I N S I D E T H I S I S S U E
A Caribbean wedding story with “Island Mike”
Our love affair with the Caribbean Reef Octopus
Stories from visitors and residents about why they love the VI
WE SIT DOWN WITH WEDDING OFFICIANT, “ISLAND MIKE” TO TALK ABOUT LOVE A YEAR IN THE LIFE OF THE MOST INTELLIGENT INVERTEBRATE ON EARTH
SHIPWRECKED! A MERMAIDPIRATE SOIREE @IGGIE’S EVENTS, EXCURSIONS, FOOD, LODGING & MORE ST THOMAS MAGAZINE
WE HEAR FROM RESIDENTS AND VISITORS ABOUT WHY THEY LOVE THE VI
Trade roses for rum and head to the sand for Shipwrecked!, a Mermaid Pirate Soirée at Iggie’s Beach Bar & Grill. Saturday, February 14 from 7PM to midnight. This free, costume-encouraged event brings fantasy and island flair together right on Bolongo Bay. Sea shanties by Lady Gang, themed cocktails, treasure hunts, giveaways, a costume contest, LED dance floor, and a body glitter station to keep things shimmering all night Whether you’re coupled up, single, or just ready to flirt with fate, Iggie’s promises a playful, high-energy night where island vibes and Valentine’s fun collide.
08 February Upcoming Events
What’s going on this month on island... Your Don’t Miss List!
11 Moments Made for Two
Fun activities to keep the romance alive for your USVI vacation this month.
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Love on the Rock
Our fun conversation with St. Thomas Wedding Officiant and friend, “Island Mike.”
25 St. Thomas Beach Guide
Our favorite snorkel stops and the best place to spot Humpback Whales this month!
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31
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52 Capture the Moment
Our Q&A with island photographer, Melissa Riley, about capturing romance.
Beauty & Brains
Our feature story on the most intelligent invertebrate on Earth, the octopus.
Love Letters to the Virgin Islands
We hear from residents and visitors on why they fell in love with the Virgin Islands.
Thank You to Businesses and Upcoming Topics
Appreciation to St. Thomas businesses and see what’s next for March 2026!
TS N O
E D I T O R
Welcome to the February 2026 issue of St Thomas Magazine, the “Love” Issue! This theme is especially significant for me in that it is the entire reason I am on this island. In my former life, I sailed around various countries and lived full time on boats....after years of living abroad, one of my opportunities brought me to the BVIs where I worked on a luxury term yacht. That was back in 2019 and on my very first day off from work and much needed break, I met and almost instantly fell in love with my now “husband” and never looked back. We have built a life together on St. Thomas where we own two charter companies, one bareboat rental under the name of GoMojo Tender Rentals and our home and luxury day yacht, NOVA. We have a cat, also named Mojo and have a very happy life here on island This island has given me everything I ever wanted and dreamed of for my life and there will never be enough I can do to say thank you but sharing our experiences and special moments and places with you, island guests, is a start. St. Thomas Magazine strives to be a way to share and represent the best parts of our island home.
This month we take a look at the most romantic activities from sunrise beach walks to exploring the rugged terrain and beaches to day passes at an adults only boutique hotel perched high on the mountain...so many ways for you to spend time together and create new memories. We sit down and have a heart-to-heart with our friend and St Thomas Wedding Officiant, “Island Mike” as well as friend and island photographer, Melissa Riley. We hear from our residents and visitors about why they love the VI in our “Love Letters to the Virgin Islands” feature and also take a look at a day in the life of my most loved, marine species, the Caribbean Reef Octopus.
This month is also brimming with events and live music from Street Level VI and Iggie’s Beach Bar, a personal favorite of ours. Our dining guide highlights the most romantic settings for every meal and late night cocktails and our favorite hideaways and beach front properties show up in our “Where to Stay” guide!
You won’t be lacking for ideas as you heat up the island this month! We want you happy and fulfilled for your dream vacation ahead and as always, much love from us at St. Thomas Magazine! xoxoxo
Editor, April M Idlett
Friday, February 6 5:30pm-11pm th
FEB 6 First Friday Downtown Charlotte Amalie
FEB 7
Saturday, February 7th 6pm-10pm
Rotary Club Mardi Gras Ball @Hotel 1829
SAVE THE DATE for an event you won't forget...We are going to dance, eat and raise money for St Thomas students to get higher education Wear your sequin ball gown, bring a mask, we will provide the beads at Hotel 1829 downtown Charlotte Amalie
Every Sunday from 3pm-6pm
FEB 8 Live Music @Sapphire Beach & Superbowl Party
Spend Sunday Funday at the beach with great music from local and visiting bands, multiple beach bars with great food and cocktails, cabana rentals and beautiful views. And of course, the game will be on the big screen at Sapphire!
