Welcome to St. Croix, the largest and arguably most diverse of the U.S. Virgin Islands! Often called the “Big Island” with a “small island feel,” St. Croix offers a captivating blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty.
From the Danish colonial architecture of Christiansted and Frederiksted to lush rainforests, arid east-end landscapes, and pristine beaches, this Caribbean gem promises an unforgettable escape.
Whether you’re seeking world-class diving at the famed Cane Bay Wall, exploring historic sugar mill ruins, indulging in delicious Crucian cuisine, or simply relaxing on uncrowded white-sand shores, St. Croix invites you to discover its unique charm and laid-back atmosphere.
Plus, as a U.S. territory, American citizens enjoy the convenience of domestic travel, making your journey to paradise even easier.
St. Croix – Quick Facts
- Location: Largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, located in the Caribbean Sea, about 40 miles south of St. Thomas
- Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD)
- Language: English (official), with some Spanish and Virgin Islands Creole spoken
- Climate: Tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round (avg. highs 84–89°F / 29–32°C); rainy season from May to November
- Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (AST); UTC -4 (no daylight saving time)
- Wildlife: Includes green and hawksbill sea turtles, iguanas, mongoose, deer, tropical birds, and reef fish
- Natural Disasters: Prone to hurricanes (especially June–November); occasional earthquakes
- Shark Attacks: Very rare; waters are generally safe for swimming, diving, and snorkeling
- Emergency Numbers:
- Police/Fire/Ambulance: 911
- U.S. Coast Guard: (340) 772-5555 (St. Croix office)
- Transportation Options: Taxis, rental cars (drive on the left side), buses (VITRAN), scooters, and bikes
- How to Get There:
- Direct flights from mainland U.S. cities (Miami, Charlotte, etc.)
- Inter-island flights from St. Thomas or San Juan, Puerto Rico
- No regular ferry service to/from St. Thomas
- Entry/Exit Requirements:
- U.S. Citizens: No passport required—just a government-issued ID (driver’s license or passport recommended)
- Non-U.S. Citizens: Must meet standard U.S. entry requirements (valid passport and visa, if required)
Tribes of St. Croix
St. Croix’s pre-Columbian history reveals a succession of indigenous peoples who shaped its early cultural landscape. The earliest known inhabitants were the Ciboney, followed by waves of Arawak-speaking groups, notably the Igneri and Taino.
These groups established villages, developed agricultural practices, and left behind archaeological evidence of their complex societies. Later, the Caribs, a more war-like, maritime people from South America, arrived and gained prominence on the island, with some accounts suggesting they displaced or assimilated the Taino.
It was the Caribs who famously encountered Christopher Columbus during his second voyage in 1493, marking the beginning of European contact and ultimately leading to the decline of the indigenous populations.
Ultimate Guide to the Tribes of St. Croix
St. Croix Culture
St. Croix’s culture, known as “Crucian culture,” is a vibrant tapestry woven from centuries of diverse influences. At its core lies a rich blend of African heritage, brought by enslaved peoples, combined with European colonial imprints from Denmark, Spain, France, and even the Knights of Malta.
This unique fusion is evident everywhere, from the distinctive Danish architecture in Christiansted and Frederiksted to the rhythmic sounds of quelbe music and steel pan drums that fill the air during festivals like the Crucian Christmas Festival.
Crucian cuisine, a delicious reflection of this history, features traditional dishes like kallaloo, johnny cakes, and salt fish pate.
The iconic Mocko Jumbies, stilt dancers with deep roots in West African spiritual traditions, are a powerful symbol of resilience and cultural expression.
Beyond the celebratory, Crucian culture is deeply rooted in a connection to the land and sea, with a strong emphasis on community, storytelling, and the preservation of traditions passed down through generations.
Ultimate Guide to St. Croix Culture
St. Croix’ Cuisine
St. Croix’s cuisine is a flavorful reflection of its diverse history, blending African, European (especially Danish), and Caribbean influences into unique and tantalizing dishes.
Expect a heavy reliance on fresh, local ingredients, particularly seafood like conch, mahi-mahi, wahoo, and various “pot fish” caught from the surrounding waters.
