Gorgeous and lush, St. Thomas is an upscale holiday destination in the Caribbean that is very popular among Americans. One of the U.S. Virgin Islands, the island shares the same language and currency as the continental United States, and Americans don’t need a passport to visit.
Plus, St. Thomas is just a three-hour flight from Miami, making it a convenient spot for families. Its natural beauty, excellent beaches and diving, fun things to do, and opulent resorts also make it a prime pick for a tropical destination wedding.
The territory has a well-earned reputation as a relatively expensive destination. If you’re looking for luxurious resorts you will definitely find them here, but there are budget-friendly choices as well.
To help you find the perfect place for your trip, here are our picks for the top 10 St. Thomas all-inclusive resorts for families.
Bolongo Bay Beach Resort
Bolongo Bay Beach Resort has been setting the standard for St Thomas all inclusive family resorts since 1989. After Hurricane Irma hit it in 2017, the 65-room family-owned resort bounced back better than ever, with charming rooms, family-friendly entertainment like live music on the beach after sunset, and delicious food and drinks (all included).
During the day, guests can take a complimentary diving class or snorkel into the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea. Non-motorized watersports equipment like paddleboards, kayaks, and windsurfing boards are free to use. For an extra charge, you and your family can set sail aboard Heavenly Days, the resort’s 53-foot catamaran, and explore nearby destinations like Turtle Cove, Bucks Island, and St. John National Park.
Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove
Consider Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove at Pacquereau Bay for an upscale family holiday. European influences are apparent in the architecture, and the colorful exterior reflects the Caribbean vibe. Villas have one or two bedrooms, so there’s room for the whole family and come with large balconies with oceanside views. Private whirlpools are included in higher-end suites.
Despite the apparent decadence, this resort is not terribly expensive. The Marriott all-inclusive package rates cover gourmet dining options, onsite amenities, and entertainment. Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove doesn’t charge resort fees, which can save a family a small bundle that is better put towards an off-site excursion or spa treatments for moms and dads.
Emerald Beach Resort
For a quiet family resort with a guaranteed oceanfront view of Lindbergh Bay, choose Emerald Beach Resort. Conveniently located near the St. Thomas airport and capital city of Charlotte Amalie, you can enjoy both the privacy of the resort and the lively atmosphere of St. Thomas.
With just 90 rooms, the resort staff pride themselves on delivering warm, personalized service to their guests. While all-inclusive packages that cover unlimited food and drinks are unavailable, guests can score daily food and beverage vouchers online, and visitors can mix and mingle at the complimentary Manager’s Cocktail Party every Monday.
The Westin Beach Resort & Spa
A new contender at Frenchman’s Reef is The Westin Beach Resort & Spa. With beautiful ocean views and a convenient location only 5 miles from the airport, this St Thomas all inclusive family resort promises to be a popular spot. It even has a welcoming pet policy.
Luxury amenities include The Heavenly Spa by Westin, five gourmet restaurants and lounges, a sparkling outdoor pool, beachfront access, and cozy rooms and suites with outstanding views. The resort also boasts 85,000 square feet of beautiful event space indoors or outdoors. A beautiful garden and dedicated staff make The Westin Beach Resort & Spa a lovely choice for a destination wedding or honeymoon in St. Thomas.
Secret Harbour Beach Resort
On the east side of St. Thomas, you’ll find Secret Harbour Beach Resort, a family-friendly all-inclusive resort with a 5-star PADI diving facility, 48 beachfront rooms, and 20 apartments snuggled into a hillside. All rooms come fully equipped with kitchens, and all-inclusive rates cover daily housekeeping services and online grocery shopping and delivery.
During the day, parents can soak up some sun while the kids splash around in the freshwater pool. In the afternoon, take a tour of Blackbeard’s Castle or shop for souvenirs at Charlotte Amalie, then enjoy a dinner in St. Thomas or head back to the resort for a meal at one of the hotel’s three offerings.
Mafolie Hotel
The Mafolie Hotel is in a great central location for families visiting St. Thomas for the first time. It’s near shops, restaurants, and a few of Charlotte Amalie’s best beaches. With affordable rates, it’s not overly fancy, but you’ll get a complimentary breakfast daily during your stay and a large swimming pool surrounded by loungers.
Cultural landmarks like the Beracha Veshalom Vegimulth Hasidim Synagogue and lively streets like Main Street are all within walking distance. If you want to take a tour off-site, the friendly and accommodating staff can help arrange it. Several reviews mention that the restaurant offers delicious meals at fair prices, so it can be a good budget option even though it’s not all inclusive.
The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas
The U.S. Virgin Islands are known for their upscale resorts, and the Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas delivers all that and more with luxe amenities like a 60-foot luxury yacht available for tours and special events, a private beach on the aptly named Turquoise Bay, three swimming pools (one with a waterslide), motorized and non-motorized watersports, and tennis courts.
All-inclusive options aren’t offered, but club-level rooms have free dining options throughout the day. Non-members can reserve a rate that includes breakfast. If a special occasion calls for a night out, there are four delicious gourmet restaurants to choose from.
Sapphire Beach Resort
Standing on the iconic shores of Sapphire Beach, these elegant beachfront condos have everything you need in a home away from home. Some suites overlook the beautiful bay and white sand beach, which is available exclusively to residents. Condos come with fully equipped kitchens and an on-site restaurant if you don’t feel like cooking.
While guests of Sapphire Beach, you and your family will have access to amenities like free watersports equipment, a large swimming pool, and the stretch of private beach. There are no fitness facilities or sports courts, but a nearby trail provides an excellent route for a morning jog.
The Westin St. John Resort Villas
The Westin St. John Resort Villas is a prime upscale choice for families traveling in St. Thomas. It has a lovely spa, a private beach, a huge swimming pool, and a Kids’ Club so moms and dads can enjoy some R&R.
Rooms can come with multiple bedrooms and a full kitchen so that you can stock the fridge with familiar favorites the kids will love. The resort has few dining options, including a small poolside restaurant called Snorkels that offers light bites like sandwiches, salads, and fruit. At the Grill and Mango Deli, guests can get coffee and breakfast pastries and a pre-made lunch box for day trips to the nearby Virgin Islands National Park.
Flamboyan on the Bay
Flamboyan on the Bay is another good choice for a family getaway in St. Thomas. Rooms are spacious and come with kitchenettes. Most of them face Magen Bay and have large balconies.
Along with three large pools, guests have free access to tennis courts, easy access to the beach, and two delicious dining options. If you want to rent a car to do some island exploration on your own, the resort offers free parking.
Now that you’ve read our list of top 10 St Thomas all inclusive family resorts, which appeals to you the most? Let us know in the comments! And if you’d like help planning your trip, contact one of our expert travel advisors!