Saturday, February 14 from 6pm-9pm th
FEB 14 Sip n Paint @81C Downtown
Get creative together at this playful Valentine’s Sip & Paint for two at 81C Art Gallery. Couples swap canvases throughout the night, building one shared masterpiece while sipping bottomless cocktails or mocktails Call 340 998 6266 for INFO
Wednesday, February 18th from 8pm-11pm
FEB 18 Cactus & Coral: the Cactus Bros. @Iggie’s Beach Bar
Join brothers Mike and Brian Kasprzak as they tour the VI with one of their shows at Iggie’s this month! This midwest duo brings high energy with a mix of classic rock, outlaw country and soulful originals to entertain crowds across the island
Saturday, February 21 starting at 6pm st
FEB 21
Mystery Under the Sea @My Brother’s Workshop
Mystery Under the Sea, the 8th Annual Mystery Event hosted by My Brother’s Workshop is an adults-only night of food, drinks, prizes, and a playful whodunnit beneath the waves. �� Tickets: $75 in advance or $100 at the door Purchase Tix HERE!
Thursday, February 26 starting at 6pm th
FEB 26 Andrea Chénier By Umberto Giordano • Screening of the Met Opera of New York
Sung in Italian with English titles, this passionate production features an all-star cast and will be preceded by courtyard refreshments from Amalia Café starting at 5:00pm. Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for teachers, and free for students and children Held at Antilles School, Buy Tix HERE!
Founder, Priscilla Lynn sends her love to find live music in vi and bvi here!
Romance on St. Thomas isn’t just about where you dine; it’s about what you do together. From quiet mornings on the water to adventurous afternoons exploring the island, shared experiences are what turn a vacation into a memory you’ll talk about long after the tan fades.
Whether you’re celebrating something special or simply enjoying time away together, the island offers endless ways to connect through movement, discovery and play.
Think private boat days and quiet beaches, kayaking through mangroves, off-road adventures and slow afternoons soaking in views at adults-only retreats. Add in cultural stops, historic walks, day passes at boutique resorts or an overnight escape just offshore, and you’ve got a love story built on experience
These are island moments made for two; designed to be lived, explored and shared.
There’s a special kind of magic in waking up early together on St. Thomas; especially when you time it right. Around 6:30 a.m. puts you squarely in the golden window, when the sky begins to glow and the island is still quiet Head toward the East End and you’ll be rewarded with some of the most beautiful sunrise views on island, from the shoreline at Sapphire Beach and Coki, to the sweeping overlooks near Cabrita Point and Vessup Bay Bring coffee, walk the beach or simply sit side by side as the colors shift from soft pastels to brilliant gold... an effortless island moment that feels intimate, unplanned and perfectly shared.
For couples who love a quieter start to the day, an early morning nature hike is one of the most rewarding ways to connect, with each other and the island The trail above Magens Bay is best tackled just after sunrise, when the air is still cool and the sounds of birds fill the canopy. The shaded path winds gently downhill, offering moments of conversation and comfortable silence before opening up to the calm waters of the bay. Ending the hike with a barefoot walk along the sand or a quick dip before the beach crowds arrive is the perfect way to start the day together.
GoMojo Tender Rentals is the leading ba rental service in St Thomas! They offe center console RIBs from Sapphire Bea Thomas to get you over to St. John bea Lovango Resort and more! If you have b experience, this IS hands down the best your own boat day without sharing spa memories! I think they’re up to 5 propo wedding and countless honeymoon trip their boats.
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Island Buddy is one of the most fun ways to explore St. Thomas together. With a street-legal buggy and a GPS-guided route, couples can cruise scenic back roads, discover hidden beaches and stop at island overlooks whenever the moment feels right. Perfect for pairs who want to explore at their own pace and turn the journey itself into part of the experience
A shared day trip to the British Virgin Islands is an unforgettable way to explore together. This lively Jost Van Dyke Funday hits iconic stops like Soggy Dollar Bar and the legendary Willy T, blending beach time, island hopping and a little adventure into one bucket-list-worthy day made for two.
For couples craving a quiet escape in the heart of town, a day pass to the Pink Palm Hotel offers a relaxed, adults-only retreat above Charlotte Amalie. Spend the afternoon poolside, sip something refreshing and take in sweeping harbor views in a serene setting designed for slowing down together...no overnight stay required.
Slow down and savor the morning together with a seaside brunch at SeaSalt, where ocean views, coastal breezes and beautifully plated dishes set the mood. From fresh pastries and island-inspired plates to perfectly poured mimosas, it’s the kind of lingering brunch that turns into an afternoon; best enjoyed with no plans and great company.
Get creative together at this playful Valentine’s Sip & Paint for two at 81C Art Gallery Couples swap canvases throughout the night, building one shared masterpiece while sipping bottomless cocktails or mocktails. Equal parts art, laughter and connection. It’s a date night that’s as memorable as the finished piece you take home.
Turn your condo or villa into an intimate dining experience with a private sushi night by Chef Nathan Ryan. Specializing in omakase-style menus, Chef Nathan crafts multi-course dinners featuring locally sourced fish, seasonal ingredients, and Caribbean-Japanese flavors...all prepared in the comfort of your own space. It’s an effortlessly romantic way to slow down, stay in and savor something truly special together.
