St. Thomas stands out not just for its stunning beaches and clear waters but also for the chance to dive into hands-on activities that deepen your connection to the island. We particularly like the Create A Castle Sandcastle Lessons for its unique focus on mastering the art of sand sculpting using patented molds, and the Flavors: Cultural Cooking Class for its engaging look into Virgin Islands cuisine. Both experiences offer more than just a tour—they’re about learning a skill or culture in a lively, authentic way. Whether you’re a family with kids eager to build sandy castles or a foodie wanting to cook like a local, St. Thomas has options for everyone.
If you’re pondering what to do during your trip, these classes stand out for their practicality and fun factor. The sandcastle lessons at Magens Bay Beach combine creativity with a bit of friendly competition, while the cooking class offers a flavorful journey through island ingredients and techniques. Both experiences are perfect for making lasting memories and picking up skills you can recreate at home.
1. Create A Castle Sandcastle Lessons
This sandcastle building experience is the only one of its kind in St. Thomas, making it a rare find. The program uses patented and award-winning split molds, which allow participants to create professional-looking castles with ease. The instructor will meet you at Magens Bay Beach, often ranked among the top 10 beaches worldwide, known for its soft sand and pristine backdrop—ideal for sand sculpting.
The lesson lasts about an hour and is suitable for all ages, making it a fantastic family activity or a fun way for adults to unleash their creative side. The program’s emphasis on learning professional techniques in a relaxed setting is what sets it apart. Many reviewers praise the program’s simplicity and the guided approach, with one noting, “We learned how to build castles like pros in just an hour.” The fee of $55 per person offers good value, considering the personalized attention and the quality of the molds.
Bottom Line: This is a unique, hands-on activity perfect for sandcastle enthusiasts or families seeking a memorable day at the beach. The focus on professional techniques and the stunning setting make it a top choice.
2. Flavors: Cultural Cooking Class, St Thomas, USVI, USA
For around $80.99 per person, this interactive cooking class takes you into the heart of Virgin Islands cuisine. Led by a passionate local chef, the class explores traditional dishes using local ingredients and island-style techniques. You’ll learn about the history and significance behind each dish, making the experience both educational and flavorful.
During the two-hour session, participants prepare dishes that showcase the island’s culinary personality. The instructor emphasizes simple, effective techniques that allow you to recreate these flavors at home. The class has a solid 4-star rating, with one reviewer mentioning, “Food instructions were good and easy to follow,” though noting that seafood could have been included. The focus on authentic tastes and the chance to cook alongside a local chef make this a popular choice for food lovers who want to bring a piece of Virgin Islands culture to their kitchen.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in tropical flavors and want a fun, interactive way to learn about local cuisine, this class offers great value and a memorable experience.
$80.99 per person
How to Choose
Picking between these workshops depends largely on your interests, budget, and how you like to spend your time. If you’re looking for a creative, outdoor activity and enjoy building things, the Create A Castle Sandcastle Lessons will give you a chance to craft in a beautiful beach setting. For those who prefer culinary adventures, the Flavors: Cultural Cooking Class offers a chance to learn new skills and enjoy delicious island dishes.
Consider your fitness level—sandcastle building requires a little kneeling and squatting, while cooking involves standing and some chopping. Think about your time constraints: the sandcastle lesson is quick and easy, perfect for a half-day activity, whereas the cooking class lasts around two hours and might fit well into a relaxed afternoon.
Booking early is advisable, especially for the popular sandcastle lessons, which tend to fill up quickly on busy days. Both experiences are flexible enough for different schedules, but planning ahead ensures you won’t miss out.
Final Thoughts
St. Thomas offers a variety of workshops that go beyond typical sightseeing. For a fun and creative day, the Create A Castle Sandcastle Lessons is hard to beat—especially if you love hands-on activities in a stunning beach setting. If you’re more of a foodie or want to deepen your understanding of Virgin Islands culture, the Flavors: Cultural Cooking Class provides a flavorful, interactive experience.
For families, the sandcastle experience combines outdoor fun with a learning twist, while adventurous eaters will find the cooking class inspiring and rewarding. No matter your choice, these experiences promise a deeper connection to the island’s natural beauty and local heritage. Be sure to book early, as these popular activities fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Enjoy your time in St. Thomas, and don’t forget—trying a hands-on class can turn a simple trip into a treasured memory.