Most people think of shopping when they hear Charlotte Amalie in St Thomas. I think of all the beautiful beaches. The most famous beach is Magen's Bay, which is an $8.00 taxi ride from where the ship docks. This beach has been voted one of the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world. It is in a sheltered cove surrounded by hills and has that beautiful powder white sand and turquoise water. There are no water sports facilities here, just beautiful beach. If you come off of the cruise ship, be sure to get here early, since it tends to become very crowded.
The other beautiful beach close to the ship is Sapphire Beach. There is a full facility hotel on site and this beach is far less crowded than Magen's Bay. The views here are also beautiful with the island of St John and the BVIs off in the distance. It is also a short walk from the beach to the marina where you can rent jet skis for $60.00.