Celebrate your time on island with a romantic photo session by Melissa Anne Photography, where candid moments and genuine connection take center stage Melissa specializes in capturing couples exactly as they are...relaxed, in love and fully present. Whether it’s a proposal, anniversary, honeymoon, or “just because,” these images become timeless keepsakes of your island love story.
Barefoot vows, sunrise ceremonies and a belief that weddings should be FUN! Island Mike shares why love, in all its forms, deserves to be celebrated.
There are people on St. Thomas who feel like part of the island’s rhythm steady, familiar and somehow present at life’s biggest moments. Island Mike is one of them. A longtime wedding officiant and a trusted name among local vendors, he’s helped thousands of couples say “I do” with the kind of calm confidence that makes a destination wedding feel simple...even when it’s planned in a matter of days.
When we sat down to talk, Mike’s message came through immediately: weddings are fun! Not stressful. Not stiff. Not only for first-timers. Just… worth it. Whether a couple has been together for two years or twenty, whether it’s their first wedding or their “second (or third) time around,” Mike believes in the power of making a real moment out of it because it’s a memory you’ll keep.
And he should know. He’s seen just about everything an island ceremony can bring: sunrise magic, last-minute license scrambles, unexpected rain shower and the kind of laughter that only happens when you stop trying to control every detail and let the island lead.
I already knew some of Mike’s origin story...Ohio roots, time spent in Los Angeles, a career that involved serious work he understandably keeps private What I wanted to know was the real turning point: was St. Thomas a surprise, or a dream he chased on purpose?
For Mike, the answer was simple
He wanted to live in the Caribbean for a long time. He remembers being a kid and seeing an image of divers searching for treasure. That was it The seed was set: Caribbean life, ocean, adventure.
When I asked Mike about his “team,” his answer was one of my favorite parts of our conversation:
His team isn’t a staff. “It’s the whole island.”
team?
If you’ve ever planned a wedding here, you know that one of the island’s biggest strengths is its network; people who genuinely know each other, recommend each other and show up for one another in a way that feels personal.
When I asked Mike about his “team,” his answer was one of my favorite parts of our conversation:
His team isn’t a staff. It’s the island.
Mike’s real team is the group of local professionals he trusts and works alongside: photographers, bakers, planners, hair and makeup artists...an entire ecosystem of wedding vendors who are dialed in and deeply experienced.
And he meant it when he said it: St. Thomas has an incredible wedding community. There isn’t just one photographer, one florist, one planner. There are multiple talented options and the best vendors work together naturally.
That vendor network is part of why destination weddings work here...because you’re never building from scratch. You’re stepping into a place where people already know how to make the day happen.
How did you become “Island Mike?
The name is iconic now but it didn’t come from a marketing brainstorm or a branding agency.
It started casually Mike called himself “Island Mike” almost jokingly, the way island nicknames tend to begin. He repeated it a few times. Clients started repeating it back. And then, like island things do, it stuck.
Soon it wasn’t just a nickname; it was the name people searched, asked for and recommended. It appeared on his site. It became part of his identity. No magic formula, no backstory just the island doing what it does.
I asked if it’s typically the bride reaching out first. Mike laughed because yes, most of the time it is. He estimates about 70/30: brides usually initiate, usually drive the details and sometimes the groom’s name doesn’t even come up until the wedding day. But Mike also sees the opposite: grooms who handle everything “soup to nuts” while the bride simply arrives and enjoys the experience.
And that’s where his real skill shows up; he doesn’t treat weddings like a rigid script. He meets couples where they are. If a bride needs help and wants every answer yesterday, Mike can plan the entire wedding in an hour today right now done But if a couple wants it to unfold naturally, he can do that too.
Because here’s the thing: Mike plans weddings for couples arriving in a matter of days. He’s had calls that sound like, “I know this is Tuesday but we fly in Thursday. Can we get married Friday?” Most of the time, the answer is YES!
In his years officiating and after 3,000+ weddings Mike remembers only two ceremonies where they truly had no choice but to marry in the rain or move under cover. And in both cases, the bride made the call: Let’s do it!
Because at a certain point, if you’re already wet, why not? The moment becomes part of the story. And Mike knows how to set the tone so it feels like adventure, not inconvenience. When couples ask about a Plan B, he tells them the truth:
If your Plan A is “beach wedding,” your Plan B might be…get wet.
And if all you need is a window, Mike can shorten the ceremony to hit the high points and still make it meaningful. Five to seven minutes. The vows. The kiss. The “you’re married.”
Do
Mike didn’t hesitate.
Prettyklip. Sunrise. That’s the one
He describes it like this: when the sun lifts over St. John, the light is unreal...bold, cinematic, almost surreal Quiet Peaceful No crowds Just the couple, the ocean and a sky that looks like it’s been painted.
The hardest part, he says, is convincing couples who aren’t already sunrise people because the wake-up time is early. But every couple who does it tells him the same thing afterward:
It was so worth it.
Not just for the photos (though the photos are next level), but for the feeling: that calm, private moment together before the island wakes up.
