Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The
Water Island Ferry( 340-690-4159; one way $5)
departs roughly every
hour from outside Tickles Dockside Pub at Crown Bay Marina. The journey takes 10
minutes. Taxis from downtown to the marina cost $4 to $5 per person.
South Side
A couple of well-known resorts dot the shore between Charlotte Amalie and the East End,
offering beaches, steel pan bands and cigar menus.
Beaches
Bolongo Bay
RESORT BEACH
A long, broad golden crescent in front of the hotel of the same name, this beach adjacent
to Rte 30 has to be one of the most picturesque hotel beaches on the island. You have the
hotel's beach bar and restaurant, Iggie's, and a water-sports operation to keep you in sup-
plies. Nap under palm-frond umbrellas on the beach's left side, or hammocks on the right
side. The water is pretty calm, with decent snorkeling. Some areas can be rocky. The people
who frequent the beach are largely young couples and families on package vacations.
Those interested in diving should stop by well-regarded
St Thomas Dive Club (
340-776-2381;
www.stthomasdivingclub.com
)
on the sand next door to Iggie's.
Morningstar Bay
RESORT BEACH
A thin, beige strand just east of the Marriott Frenchman's Reef resort, this site is a mani-
cured hotel beach with all the trimmings. A water-sports vendor rents jet skis, kayaks and
sailboats in a shop at the beach's east end, though they won't come cheap. Nonguests must
pay for beach chair rentals ($10 per day). The water gets deep quickly and often has mild
waves; it's great for a refreshing swim. If you're an early riser, it's fun to come here and
watch the cruise ships glide into the harbor. Morningstar can be busy. While most of the
people you meet here are hotel guests, some West Indians and expats sunbathe here.