Staples include saltfish, often served with boiled eggs, Johnny cakes, and cooked greens for a traditional Crucian breakfast.
A must-try is kallaloo, a hearty, green soupy stew with West African roots, frequently made with spinach and okra, and sometimes including crab, fish, or pigtail.
Johnny cakes, sweet, fried dough biscuits, are ubiquitous and enjoyed at any time of day. You’ll also find pates (savory, fried turnovers with various fillings), and roti, an Indian-influenced flatbread wrapped around curried meats or vegetables.
Don’t miss the chance to sample local fruits, especially in desserts like gooseberry stew or the famous rum cake, often made with rum distilled right on the island.
The vibrant food scene ranges from casual roadside stands to upscale restaurants, all offering a taste of authentic Crucian hospitality.
Ultimate Guide to the Best Food Dishes in St Croix
St. Croix Restaurants
St. Croix boasts a diverse culinary scene, offering everything from upscale fine dining to casual, authentic local eateries.
For those seeking an elevated experience, restaurants like Ama at Cane Bay provide stunning oceanfront views and sustainable seafood, while Savant in Christiansted is renowned for its farm-to-table approach with eclectic Caribbean, Asian, and Mexican fusion dishes.
Visitors can also find excellent steakhouses and international cuisine at places like Hamilton’s and Estera.
For a taste of the island’s more laid-back charm, popular spots like La Reine Chicken Shack offer delicious rotisserie chicken and traditional Crucian sides, and beachside cafes like The Landing Beach Bar at Cane Bay provide relaxed atmospheres with local flavors.
Whether craving fresh seafood, international fare, or authentic Caribbean comfort food, St. Croix’s restaurants promise a memorable dining experience.
Ultimate Guide to the Best Restaurants in St. Croix
St Croix Nightlife
St. Croix’s nightlife offers a more relaxed and authentic Caribbean experience compared to some of its busier island neighbors, focusing on local charm, live music, and casual beach bars.
While you won’t find a sprawling club scene, Christiansted, particularly along the boardwalk, is a hub for evening entertainment. Here, popular spots like Brew STX offer craft beers, pub fare, and live music, often accompanied by lively crab races. Shupe’s on the Boardwalk is another favorite for casual drinks and people-watching.
For those feeling lucky, St. Croix boasts two casinos: Divi Carina Bay Casino, which also features live music, and the Caravelle Hotel & Casino in downtown Christiansted.
Live music is a cornerstone of the island’s nightlife, with venues across Christiansted and Frederiksted hosting reggae, jazz, local folk, and calypso bands.
The Beach Bar at Hotel on the Cay offers a unique experience with a short ferry ride to Protestant Cay for trivia nights and weekend live music, sometimes featuring fire dancers and moko jumbie performers.
Beyond the main towns, beach bars like Rhythms at Rainbow Beach in Frederiksted provide a laid-back atmosphere with drinks and occasional live performances right on the sand.
For a more adventurous night, sunset sails with live music and open bars are a popular option, departing from Frederiksted Pier.
While the island’s nightlife is generally low-key, special events like “Jump Up” in Christiansted, a carnival-like street party with steel bands and dancing, add a vibrant burst of energy throughout the year.
Ultimate Guide to the Best Bars in St Croix
St. Croix Cocktails
St. Croix’s cocktail scene is deeply rooted in its heritage as a rum-producing island, with Cruzan Rum Distillery being a major player. This means rum-based concoctions, often featuring locally grown fruits, are at the heart of the island’s drink offerings.
The unofficial signature cocktail is the Cruzan Confusion, a delightful and aptly named drink that varies from bar to bar but typically combines different Cruzan rums (like mango and coconut) with tropical juices such as pineapple.
Other popular choices include the Painkiller, a creamy blend of dark rum, pineapple, orange juice, and coconut cream, often topped with nutmeg, tracing its roots to the British Virgin Islands but a beloved staple in the USVI.
You’ll also find the Rum Runner, a vibrant mix of Cruzan coconut and banana rums with blackberry brandy, grenadine, sour mix, and pineapple juice, often topped with a float of Cruzan Black Strap rum.
