How do you get around St. Thomas without a car?

Public transportation services are available in St. Thomas through the bus system and safari bus routes. The fares are $1 per person but routes are limited.



Navigating St. Thomas without a personal vehicle is highly feasible thanks to a combination of public and private transit. The most iconic method is the "Safari Taxi," which are converted open-air trucks with bench seating. These operate on two levels: as private taxis (more expensive) and as "shared" taxis that follow a specific route between Charlotte Amalie and Red Hook for a few dollars. For a structured public option, the VITRAN bus system connects major towns and shopping centers, though schedules can be unpredictable. Additionally, Charlotte Amalie is very walkable for those arriving by cruise ship. For travel between islands, frequent ferries depart from Red Hook or downtown to St. John. While traditional ride-sharing like Uber is limited, local app-based services and traditional taxi stands at the airport and major resorts provide reliable door-to-door transport, provided you carry cash as many drivers do not accept cards.

Getting around St. Thomas without a car is very doable, with several options ranging from affordable to luxurious. Here’s a breakdown of the best ways to navigate the island:

1. Taxi Services (The Most Common & Practical Option)

  • Shared Safari Taxis: These are open-air trucks or vans with bench seats that run along set routes (especially between major hubs like Charlotte Amalie, Red Hook, and the airport). They are the most affordable taxi option. You flag them down, tell the driver your destination, and they’ll quote a per-person fare. Be prepared to share the ride.
  • Private Taxis: For direct service to your specific destination, especially resorts, beaches, or villas. More expensive than shared taxis, but convenient. Important: Taxi fares are government-regulated per destination, not metered. Always confirm the fare before getting in. Rates are for up to 2 passengers, with small fees for additional people and luggage.

2. Public Transportation (VITRAN)

  • The local public bus system is extremely inexpensive (a few dollars). However, it has limited routes and schedules, primarily serving locals commuting to and from Charlotte Amalie. Buses are small and can be infrequent, especially in the afternoons and on weekends. Not the most reliable for tourists on a tight schedule, but an adventure if you’re flexible.

3. Ride-Sharing Apps (Uber & Lyft)

  • Availability is very limited and unreliable. While the apps may work in the main town areas, very few drivers operate on the island. Do not depend on this as your primary transportation.

4. Bicycle, Scooter, or Moped Rental

  • Not generally recommended for most visitors. St. Thomas is very hilly, with steep, winding roads, often narrow and with challenging traffic. It can be dangerous for those unfamiliar with the terrain. This option is best for experienced riders seeking adventure, not casual transportation.

5. Ferry Services (For Inter-Island Travel)

  • This is the best way to visit neighboring islands like St. John or the British Virgin Islands (Tortola, Virgin Gorda) without a car.
  • Key ferry terminals are in Charlotte Amalie (downtown) and

People Also Ask

A full-service bus line operates throughout St. Thomas Taxi and Jeep services are readily available. Most taxi drivers are able to provide their passengers with comprehensive tours of their island. Taxi rates are based on destination rather than mileage and regulated by the US Virgin Islands Taxi Commission.

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Thomas does not have Uber or Lyft. However, there are numerous Taxi Associations and private drivers on St. Thomas.

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Taxis are an easy way to get to beaches, restaurants and other attractions around the island. Be prepared to pay cash and know that rates are always per person & there is a fee for luggage. There are no ride share services like Uber or Lyft and we don't expect that to change.

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Some taxis accept credit cards, but the majority of taxis in St. Thomas are cash only.

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The Virgin Islands public transit system in St. Thomas is called VITRAN. The bus fare is $1, and there are discounted fares for seniors and students with ID.

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Public Transportation The Vitran Bus System services various areas of the island and usually runs Monday - Friday. Vitran buses run along Centerline Road. The buses travel from the Cruz Bay ferry dock, through to Coral Bay, Salt Pond Bay and back to Cruz Bay.

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Call tel 340/774-7457 to order a taxi van. If you don't plan to rent a car, it's easy to find taxi drivers. Just have your hotel or restaurant call a taxi for you, no matter where you are. Even better: Get the card of a favorite taxi driver and let him or her know your itinerary—or call the drivers we recommend below.

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If you could spend a week in St Thomas or the area, then go for it. There's plenty to do if you love beaches, hiking, and nature across St Thomas, Water Island, and St John. However, if you have a job and are only traveling every weekend, then 4 days may be enough.

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As you are arriving to St. Thomas, keep in mind that local etiquette is to first greet people as you are addressing them with a “Good Morning/Afternoon/Night.” If you are unsure of the time, “Good Day” is always acceptable.

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Food in St. Thomas is EXPENSIVE as all food is imported and very little, if anything is grown locally.

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High season is considered to be May, June and July. The cheapest month to fly from United States is October. Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Saint Thomas Island flight deals.

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Thomas can be slightly less expensive overall than St. John. It's a bit easier to work within a budget on St. Thomas where you don't have to necessarily rent a car, you have different hotel tiers to choose from, and you have access to cheaper food options (in both restaurants and the larger grocery stores).

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