When you want to escape to a stunning island paradise where you can relax along the shores of a sandy beach and stroll through an awe-inspiring tropical oasis, set your compass for the always entertaining U.S. Virgin Island of St. Thomas. St. Thomas is a recreational wonderland where outdoor attractions await and opportunities for excitement abound, so pack your bags and head for the hassle-free vacation of a lifetime.

As an unincorporated territory of the United States, U.S. citizens need not worry about bringing their passport and going through the delays that come with traveling overseas. Instead, they can simply hop aboard a plane and set out for a vacation near the renowned and always spectacular Magens Bay. Magens Bay, located on the North Atlantic side of the island, is a breathtaking mile long stretch of sand where swimming in its calm, clear water and relaxing on its soft, white sand beach are always popular activities. However, as the most popular beach on St. Thomas, it can get crowded in the afternoon and when cruise ships are in port, so try to get there early for the best sunning spots.

Coki Beach, situated on the East End of the island, is a great alternative if you want a similarly beautiful sandy oasis without having to deal with the masses that flock to Magens Bay. Boasting calm waters that gradually deepen, Coki Beach is the perfect jumping off point for a snorkeling expedition, a jet ski adventure, or an afternoon of learning how to scuba dive. And with its waterside eateries that serve picnic table fare, a day at the beach is an enjoyable and stress-free experience where everything you need for the perfect afternoon is at your fingertips.

While Coki Beach is perfect for an action-packed day filled to the brim with numerous water sports, Coki Point is also home to the most popular attraction on the island--the Coral World Ocean Park. Get up close and personal with the Caribbean's marine life at the underwater observation tower that takes you 15 feet below the water's surface and 100 feet off shore. Situated in the middle of a living coral reef, visitors can see colorful, vibrant reef fish, deep sea flowers, and stunning coral in their natural state. Other popular attractions at the ocean park include the petting a baby shark at the Shark Shallows Pool, hand feeding a stingray, and searching for iguanas on the nature trails.

As the capital and largest city in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Charlotte Amalie is overflowing with opportunities for adventure and excitement. Take the 99 steps, which were built during the Danish colonial period from the ballast bricks of ships, for the breathtaking views above Charlotte Amalie or head to Fort Christian to see the oldest structure on the island and the home of The Virgin Island Museum. With all of the historical sights and buildings throughout the city, an informative day lies just around the corner in Charlotte Amalie.

For some of the most picturesque landscapes on the island, make a beeline for the St. Peter Great House and Botanical Gardens. Situated one thousand feet above Hull Bay and Magens Bay, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the neighboring islands, including St. John, Tortola, Tobago, and Jost Van Dyke, in addition to shimmering waterfalls, a lush nature trail, a vibrant and stunning botanical garden, tropical bird aviaries, and many other memorable features in this mountain setting.

For a relaxing and enjoyable island getaway complete with all the adventures you could possibly imagine, consider St. Thomas vacation rentals for your accommodations needs. Stay along the shores of your favorite sandy beach and enjoy easy access to all of the amazing waterfront attractions that abound in the crystal clear waters off of St. Thomas. And when you want to escape the crowds and enjoy some time to yourself, your vacation rental provides all the comforts of home while allowing for the most breathtaking views of the water from your patio. To realize the invigorating St. Thomas vacation you always imagined, begin your search for the perfect villa or condo rental today and head out to your island paradise tomorrow.

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HomeAway.com has the most comprehensive selection of vacation rental homes on the Internet. For an alternative lodging option, consider St. Thomas vacation rentals for your next trip to the U.S. Virgin Islands.