He also loves the nature-based options couples overlook like the shaded, ruin-dotted arboretum area near Magens Bay, perfect for small groups and midday ceremonies when the light filters through the canopy. St. Thomas and the USVI really do put on quite the show for special moments.
Mike’s answer felt honest in a way many people don’t always say out loud: Island life with kids is amazing… and complicated
On the beautiful side, there’s the community. The “tribe.” You see people everywhere...same beaches, same shops, same birthday parties. Kids grow up together in a way that’s rare But there’s also a reality: people come and go Kids lose friends when families move away. It makes you a little cautious about how quickly you attach. Still, Mike loves raising his family here. He says without kids, he and Amber would probably never leave their house. Kids keep you social Kids keep you connected
And in a Love Issue, that matters...because love isn’t only weddings. It’s the everyday life you build and the way the island shapes it.
Mike’s offerings range from beautifully simple to fully coordinated and he’s refreshingly honest about what matters most At its core, his simplest package is exactly what many couples want: him, a ceremony and plenty of candid cell phone photos. Done.
His most popular option, though, pairs him with a professional photographer; something he strongly encourages Time and again, he’s seen couples regret skipping photos or video, especially years later. You might think you’ll never look at them,” he tells couples. “But one day, you will and you’ll be glad they exist.”
More full-service options can include coordination elements like chairs, décor, musicians and ceremony details. But Mike is upfront about what drives cost: fully catered, full-production beach receptions require significant logistics. Often, his advice is simpler and smarter
Do the ceremony-then celebrate at a great restaurant. It’s seamless, beautiful and keeps the day joyful instead of stressful.
Choose accommodations with logistics in mind. Where you stay shapes everything. Remote villas can be stunning but transporting 20–30 guests across the island quickly becomes costly and stressful. Convenience matters. Family and friends will want recommendations for everything. Destination weddings are emotional, and couples don’t need to answer every question themselves.
Flexibility is part of island life and part of the magic. The smoother the plan, the more present you’ll be in the moment
Mike’s answer is simple and often surprising.
“There is no bad time.”
Even hurricane season, which worries many couples, can be one of the island’s most beautiful periods: quieter, more affordable and glasscalm waters when storms aren’t present. Big storms are rare and flexibility is part of island life
His practical guideline? If you want it easy, give yourself about two weeks to plan That allows room for licenses and vendor availability.
But faster?
Mike has done it many times. During COVID, when other destinations were closed, he once officiated 53 weddings in a single month.
Just when the conversation seemed complete, Mike shared a final chapter He and Amber recently opened Three Queens Distillery, a craft operation producing vodka, gin, rum...and a hot sauce aptly named Island Mike’s The name honors the historic “Three Queens” of St. Croix, women tied to labor rebellion and resistance; a meaningful tribute deeply connected to the territory’s history. They’re keeping things intimate for now, operating by appointment while they build. Ingredients are sourced locally when possible: scotch bonnet peppers from their farm, lemongrass for bush tea gin, sugar cane and mango. And tucked behind the distillery? A private tropical garden an oasis off a backstreet in town. Not advertised At least not yet
As the conversation wrapped, Mike returned to the belief that defines his work: Weddings are fun.
Not because everything goes perfectly but because you choose to mark a moment with intention and joy.
For destination weddings, vow renewals, elopements and ceremony planning in St. Thomas and St. John, Island Mike is your go-to officiant and wedding planner in paradise Reach out to start planning your day:
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No matter how long you’ve been together. No matter how many times you’ve done it. No matter how quickly it comes together It’s still special And someday, it will be a memory you’ll want to return to.
Dive into an evening of intrigue and fun at Mystery Under the Sea, My Brother’s Workshop’s 8th Annual mystery fundraiser! Join the community for a night of feasting, bidding, oceanic lore and a playful whodunnit beneath the waves. Enjoy delicious bites from the MBW Café and Bakery, creative drinks and chances to win prizes for best dressed and top sleuth. All proceeds support MBW’s mission of mentorship, education and job training for local youth Tickets start at $75 in advance and $100 at the door 18+ welcome
The Humpback Whales are here as well as an array of vibrant marine life. We take a look at where to find them and also our favorite snorkel spots in this month’s beach feature!
One of my absolute favorite places to freedive on St. John is Leinster Bay and Waterlemon Cay “Three Ball Reef” as we like to call it, is home to a 45' drop of vibrant coral, bigger fish, octopus, Nurse Sharks and an array of busy marine life. You can also snorkel around Waterlemon Cay itself starting at the right corner and heading counter-clockwise around the Cay absolute stunning experience. The current can be strong here so use caution and stay closer to shore if too much for you.
Another big surprise, at least for me anyway, was the marine life at Christmas Cove. This tucked in spot at Great St. James is home to tons of rays, turtles, garden eels and a plethora of marine life around the rocky shorelines Not to mention, home to Pizza Pi as well!
