Marriott’s Frenchman’s Reef in St. Thomas is a Caribbean Haven

Let’s play a word association game. When I say "Caribbean," you think, of "crystalline waters," "candy-colored hues" and "powder–soft beaches." Now add to that oceanic adventures, sunbathed infinity pools, and a sanctuary–like spa- plus a healthy dose of rum punch—and you’ve just begun to crack the sea-surrounded surface of the Frenchman’s Reef and Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort in St. Thomas, USVI.

Viewed from above, the resort is almost an island unto itself Situated upon a peninsula of volcanic rock that stretches far into the ocean, away from the bustling streets and lush canopies of St. Thomas, it offers the tranquility and privacy of a personal estate. That private–island feel is exactly what makes Frenchman’s Reef a true haven. With over a half dozen restaurants and bars, four pools, a secluded beach, two convenient shops, and a serene spa, there’s no reason to ever leave your little piece of paradise.

Except there is—plenty of reasons. With such a central location, Frenchman’s Reef serves as a hub of activity, a gateway to dozens of experiences and adventures on the island and in the water. St. Thomas is undeniably Caribbean, the land teeming with history, color, and culture, the sea with friendly wildlife. Frenchman’s Reef offers access to it all, plus a palatial resting place to ease your weary, sun–exhausted bones at day’s end.

As your plane descends upon this paradisiacal island, you’ll catch a peek of your destination, its collection of pastel-hued walls contrasted against the dense thickets of greenery that blanket the island. You’ll disembark onto the sunny tarmac, traipse past a troupe of smiling musicians thumping steel drums, and catch your car to the resort. Your savvy driver maneuvers deftly through downtown Charlotte Amalie—an animated cluster of vendors hocking tchotchkes, rum bars, and jewelry shops— and up the winding road, rife with hairpin turns and striking views, to the Marriott. 

The resort is a series of buildings and accommodations. Frenchman’s Reef, a traditional, multi-level resort stands sentinel at the complex’s center, offering breathtaking views of the bay and ocean and easy access to the resort’s main amenities, like the Lazule Sea Spa, infinity pools and a collection of dining options. Morning Star, a collection of bungalows, lies below and includes a sweeping beach and even more bars and restaurants. Despite the distinctions between the different areas of the resort, each facility, pool, bar, and restaurant is available to every guest, regardless of their room’s location.

Frenchman’s Reef is part luxury, part leisure—just as the Caribbean should be. If you’re traveling with your family, consider a Royal Suite: with 710 square feet and two levels (plus a jacuzzi tub and surprisingly spacious kitchen), you’ll have plenty of room to spread out. If that’s still not enough, reserve an adjacent room for the kiddos so that they’re just a doorknob’s turn away. If you’re traveling sans-kids, even the regular rooms offer stunning views and plush beds for a refreshing night’s rest.

But let’s be honest—you know you won’t be spending too much time in your room when Caribbean sunshine and crystal–blue waters are calling your name. Fuel up before a day in the sun at Aqua Terra Oceanfront Grill, whose breakfast buffet boasts rum–soaked French toast, made–to–order omelets, and a verified smorgasbord of fresh, juicy fruit. Head straight from brunch to one of the resort’s infinity pools (that whole swimming–after–eating thing is a myth, anyway), where you can soak in warm waters and gaze at the lapping waves of the Caribbean sea below. When you get thirsty (which is inevitable—you are in the Caribbean), simply swim up to the Azul Pool Bar, or dry off and snag some snacks and cocktails from the Sunset Grill.

If you’re feeling like a little pampering, book a session at the resort’s own Lazule Sea Spa. Your exhausted limbs, warmed by the beating sun, will thank you for a massage in the cool, quiet spa, where the knowing hands of your masseuse will knead out knots with knowledgeable hands. A spa treatment also includes access to the private Spa Pool, where kids are verboten and cabanas await.

But it wouldn’t be a Caribbean vacation without some serious beach time, right? From the main resort, descend the lush stairway to Morningstar—usually populated by a few sunbathing iguanas—and enjoy the idyllic beach. Stake your claim on a lounge chair and royal blue umbrella, grab an icy, rummy cocktail from beachside Coco Joe’s and while away the day with endless views of the sea, its ombre layers as crisp as an ice pop.

After an exhausting day of pool–hopping and spa treatments, you’ll want to reward yourself with sumptuous

and delicious dinner. Slip into something nice and catch the shuttle to the other end of the resort, where you’ll find Havana Blue. The restaurant offers breathtaking ocean views and Cuban, tropically–inspired fare. Start the night off right with a cocktail (our favorite? the Sea Smoke margarita, with Lunazul Reposado Tequila, freshly squeezed citrus, smoked pineapple, muddled habanero and lime–salt bubbles) and ceviche, a fresh, fishy choice whose ingredients change nightly. For an entree, you almost have to get surf ’n’turf with spiny lobster and filet mignon. A fitting finale, finish with Guava Beignets, filled with vanilla bean cream cheese and guava sauce.

Stroll the moonlit beach or take a nighttime dip in the warm waves, then meander back up to your room. You’re sure to sleep soundly after a day of sun-drenched leisure. 

Now, we’re all about relaxing— you’re in the Caribbean, after all—but if you’re looking to take advantage of those sapphire waters (and maybe even see a sea turtle), head to the Adventure Center. The Adventure Center is operated independently, but it’s located right in the lobby of the Marriott. Through the Adventure Center, you can embark on a dozen daring ventures, day or night. Board The Cat, the Center’s aptly–named catamaran, and cruise out to Turtle Cove, where you’ll be armed with snorkeling gear and toured around the crystal–clear bay to view sword–nosed ballyhoo, fluorescent barred fish, and green sea turtles. If you’re looking for a little more "om," try a SUP yoga class in the peaceful bay. Your time on these pristine waters isn’t limited to daylight hours; sail off into the sunset on a dinner cruise, or view the native nightlife through the clear bottoms of LED–lit kayaks. Tarpons make amiable companions on your tour of the harbor, while sea turtles and stingrays scuttle across the seafloor below.

If you’d rather keep your adventures landlocked, there are plenty of options for exploration. St. Thomas itself is an island layered with a surprising helping of history. Discovered by Columbus in 1493, the island was settled first by the Danish, who realized the potential for the natural harbor and fertile lands of the verdant island. St. Thomas became one of the first duty–free ports in the world—as well as a home base for pirates and privateers. After centuries of development and abandonment, America purchased St. Thomas (as well as St. John and St. Croix) from Denmark in 1917 for a cool $25 million. As the tourism industry grew through the mid-20th century with the advent of cruise ships and air travel, St. Thomas became a celebrated Caribbean destination.

This varied history has left its mark on the land; centuries-old Danish forts dot the cliffside alongside '50s-era housing. Downtown Charlotte Amalie, once the pulsating heart of the shipping industry, is now home to a booming jewelry market; the old shipping buildings house countless jewelry stores, from Tiffany to Rolex. You could spend an entire day strolling the narrow allies and busy cobblestone streets of the city, browsing and buying ornate bangles and baubles. If you’re more interested in the history and sights of the island, book a tour with Caribbean Tour Services. You’ll catch glimpses of azure waters, endless islands, and historic landmarks as your shuttle cruises through dense thickets, all narrated by your knowledgeable guide.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or leisure, recreation or relaxation, Frenchman’s Reef and Morning Star Marriott have something for you. Dive into those sun-soaked, azure waves— the water’s just fine!