Quick answer
Cyril E. King Airport (STT) is on the western end of St. Thomas, about 2 miles from Charlotte Amalie. A private transfer to most island hotels costs $15-$60 depending on location. Taxis use a fixed-rate zone system set by the Virgin Islands Taxicab Commission, not meters. There is no public bus service from the airport, and rideshare apps do not operate reliably on the island.
What actually happens after landing
STT is a small, open-air airport. After deplaning, you walk across the tarmac or through a covered walkway to the terminal. Baggage claim is a single area, and bags typically appear within 15-20 minutes. The terminal is not air-conditioned in all areas, so expect warmth and humidity.
Once you have your bags, you exit through the main doors to the taxi and pickup area. It is a short walk. The airport is small enough that you cannot really get lost. Outside, you will find taxis lined up and a dispatcher organizing rides.
Transport options explained honestly
Shared taxi/safari van: The most common transport on St. Thomas. Open-air safari vans (converted pickup trucks with bench seating and a canopy) run from the airport to various zones. The taxi commission sets per-person rates. You may share the ride with other passengers heading in a similar direction. A ride to Charlotte Amalie is about $9-$12 per person, and Red Hook (for the St. John ferry) is about $15-$18 per person.
Taxi (private ride): You can request a private taxi rather than a shared one. This costs more, roughly $15-$30 to Charlotte Amalie and $25-$45 to Red Hook. Ask the dispatcher or agree on the rate before getting in.
Rental car: Several agencies operate from or near the airport. Driving on St. Thomas is on the left side of the road (a remnant of Danish colonial rule) in American left-hand-drive cars. The roads are steep, narrow, and winding. If you are not comfortable with that, skip the rental.
No rideshare: Uber and Lyft do not operate reliably in the US Virgin Islands. Do not count on them.
Realistic pricing expectations
Taxi rates are set by the VI Taxicab Commission and posted at the airport. Per-person rates for shared rides in 2026:
- Charlotte Amalie hotels: $9-$12
- Frenchman's Reef area: $10-$14
- Red Hook (St. John ferry): $15-$18
- East End (Ritz-Carlton, Secret Harbour): $16-$20
- Charlotte Amalie: $15-$30
- Frenchman's Reef: $25-$40
- Red Hook: $35-$55
- East End resorts: $45-$60
Late night arrivals
Most flights to STT arrive during the day, but a few evening flights land around 8-10 PM. The taxi dispatcher is usually available until the last flight. After that, options thin out. Pre-booking a transfer is the smart move for any arrival after 7 PM. The airport area is not well-lit, and waiting for a ride in the dark with luggage is not comfortable.
Safari vans stop running in the evening, so shared rides are not available late.
Families and luggage
Safari vans are open-air with bench seating. They work for adventurous families but are not ideal with car seats, toddlers, and multiple bags. A private transfer in an enclosed SUV or van is more practical for families. Child car seat laws in the USVI require seats for children under 5, and taxis are not exempt. Request a car seat when booking your transfer.
Snorkeling gear, dive bags, and oversized luggage are common at STT. Let your transfer service know in advance if you have bulky items so they send the right vehicle.
Where you meet the driver
Pre-booked transfer drivers wait outside the terminal exit near the taxi line. The airport is small, so finding your driver is straightforward. Most will hold a name sign or send a text. Some wait in the short-term parking area a short walk from the exit.
The taxi dispatcher stand is immediately outside baggage claim. If you are taking a shared taxi, approach the dispatcher who will assign you to the next available vehicle heading in your direction.
Decision helper
Choose a shared taxi/safari van if: you are traveling solo or as a couple with light bags, heading to a common destination, and want to save money while experiencing a bit of island culture.
Choose a rental car if: you plan to explore the island independently and are comfortable with left-side driving on steep, narrow roads.
Choose a private taxi if: you want a direct ride without sharing but do not want to book in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get from STT airport to my hotel?
The most common options are shared taxi/safari van or a pre-booked private transfer. There is no public bus from the airport, and rideshare apps do not work reliably on St. Thomas.
How much is a taxi from STT airport to Charlotte Amalie?
A shared taxi costs about $9-$12 per person. A private taxi to Charlotte Amalie costs $15-$30 for the vehicle.
How do I get from STT airport to the St. John ferry?
You need to get to Red Hook on the east end of St. Thomas. A shared taxi costs $15-$18 per person, or a private transfer is $35-$55. The ride takes 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.
Does Uber work on St. Thomas?
No. Uber and Lyft do not operate reliably in the US Virgin Islands. Use taxis or pre-book a private transfer instead.
What is a safari van on St. Thomas?
Safari vans are open-air converted trucks with bench seating and a canopy, used as shared taxis. They are the standard local transport and run set routes. They are an island experience but not ideal for families with small children.
Do I need a car seat in a taxi on St. Thomas?
USVI law requires child car seats for children under 5. Taxis are not exempt. If you need a car seat, book a private transfer and request one in advance.
How long is the drive from STT to Red Hook?
About 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. The road crosses the island through hilly terrain. During cruise ship days, traffic can be heavier.
Is it worth renting a car on St. Thomas?
Only if you are comfortable driving on the left side of the road on steep, narrow, winding roads. If you plan to stay at a resort, transfers are simpler. If you want to explore the island freely, a rental car gives you flexibility.
Are there surcharges for luggage at STT?
The taxi commission allows a small surcharge for more than two bags per person, typically a couple of dollars per extra bag. Private transfers usually include luggage in the quoted price.
Can I pre-book a transfer from STT airport?
Yes. Pre-booking guarantees a driver at arrivals, a fixed price, and an air-conditioned vehicle. This is especially recommended for families, groups, and evening arrivals.
St. Thomas is a small island, and getting from the airport to anywhere on it takes less than an hour. The taxi system works differently here than on the mainland, with set rates and shared rides being the norm. For a relaxed start to an island vacation, a pre-booked transfer takes the guesswork out of it. For a more local experience, hop in a safari van and enjoy the ride.