It’s Whale Season! We just spent a glorious hour or so with two juvenile Humpbacks last month and they can often be seen running Northside STT from Mahogany towards Sapphire and St. John. Keep your eyes peeled if you;re on this side of the island...last time, you could see them from Coki Beach!
If you want a quieter spot and guaranteed to swim with turtles and other favorites, head to Brewer’s Bay down by the airport. This beach is a haven when cruise ships are in and a peaceful experience with some of our top marine life. Food trucks are also located nearby if you work up an appetite.
Melissa Riley was one of the first friends I made after moving to St. Thomas in 2019. Like so many island connections, our friendship grew organically; through shared workdays, overlapping social circles and the quiet understanding that comes from choosing to build a life somewhere far from what’s familiar. Over the years, I watched as Melissa’s path naturally evolved into photography, shaped by the island, her former stateside life and the people who come here to celebrate life’s biggest moments. Today, through Melissa Anne Foto, she captures love in all its forms; proposals, honeymoons, anniversaries and so much more, with an approach that feels effortless, honest and deeply connected to place.
We sat down to talk about what brought her to St Thomas, how the island influences her work, and what she’s learned about photographing love where the light is wild and nothing ever goes exactly as planned.
What originally brought you to St. Thomas, and when did the island start to feel like home?
I came to St. Thomas for three things: Caribbean-blue water, warm weather and just enough pirate-life energy to make every day feel like an adventure Add in boats and photography and it felt like the most natural fit in the world
“Trust the process, trust my guidance, and focus on each other. I’ll handle the light, the angles and the logistics. Your job is just to show up, breathe and be in the moment.”
I had planned to move here the year Irma and Maria hit but I waited a year so the island could recover It was important to me not to arrive while the community was rebuilding and resources were limited When I finally made it, home happened quickly. The people were warm, the rhythm felt right and settling in came easier than I expected. Sometimes people tell me they thought I’d been here much longer, even pre-storm, and that always feels like the best kind of compliment.
You’re present for some of the most meaningful moments in people’s lives. What is that like? It never feels “normal,” in the best way When someone invites me into a proposal or anniversary trip, they’re trusting me with a memory that will last long after the vacation ends. I get to witness the nerves, the happy tears, the deep laughs... and my role is to keep things calm and fun so they can stay present.
I’m there for the big moment but I’m always watching for the small ones too: the squeeze of a hand, the look that says we did it, the way people exhale once they realize they can just be themselves.
What makes photographing moments on St. Thomas different and how has that shaped your style?
St. Thomas isn’t subtle and I love that. The water is unreal, the light changes fast and the scenery can shift from postcard-perfect to dramatic in minutes But the biggest difference is the energy People arrive softened by vacation. They’re lighter, more open, more connected That’s shaped my style to be true-to-life, warm and emotion-forward. I want images that feel like you were really there...wind in your hair, salt on your skin, laughter that actually looks like laughter Not stiff or overly posed, just honest moments framed by ridiculous scenery.
How do you help guests feel comfortable in front of the camera? I make it feel like you’re hanging out, not performing. Most people tell me they’re “awkward,” and I promise they’re not. They just haven’t been guided in a way that feels natural before.
I give simple direction, easy prompts, and small movements that create connection without overthinking it I also help with the behind-the-scenes details; timing, locations, what to wear, so clients arrive feeling prepared. Once you trust that you’re in good hands, you can relax and enjoy it That’s when the magic happens. And my cheesy humor definitely helps if I can get a real laugh, the camera awkward-ness disappears fast.
To learn more or reserve a session, visit melissannefoto.com. Melissa offers proposal, couple, anniversary and lifestyle photography sessions across St Thomas, guiding clients through every step from location planning to natural, movementbased direction so the experience feels relaxed, personal and true to the moment. Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak season. - Cover photo of February’s, St. Thomas Magazine provided by Melissa Riley.
Has a shoot ever surprised you? What advice do you give clients about expectations? Island life loves to keep us humble in the best way. I’ve had shoots where the wind showed up uninvited, the tide or sargassum had other plans, or a “quiet” beach suddenly wasn’t quiet at all. And honestly, those often become the most memorable sessions because we adapt I always have a Plan B and usually a Plan C. I’m not afraid to pivot, change locations, shift the vibe, or let the weather create a mood you couldn’t plan.
My advice is to come with a vision but hold it loosely. Trust the process, trust my guidance, and focus on each other. I’ll handle the light, the angles, and the logistics. Your job is just to show up, breathe and be in the moment
In a place where light, landscape and emotion shift by the minute, Melissa Riley has built a practice rooted in trust, adaptability and presence. Her work reflects not just the beauty of St. Thomas but the way people feel when they arrive here...softened, connected and open to the moment. By guiding rather than directing and responding rather than controlling, she captures love as it actually unfolds: imperfect, joyful and deeply human. It’s a reminder that the most meaningful images aren’t staged they’re allowed to happen.
www.melissannefoto.com
340.473.5625
info@melissannefoto.com
The octopus wasn’t my first love but it has been my steady obsession now for almost 15 years Majoring in Marine Biology, I had plans to pursue a PhD in Cephalopod genetics but life took me a different direction. Eventually, the sea is where I would end up and finding and spending time with the most intelligent invertebrate on the planet became a reality.
