Is St. Thomas safe?
Take real precautions. Tourist zones are generally fine, but violent crime and theft occur in some areas, and travel advisories urge care at night.
Key facts
- SoloSquare safety rating: 3/5, take real precautions.
- Homicide rate in U.S. Virgin Islands: 49.9 per 100,000 people (2012, UNODC via World Bank).
- Emergency numbers: Police 911 · Ambulance 911 · Fire 911 · All emergencies 911.
Safety in St. Thomas at a glance
| What to expect | |
|---|---|
| Overall | 3/5 · Take real precautions |
| Crime | Theft from cars and beaches, break-ins and some armed crime outside the tourist zones. |
| At night | Waterfront areas stay busy early evening. Use taxis late and avoid walking after dark, even short distances. |
| Solo women | Solo women report catcalling in town. Use taxis at night, avoid isolated beaches and watch drinks. |
| Other risks | Hurricane season, Jun–Nov; Narrow winding roads on the left; Strong sun and sea urchins |
Scams, areas and local laws
Common scams
- Time-share pitches offering free tours or dinners
- Taxi drivers quoting unposted flat fares
Take care
- Charlotte Amalie back streets after dark
- Isolated beaches and trails alone
- Leaving valuables in parked cars
Calmer areas to stay
Laws visitors break by accident
- Drive on the left, but cars are left-hand drive.
- US federal laws apply, including on drugs; cannabis is legal for adults in the territory but not at federal sites.
Quick answers
Is St. Thomas safe for solo female travelers?
Solo women report catcalling in town. Use taxis at night, avoid isolated beaches and watch drinks.
Is St. Thomas safe at night?
Waterfront areas stay busy early evening. Use taxis late and avoid walking after dark, even short distances.
What is the crime rate in St. Thomas?
Theft from cars and beaches, break-ins and some armed crime outside the tourist zones. Nationally, U.S. Virgin Islands records 49.9 homicides per 100,000 people a year (2012).
What number do I call in an emergency in St. Thomas?
Police 911 · Ambulance 911 · Fire 911 · All emergencies 911.
More about St. Thomas
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Sources
- USVI Department of Tourism
- Virgin Islands Port Authority
- World Bank: intentional homicides (UNODC)
- World Bank: road traffic deaths (WHO)
Safety ratings are SoloSquare's editorial judgment from official advisories, crime data and local reporting. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.