27/08/2026
You did it! The boxes are unpacked, the dorm room is coming together, and your student is officially beginning a new chapter at the University of the Virgin Islands.
After the shopping runs, orientation activities and emotional goodbyes, you may be tempted to head straight to the airport. But if your schedule allows, stay an extra day and experience a little more of St. Thomas.
You came to the island as a University of the Virgin Islands parent. Why not leave with a few vacation memories, too?
Start With a Beachfront Home Base
If you’re staying near UVI, Emerald Beach Resort St. Thomas puts you right on the sand at Lindbergh Bay while keeping you conveniently located near the university and Cyril E. King Airport.
Once your student is settled, trade the moving boxes and shopping bags for a beach chair. Take a walk along the water, relax by the pool or simply enjoy the view from your room.
For families looking for another accommodation in the same general area, Lindbergh Bay Hotel & Villas is also conveniently positioned near the airport and UVI.
Raise a Glass to a New Chapter
College move-in is a milestone for parents, too.
Head into historic Charlotte Amalie and make Rum Tours VI part of your parents’ day out. Enjoy a rum-tasting experience while learning a little more about one of the Caribbean’s most recognizable traditions.
It’s a fun change of pace after a week centered around dorm rooms, schedules and school supplies.
Consider it a toast to your student and to successfully making it through move-in!
Spend an Afternoon in Downtown Charlotte Amalie
After your tasting, don’t rush out of downtown.
Take some time to walk through historic Charlotte Amalie, browse the shops and find something special to remember this chapter.
Stop by Cardow Jewelersand check out the Cardow timepieces featuring the Virgin Islands. A locally inspired watch or piece of jewelry could make a meaningful keepsake whether it’s a back-to-school gift for your new college student or something for yourself to commemorate the occasion.
Then make your way to Dual Chefs for a sweet treat and an iced coffee before continuing your afternoon downtown.
See St. Thomas From the Water
You’ve seen the dorm. You’ve seen the campus. Now see another side of St. Thomas.
Book an excursion with St. Thomas Adventure Tours and spend part of your extra day kayaking, snorkeling and exploring the waters surrounding the island.
It’s an especially good option if you’re traveling with other family members or if your UVI student has a little free time before classes begin.
Yesterday’s agenda may have been unloading suitcases and organizing a dorm room.
Today’s can involve a mask, snorkel and Caribbean water.
End the Day Back on Lindbergh Bay
After exploring St. Thomas, you don’t have to go far for your final evening.
Return to Emerald Beach Resort, grab a table at Caribbean Fusion, and enjoy a relaxed beachfront meal overlooking Lindbergh Bay.
If your student is available, invite them to join you. College life will get busy soon enough, so take advantage of the opportunity for one more family meal.
Then stay for the sunset.
No errands. No shopping list. No boxes left to unpack.
Just your family, the beach and a St. Thomas evening.
Don’t Rush the Goodbye
Dropping a child off at college is one of those moments that can feel exciting and bittersweet at the same time.
You’ve spent the trip making sure your student has everything they need. Now that they’re settled at UVI, give yourself a little time to enjoy where their next chapter is beginning.
Stay another night.
Explore Charlotte Amalie.
Taste a little Caribbean rum.
Shop local.
Get out on the water.
Watch the sunset from Lindbergh Bay.
And when it’s finally time to head to the airport, you’ll leave St. Thomas with more than memories of dorm-room shopping and move-in day.
Your student has started their UVI journey.
And you got to experience a little more of the island they’ll now call home.
Welcome to St. Thomas, UVI families. We hope this is the first of many visits.
