for any bride-to-be's last hurrah. Whether you're excited to explore, determined to dance all night or both, we've crafted a fun itinerary for every type of bridal squad. Check out our recommendations for a totally tailored celebration.
The Food Fanatics
Mafolie Hotel
If your squad is always first in line to try the newest culinary trends and never misses Sunday brunch, you can expand your palates at adventurous restaurants located in beautiful (and very Instagrammable) surroundings.
Where to Eat and Sleep: Enjoy food coma-induced naps and spectacular views at Mafolie Hotel. Located 866 feet above sea level, this North Side hotel has been around since 1952 and offers a popular Sunday brunch buffet (including unlimited drinks) at its on-site restaurant. For a true taste of St. Thomas, have lunch at Gladys' Cafe, where you can taste local delicacies like conch chowder and sample hot sauces made from scratch.
What to See and Do: Have a private guide show your group hot spots around the capital city of Charlotte Amalie on the St. Thomas Food Tour, where you can savor 10 different tastings from local restaurants and specialty shops—all while learning about the island's fascinating Danish history. Come nighttime, head to Fatty's, a mainstay of the restaurant and nightlife scene that serves the island's only blackened Mako shark burger (a local favorite) alongside frozen tropical drinks. The bar and grill has a neon-lit outdoor dance floor, arcade games and various themed parties to keep the good times rolling until dawn—perfect for the bride-to-be determined to stay up and watch a Caribbean sunrise.
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The Glitzy Girl Squad
Marriott, Havana Blue, Sugar & Spice Salon & Spa, iStock
Your group enjoys the finer things in life—especially when you're on vacay. From upscale restaurants and chic boutiques to spa days and bottle service, you'll find tons to do to cater to your classy crowd.
Where to Eat and Sleep: Book a Royal Suite at the newly renovated Marriott Frenchman's Reef. These bi-level rooms overlook both the ocean and the glittering lights of Charlotte Amalie. Sunbathe at the infinity pool (complete with a swim-up bar) or lay out at the hotel's private beach. For dinner, reserve a table at the oceanfront Havana Blue, which blends Cuban and Pan-Asian flavors with a sexy and sophisticated feel thanks to billowing white curtains and blue lighting. Spend another evening at Banana Tree Grille, where you can sip sunset cocktails at happy hour while taking in the twinkly hilltop views, and then savor shrimp and filet mignon. Head there on the weekend to catch a live pianist playing softly in the background.
What to See and Do: Scope out Magens Bay, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world (Twilight fans might recognize it as a location from Breaking Dawn - Part 1), where you can splash around the crystal blue water and explore five acres of coconut groves. Or consider chartering a Magic Moments yacht to explore the nearby islands, snorkel and enjoy a leisurely lunch on board. Back on land, peruse designer boutiques at the Yacht Haven Grande shopping area, or get a massage at the nearby Sugar and Spice salon and spa. After a zen afternoon, get dressed up to dance the night away and sing your favorite songs at The Keys St. Thomas, known for its dueling pianos and live performers.
The Ladies of Leisure
Bolongo Bay, Sunset Grille, EcoTour
If the idea of island time conjures daydreams of a leisurely siesta beneath the palm trees—complete with a coconut drink in hand—get ready to kick back and live like a local at these fun and easygoing St. Thomas locales.
Where to Eat and Sleep: Embrace a slower-paced lifestyle and the natural surroundings at Two Sandals by the Sea Inn, an intimate bed and breakfast nestled by Secret Harbor Beach on the island's East End. Looking for a little more action? Try Bolongo Bay Beach Resort, a small property with a famous weekly snorkel booze hunt, and free paddleboarding and kayaking. Have a nice long meal nearby at the Sunset Grille, an alfresco steakhouse with unobstructed views of Nazareth Bay. Then hobnob with the local yachties and enjoy fruity frozen concoctions at the Big Kahuna Rum Shack overlooking the harbor.
What to See and Do: Scope out Lindquist Beach, a favorite with residents thanks to its shallow tide pools and light pink sand. Book a private EcoTour to Mangrove Lagoon or historic Hassel Island to swim with sea turtles and snorkel or kayak over a live coral reef. At night, Iggies Beach Bar & Grill is a must: Mingle with locals and visitors while you sip voodoo punch, enjoy live bands and stilt dancers, and join in on karaoke and limbo!
The Eco Adventurers
iStock, North Side Bistro, Virgin Islands Campground
You and your girls are ready to explore the great outdoors. Leave the heels at home and pack your hiking boots to enjoy these beautiful St. Thomas sights.
Where to Eat and Sleep: Become one with nature at the Virgin Islands Campground, where you can fall asleep to the sounds of the ocean in eco-friendly cottages ensconced among the trees of Water Island, a secluded enclave just a seven-minute ferry ride from downtown Charlotte Amalie. Take a quick walk down to the water to spot small fish and wading birds in Limestone Bay. For dinner, try the award-winning Buddha Sushi for fresh local fish and veggies, or take in a steel drum performance at the North Side Bistro's brewery, which serves a full menu alongside natural handcrafted beers free of artificial colors or flavor additives.
What to See and Do: Hop a 20-minute ferry to the nearby island of St. John and take in the tranquility and beauty of its national parkland. Check out the quaint village at Cruz Bay or snorkel with sea turtles and multicolored fish near Caneel Bay Resort. Back on St. Thomas, break a sweat climbing one of the five USVI National Historic Landmarks: the 99 Steps of Charlotte Amalie. At the top, enjoy an amazing view of the island and explore Blackbeard's Castle, originally built as a watchtower in 1679 and later used by the infamous pirate as a lookout point. Cool down with some shopping at Crown Bay Center, where you can purchase locally made artisanal crafts, jewelry and clothing. When you're ready for some evening fun, head to downtown Red Hook to hop between the area's walkable stretch of lively bars and restaurants, like Duffy's Love Shack, known for its hand-crafted cocktails, amiable staff and island-inspired grub. Or take in live entertainment at nearby Latitude 18, the last remaining completely open air restaurant/bar in St. Thomas.
