The US Virgin Islands – St. Thomas

The Ritz Carlton – Luxury Resort in the Caribbean

© Brigitte Surette

May 30, 2009
The Ritz Carlton-Great Bay, Jeff Surette, Photographer
For those desiring the epitome of luxury St. Thomas has to offer, the Ritz Carlton is a tranquil, coastal paradise set against turquoise waters and white sand beaches.

The Ritz Carlton, with exceptional dining, variety of room accommodations, free recreational activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing, and hobie cat excursions; and its close proximity to its sister, smaller island, St. John, is the ultimate getaway.

Amenities at the Ritz Carlton in St. Thomas

The Ritz has 180 newly-renovated rooms, from deluxe rooms (450-500 square feet) to Presidential Suites (1,850 square feet); each has its own private terrace with full and/or partial ocean views. Offering premium amenities such as flat screen televisions, 24-hour room service, daily housekeeping and turndown service, fully-stocked refrigerators and coffee makers, and in-room safes, each one is decorated with laid-back, elegant West Indies flair. To enjoy the best the Ritz has to offer, upgrading to “club level” is the way to go—for an extra fee, one can eat, drink, and take advantage of full concierge services throughout the day and into the evening. The club lounge serves delicious culinary breakfasts, lunches, snacks, hors d’ oeuvres, sweets, mixed drinks and wine from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. With an attentive staff and an intimate atmosphere (think sipping rum drinks or wine in a expansive dining room or deck with the Caribbean as a view!), the upgrade is well worth the extra fee.

Magen's Bay

The Ritz is close to the famous Magen’s Bay, touted as the 2nd most beautiful beach in the world. Hop aboard an open air taxi and within 10-15 minutes, one can sunbathe for the day on this gorgeous spot—with mountains rising above and around; clear blue water, and snow-white sands, Magen’s is a popular tourist attraction. Take a cruise from the hotel’s private beach on board the Kekoa Shuttle, a large, propulsion-powered catamaran with a crew of four dedicated guides that will whisk you to and from St. John for the modest fee of $35 per person round trip, (rum punch and/or water included). Explore the quaint shops and bars of Mongoose Junction while there and take a taxi up steep hills to Trunk Bay, a little jewel surrounded by tropical foliage, blue-green water, coconut trees, and white-powered sand. For a more upscale sailing adventure, take the resort’s Lady Lynsey, a 53-foot catamaran that offers sunset, dinner, and private cruises to St. John and other destinations.

Spa and Workout Facilities at the Ritz, St. Thomas

The Ritz’s spa offers a large variety of indulgences—facials, waxes, massages—you name it, it’s here! For the ultimate experience, enjoy a couples’ massage in the open air cabana perched above the Caribbean listening to the waves and soothing music. Visit their store where one can purchase resort wear including Sugar Apple Designs by local artist and printmaker Shanda Chiumento. This beautifully designed, brightly-colored clothing line has one-of-a-kind prints representing the flora, fruit, fish, and history of the Virgin Islands.

The Ritz’s 2,000 square foot fitness center has strength training equipment and weights, and treadmills and stair climbers with televisions and views of the Caribbean! After an exhausting workout, walk down to the infinity pool, relax in one of the many padded lounge chairs where all one does is raise a flag—a staff member is happy to bring food or beverages to pamper guests basking in the sun.

For the ultimate in Caribbean luxury—whether it’s a family or romantic getaway—the Ritz Carlton is the absolute best resort that St. Thomas has to offer.


The copyright of the article The US Virgin Islands – St. Thomas in US Virgin Islands Travel is owned by Brigitte Surette. Permission to republish The US Virgin Islands – St. Thomas in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.


The Ritz Carlton-Great Bay, Jeff Surette, Photographer
Trunk Bay, St. John, Jeff Surette, Photographer
Kekoa Crew at Ritz Carlton, Jeff Surette, Photographer
Ritz Carlton--Ocean View from Room Terrace, Jeff Surette, Photographer
Ritz from Kekoa Cruise, Jeff Surette, Photographer


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