Top Live Music Spots in the U.S. Virgin Islands
The U.S. Virgin Islands captivate visitors with the soothing sounds of gentle ocean waves and the twitter of local birds. But local musicians also add to the island soundscapes, performing at a variety of live music venues. Head to these spots on St. Croix, St. Thomas and St. John to hear lively local music.
St. John Live Music Spots
The Beach Bar
Soak up the dazzling scenery and seaside sounds of The Beach Bar. A St. John institution, The Beach Bar mixes legendary Painkillers and enjoys some of the best sunsets on Cruz Bay, as well as presenting an extensive music calendar. With the slogan “where music meets water,” The Beach Bar delivers the ultimate musical island experience that encourages guests to dance in the sand. Hosting live musicians up to five days a week, the bar features an eclectic local lineup, including country music, folk and rock plus reggae rhythms from Reggae Dynasty.
Woody’s Seafood Saloon
A landmark St. John bar that holds a high-spirited happy hour lasting way beyond 6 p.m., Woody’s Seafood Saloon is the place for a nonstop good time. Sit on the patio and sample cocktails like the BBC (Banana, Baileys and Colada, with a dollop of peanut butter if you like), nibble on Shark Bites (blackened chunks of mahi-mahi) and entice passersby to join the party. Live music is featured on the weekends, with country tunes blaring out into the streets.
Maho Crossroads
Located across the road from the famously beautiful Maho Beach, the Paddle-In Tiki Bar at Maho Crossroads serves up sublime views and a relaxing atmosphere. Sink into the sand and enjoy a CocoMaho, the bar’s creamy signature cocktail that packs a punch. Grab bites like hamburgers and tacos from the bright red VW bus-turned-food truck called Furthest, in honor of the bus that inspired the hippie movement. The bar rents snorkeling and paddleboard equipment. But for more laid-back fun, check out live music events like the acoustic sunset sessions.
The Windmill Bar
The secluded oasis of Neptune’s Lookout — a historic St. John estate that includes the Susannaberg Windmill, erected in the 1780s — houses The Windmill Bar. Boasting jaw-dropping vistas and unforgettable sunsets, the bar is known for its signature Windmill Breeze cocktail, mixed with rum, orange and cranberry juices, and mango. Enjoy live music on weekends with local musicians like the Quelbe Resurrection Band, which plays traditional USVI folk music. Quelbe was traditionally played on homemade instruments, but the band has updated the sound with contemporary versions. The bar also hosts steel pan music by Ikema on Mondays.
St. Thomas Live Music Spots
Duffy’s Love Shack
A St. Thomas staple, Duffy’s Love Shack sits in the middle of a parking lot with a thatched roof, tiki bar decor and good vibes. The fun starts with signature cocktails like the Lime in Dee Coconut, presented in a freshly hulled coconut shell with rum, coconut and lime juice. Or try the Shark Tank, a lethal 64-ounce concoction made with six different rums. Stop by for live music on Thursdays, when the Shane Prather country-rock band performs.
Dinghy’s Beach Bar & Grill
Take the ferry to Water Island — USVI’s youngest and smallest island, located just off the coast of St. Thomas — and head to the lively Dinghy’s Beach Bar & Grill. Step onto the powdery sand of beautiful Honeymoon Beach and grab a drink or catch-of-the-day sandwich under Dinghy’s thatched roof. Dance to live music every Sunday with local bands like Lady Ena & Friends, who perform reggae and R&B classics, and sounds from Son D’Aqui and DJ Hec.
Sapphire Beach Bar
Perched on the eastern tip of St. Thomas, Sapphire Beach Bar offers unparalleled views of the sparkling Caribbean Sea. Sit back under a sea grape tree and sip a Sapphire Lemonade (made with vodka, blue curacao and tangy lemonade). Sway to the live music on Sundays with musicians like the Topp Notch Band and their island sounds.
The Smoking Rooster
On the waterfront Havensight Dock, house-smoked meats and infused cocktails are just some of the delights at The Smoking Rooster. Nibble on Cajun smoked wings sided with a Rooster Rita, spiked with cucumber-infused el Jimador Tequila and smoked jalapeños. Things really heat up on Friday nights, when there’s live music with performers like The Supervillains and Jon Gazi pumping out joyful soca and reggae tunes.
St. Croix Live Music Spots
Serenity’s Nest
Nestled deep in a garden of palm trees and hibiscus plants with the jingle of wind chimes, Serenity’s Nest on St. Croix was once the private retreat of “Positive” T.A. Nelson, a former member of the U.S. Virgin Islands Legislature and current Commissioner of Agriculture. After the devastation of hurricanes Irma and Maria, he was inspired to open his relaxing space to the public. On Serenity Sundays the garden serves as a gathering place to dig into delicious food and live music. Local musicians like Mercy Child and Caliche play uplifting roots reggae, calypso and jazz.
Levels
A stylish, multilevel space in the heart of Christiansted, Levels acts as a community-driven performance venue, bar and creative space. Live music is offered on Fridays, when local performers like Unlimited Sound present dynamic shows. Free Friday events feature hot dance beats by DJ D’Shay.
Sylvie’s Place
In the lime-green environs of Sylvie’s Place you’ll feel as though you’ve joined a family gathering. A welcoming atmosphere is part of the appeal of Sylvie’s, which serves generous drinks (cash only) and hearty local breakfasts with favorites like johnny cakes, stuffing and tropical fruit salad on holiday weekends. Sundays showcase jazz musicians, and the last Saturday of the month features live karaoke. You’ll likely see locals playing cards, chatting and simply hanging out, as Sylvie’s Place is a popular community spot.
The Deep End Bar & Grill
Surrounded by a lush tropical garden and oceanfront views from the Tamarind Reef Resort, Spa & Marina, The Deep End Bar & Grill serves up much more than tasty food and cocktails. Sip a signature drink like the Crucian Confusion and take in live music on Saturday and Sundays, with a gentle sea breeze wafting over you. Groove to music that can range from classic Motown, funk and blues from the ‘60s and ‘70s to the smooth strains of jazz, reggae and pop.
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