Beyond rum, some establishments are embracing other local ingredients, like Mutiny Island Vodka, which is uniquely distilled from breadfruit, offering a unique base for creative cocktails such as the Passionfruit Pleaser.
Whether you prefer sweet and fruity or a more complex, spirited sip, St. Croix’s cocktails embody the laid-back, tropical essence of the island.
Ultimate Guide to the Best Cocktails in St Croix
Getting Married in St Croix
Getting married in St. Croix offers a truly romantic and relatively straightforward destination wedding experience. As a U.S. territory, American citizens don’t require passports, simplifying travel logistics.
The process generally involves applying for a marriage license through the Superior Court of the Virgin Islands, which typically requires an 8-day waiting period after the application is received and posted for public inspection.
Both parties, if previously married, will need to provide certified divorce decrees or death certificates. There are no blood tests or physical examinations required.
Once the legalities are handled, couples can choose from a stunning array of venues, from barefoot beach ceremonies with the Caribbean Sea as a backdrop to historic sugar mills offering a unique, open-air cathedral feel.
Resorts like The Buccaneer and Carambola Beach Resort are popular choices, providing dedicated wedding planners and comprehensive packages that can include everything from catering and decor to photography.
Many local wedding planners specialize in destination weddings, helping couples navigate the paperwork and coordinate all the details to ensure a seamless and unforgettable celebration in paradise.
Ultimate Guide to the Best Wedding Venues in St Croix
St Croix Cities
St. Croix is dotted with charming towns, cities, and villages that reflect the island’s rich history and cultural diversity. Christiansted, the bustling north shore city, features pastel-colored Danish buildings, a lively boardwalk, and historic landmarks like Fort Christiansvaern.
On the west side, Frederiksted offers a quieter, laid-back atmosphere with colonial architecture, oceanfront views, and Fort Frederik. Beyond the cities, small villages like Freeman’s Village, Grove Place, and La Reine offer glimpses into local island life, with roadside food stands, churches, and vibrant community traditions.
Each settlement, from coastal enclaves to inland hamlets, adds to St. Croix’s colorful and welcoming character.
Ultimate Guide to St Croix Cities
St Croix Bays
St. Croix’s coastline is dotted with numerous captivating bays, each contributing to the island’s diverse appeal.
On the north shore, Cane Bay stands out not only for its beautiful beach but also for its proximity to the renowned “Cane Bay Wall,” a dramatic underwater drop-off that makes it a world-class dive and snorkel site.
Nearby, Salt River Bay is historically significant as a Columbus landing site and is now a National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve, famous for its incredible bioluminescent bay, a truly magical experience on moonless nights.
The calmer, western side of the island features popular spots like Rainbow Beach and Fort Frederik Beach, situated on bays that offer serene swimming and picturesque sunsets.
Moving to the east end, bays like Isaac’s Bay and Jack’s Bay are more secluded, requiring a hike but rewarding visitors with pristine, natural beauty and excellent snorkeling in protected marine areas.
Whether you’re seeking lively beach action, historical exploration, or tranquil natural wonders, St. Croix’s bays offer a wealth of experiences.
Ultimate Guide to St Croix Bays
St Croix Beaches
St. Croix boasts a diverse array of stunning beaches, each offering a unique slice of paradise. From the tranquil, family-friendly shores of Rainbow Beach near Frederiksted, known for its calm, clear waters and vibrant beach bars, to the world-renowned Cane Bay Beach on the north shore, a haven for snorkelers and divers with its dramatic “Wall” dropping thousands of feet, there’s a beach for every preference.
For unparalleled beauty and an incredible underwater experience, a visit to Buck Island Reef National Monument and its famous Turtle Beach is a must, accessible only by boat.
Many beaches, like those at The Buccaneer Resort, offer convenient amenities, while more secluded gems like Jack’s Bay and Isaac’s Bay on the east end reward a short hike with pristine, uncrowded sands and excellent snorkeling.
Remember that all beaches in the U.S. Virgin Islands are public, though access points may vary.
