One of the top family-friendly attractions in the US Virgin Islands, Coral World Ocean Park combines both indoor and outdoor observation facilities which showcase the region’s diverse and plentiful marine life. Highlights include the hermit crab, starfish, and sea cucumber touch pool and the 50,000-gallon Deep Reef Tank, home to moray eels, tarpon, and plenty of sharks.
A general admission ticket to the park grants access to all five acres of the facility, including outdoor pools, nearly two dozen aquarium exhibits, nature trails, and the Undersea Observatory Tower. Touch pools are also a highlight of most visits to the Coral World Ocean Park. Other interactive activities—such as cruising in a semi-submarine for views of the sea floor, snuba diving in the Caribbean Sea, or viewing endangered sea turtles alongside an expert instructor—are available for additional costs.
-
This attraction is a must-see for families visiting St. Thomas.
-
There’s a choice of admission tickets, including a general admission and a combo pass—enjoy extra activities with the latter.
-
Most exhibits are wheelchair accessible; there’s a wheelchair elevator in the Caribbean Reef Encounter.
Coral World Ocean Park is easy to access by private vehicle, whether you rent a car or pay for a taxi. The ride from downtown typically takes 20–30 minutes and is easily navigable on the island’s major roads. It’s also possible to take a short boat ride from Water Bay and Coki Point which docks right at the park.
Coral World Ocean Park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is early in the morning right when the park opens, particularly on days when there are no cruise ships in port. The park hosts feedings and presentations throughout the day, so check the schedule ahead of your visit to ensure you don’t miss your favorites.
Travelers with extra time before or after a visit to the park can bring along a beach towel and spend some time on beautiful Coki Beach, located right next door. This white-sand beach is one of the best in the area for snorkeling thanks to the high concentration of tropical fish in the clear waters. It’s also possible to rent paddle boards and explore the nearby shoreline.
