St. Thomas, Virgin Islands is a photographer's paradise, offering countless stunning backdrops for wedding photos. As a professional videographer and photographer who has worked throughout the island for over 13 years, I've discovered the most photogenic locations that will make your wedding photos absolutely stunning. Here are the top Instagrammable spots in St. Thomas that will give you picture-perfect memories.
1. Magens Bay Beach
Why It's Perfect:
Consistently ranked among the world's most beautiful beaches, Magens Bay offers pristine white sand, crystal-clear turquoise water, and lush green hillsides. The bay's unique horseshoe shape creates a stunning natural frame for photos.
Best Times: Early morning (7-9 AM) for soft golden light, or late afternoon (4-6 PM) for dramatic sunset shots
Photo Opportunities: Beach portraits, water shots, palm tree silhouettes, sunset ceremonies
2. Drake's Seat Overlook
Why It's Perfect:
This elevated overlook offers panoramic views of Magens Bay and the surrounding islands. It's one of the most photographed spots on St. Thomas, providing breathtaking backdrop for wedding photos.
Best Times: Morning for clear views, sunset for romantic golden hour lighting
Photo Opportunities: Dramatic landscape shots, couple silhouettes against the view, engagement-style portraits
3. Charlotte Amalie Historic District
Why It's Perfect:
The historic Danish colonial architecture, colorful buildings, and cobblestone streets create a unique, European-inspired backdrop. Perfect for couples who want something different from typical beach photos.
Best Times: Morning or late afternoon to avoid harsh midday sun
Photo Opportunities: Architectural details, colorful doorways, historic streets, unique cultural shots
4. Mountain Top
Why It's Perfect:
At 1,500 feet above sea level, Mountain Top offers 360-degree views of the entire island and surrounding Caribbean Sea. The elevated perspective creates dramatic, unique wedding photos.
Best Times: Clear days, morning or afternoon
Photo Opportunities: Aerial-style shots, dramatic landscapes, couple portraits with panoramic views
5. Secret Harbour Beach
Why It's Perfect:
More secluded than Magens Bay, Secret Harbour offers intimate beach settings with beautiful water and fewer crowds. Perfect for romantic, private-feeling photos.
Best Times: Early morning for privacy and soft light
Photo Opportunities: Intimate beach shots, water portraits, secluded ceremony locations
6. Coki Beach
Why It's Perfect:
Known for its vibrant coral reef and clear waters, Coki Beach offers unique underwater and above-water photo opportunities. The colorful marine life creates interesting backgrounds.
Best Times: Morning for clearest water visibility
Photo Opportunities: Beach shots, water activities, colorful tropical backgrounds
7. Bluebeard's Castle
Why It's Perfect:
This historic site offers dramatic architecture, stone walls, and elevated views of Charlotte Amalie harbor. Perfect for couples who want a mix of history and romance.
Best Times: Late afternoon for golden hour lighting
Photo Opportunities: Historic architecture, dramatic stone backdrops, harbor views
8. Lindquist Beach (Smith Bay Park)
Why It's Perfect:
One of St. Thomas's most pristine beaches, Lindquist offers untouched natural beauty with fewer crowds. The protected park setting ensures beautiful, natural backdrops.
Best Times: Early morning or late afternoon
Photo Opportunities: Natural beach settings, tropical vegetation, pristine water shots
9. Frenchman's Bay
Why It's Perfect:
This secluded bay offers calm waters and beautiful natural surroundings. Less crowded than popular beaches, it provides intimate photo opportunities.
Best Times: Morning for calmest conditions
Photo Opportunities: Intimate beach shots, calm water reflections, natural settings
10. Paradise Point
Why It's Perfect:
Accessible by tram, Paradise Point offers stunning views of Charlotte Amalie and the harbor. The elevated location provides unique perspectives for wedding photos.
Best Times: Sunset for dramatic lighting and city lights
Photo Opportunities: Cityscape backgrounds, sunset shots, elevated perspectives
Tips for Perfect Wedding Photos in St. Thomas
Timing is Everything
- Golden Hour: The hour after sunrise and before sunset provides the most flattering light
- Avoid Midday: Harsh overhead sun creates unflattering shadows
- Weather Awareness: Brief tropical showers can create beautiful dramatic skies
What to Bring
- Backup outfits (beach photos can get wet!)
- Comfortable shoes for walking between locations
- Touch-up makeup and hair products
- Water and snacks for longer photo sessions
- Props that reflect your personality
Working with Your Photographer
- Discuss your vision and must-have shots beforehand
- Trust your photographer's local knowledge
- Be flexible—weather and lighting conditions can change quickly
- Plan for travel time between locations
Creating Your Photo Timeline
When planning your wedding day photography, consider:
- Getting Ready: Capture the anticipation and preparation
- First Look: Private moment before the ceremony
- Ceremony: The main event at your chosen venue
- Portrait Session: Dedicated time for couple and group photos
- Reception: Candid moments and celebrations
Many couples choose to do their portrait session at a different location from their ceremony, allowing them to capture multiple stunning backdrops throughout the day.
Making It Personal
While these locations are stunning, the best wedding photos tell your unique story. Work with your photographer to incorporate locations that have meaning to you, or discover hidden gems that reflect your personality.
As a local St. Thomas photographer, I know not just the popular spots, but also the hidden locations that offer unique perspectives. Whether you want classic beach shots, dramatic overlooks, or historic architecture, St. Thomas has it all.
Ready to Capture Your Perfect St. Thomas Wedding Photos?
VisualEyes Videography offers both photography and videography services throughout St. Thomas and the Virgin Islands. Let's create stunning images at these incredible locations.
Request a Free ConsultationCall us at 340-998-1720 to discuss your vision