Ultimate Guide to Beaches of St Croix
St Croix Historical Sites
St. Croix is a treasure trove of historical sites, reflecting its diverse past under multiple colonial flags and the profound impact of the trans-Atlantic slave trade.
The two main towns, Christiansted and Frederiksted, are designated National Historic Districts, showcasing beautifully preserved Danish colonial architecture, including iconic yellow-walled buildings.
In Christiansted, the Christiansted National Historic Site encompasses Fort Christiansvaern, a well-preserved 18th-century Danish fort, along with the Danish West India & Guinea Company Warehouse, the Steeple Building, and the Scale House, offering a glimpse into the island’s bustling past as a major trading hub.
Fort Frederik, in Frederiksted, is another significant landmark, notable for being the site of the 1848 Emancipation Proclamation. Beyond the towns, the island is dotted with the ruins of over 100 former sugar plantations, such as the Estate Whim Plantation Museum, which provides a poignant look into the lives of enslaved Africans and the island’s agricultural heritage with its preserved greathouse, windmill, and slave quarters.
Even natural wonders like Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve hold historical significance as the likely site of Christopher Columbus’s only landing on U.S. territory.
These sites collectively offer a powerful narrative of St. Croix’s journey from indigenous settlement to a complex colonial society and its path towards freedom.
Ultimate Guide to St Croix Historical Sites
St Croix Museums
St. Croix offers several fascinating museums that delve into its rich history, culture, and natural environment. The Estate Whim Plantation Museum is a standout, providing a comprehensive look at a former sugar plantation with its great house, sugar mill, and slave quarters, offering a poignant insight into the island’s colonial past and the lives of enslaved people.
In Christiansted, the Christiansted National Historic Site includes the museum within Fort Christiansvaern, detailing the Danish colonial era. For those interested in the island’s unique flora, the St. George Village Botanical Garden also houses a small museum showcasing plant life and the history of the estate it occupies.
Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts (CMCArts) in Frederiksted, which features rotating exhibitions of local and regional artists.
Additionally, the Lawaetz Family Museum offers a glimpse into Danish West Indian life in the early 20th century, preserving a historic estate and its family heirlooms.
These museums collectively provide a deeper understanding of St. Croix’s complex and captivating story.
Ultimate Guide to St Croix Museums
St Croix Hotels
St. Croix offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and travel style.
For those seeking luxury and all-inclusive experiences, resorts like The Buccaneer Beach & Golf Resort and the Divi Carina Bay All Inclusive Beach Resort & Casino provide upscale amenities, private beaches, and comprehensive packages.
Mid-range options abound, with charming boutique hotels like The Fred in Frederiksted or the Hotel on the Cay (a unique experience on a private island just off Christiansted) offering comfortable stays with character.
Travelers on a tighter budget can find value in smaller inns and guesthouses, particularly in Christiansted, such as the King Christian Hotel or the Company House Hotel, which provide convenient access to town attractions.
Additionally, a robust market for vacation rentals, from cozy studios to sprawling multi-bedroom villas, caters to those who prefer self-catering or more secluded options, often providing excellent value for families or longer stays.
Ultimate Guide to the Best Hotels in St Croix
St. Croix Casinos
St. Croix offers two primary casino options for those looking to try their luck: Divi Carina Bay Casino and Caravelle Hotel & Casino.
Divi Carina Bay Casino, located on the island’s southeast shore, is often highlighted as the U.S. Virgin Islands’ first and only Las Vegas-style casino.
It features a range of gaming options including a variety of slot machines, video poker, and live table games such as blackjack, roulette, craps, Three-Card Poker, Mississippi Stud, and Texas Hold ‘Em.
Beyond the gaming floor, Divi Carina Bay also provides a smoke-free simulcast race betting area and live entertainment in its Showbar. In Christiansted, the Caravelle Hotel & Casino provides a more intimate gaming experience.
Situated conveniently on the boardwalk, it focuses on a selection of classic and contemporary slot machines.
Both casinos maintain an “Island casual” dress code, requiring shoes and shirts, and offer a relaxed atmosphere for guests to enjoy.
