Start with Views That Set the Tone

Starting your day with a view immediately changes how St. Thomas feels. To get that really soft light that’s great for photos, head up to Drake’s Seat as early as you can.

This is the perfect place to get those wide, layered shots of the water, hills, and anchored ships that capture why St. Thomas stands out among Eastern Caribbean cruise destinations. 

As for St. Maarten, you can’t go wrong with Harold Jack Hill, which is a lookout point between Cole Bay and Philipsburg. 

Pick Beaches That Photograph Beautifully

The beaches are where the day really settles in, so make this your next stop, but make it early if you can.

In St. Thomas, Magens Bay has stunning sweeping curves and calm water, while Lindquist Beach and Secret Harbor are ideal if you want something a bit more contained and unhurried. 

Over on St. Maarten, Orient Bay will give you clean lines and plenty of color to work with. However, if it’s a quieter, more natural setting you’re after, Happy Bay is where you want to be.

Let Lunch Be Part of the Aesthetic

Lunch is your chance to pause and add to your Insta stories. 

St. Thomas has plenty of open-air beach cafes, so you’ll have the water as your backdrop, or you can grab a bite on a hilltop terrace with a view, like Heidi’s Honeymoon Grill.

French bistros like Le moulin fou sxm and French Cocotte are big in St. Maarten, and here you’ll find beautifully composed plates and charming settings that make the best Instagram posts. 

Capture One Iconic Moment Thoughtfully

Some moments need a little more planning than others, and Maho Beach is one of them. It’s incredibly close to Princess Juliana International Airport, so you’re very likely to see jets flying close to the sand.

If you want to capture this kind of iconic shot, check arrival schedules, stand well clear of the jet blasts and give yourself space to take this moment in. 

Add a Local Detail That Can’t Be Replicated Elsewhere

It’s always those smaller details that really give photos more personality. This could be anything from a roadside fruit stand to a tiny art stall, so take your time when exploring and don’t be afraid to wander a little. 

Packing light also makes it easier to stop as many times as you need to, so keep extra bags to a minimum and just carry what you need to.

Don’t Forget to Style Your Day

What you wear matters, too, so do a little planning before you head out the door.

Neutral linens and breathable fabrics will keep you more comfortable in the heat and look amazing against the blue of the water and those softer island tones. Your footwear should also be walkable without feeling heavy because you’ll be moving around a lot.

Lastly, a crossbody bag, sunscreen, and a portable charger go a long way.

Leaving With the Best Souvenirs

A day well spent in St. Thomas and St. Maarten comes from thoughtful choices about where to go, especially if it’s Insta-worthy shots you’re after. Moving away from the main commercial areas and taking time at each stop lets you capture what truly sets these islands apart.