St. Thomas
St. Thomas offers accessible Caribbean diving for all skill levels. Its protected coves and clear waters host a variety of dive sites, from shallow, vibrant coral reefs teeming with fish to impressive shipwrecks that have become thriving artificial habitats. With most sites just a short boat ride from shore, divers can easily experience multiple underwater environments in a single day. The island's well-established dive infrastructure makes it an ideal destination for both newly certified divers and seasoned veterans looking for relaxed, beautiful dives.
Diving conditions in St. Thomas are favorable year-round, with warm water temperatures ranging from 78-85°F (26-29°C) and visibility often exceeding 60 feet. The best time to visit is during the dry season from December to May for the calmest seas. As a U.S. territory, it offers the allure of an exotic Caribbean escape without the need for a passport for American citizens. This combination of world-class diving, easy travel logistics, and beautiful topside scenery makes St. Thomas a premier and convenient dive vacation choice.
Top Sites
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most popular dive site in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, U.S.?
The WIT Shoal II is arguably the most famous dive site in St. Thomas. This 327-foot freighter was intentionally sunk in 1984 and now sits upright in about 90 feet of water. Its sheer size, multiple levels, and open cargo holds make it a thrilling exploration for advanced divers. It acts as a massive artificial reef, attracting large schools of fish, barracuda, and other pelagic species, making it a must-do dive for wreck enthusiasts visiting St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, U.S.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, U.S.?
Well-known sites like Cow and Calf Rocks offer beautiful, shallow reef diving perfect for all levels, featuring swim-throughs and abundant marine life. For a less-crowded experience, seek out dives at sites like the Cartanser Senior wreck, a retired navy vessel offering a great mid-range depth profile. Another hidden gem is French Cap, an offshore pinnacle that attracts larger marine life due to its exposure to currents, providing a more advanced and rewarding dive away from the main crowds in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, U.S.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, U.S.?
The water temperature in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, U.S. is warm and pleasant for diving year-round. During the winter months (December to March), temperatures average around 78-80°F (25-27°C). In the summer (June to September), the water warms up to a balmy 82-85°F (28-29°C). These consistently warm conditions make for comfortable dives any time of the year.
When is the best time to visit St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, U.S.?
The best time for diving in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, U.S. is during the dry season, from December to May. This period offers the most pleasant weather, with calmer seas and consistently excellent visibility. While diving is great year-round, visiting during these months helps avoid the Atlantic hurricane season (officially June to November), which can bring storms and rougher surface conditions. This prime season provides the most reliable conditions for enjoying the island's underwater attractions.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, U.S.?
Underwater visibility in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, U.S. is typically excellent, a key feature of Caribbean diving. Divers can usually expect visibility ranging from 60 to 100 feet (18 to 30 meters), and it can sometimes exceed this on calm, clear days. While heavy rainfall or storms can temporarily reduce visibility closer to shore, the water generally clears up very quickly, ensuring great conditions for spotting marine life on the reefs and wrecks.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, U.S.?
St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, U.S. is not a primary destination for large migrations like whale sharks or manta rays. However, during the winter months from January to March, migrating humpback whales pass through the wider region. While sightings are not guaranteed and are quite rare directly from St. Thomas, it is sometimes possible for divers to hear their enchanting songs underwater, which is a truly magical experience. Otherwise, marine life is consistent year-round.
What marine life can I expect to see in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, U.S.?
Divers in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, U.S. can expect to see a rich variety of Caribbean marine life. Green and hawksbill sea turtles are very common encounters. You will likely see southern stingrays, eagle rays, moray eels, and schools of reef fish like parrotfish, angelfish, blue tangs, and sergeant majors. Nurse sharks are often found resting under ledges, while vibrant coral gardens and sponges cover the reefs, creating a lively and colorful underwater ecosystem.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, U.S.?
For the warm waters of St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, U.S., minimal exposure protection is needed. During the summer months (82-85°F), many divers are comfortable in a simple rash guard and swim trunks. For added protection and warmth on multiple dives or during the slightly cooler winter months (78-80°F), a 3mm shorty or a 2mm to 3mm full wetsuit is ideal. This provides sufficient warmth without causing overheating.
How do I get to St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, U.S.?
Getting to St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, U.S. is very straightforward. You can fly into Cyril E. King Airport (STT), which receives direct flights from many major cities on the U.S. mainland. As a U.S. territory, no passport is required for U.S. citizens. From the airport, taxis and rental cars are readily available to take you to your hotel or dive resort. The island's well-developed infrastructure makes travel simple and convenient.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, U.S.?
St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, U.S. is exclusively a shore-based diving destination. There are no dedicated liveaboards that operate solely around the island. The dive sites are all located within a short and easy boat ride from the main marinas. Staying on shore in a hotel or resort is the standard and recommended option, allowing you to enjoy daily boat dives while also having the flexibility to experience the island's many topside attractions, restaurants, and beaches.