Blackbeard's Castle Tours and Activities

Blackbeard\'s Castle featuring island views
Blackbeard\'s Castle which includes interior views
Blackbeard\'s Castle featuring a coastal town and island views
Blackbeard\'s Castle
Blackbeard\'s Castle featuring interior views

Learn the legend of the infamous pirate at this scenic complex set around a historic Danish tower in an area known as the Williamsburg of the Caribbean.

The 17th-century watchtower known as Blackbeard’s Castle is among the most iconic historical sites on the U.S. Virgin Islands. Built by Danish settlers to protect the harbor and Fort Christian, the tower today is part of Skytsborg Historical Park. Go to the tower’s viewing platform to enjoy the commanding vista of the bay and the coastline from the highest part of Government Hill in the city of Charlotte Amalie.

At the southern part of the resort complex, climb the famous 99 Steps that lead to the castle. Despite the name, there are actually 103 steps. Capture photos of this extraordinary sight with the luxurious swimming pool in the foreground and hills and palm trees decorating the background.

Swim in the refreshing water to cool down on the typically hot afternoons. The sight of such a historic tower looming over the pool makes for an exceptional swimming experience.

Skytsborg Historical Park comprises 5 acres (2 hectares) of grounds, including two additional pools, with changing rooms, and historical manor houses dating back as far as the 1600s. Take a self-guided historical walking tour at your own pace to see Villa Notman, Haagensen House and Hotel 1829.

Admire the elegant décor in the villas, where you will find handmade Indian mahogany furniture. Inspect the large array of life-size pirates sculptured in bronze and and copper. The undulating hills of the complex contain a pretty garden with terraces and water features.

Note that Blackbeard’s Castle was initially known as the Skytsborg Tower. Its current name pays tribute to the infamous pirate whose real name was Edward Teach. Hear the legend that Blackbeard used the tower for his pirate purposes.

Purchase tickets to enter the site at the front gate or online. The ticket price includes access to the swimming pools and all historic buildings. The site opens on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from morning until afternoon.

Blackbeard’s Castle is on a hilltop in central Charlotte Amalie on the island of St. Thomas. Walk north from the bay for a few minutes to reach the castle. Visit nearby sights, such as the St. Thomas Historical Trust Museum, Fort Christian and the Gallery St. Thomas.

Plan a trip to see Blackbeard's Castle

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Windward Passage Hotel

Windward Passage Hotel

3.5 out of 5
per person
Oct 18 - Oct 22
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Toronto (YTO) to St. Thomas (STT)
7/10 Good! (1,390 reviews)
No in dinning options at the hotel.

Reviewed on Jul. 31, 2025

Club Wyndham Elysian Beach Resort

Club Wyndham Elysian Beach Resort

3.5 out of 5
per person
Oct 18 - Oct 22
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Toronto (YTO) to St. Thomas (STT)
7.6/10 Good! (156 reviews)
Location is not bad, but is not wakable at surroundings area. A trolley to redhook could be a great option if available. The beach bistro Sangrias, if they open until at least 10 or 11pm can give guests a great alternative ro stay at rhe hotel instead of going out.

Reviewed on Jul. 6, 2025

Margaritaville Vacation Club - St. Thomas

Margaritaville Vacation Club - St. Thomas

4 out of 5
per person
Oct 18 - Oct 22
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Toronto (YTO) to St. Thomas (STT)
8.2/10 Very Good! (2,096 reviews)
We had a wonderful time at this resort. Some complained about the seagrass this time of year but the staff were incredible and really made sure we had a great time! The resort activities were alot of fun and the resort was spotless! We ate at Landshark restaurant twice and once at the breakfast cafe all were huge portions and friendly service. The bed was comfortable and the hot water unending in our bathroom! Would def come back!

