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Photo by: Courtesy Frenchman's Reef

STAY: The like-new Frenchman’s Reef Marriott makes a fantastic home base for a getaway sprint: From its cliff-top perch, you’re 10 minutes from Charlotte Amalie and a short walk from the beach at the adjacent Morning Star Beach Club.

FRIDAY: Take an early flight to allow time for wandering Charlotte Amalie’s boutique- lined streets before check-in; after, don’t linger too long over the ocean views from your balcony—night kayaking in clear, LED-rimmed kayaks among sea turtles awaits at the Adventure Center.

SATURDAY: Spend a lazy Saturday frolicking in the surf at Morning Star, then recover with a massage in the Reef’s Lazule Sea Spa, the perfect prelude to a frozen mojito sundowner on the Rum Bar terrace. As the lights begin twinkling in Charlotte Amalie, head to Grande Cru, at the Yacht Haven Grande marina, for roast chicken and paella at a waterfront table.

SUNDAY: If Sunday morning comes too soon (it will), console yourself with a latte and a pastry from the on-site market — and plot your imminent return. —Cynthia Psarakis

Frenchman's Reef Marriott
5 Estate Bakkeroe
St. Thomas, VI
800-524-2000; frenchmansreefmarriott.com

Grand Cru
5314 Yacht Haven Grande
Saint Thomas, VI
340-774-7263; grandcruvi.com