Over the years, I’ve been lucky enough to see Caribbean Reef Octopuses many times in the wild; across different sites, depths and conditions around St Thomas and the Virgin Islands. Each encounter has been brief, intentional and earned. They are not animals that reveal themselves easily and that restraint is part of what makes seeing one feel meaningful I knew that when I created St Thomas Magazine, wildlife would be a key component in every issue and for this “Love” issue, it is the most obvious choice. I am thrilled to devote some serious time to this elusive underwater alien of incredible intelligence
This is not a story about mystery or myth though. It is a story about a year in the life of one of the reef’s most sophisticated predators; how it survives, reproduces, feeds and ultimately dies...all within a lifespan rarely exceeding twelve months.
The Caribbean Reef Octopus is primarily nocturnal. During the day, it lives tucked into dens; crevices in coral outcrops, limestone ledges, rock piles, or even discarded debris on degraded reefs. These dens are not random; they are actively maintained. The octopus clears sediment, rearranges rubble and builds a defensive perimeter using shells and stones Those discarded shells are often the first sign of its presence.
At rest, O. briareus relies on camouflage rather than concealment Its skin contains chromatophores, iridophores, and leucophores that allow it to match color, contrast and even texture of its surroundings. This is not mimicry for spectacle; it is active survival When threatened, the octopus does not flee immediately. It assesses. Only when detection is unavoidable will it jet away, often leaving behind a cloud of ink composed of melanin and mucus that disrupts both vision and chemical sensing in predators.
Common predators include moray eels, groupers, snappers, barracuda and sharks. Juveniles face additional pressure from smaller reef fish. The reef octopus compensates not with armor but with cognition.
Octopuses grow quickly. Extremely quickly. After hatching as planktonic paralarvae, Caribbean Reef Octopuses settle onto reefs within weeks, transitioning to a benthic lifestyle. From that point forward, nearly all energy is devoted to growth.
They are opportunistic carnivores. Their diet consists primarily of crabs, shrimp, lobsters, snails, and bivalves. Unlike many predators, they do not rely on brute force. They use problem-solving.
Crabs are bitten precisely at nerve centers Bivalves are drilled with a radula and injected with venom from the posterior salivary glands...a neurotoxin that relaxes muscle tissue and allows the shell to be opened without damage.
Watching an octopus hunt is watching efficiency. There is no wasted movement. Tentacles operate semi-independently, guided by a nervous system in which more than half of all neurons reside outside the brain This decentralized intelligence allows for complex multitasking holding prey, manipulating terrain and monitoring threats simultaneously.
For divers and snorkelers, this is often the best season to spot them, especially at dawn and dusk. Look not for movement but for patterns that don’t belong. Shell piles. Disturbed sand. A rock that seems to be watching you back.
A Caribbean Reef Octopus hunting along the reef; a crab on defense mode in the Caribbean
mother
Reproduction marks a turning point in an octopus’ life. Males locate females through chemical cues in the water. Courtship is cautious. Males approach from a distance, extending a specialized arm the hectocotylus to transfer spermatophores In some cases, mating occurs at arm’s length, minimizing risk of cannibalism.
After mating, the male’s decline is rapid. Feeding decreases Physical condition deteriorates Death often follows within weeks. Females, however, begin the most biologically demanding phase of their lives.
Once fertilized, a female Caribbean Reef Octopus lays tens of thousands of eggs in strings, carefully attaching them to the ceiling of her den. From this point forward, she does not leave
For weeks sometimes months she tends the eggs continuously. She cleans them Aerates them with constant arm movement. Guards them aggressively. She does not hunt. She does not feed. Her body consumes itself to sustain the process.
This is not parental care in a sentimental sense It is biological inevitability The octopus’ life history strategy is semelparous: reproduce once, then die. When the eggs hatch, the paralarvae drift into the water column, carried by currents, entirely on their own. Shortly thereafter, the female dies...often still in her den, surrounded by the empty husks of what she created.
It is one of the most complete life cycles in the animal kingdom And one of the shortest.
Caribbean reef octopuses are not currently considered endangered but they are increasingly vulnerable to habitat loss. Coral degradation, coastal development, sedimentation and warming waters all reduce suitable den sites and prey availability. They are also affected by overfishing indirectly; the removal of reef structure and ecological imbalance increases predation pressure. In some regions, octopus fisheries exist, though O briareus is not heavily targeted in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Their greatest defense remains what it has always been: intelligence, adaptability and discretion.
Spotting a Caribbean reef octopus is not about luck It is about patience, awareness and respect It means you are moving slowly enough. Watching carefully enough. Paying attention to absence as much as presence.
Each one you see is living an entire lifetime compressed into a single year, year and a half, max...learning, adapting, hunting, reproducing and disappearing often without ever being noticed.
