What's the Temp in St Thomas in December: Your Insider’s Guide to a Caribbean Winter Escape

Ryan Matthews
Aug 28
3 min read

What’s the Temp in St Thomas in December?

If you’re dreaming of swapping snow boots for flip-flops, the temp in St Thomas in December will make you want to book your ticket right now. Average daytime temps hover around 80–84°F (27–29°C), with evenings cooling to a breezy 74°F (23°C). The water’s warm, the sun’s out, and there’s no need to pack anything heavier than a light sweater for nights on the beach.

December is the start of high season, so the island’s energy is up; more events, live music, and people from all over coming to escape winter.

Are the US Virgin Islands Safe for Visitors?

One of the most common questions first-timers ask is, “Are the US Virgin Islands safe?” The short answer is yes, especially if you use the same street smarts you’d use anywhere. St. Thomas and St. John both have busy tourist areas that are very safe, but like anywhere, it’s best to stick to well-lit spots at night, avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach, and keep your drinks close. The vibe is friendly, and locals are used to welcoming visitors.

Drinking Age in St Thomas

Wondering about the drinking age in St Thomas? It’s 18, which surprises a lot of travelers from the mainland US. You’ll need ID to order at bars and restaurants, and while the rules are more relaxed than in the States, drinking responsibly is still the way to go.

This also means you can check out some of the island’s famous beach bars without worrying about turning 21 first.

Beach Bar in St John USVI You Can’t Miss

If your trip takes you over to St. John, make time for a beach bar in St John USVI, The Beach Bar in Cruz Bay is a must. Picture yourself with your toes in the sand, live music playing, and a Painkiller cocktail in hand as the sun sets. It’s one of those “this is the life” moments you’ll never forget.

Taking the Car Ferry from St Thomas to St John

If you’re planning to explore beyond St. Thomas, the car ferry from St Thomas to St John is the way to go. Ferries run multiple times a day from Red Hook, and the ride only takes about 20 minutes. You can bring your rental car with you, making it super easy to hop between beaches, hiking trails, and bars without relying on taxis.

St Thomas Zipline Adventures

Feeling adventurous? A St Thomas zipline tour is one of the best ways to see the island from a whole new angle. You’ll get sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea, lush hillsides, and maybe even spot a cruise ship docked in the harbor. It’s a rush, and December’s cooler breezes make it even better.

St John USVI Time Zone

The St John USVI time zone is the same as St. Thomas — Atlantic Standard Time (UTC-4) — and, like the rest of the USVI, they don’t do Daylight Saving Time. That means in December, you’ll be 1 hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time in the US, so plan your calls to family back home accordingly.

Things to Do in December

Beach Days: Magen’s Bay in St. Thomas is world-famous for a reason. Early mornings are quiet, afternoons bring the energy.
Snorkeling & Diving: Try Coki Beach or take a day trip to Water Island for crystal-clear water and colorful reefs.
Holiday Vibes: Downtown Charlotte Amalie decks out for Christmas, blending Caribbean flair with festive lights.
Sunset Boat Trips: December’s trade winds make it the perfect month for a sunset boat trip.
Hiking in St. John: The Virgin Islands National Park has trails that end in secret beaches — bring water and a camera.

Your December Packing & Travel Tips

Pack Light: Think swimsuits, sandals, light clothes, and reef-safe sunscreen.
Cash & Card: Most places take cards, but smaller shops may prefer cash.
Book Early: December fills up fast, especially for tours and popular restaurants.
Plan for the Sun: Even in “winter,” the Caribbean sun is strong — hats and sunglasses are a must.

Bottom line: December in the Virgin Islands is all about warm weather, island adventures, and letting the slower pace of life sink in. Whether you’re ziplining in St. Thomas, ferrying to St. John for a beach bar afternoon, or simply soaking up the temp in St Thomas in December, you’ll wonder why you didn’t come sooner.