St. Thomas vacation rentals are counted among the most premium of vacation residential options in the US Virgin Islands. Saint Thomas is a popular Caribbean island, bordered by the Caribbean Sea. It is situated in proximity of other, popular islands like Saint John and Water Island. A typical St. Thomas vacation home is within a walking distance of the nearby beaches and surrounded by large stretches of tropical vegetation, small fishing communities or colonial-style houses that are characteristic to most Caribbean destinations. The most sought after of St. Thomas vacation homes are waterfront rentals whereas condominiums with more contemporary styles, further away from the shore in more serene locales are also preferred.
Diving Options Around St. Thomas Rentals
St. Thomas is popular for offering a wide range of outdoor activities. Due to its extensive shores, water-based activities are most popular and among these, scuba diving has emerged as the year-round favorite. It should be noted that most of the diving sites in St. Thomas are slightly offshore, a bit further away from the busy beaching spots. This ensures that diving can be explored in a slightly quieter and thus, safer environment. This also makes St. Thomas diving spots more suited for first-time divers and families.
Scuba divers in St. Thomas have the opportunity to explore the riches of marine life around the island. St. Thomas' waters are home to more than 450 species of fish and nearly 40 different types of corals. In terms of thriving sea life, blue tangs, horse-eye jacks, spiny lobsters, eagle rays, trigger-fish and Creole wrasses are some of the rare and exotic marine species spotted here. The slightly rare and eagerly sought members of the underwater terrain include sun sets, sea horses, moray eels and octopuses.
St. Thomas has many options for diving enthusiasts. While some of the less demanding dive sites are located along the neighboring islands, some are located along the inland shores, along slightly rocky terrain. These are usually referred to as cays and are best explored by the seasoned diver. Some of the more picturesque St. Thomas sites are essentially submerged reefs that aren't listed among popular diving maps but are known to the locals and experienced scuba divers. Popular diving sites include:
Navy Barges
These twin barges were earlier popular due to being used during World War II. Now, they are popular diving sites renowned for the abundance of trumpetfish and angelfish.
Cow & Calf
Situated along the south-eastern coast of St. Thomas, this site is formed of two giant rocks, shaped like a cow and her calf. The deep canyons here are meant for seasoned divers.
Wit Shoal II
Situated near St. Thomas airport, this is among the most accessible of diving locales. The shoal is essentially an artificial reef formed by a navy tank. Divers should be prepared to come face to face with barracudas and grouper fish. It offers five decks with ample space for every diver.
Tunnels of Thatch
A rare diving location formed by deposits of lava that are indicative of the volcanic origin of these islands. Famous diving spots include Thatch Cay where corals and sponges can be easily spotted. The deeper waters here are home to large colonies of moray eels.
Diving Facilities Near St Thomas Vacation Homes
Diving in St. Thomas is accessible for most parts of the year. There are many diving schools and the usual facilities are at par with international standards. Being an administrative part of the US, dive boats and the on-board captains have proper credentials like USCG certifications. Diving certifications available for vacationers include PADI or the Professional Association of Diving Instructors certificate. Other options include courses in underwater photography, wreck explorations and boat diving.
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