Ultimate Guide to Casinos in St Croix
St Croix Yoga Retreats
St. Croix is emerging as a peaceful and rejuvenating destination for yoga retreats, offering a serene Caribbean backdrop for wellness and self-discovery.
Several unique options cater to varying preferences, often integrating the island’s natural beauty into the experience.
The Feather Leaf Inn, a historic eco-resort, is a popular venue, hosting various yoga and wellness retreats that emphasize plant-based meals, ocean views, and outdoor practice spaces.
Other retreats, like those offered by Island Girl Yoga Experience or Isla Vita Retreats, provide luxury villa accommodations, private chefs, and a mix of daily yoga and meditation with excursions to beaches, historical sites, and opportunities for connection with nature.
These retreats often feature diverse yoga styles, breathwork, sound healing, and a focus on holistic well-being, allowing participants to unwind, deepen their practice, and immerse themselves in the island’s tranquil atmosphere.
Ultimate Guide to the Best Yoga Retreats in St Croix
St Croix Campgrounds
While St. Croix is known for its resorts and vacation rentals, traditional campgrounds are not as prevalent as on some mainland destinations. However, for those seeking a more rustic or eco-friendly experience, opportunities do exist.
The most notable is Mt. Victory Eco Camp on the west end of the island, which offers unique “land ship” dwellings crafted from storm-felled hardwoods and also provides tent camping options, emphasizing sustainable living and a deep connection to nature.
Beyond this dedicated eco-camp, visitors might find limited, less formal camping possibilities, often through private landowners or as part of specific retreat packages that incorporate a “glamping” or tent-style experience.
Ultimate Guide to St Croix Campgrounds
Backpacking in St. Croix
‘Backpacking in St. Croix offers a unique way to experience the island’s natural beauty, history, and culture up close.
Adventurers can trek through lush trails in the Rainforest of St. Croix, explore the scenic views from Goat Hill, or hike to remote beaches and hidden tide pools.
The island’s diverse terrain—ranging from rolling hills to coastal cliffs—makes for rewarding day hikes and multi-day explorations.
Along the way, backpackers can discover historic ruins, local villages, and breathtaking vistas, making St. Croix a captivating destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path Caribbean adventure.
Ultimate Guide to the Best Backpacking in St Croix
St Croix Adventure Parks
St. Croix offers a diverse range of adventure parks and outdoor activities, catering to thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. While traditional “adventure parks” with built structures might be limited, the island itself acts as a natural playground.
For adrenaline junkies, options like Gecko’s Island Adventures provide exhilarating ATV tours through the rainforest, traversing mountainous trails and visiting historic ruins, promising a “ride of your life” experience.
Carambola Zip Line offers an aerial adventure with a significant vertical drop and long lines soaring over lush valleys. For those drawn to the water, the focus shifts to marine adventures, with numerous operators offering Buck Island tours for snorkeling the famous underwater trail, parasailing with Caribbean Sea Adventures, or exploring Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve via eco-kayak tours to witness the bioluminescent bay.
Horseback riding tours along beaches and through pastures, hiking trails in national parks like Salt River and Sandy Point, and even unique activities like visiting the “beer drinking pigs” further enhance the adventure offerings, making St. Croix a destination rich in outdoor exploration.
Ultimate Guide to Adventure Parks in St Croix
Things to do in St Croix
St. Croix offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, providing a diverse range of activities for every traveler.
A must-do is a boat trip to Buck Island Reef National Monument, where you can snorkel along an underwater trail teeming with marine life and relax on pristine beaches.
For history buffs, exploring the Christiansted National Historic Site, with its well-preserved Danish colonial buildings like Fort Christiansvaern, offers a glimpse into the island’s past.
Similarly, Fort Frederik in Frederiksted and the Estate Whim Plantation Museum provide insights into St. Croix’s sugar cane industry and colonial heritage.
Nature lovers will appreciate the St. George Village Botanical Garden and the serene Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve, a significant historical site where Christopher Columbus’s crew landed, and a popular spot for bioluminescent kayak tours at night.