I still feel that same quiet awe every time I see one Not because it is rare, but because it is deliberate. Because it reminds me that intelligence in the ocean does not announce itself. It waits. And if you’re paying attention truly paying attention it lets you witness something extraordinary.
Look for signs, not motion.
Caribbean Reef Octopuses rarely give themselves away Shell piles, cracked crab carapaces or cleared sand near a rock ledge often mark an active den. Slow down at dusk.
Late afternoon and early morning are peak activity times Move slowly, let your eyes adjust and scan crevices rather than open reef.
Watch for what doesn’t belong.
A “rock” with texture that shifts, an eye looking back or a single arm extending briefly are often the only clues.
• Never touch, poke or block a den
• Give space retreat, darkening or inking means you’re too close
• Let the animal control the interaction
• Avoid flash photography
Seeing an octopus is a privilege, not a promise Respectful observation protects both the animal and the reef and ensures these encounters remain possible.
Book Now
What’s Included dive now!
Certified dive instructor/guide
Dive and snorkel gear
Shorty wetsuit
Water, soda, light snacks. FUN!
The captains Rum Punch.. if he likes you and decides to share once you’re done diving!
What to Bring
swimwear, sun protection (sunshirt/rashguard, hat, sunglasses, reef safe sunscreen) towels or other creature comforts for the boat ride personal snack or drink if you have specific dietary needs
Gratuity for the crew whom you’re guaranteed to love!
F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 6
Most romantic dining spots from sleep in brunches to after dinner cocktails and bars...we got you!
Northside Grind $
Breakfast, lunch, coffee and drinks! Open from 7am-3pm
Island View Steakhouse $$$
Killer views and a five star menu featuring filet, lobster and more.
Old Stone Farmhouse $$$
Fine dining, intimate setting and fantastic menu
Fish Bar $$$
Dinner on top of the world!
Gorgeous date night with fresh catch and craft cocktails
Lattes in Paradise $
Coffee, breakfast and lunch overlooking the marina. Red Hook.
Sunset Grille
$$$
Beautiful sunset views, beachfront and high end menu at Secret Harbour
Iggie’s Beach Bar & Grill $$
Island favorite offering lunch, dinner and live music on the beachfront!
Three Palms $$$
New Orleans meets Caribbean overlooking the marina AYH
Pangea Terra Table $$$
A fairy tale setting with a fresh catch menu and beautiful views.
Sangria’s Beachside Bistro $$
Breakfast, lunch and dinner served beachfront with friendly vibes
XO Bistro $$
Lunch, dinner and intimate cocktail setting. Late night fun and local favorite Halloween parties this month!
Barefoot Buddha $
Coffee-shop, healthy breakfast bowls and more in Havensight
Cutlass & Cane $$$
Waterfront views of the marina with steaks, seafood and craft cocktails
Prime at Paradise Point $$$
One of the best sunsets on island with filet, lobster and cocktails.
Amalia Cafe $$
Spanish-Mediterranean in the heart of Palm Passage Intimate and tasty
Box Bar
Outdoor favorite in YHG with great drinks and live music Friendly staff
Frenchtown Deli & Coffee $
Local favorite serving breakfast, lunch and dinner
Twisted Cork Cafe $$$
Ultra fresh seafood, herbs and meats served in an intimate setting in Frenchtown
Petite Pump Room $$
Breakfast and lunch, local fare and great views of the harbour Cuveé
$$$
Waterfront setting with intimate vibe, excellent food perfect date night
Emerald Beach Resort $$
Multiple food options including beach bar and dinner vibes
Beachfront, casual dress.
Nothing makes us happier than hearing from our island visitors! And this month, we asked both residents and visitors to submit photos and their love notes to the Virgin Islands. Most started out vacationing here just like you and loved it so much, they made the permanent move to island. We thank everyone for sharing these special photos and moments and are thrilled to feature your stories in this month’s Love issue!
Priscilla Lynn, 35-year island resident, businesswoman (owner of PrisCo Consulting), and Founder of Street Level VI, Socialize In Paradise, Beautify The VI, T abs For Tots VI, Potholes of St. Thomas, and Virgin Islands Concierge Connection
It was love at first sight upon my arrival to St. Thomas in 1991, which continues 24/7/365. I possess deep affection for my fellow islanders, especially their resilience in the face of the unique challenges of island life It's also a sweet treat to interact with the constant flow of island visitors. Of course, relocating here from a 4-season climate, I love the year-round warm weather and incredibly beautiful views and rainbows. High on my Love List is the robust live music scene, which is why I founded Street Level VI six years ago, to showcase USVI music and entertainment and help folks discover where to enjoy it.
Dear St. Thomas, We didn’t come looking for you, we came for a wedding In February 2021, with Winter and uncertainty weighing heavy back home, we flew South with our closest people for what we thought would be four days. Instead, the island met us with stillness, rhythm and a feeling of being held we didn’t know we were missing We stayed longer, then kept coming back...more than twenty times over four years slowly stitching St. Thomas into our marriage, our family and our work. We arrived without a grand plan, choosing instead to listen, work and earn trust one relationship at a time. Somewhere along the way, we stopped asking if we could live here and began asking what it meant to stay. St. Thomas, you didn’t just host our wedding; you reshaped how we live. Thank you for making room for us, long before we knew how to ask.
