Drake's Seat

Overview

Drake's Seat is a historic overlook offering panoramic views of Charlotte Amalie and the surrounding islands. It's named after the famous English privateer Sir Francis Drake.

Named after Sir Francis Drake, it offers stunning views and a glimpse into the island's history.

Historical Site Viewpoint

Location

Address

Route 37, Hull Bay Road, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas

Neighborhood: Hull Bay

Coordinates

18.350600, -64.940600

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

Free

Children

Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

November-April

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

30 minutes

Recommended

1-2 hours

Full Experience

Half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Warm and pleasant

• Wildflowers
• Clear views

summer

Hot and humid

• Long daylight hours

autumn

Warm and breezy

• Cooler breezes

winter

Pleasant and cool

• Holiday decorations

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Wear comfortable shoes
Bring water
Check weather conditions

What to Bring

essential

Water Sunscreen Camera

seasonal

Umbrella Rain jacket

not allowed

Drones Large backpacks

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate, some walking and stairs

• Dehydration risk
• Sun exposure

Medical facilities: First aid available, nearest hospital 15 minutes away

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

parking $0

tours $20-$50

food $10-$20

Dress Code

Casual, comfortable clothing, Light, breathable fabrics, comfortable walking shoes, Walking shoes or hiking boots, Inappropriate or revealing clothing

Booking Tips

• Not required, but tours may need it
• Local tour operators
• Varies by tour
• Not applicable

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

St. Thomas Explorer

Size: 30 MB

Features: Maps, Attraction info, Tour bookings

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Not available

Charging Stations: Not available

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Cyril E. King Airport (STT)

Distance: 45 km

Travel Time: 45 minutes

taxi

$60-$80 45 min

shuttle

$30-$40 50 min

From City Center

Distance: 5 km

taxi

$15-$20 10 min

public_bus

$2 20 min

rental_car

Varies 10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: It's a historic site with stunning views, a source of local pride

Historical Significance: Named after Sir Francis Drake, a famous English privateer who used this spot to oversee his fleet

Insider Tips

Best views are at sunrise
Local tour guides offer fascinating historical insights
Nearby beaches are less crowded on weekdays

Local Recommendations

• Visit nearby Magens Bay
• Try local rum at a beach bar
• Explore Charlotte Amalie's historic district

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Tank yu

where_is Weh deh?

how_much How much?

beautiful Breezeful

ticket Tiket

Guide Languages: English, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main overlook

Best Time: Sunrise or sunset

Tips: Wide-angle shots capture the best views

Result: Breathtaking panoramic views

#DrakesSeat #StThomas #CaribbeanViews

Photography Rules

allowed areas All outdoor areas

prohibited areas None

flash photography Allowed

commercial photography Permit may be needed

drone policy Prohibited without permit

tripod policy Allowed

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Magens Bay

Distance: 2.5 km

Walking: 30 min

Type: Beach

Charlotte Amalie Historic District