Adventurous spirits can enjoy scuba diving the famous “Cane Bay Wall” or the Frederiksted Pier, horseback riding along the beach (some tours even go into the ocean!), or hiking to the Annaly Bay Tide Pools.
Don’t forget to visit Point Udall, the easternmost point of the United States, for a breathtaking sunrise.
Of course, simply relaxing on one of St. Croix’s many beautiful beaches, like Rainbow Beach or Sandy Point, is a perfectly valid and popular pastime.
Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to do in St Croix
Adventures for Kids in St Croix
St. Croix offers a fantastic array of adventures specifically tailored for kids, blending outdoor excitement with engaging cultural and historical experiences.
A top pick for families is a trip to Buck Island Reef National Monument, where children can explore a vibrant underwater trail with provided snorkel gear, marveling at colorful fish and coral.
Many boat tours offer glass-bottom options, perfect for younger ones who aren’t quite ready to snorkel.
For animal lovers, Cruzan Cowgirls provides unique horseback riding experiences, including treks along the beach where horses might even wade into the ocean, and some tours delve into the rainforest.
The Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve offers opportunities for kayaking, with some companies like Sea Thru Kayaks VI providing clear-bottom kayaks, making it easy for kids to spot marine life.
At night, bioluminescent kayak tours create a magical glowing water experience that often mesmerizes children (check age restrictions, as some require kids to be 8+). For a touch of local culture and lighthearted fun, don’t miss the hermit crab races at spots like Brew STX, where kids can pick their crab and cheer them on.
Historical sites like Fort Christiansvaern in Christiansted and Fort Frederik in Frederiksted aren’t just for adults; they offer plenty of space for kids to explore, imagine pirate adventures, and learn about the island’s past in an engaging setting.
The Children’s Museum of St. Croix provides interactive, hands-on exhibits designed to spark curiosity and creativity through play.
For some low-key fun, simply building sandcastles on the calm beaches, searching for “chaney” (historic pottery shards) along the shore, or feeding the tarpon from the Christiansted Boardwalk can provide hours of entertainment for youngsters.
Ultimate Guide to the Best Adventures for Kids in St Croix
Swimming in St Croix
St. Croix offers an abundance of incredible swimming opportunities, with crystal-clear turquoise waters and a variety of beach experiences to suit every preference.
For calm, family-friendly swimming, Rainbow Beach in Frederiksted is a top choice, known for its soft sand and gentle waters, perfect for children and leisurely dips.
Nearby, Fort Frederik Beach also provides calm conditions and is conveniently located near town amenities.
On the north shore, Cane Bay Beach is popular not only for its stunning beauty but also for its accessible shallow areas that gradually lead to deeper water, making it suitable for both casual swimmers and those looking to snorkel or dive the famous “Cane Bay Wall.”
For a truly pristine swimming experience, a boat trip to Turtle Beach on Buck Island is highly recommended.
This protected national monument boasts exceptionally clear, calm waters and a vibrant underwater trail for snorkelers, making it an idyllic spot for all ages.
Other serene options include Sprat Hall Beach and Judith’s Fancy Bay, offering peaceful environments and clear water for a tranquil swim.
While most beaches in St. Croix offer excellent swimming, it’s always wise to be aware of local conditions, especially if there are strong currents or rocky entries.
Regardless of where you choose to take a dip, the warm Caribbean waters of St. Croix provide an inviting and refreshing escape.
Ultimate Guide to the Best Swimming in St Croix
St Croix Fishing
St. Croix is a true angler’s paradise, offering a diverse range of fishing experiences for both seasoned pros and eager beginners.
Thanks to its unique geography, with deep waters just a short distance from shore, both inshore and offshore opportunities abound. Offshore, the “drop” around the island attracts a wealth of pelagic species, including highly sought-after game fish like mahi-mahi (dolphin), wahoo, tuna (yellowfin and blackfin), and various marlin and sailfish.
Charters like Fishing St. Croix – Forever & Always and Down South Charters specialize in these deep-sea adventures, providing top-of-the-line gear and experienced captains. Inshore, the island’s extensive flats, mangrove lagoons, and reefs teem with species such as tarpon (often called “silver kings” for their thrilling fight), bonefish, snook, barracuda, and various types of snapper and jacks.
