St. Thomas Magazine-July 2025 Issue "Local Love"

Local Love: Celebrating the Heart of St. Thomas

At St. Thomas Magazine, we know island living isn’t just about turquoise waters and sunny beaches...it’s more about the people, the flavors, and the stories that make this island home. That’s why we launched Local Love, this month's feature celebrating the businesses, makers, and traditions that define everyday life on St. Thomas.

From farm-to-market freshness to historic cafes tucked into cozy alleyways, these are the places where real island life happens...and we’re so excited to share them with you.

Why We Love Coki Beach

Looking for crystal-clear waters, vibrant island vibes, and some of the best snorkeling in the U.S. Virgin Islands? Coki Beach delivers it all. Located on the East End of St. Thomas, just past Coral World Ocean Park, Coki is a favorite with both locals and visitors.

With bright turquoise water, soft white sand, and a lively cultural scene; from beach music to handmade souvenirs and local food stands...it’s more than just a beach. It’s an experience. Early mornings are perfect for snorkeling, while weekends AND cruise ship days turn into colorful, music-filled gatherings. Whether you’re sipping fresh coconut water or diving into the reef just offshore, Coki captures the unfiltered joy of island life.

Rothschild Francis Market Square: The Historic Heart of St. Thomas

Every Saturday morning, Market Square in downtown Charlotte Amalie comes alive with farmers, artisans, and makers offering fresh produce, bush teas, island spices, and handmade crafts. But the square also carries a deeper story...once the site of the transatlantic slave trade, it has transformed into a vibrant place of community and resilience. Today, it’s where you’ll find mangoes, tamarind, passionfruit, and the island spirit all in one place.

Gladys’ Café: A True Taste of St. Thomas

Step inside Royal Dane Mall and you’ll find Gladys’ Café, a beloved restaurant where the hot sauce is as legendary as the hospitality. From curried goat to saltfish and johnny cakes, every dish feels like a warm hug from the island itself. With live music and a legacy of love, Gladys’ is a must-stop for anyone craving authentic Caribbean comfort food.

Hotel 1829: A Historic Island Gem

Perched above Charlotte Amalie, Hotel 1829 is a slice of living history. Built by a French sea trader nearly two centuries ago, the coral-stone walls and stained-glass windows whisper stories of the past, while today’s Rumopurium lounge offers a stylish rum bar experience with sweeping harbor views. It’s the perfect mix of old-world charm and modern elegance.

My Brother’s Workshop: Building Hope, One Skill at a Time

Not all love stories are about food or beaches; some are about second chances. Since 2007, My Brother’s Workshop (MBW) has been changing lives in St. Thomas by empowering at-risk youth with mentorship, education, and hands-on training. From carpentry to culinary arts, sewing to marine services, MBW is proof that community love builds futures as strong as any stone wall on the island.

Why Local Love Matters

Supporting local isn’t just about shopping or dining; it’s about keeping the spirit of St. Thomas alive. Every mango bought at Market Square, every hot sauce bottle carried home from Gladys’, every handcrafted table from MBW, every sunset sip at Hotel 1829, and every salty, fun-filled afternoon at Coki Beach adds another thread to the rich fabric of island life.

👉 Have a favorite local business, landmark, or person you think we should feature in our next Local Love? Drop us a message...we’d love to highlight them in an upcoming issue. Read July's full issue, "Local Love" below.