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Get InspiredNorth AmericaUs Virgin IslandsSt ThomasCharlotte Amalie WestMermaid's Chair

Mermaid's Chair

VI
Hiking Area·Quiet, Scenic, Physically Demanding
Mermaid's Chair
Photo by Alex Mans from Google Places
Mermaid's Chair
Photo by John Janicke from Google Places
Mermaid's Chair
Photo by mick holloway from Google Places
Mermaid's Chair
Photo by Ankoor from Google Places
Mermaid's Chair
Photo by Dave Morrow from Google Places
Mermaid's Chair
Photo by Alex Mans from Google Places
Mermaid's Chair
Photo by John Janicke from Google Places
Mermaid's Chair
Photo by mick holloway from Google Places
Mermaid's Chair
Photo by Ankoor from Google Places
Mermaid's Chair
Photo by Dave Morrow from Google Places

Located within the gated Botany Bay community on the western end of St. Thomas, Mermaid's Chair is a unique destination for active travelers. The journey consists of a 1.1-mile paved road that descends 500 feet to a narrow peninsula. At the bottom, visitors are treated to a rare sight: the meeting point of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. The area features rugged rock formations and tidal pools perfect for exploring, though the strong waves often make swimming difficult. Because the return trip is a steep uphill climb with very little shade, it is considered a moderate physical challenge. Access requires checking in with security and presenting a valid ID, ensuring the beach remains a quiet, uncrowded escape.

Located within the gated Botany Bay community on the western end of St. Thomas, Mermaid's Chair is a unique destination for active travelers. The journey consists of a 1.1-mile paved road that descends 500 feet to a narrow peninsula. At the bottom, visitors are treated to a rare sight: the meeting point of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. The area features rugged rock formations and tidal pools perfect for exploring, though the strong waves often make swimming difficult. Because the return trip is a steep uphill climb with very little shade, it is considered a moderate physical challenge. Access requires checking in with security and presenting a valid ID, ensuring the beach remains a quiet, uncrowded escape.

You might want to ask

Address
St Thomas,Charlotte Amalie West, St Thomas 00802, USVI
Hours
Closed
Daily 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Highlights

  • Dramatic views of the Atlantic and Caribbean meeting.

  • Paved 1.1-mile trail through a private community.

  • Secluded beach with unique rock formations.

  • Active tidal pools filled with small marine life.

  • Quiet atmosphere away from typical tourist crowds.

Best For

Scenic views and a challenging paved hike.

Time of Day

Lunch

Occasion Tags

Tourists, Locals, Solo, Groups

Reviews

4.4
Great242 reviews

Mermaid's Chair is a scenic coastal attraction in St. Thomas known for its unique geography where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Caribbean Sea. Visitors describe the experience as a rewarding but strenuous journey involving a 1.1-mile paved walk through a gated community. Security measures are strict, requiring guests to present ID and check in before descending the steep road. The beach itself is secluded and rocky, featuring interesting tidal pools but often having waves too strong for casual swimming. A recurring theme in reviews is the lack of shade and the difficulty of the uphill return trip, which climbs roughly 500 feet. Despite the physical demand, the panoramic views and the sense of isolation make it a favorite for those seeking a quiet escape from more crowded tourist spots.

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Location

Botany Bay, Charlotte Amalie West, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
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