Kayak fishing with outfits like Silver Kings Kayak Charters offers a unique way to explore these shallower, unspoiled areas.
Whether you prefer casting from the shore, fly fishing in the flats, or heading out on a full-day deep-sea excursion, St. Croix’s rich marine life and stunning Caribbean backdrop create an unforgettable fishing adventure.
Ultimate Guide to the Best Fishing in St Croix
Kayaking in St. Croix
Kayaking in St. Croix offers a unique and immersive way to experience the island’s natural beauty and rich history, with options for all skill levels and interests.
The most renowned kayaking adventure is undoubtedly a night tour of the bioluminescent bays, particularly in Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve. Here, the water glows with every paddle stroke as billions of dinoflagellates illuminate, creating a magical, otherworldly experience.
Several tour operators, like Virgin Kayak Tours and Sea Thru Kayaks VI, offer these guided excursions, often utilizing clear-bottom kayaks for an even more immersive view of the glowing water beneath.
During the daytime, Salt River Bay also provides excellent kayaking for exploring its mangrove forests, which are vital ecological habitats.
Guided eco-tours here offer insights into the diverse marine life, birds, and the significant pre-Columbian and colonial history of the area, including the site where Columbus’s expedition briefly landed.
Many companies offer comfortable sit-on-top kayaks, making them easy to maneuver even for beginners.
Beyond Salt River, kayakers can rent equipment and explore the calmer coastal waters around the island, paddling along beaches, discovering hidden coves, and enjoying the serene Caribbean Sea at their own pace.
Some resorts and beachside rentals also offer kayaks, allowing for spontaneous paddles right from the shore.
Ultimate Guide to the Best Kayaking in St Croix
Diving in St Croix
St. Croix is a diver’s paradise, boasting an incredibly diverse underwater landscape that caters to all skill levels.
The island is particularly famous for the Cane Bay Wall, a dramatic drop-off that plunges thousands of feet into the Puerto Rican Trench, offering exhilarating wall dives with vibrant corals, sponges, and the chance to spot larger pelagic species like reef sharks and eagle rays.
Many dive shops, such as Cane Bay Dive Shop and Sweet Bottom Dive Center, are conveniently located right on Cane Bay, providing easy access to this iconic site for both shore and boat dives.
Another highly regarded dive site is the Frederiksted Pier, renowned for its incredible macro life and vibrant artificial reef created by the pier’s pilings.
It’s a photographer’s dream, teeming with seahorses, octopuses, frogfish, and a myriad of colorful smaller creatures, making it an excellent spot for both day and night dives.
For wreck enthusiasts, Butler Bay is home to several shipwrecks, including tugboats and an oil barge, now encrusted with coral and frequented by diverse marine life.
Dive operators like Dive Experience and St. Croix Ultimate Bluewater Adventures (SCUBA) offer trips to these varied sites.
Beyond the well-known spots, St. Croix also features diverse reef systems, including the long reef along the north shore and the healthy reefs around Buck Island, which are perfect for both beginner and advanced divers. The island’s warm waters, excellent visibility, and abundant marine life—including over 500 species of fish, 40 types of coral, and numerous invertebrates—ensure that every dive is a unique and captivating experience.
Whether you’re looking to explore deep walls, shallow wrecks, or vibrant reefs, St. Croix offers an unforgettable underwater adventure.
Ultimate Guide to the Best Diving in St Croix
Hiking in St Croix
Hiking in ST. CroixSt. Croix offers a variety of hiking opportunities that showcase its diverse landscapes, from lush rainforest to historical ruins and coastal vistas. One of the most popular and rewarding hikes leads to the Annaly Bay Tide Pools on the island’s north shore.
This challenging but scenic trek involves navigating through dense brush and rocky terrain, culminating in natural ocean-fed pools perfect for a refreshing dip, though it’s best done with a guide or someone familiar with the trail due to varying conditions.
For a taste of history combined with nature, explore the trails within the St. George Village Botanical Garden, which offer easy walks through beautifully curated plant collections amidst the ruins of a former sugar cane plantation.
