St Thomas is more than just a cruise port or a beach destination—it’s a place where outdoor enthusiasts can truly connect with the island’s natural beauty. From exploring vibrant marine life in Coral World Ocean Park to paddling through mangroves and hiking volcanic cliffs, St Thomas offers a variety of hiking and trekking experiences that suit different interests and fitness levels. One of our standout picks is the Sea Trek Helmet Dive, which allows you to walk underwater in a helmet—no diving experience needed—and see fish and sea creatures up close without the fuss of scuba gear. That’s just one example of how the island makes adventure accessible and memorable.
If you prefer your explorations on land, the Magens Bay Trail Hiking Tour offers scenic views of one of the Caribbean’s most famous beaches, while the Santa Maria Beach Hike combines nature with a touch of history, leading you to a secluded beach with ruins to discover. For water lovers who want a mix of paddling, hiking, and snorkeling, the Cas Cay Kayak Hike and Snorkel Adventure and the Best of Mangrove Lagoon Kayak, Hike and Snorkel Tour provide immersive experiences in protected marine environments. No matter your style, St Thomas’s outdoor tours promise unforgettable sights and genuine island encounters.
Quick Overview
Our list features five top-rated hiking and trekking tours that highlight the island’s natural beauty and marine life. These include a relaxing yet adventurous helmet dive at Coral World Ocean Park, guided kayak and snorkel trips through mangroves and around small islands, scenic hikes along Magens Bay and Santa Maria Beach, and a full-day combo tour with kayaking, hiking, snorkeling, and a picnic lunch. Each tour offers unique ways to experience the island’s landscapes and waters, with excellent reviews and value for money. Explore more details on each below.
1. Sea Trek Helmet Dive at Coral World Ocean Park
At number 1, the Sea Trek Helmet Dive is perfect for anyone curious about the underwater world but not keen on scuba diving. This helmet dive lets you walk on the ocean floor with a heavy helmet that supplies breathable air—no swimming skills required. You simply step into the water at Coral World Ocean Park and spend about 45 minutes observing the sea life around you, including colorful fish and sea urchins.
What makes this experience stand out is its accessibility; it’s safe, easy, and designed for those who might feel nervous about traditional snorkeling or diving. The tour includes all safety equipment, and a local guide is with you every step of the way. Reviewers often mention how this was one of the coolest things they’ve done—a mix of gentle adventure and awe-inspiring views without the need for diving certification. The price of $119 per person offers good value given the safety gear and guided experience.
Bottom Line: If you want to see underwater life in a relaxed setting, the helmet dive is unbeatable for beginners and non-swimmers alike.
2. Cas Cay – Kayak Hike and Snorkel Adventure
Number 2 is the Cas Cay tour, combining kayaking, hiking, and snorkeling in a three-hour adventure. This trip takes you through the Mangrove Lagoon, where you paddle easily with a guide in front of you. After kayaking, you’ll hike across Cas Cay, a small island with sandy shores and rocky bluffs that offer fantastic views over the water.
One of the highlights is exploring the underwater world with provided snorkel gear, encountering stingrays and brightly colored reef fish. The tour also includes a short hike to observe the island’s hermit crabs, plus ample time to relax or swim. The tour’s strength lies in its variety, allowing you to switch between water activities and land exploration. All equipment, safety briefings, and instructions are included, making it suitable for beginners and families.
Reviewers praise the informative guides and the chance to see wildlife up close, describing it as a “great experience.” At $99, this tour provides a balanced mix of adventure and education, with plenty of time to enjoy each activity.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a mix of paddling, wildlife viewing, and light hiking, with the convenience of all gear included.
3. Best of Mangrove Lagoon Kayak, Hike and Snorkel Adventure with Picnic Lunch
For about $159, the Best of Mangrove Lagoon Tour offers a full five-hour day mixing kayaking, hiking, snorkeling, and scenic exploration. This tour is designed for those who want a comprehensive look at the island’s ecosystems. Starting with a kayak trip through the six-square-mile marine sanctuary, you’ll observe mangroves, birds, and marine creatures like stingrays.
Next, you’ll hike volcanic cliffs to a natural blowhole—a striking geological feature—and then snorkel among coral reefs. Guides provide instructions, so this is suitable for beginners as well. The tour concludes with a picnic lunch, which adds a relaxing touch to an active day.
Guests love the personalized attention from guides like Freddie, who provide engaging insights into the island’s ecology. The tour’s length and mix of activities make it a good choice for travelers who want a full day of adventure without feeling rushed. The multiple stops and nature-focused itinerary make this tour stand out among other options.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a well-rounded outdoor experience that combines paddling, hiking, and snorkeling with an educational twist.
4. Magens Bay Trail Hiking Tour
The Magens Bay Trail Hiking Tour is a shorter, more relaxed option for nature lovers. At just around 2 hours and costing $60, this guided walk takes you along the scenic trail that offers breathtaking views of Magens Bay, one of the Caribbean’s most photographed beaches. The trail is described as moderate to easy, making it suitable for most fitness levels.
During the hike, your guide shares information about the island’s flora, fauna, and local history. Once at Magens Bay Beach, you get about 20 minutes to swim, relax, or take photos of the stunning surroundings. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the experience is ideal for those who want a taste of St Thomas’s natural beauty without a long commitment.
Reviews mention how much fun and informative the hike is, with some finding it a highlight of their trip. The guide’s friendliness and local knowledge really enhance the experience.
Bottom Line: Good for travelers who want an easy, scenic walk with the reward of a famous beach at the end.
5. Santa Maria Beach Hike
Closing out our list, the Santa Maria Beach Hike is a gentle trek lasting about 1.5 hours and costing $70. It leads you through lush valleys and native vegetation to a quiet, secluded beach with ruins that hint at the island’s past. The trail features gentle inclines, making it accessible for most fitness levels.
This hike combines natural beauty with a touch of history and tranquility. The hidden beach offers soft sand and turquoise waters, perfect for swimming after the walk. It’s ideal for those who want a peaceful escape and some light exercise combined with scenic views.
Two reviews highlight the friendly guides and the peaceful atmosphere, making it a nice choice for a low-key, scenic outing.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you’re after a relaxed hike that ends at a peaceful beach, with a side of local history.
How to Choose Your Perfect St Thomas Outdoor Tour
When picking among these options, consider your fitness level, how much time you want to spend outdoors, and whether you prefer water or land activities. If you’re nervous about diving, the helmet dive at Coral World offers a safe and easy underwater encounter. For a balanced day combining paddling, hiking, and snorkeling, the Best of Mangrove Lagoon is excellent. Want a shorter walk with a beautiful view? The Magens Bay Trail is your best bet. And if your family or friends have different interests, each tour’s unique focus can match different preferences.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure your spot. Also, check the weather forecast—many tours are weather-dependent, especially those involving water. For an immersive experience with expert guides and all gear included, these tours will leave you with authentic memories of St Thomas’s natural beauty.
Final Thoughts
St Thomas offers a surprising variety of hiking and trekking tours that go beyond the typical beach day. Whether you want to walk underwater in a helmet, paddle through mangroves, or hike along scenic cliffs, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast. The Sea Trek Helmet Dive stands out as a must-do for its unique, accessible experience, while the Best of Mangrove Lagoon Tour provides a full day packed with activity and learning. For a quick scenic walk, the Magens Bay Trail perfectly balances ease and beauty.
Consider your interests, fitness, and the kind of adventure you’re craving. These tours deliver genuine experiences and memorable moments—so don’t wait too long to book, especially in peak season. With so many options, you’re sure to find a perfect way to enjoy the natural wonders of St Thomas.