Charlie & Sheree
Stone Cottage Hideaway www.stonecottage-virginislands.com
Mango Cove Villa www.mangocovevilla.com
Island View Guesthouse www.islandviewstthomas.com
Villa Milagro St. Thomas www.vrbo.com/1035172
Bella Fortuna www.airbnb.com/h/bellafortunastt
Brewer’s Bay Emerald Beach Resort/Lime Out Frenchtown
Cuvée, French Quarter Bistro
University of Virgin Islands
Botany Bay
Stumpy Bay Water Island Ferry @Crown Bay
Frenchman’s Reef www.frenchmansreefstthomas.com
Limetree Beach Resort www.clubwyndham.com
Bluebeard’s St. Thomas www.bluebeards.com
Olga’s Fancy in Frenchtown www.olgasfancy.com
Charlotte Amalie/Waterfront
Palm Passage VI
Havensight/Yacht Haven Grande
Cafe Amalia, Greenhouse, Virgilio’s
Skyride to Paradise Point
Children’s Museum/Pirate Museum
Bolongo Bay Resort & Restaurant
“Drift into Calm” in Mahogany Run • 2BR/2BA | Sleeps 6
Wake up to breathtaking sea views and island sunrises in this elegant hillside condo near Magens Bay With vaulted ceilings, three balconies, a pool and a brand-new generator; comfort meets Caribbean charm in every detail Peaceful. Scenic. Unforgettable.
• Magens Bay and Hull Bay
• MountainTop and Drake’s Seat
• Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden
• Northside Grind Coffee Shop and restaurants
• On site pool and water toys
Add meaning to your island getaway by spending time with the adoptable animals at the Humane Society of St. Thomas. Whether it’s a beachside dog walk, a quick cuddle or just some playful company; I’ve never seen anything put a smile on an animal’s face as quick as quality time..
february 2026
Ocean Surfari www oceansurfari com
Stormy Pirates www stormypirates com
EcoTours www.viecotours.com
Phoenix Charters www.charterphoenix.com
OceanRunner www oceanrunnerusvi com
Visit USVI and USVI Festivals
Aqua Marine Dive www.diveaquamarine.com
GoMojo Tender Rentals www gomojovi com
NOVA Luxury Charters www.novachartersvi.com
St. Thomas Historical Trust www.stthomashistoricaltrust.org
Northside Grind www.northsidegrind.com
Mim’s Seaside Bistro www mimsseaside com
Barefoot Buddha www barefootbuddhavi com
Sangria’s www.sangrasvi.com
Tarpon’s Table www tarponstable com
Fish Bar www.fishbarvi.com
The Shack at Hull Bay www.theshackhullbay.com
Oasis at Bolongo Bay www bolongobay com
Cutlass & Cane www.cutlassandcanevi.com
Cariga’s Island Cafe: Find Cariga’s on Facebook
Duffy’s Love Shack www duffysloveshack com
Island Time Pub: Find ITP on Facebook
Latte’s In Paradise www lattes vi Cuvée www cuveevi com
Bernie’s Bar & Grill: Follow on FB
Salt Shack at Buoy Haus www frenchmansreef com
Mim’s Seaside Bistro www mimsseaside com
Box Bar www.boxbarvi.com
Prime at Paradise Point www.primeusvi.com
Oceana www oceanavi com
Emerald Beach Resort www.emeraldbeach.com
Two Tickets to Paradise Cottage www.twotickets.vi
Virgin View Villas www.virginviewvillas.com
Hideaway at Hull Bay www hideawayhullbay com
Stone Cottage Hideaway www.stonecottage-virgin-islands.com
Sapphire Beach Resort www.sbrmbookings.com
Secret Harbour Resort www secretharbourvi com
Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas www.ritzcarlton.com
Margaritaville St Thomas www margaritavilleresorts com
Belle Vie at Sapphire Beach www sunsweptvi com
Emerald Beach Resort www.emeraldbeach.com
Mango Cove Villa www mangocovevilla com
Island View Guesthouse www islandviewstthomas com
Villa Milagro St. Thomas www.vrbo.com/1035172
Bella Fortuna www.airbnb.com/h/bellafortunastt
Morningstar Buoy Haus at Frenchman’s Reef www frenchmansreef com
Bolongo Bay Beach Resort (All Inclusive) www.bolongobay.com
Bluebeard’s St. Thomas www.bluebeards.com
Olga’s Fancy www olgasfancy com
Frenchman’s Reef www frenchmansreefstthomas com
Limetree Resort www.clubwyndham.wyndhamdestinations.com
Villa Tryst Vacation Rental www searenaproperties com
Special thanks to our in house travel planner, Getaway Girlfriend. Complimentary services for those visiting the Virgin Islands www.getawaygirlfriend.com