Reviewed on Aug. 1, 2025

Tours & day trips

See all 107 activities
Saint Thomas: Coral World Ocean Park Ticket

Saint Thomas: Coral World Ocean Park Ticket

8.0 out of 10 with 14 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is CA $40 per adult
Saint Thomas: Coral World Ocean Park TicketOpens in new tab

Private & custom tours

See all 48 activities
St. Thomas: Sailing Trip with Snorkelling, Breakfast, & Lunch

St. Thomas: Sailing Trip with Snorkelling, Breakfast, & Lunch

Activity duration is 5 hours
10.0 out of 10 with 1 review
Free cancellation available
Price is CA $218 per adult
St. Thomas: Sailing Trip with Snorkelling, Breakfast, & LunchOpens in new tab

Adventure & outdoor

See all 15 activities
Key N Go -2 Hour Adventure UTV/ quad bike in St. Thomas, USVI

Key N Go -2 Hour Adventure UTV/ quad bike in St. Thomas, USVI

Activity duration is 2 hours
9.2 out of 10 with 9 reviews
Price is CA $215 per adult
Key N Go -2 Hour Adventure UTV/ quad bike in St. Thomas, USVIOpens in new tab

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 11 activities
St. Thomas: Sailing Trip with Snorkelling, Breakfast, & Lunch

St. Thomas: Sailing Trip with Snorkelling, Breakfast, & Lunch

Activity duration is 5 hours
10.0 out of 10 with 1 review
Free cancellation available
Price is CA $218 per adult
St. Thomas: Sailing Trip with Snorkelling, Breakfast, & LunchOpens in new tab

Shopping & fashion

See all 5 activities
Sights, Scenes, & Shopping Spree

Sights, Scenes, & Shopping Spree

Activity duration is 4 hours
9.8 out of 10 with 24 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is CA $65 per adult
Sights, Scenes, & Shopping SpreeOpens in new tab

Popular places to visit

St. Thomas Synagogue featuring a church or cathedral and heritage elements

St. Thomas Synagogue

Set among the hills that surround the island’s capital, this striking synagogue features a sand floor and original furnishings.

St. Thomas Synagogue
Charlotte Amalie Harbor

Charlotte Amalie Harbor

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Charlotte Amalie Harbor during your travels in Charlotte Amalie. Stroll along the waterfront or visit the shops in this romantic area.

Charlotte Amalie Harbor
Drake's Seat

Drake's Seat

Learn about the local history of Mafolie when you spend time at Drake's Seat. Stroll along the seaside in this romantic area, or seek out the snorkeling spots.

Drake's Seat

Frenchtown

You can learn about the history of Estate Kings Quarter when you stop by Frenchtown. Wander the beautiful beaches and waterfront in this romantic area.

Frenchtown

Haagensen House

Find out about the history of Estate Kings Quarter with a stop at Haagensen House. Wander the beautiful beaches and waterfront in this romantic area.

Haagensen House

St. Thomas Government House

Learn about the local history of Estate Kings Quarter when you spend time at St. Thomas Government House. Wander the beautiful beaches and waterfront in this romantic area.

St. Thomas Government House

Best Lodging Options Near Blackbeard's Castle

The Westin St. Thomas Beach Resort & Spa

The Westin St. Thomas Beach Resort & Spa

4.5 out of 5
5 Estate Bakkeroe, Po Box 7100, St. Thomas, St. Thomas
The Westin St. Thomas Beach Resort & Spa
Windward Passage Hotel

Windward Passage Hotel

3.5 out of 5
Veterans Drive Charlotte Amali, Po Box 640, St. Thomas, St. Thomas
Windward Passage Hotel
Hilltop Villas at Bluebeard's Castle

Hilltop Villas at Bluebeard's Castle

3 out of 5
1331 Estate Taarneberg, Bluebeard Loop, St. Thomas, St. Thomas
Hilltop Villas at Bluebeard's Castle
Bunker Hill Hotel

Bunker Hill Hotel

3 out of 5
2307 Commandant Gade, St. Thomas
Bunker Hill Hotel
Castle Villas at Bluebeard's

Castle Villas at Bluebeard's

2.5 out of 5
1331 Estate Taarneberg, St. Thomas, Bluebeard Loop, St. Thomas, Taarneberg
Castle Villas at Bluebeard's
Mafolie Hotel

Mafolie Hotel

3 out of 5
7091 Estate Mafolie, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
Mafolie Hotel
The Pink Palm Hotel - Adults Only

