Best Hiking Trails in St. Thomas USVI (2026)
St. Thomas isn't just beaches — from walking between the Atlantic and Caribbean at Mermaid's Chair to descending volcanic cliffs at Cas Cay, here are the 7 best hikes on the island.
Interactive Trail Map
Tap a numbered pin to see trail details — terrain view shows elevation contours
All 7 Hiking Trails
Saint Maria Beach Trail
Hidden gem with Magens Bay views and great snorkeling
A hidden and quiet gem on the northwest side of St. Thomas, Saint Maria Beach offers a peaceful hike with stunning views of Magens Bay. The trailhead can be tricky to find — look for the sign that may be overgrown with vegetation. The trail is relatively flat, making it accessible for beginners, and ends at a secluded beach with excellent snorkeling.
How to Get There
Drive via Route 35 toward Magens Bay. Look for the trailhead sign on the left before the Magens Bay entrance. Limited roadside parking.
Highlights
Tip: Bring snorkeling gear — the beach at the end has colorful reef fish. The trailhead sign may be obscured by vegetation; look carefully along the roadside.
Hull Bay Trail
Moderate coastal hike to the island's best surf spot
Starting from Hull Bay Beach on the north shore, this trail winds uphill through lush tropical vegetation offering incredible views of the ocean and nearby islands. Hull Bay is known as St. Thomas's best surf spot, and the trail delivers panoramic vistas of the coastline. End your hike with Caribbean food at the Hull Bay Hideaway.
How to Get There
Take Route 37 North to Hull Bay Road. Free parking at Hull Bay Beach. About 20 minutes from Charlotte Amalie.
Highlights
Tip: Combine this hike with lunch at Hull Bay Hideaway. The beach is also a local favorite for paddleboarding.
Mermaid's Chair
Walk between the Atlantic and Caribbean on St. Thomas's western tip
One of the most unique hiking experiences in the USVI, Mermaid's Chair takes you along a narrow strip of land that divides the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. The trail is partially paved and passes several private beaches. It's best done at low tide when you can walk between both bodies of water. You'll need a government-issued ID to sign in at the gated Botany Bay entrance.
How to Get There
Drive to Botany Bay via Route 30. Sign in with government-issued ID at the gated community entrance. Limited parking at the trailhead.
Highlights
Tip: Check tide tables before going — low tide is essential for the best experience. Bring your passport or driver's license for the gate check-in.
Cas Cay Mangrove & Volcano Hike
Kayak to a volcanic island with tidal pools and blowholes
For the most adventurous hikers, Cas Cay offers 15 acres of protected land accessible only by kayak. After paddling through mangrove lagoons, you'll explore volcanic cliffs, tidal pools, a geologic blowhole, and stunning coastal viewpoints. This is a guided full-day adventure typically departing from nearby marinas.
How to Get There
Book a guided kayak tour from a Red Hook marina. Tours depart from the mangrove lagoon near the Ritz-Carlton. No independent access.
Highlights
Tip: Book through a USCG-licensed outfitter like Virgin Islands Ecotours. Wear water shoes and bring a dry bag for your phone.
Magens Bay Nature Trail
Easy beachside walk at the world-famous Magens Bay
A gentle trail that runs along the edge of Magens Bay, one of the world's most beautiful beaches. The path follows the shoreline and ventures into the wooded area at the far end of the beach. It's an easy walk with views of turquoise water, white sand, and sailboats. Perfect as a cool-down walk after swimming.
How to Get There
Drive via Route 35 North. $5 adult entry fee to Magens Bay. Large paved parking lot ($2). Taxis from cruise port ~$10/person.
Highlights
Tip: Arrive before 10 AM to beat cruise ship crowds. Explore the nature trail at the far end of the beach — most visitors miss it.
Charlotte Amalie Harbor Walk
Easy paved walk with harbor views, shops, and history
While not a traditional hike, the Harbor Walk is a scenic 2.5-mile paved trail along the Charlotte Amalie waterfront. You'll pass historic warehouses converted to shops, see cruise ships docking, and enjoy harbor views. It's perfect for history buffs and those wanting an easy, accessible walk.
How to Get There
Start at the cruise ship dock or Fort Christian. Fully accessible via the downtown area. Free.
Highlights
Tip: Combine with a visit to Fort Christian and the 99 Steps. Best in the morning before midday heat.
Neltjeberg Beach Trail
Challenging descent to one of St. Thomas's most secluded beaches
A steep, rocky trail that rewards you with one of the most secluded beaches on St. Thomas. The terrain is rough with narrow passages and loose rocks, but the sweeping ocean views and pristine beach at the bottom are worth every step. This is the closest thing to a 'real' hike on St. Thomas.
How to Get There
Take Route 37 past Hull Bay. Look for the unmarked trailhead on the left. Very limited roadside parking.
Highlights
Tip: Wear sturdy hiking shoes — the terrain is steep and rocky. Bring plenty of water. Not suitable for young children.
What to Bring Hiking on St. Thomas
Essentials
- ✓ 1+ liter water per person
- ✓ Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+
- ✓ Wide-brim hat or cap
- ✓ Sturdy athletic shoes or hiking sandals
Recommended
- ✓ Insect repellent
- ✓ Snorkeling gear (for beach-end trails)
- ✓ Camera / waterproof phone case
- ✓ Offline trail maps (cell service is spotty)