More adventurous hikers can venture into the less-traveled areas of the island, discovering hidden beaches and panoramic viewpoints. Some trails are found around the Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve, offering insights into both the natural ecosystem and the area’s significant historical past, including the site of Christopher Columbus’s landing.
While St. Croix doesn’t have a formal system of extensively marked hiking trails like some larger islands, local guides and tou
r operators can lead you to less-known paths and provide valuable context about the flora, fauna, and history you encounter.
Always remember to bring plenty of water, wear appropriate footwear, and be mindful of the tropical climate and potential for mosquitoes.
Ultimate Guide to the Best Hiking in St Croix
Sailing in St Croix
Sailing is an integral part of the St. Croix experience, offering a variety of ways to enjoy the island’s stunning coastlines and the vibrant Caribbean Sea. From romantic sunset cruises to adventurous day trips, there’s an option for every preference.
Many sailing excursions depart from Christiansted, often heading towards the iconic Buck Island Reef National Monument. Here, you can enjoy the thrill of sailing on catamarans or monohulls, often combined with opportunities for snorkeling the famous underwater trail or relaxing on the pristine Turtle Beach.
For a memorable evening, numerous companies offer sunset sails, often featuring live music, complimentary rum punch, and breathtaking views as the sun dips below the horizon.
Popular operators like Lyric Sails and Big Beard’s Adventure Tours provide these experiences, sometimes departing from Frederiksted as well.
For a truly unique and educational sailing adventure, the historic Schooner Roseway (a National Historic Landmark) winters in St. Croix, offering public sails where guests can even help hoist the sails, with proceeds supporting educational programs.
Those seeking a more personalized experience can opt for private charters, allowing for customized itineraries that can include snorkeling, beach hopping, or simply cruising the tranquil waters with friends and family.
Some charters even offer multi-day trips to other nearby islands in the US or British Virgin Islands.
Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-timer, sailing in St. Croix provides an unforgettable way to soak in the island’s beauty from a unique vantage point on the open water.
Ultimate Guide to the Best Sailing in St Croix
Cycling in St Croix
Cycling in St. Croix offers a unique way to explore the island’s diverse landscapes, from flat coastal roads to challenging uphill climbs and even some developing mountain bike trails.
For casual riders and families, the flatter routes along the coast, particularly around Frederiksted, provide scenic and relatively easy rides, often passing by historic sites and secluded beaches.
Several local outfits offer e-bike rentals, making it easier to tackle St. Croix’s rolling hills and extended distances without excessive exertion, perfect for exploring Christiansted’s charming streets or heading towards Point Udall.
More serious road cyclists can challenge themselves with longer loops that encompass the island’s varied terrain, including significant ascents that offer panoramic views.
Mountain biking enthusiasts will find growing opportunities, with trails being developed in areas like Goat Hill and through the rainforest, promising exciting single-track and double-track experiences for intermediate to advanced riders.
Regardless of your cycling preference, it’s advisable to be aware of island driving customs and potential road conditions, but t
he rewards of discovering St. Croix by bike are immense, offering an intimate connection with its natural beauty and local charm.
Ultimate Guide to the Best Cycling in St Croix
Horseback Riding in St Croix
Horseback riding in St. Croix offers an enchanting way to explore the island’s diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to pristine beaches.
Several stables provide guided tours catering to all skill levels, ensuring a memorable experience for both novice and experienced riders.
Popular options often include rides through historic sugar mill ruins, offering a glimpse into the island’s past, and venturing into the dense, vibrant rainforest where guides share insights into the local flora and fauna.
A highlight for many is the opportunity to ride along the white sandy shores of the Caribbean Sea, with some tours even allowing riders to take their horses into the cool, clear waters for a truly unique “swimming with horses” experience.
Companies like Paul & Jill’s Equestrian Stables, Equus Rides, and Cruzan Cowgirls (a horse rescue foundation) are well-regarded for their well-trained horses, knowledgeable guides, and breathtaking scenic routes, making horseback riding a highly recommended activity for those seeking an immersive and picturesque St. Croix adventure.
Leave a Reply