The Pink Palm Hotel - Adults Only

3 out of 5
2114 Crystal Gade, St. Thomas, St Thomas
The Pink Palm Hotel - Adults Only
Galleon House Hotel

Galleon House Hotel

3 out of 5
31 Kongen Gade, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
Galleon House Hotel
At Home in the Tropics

At Home in the Tropics

3 out of 5
1680 Dronningens Gade, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, VI
At Home in the Tropics
See all 3,500 properties in Blackbeard's Castle
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Blackbeard's Castle

At Blackbeard's Castle in St. Thomas, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including boating and snorkeling. Key experiences include guided walking tours, exploring the history of Blackbeard through informative tours, and discovering the steps leading to the castle. Additionally, outdoor activities abound, and tours of the Skytsborg Historical Park provide a glimpse into the region's rich heritage.

Shopping

At Blackbeard's Castle, enjoy shopping at Havensight Mall, only 1.6km away, featuring a lively atmosphere with family-friendly options. Market Square East, 3.2km away, offers a bustling public market experience. If you're up for a drive, visit St. John Spice, located 14.5km away, for unique local products.

Recreation

Experience a round of golf at Mahogany Run Golf Course, just 3.2km from Blackbeard's Castle, surrounded by stunning landscapes. For sports enthusiasts, Lionel Roberts Stadium is a short 322m away, offering vibrant athletic energy. For ultimate relaxation, visit The Self Centre, located 14.5km away, focusing on wellness and rejuvenation.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of the Skyride to Paradise Point, a scenic cable car ride located 1.6km from Blackbeard's Castle, offering stunning views and adventure vibes. For nature lovers, embark on the St. John Eco Hike & Snorkel Adventure or explore the Lind Point Trail, both 14.5km away, promising outdoor excitement and beautiful scenery.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Magic Ice Gallery, just 644m from Blackbeard's Castle, where you can enjoy refreshing drinks in a romantic setting. For a cultural evening, head to Pistarckle Theater, located 4.8km away, offering family-friendly entertainment and a captivating atmosphere.

Find the best attractions near Blackbeard's Castle

When visiting Blackbeard's Castle in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, you'll find a variety of attractions including a picturesque bay, a historic synagogue, and a vibrant marina. Ideal for culture enthusiasts and outdoor lovers, the area offers stunning beach experiences and great vantage points for photos. Don't miss the chance to explore the rich history of St. Thomas while enjoying the unique charm of Blackbeard's Castle and its surroundings.

  • Magens Bay Beach: Renowned for its stunning scenery, Magens Bay Beach offers a serene escape with soft white sands and crystal-clear waters. It's an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and soaking in the beautiful beach vibes, all just 1.6km from Blackbeard's Castle.
  • 99 Steps: This historic site, located a mere 161m away, features a unique staircase that leads you through the rich culture and history of St. Thomas. As you ascend, you'll be captivated by charming views and the stories that echo from its past.
  • Yacht Haven Grande Marina: Just 1.4km from Blackbeard's Castle, this marina is a blend of adventure and relaxation. Explore luxury yachts, indulge in fine dining, or embark on thrilling water sports, all while enjoying the stunning coastal views.

Best time to go to Blackbeard's Castle

The best time to visit Blackbeard's Castle can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Blackbeard's Castle falls in September, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Blackbeard's Castle falls in March, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January78.4°F (25.8°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
February77.9°F (25.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
March77.5°F (25.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
April78.6°F (25.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
May80.2°F (26.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June81.7°F (27.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July82.2°F (27.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August82.8°F (28.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
September83.3°F (28.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October82.9°F (28.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
November81.3°F (27.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
December79.7°F (26.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Blackbeard's Castle

When visiting Blackbeard's Castle, consider exploring nearby free attractions like Sapphire Beach and Coki Point Beach. To save on accommodation, plan your trip between September and November for lower prices, and book about a month in advance. Tuesdays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Sundays are the priciest. Use Expedia's search tool to find great deals and consider booking a package for flights and hotel. Don't forget to check for last-minute deals as well!

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Blackbeard's Castle are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to March and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Blackbeard's Castle about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Blackbeard's Castle is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Blackbeard's Castle is Sunday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to tailor your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and special offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel booking at Blackbeard's Castle with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.