Saint Croix Travel Guide
Read our comprehensive travel guide for Saint Croix and get to know the best places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, how to get around, and more.
- Introduction to Saint Croix
- List of Places to Visit in Saint Croix
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Saint Croix
- Best Things to Do in Saint Croix: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Saint Croix
- Food and Drink Scene of Saint Croix
- Where to Stay in Saint Croix: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Saint Croix: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Saint Croix
- Best Time to Visit Saint Croix
- Do’s and Don’ts of Saint Croix
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Saint Croix: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Saint Croix
- Where to Go Next from Saint Croix: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Saint Croix
Located in the Caribbean Sea, Saint Croix is one of the three United States Virgin Islands and is an unincorporated territory of the United States. The island boasts an incredible history, ranging from pirates to plantations, and is home to an array of cultural and natural attractions.
List of Places to Visit in Saint Croix
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Christiansted National Historic Site: A beautifully preserved example of 18th-century colonial architecture that commemorates the history of slavery in the United States.
- Estate Whim Museum: A former sugar plantation and rum distillery that has been converted into a museum, showcasing the island’s history of sugar cane production, featuring antiques, and tours of the estate.
- Cruzan Rum Factory: The world-renowned rum distillery, offering tours and tastings of their famous Cruzan Rum.
Natural Attractions of Saint Croix: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Buck Island Reef National Monument: A gorgeous spot for snorkeling, diving, and sunbathing.
- Salt River Bay National Historic Park and Ecological Preserve: Visit kayak tours lasting between 2-4 hours through the bioluminescent bay, visitors can experience it in a one-of-a-kind way.
- Point Udall: The easternmost point in the United States, with a beautiful view of sunrise over the Caribbean Sea.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Saint Croix
- Jack and Isaac Bay Preserve Trail: A scenic hike through tropical forest en route to a beautiful secluded beach.
- North Shore Bike Path: A 6-mile paved path running along the gorgeous northern coastline of the island.
- Annaly Bay Tidal Pools: A more challenging hike through lush terrain, ending with a dip in some beautiful and more secluded natural pools.
Best Things to Do in Saint Croix: Activities and Tours
- Kayaking and Paddleboarding Tours: Explore the island’s beautiful coastlines along kayaking and paddleboarding tours.
- Horseback Riding: Take in the stunning island landscapes on a horseback riding adventure.
- Jeep Tours: Discover more of the island while riding a 4×4 Jeep.
Week-Long Itinerary for Saint Croix
Day 1: Christiansted National Historic Site and Gallows Bay Marketplace Day 2: Buck Island Snorkeling Trip and Sunset at the Fredriksted Pier Day 3: Salt River Bay National Historic Park and Ecological Preserve Day 4: Explore the Cruzan Rum Factory and Fort Frederik Day 5: Hike along the North Shore Bike Path and Hamm’s Bluff Lighthouse Day 6: Relax with a day at the beach Day 7: Horseback ride to the Annaly Bay Tidal Pools
Food and Drink Scene of Saint Croix
Must-Try Dishes
- Johnny Cake: A popular pastry made from cornmeal and often served as a side dish at local restaurants.
- Conch Fritters: A specialty served on many menus, conch fritters are delicious and often served with a dipping sauce.
- Fish and Lobster: Fresh seafood is always available, and the lobster is some of the best in the world.
Local Beverages
- Cruzan Rum Punch: A staple drink of the island, Cruzan Rum Punch is a refreshing mixture of local rum, pineapple juice, and orange juice.
- Presidente Beer: A refreshing, light beer popular throughout the Caribbean.
Where to Stay in Saint Croix: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- The Buccaneer: A stunning resort with beautiful surroundings and the best views on the island.
- The Palms at Pelican Cove: Affordable luxury, situated on the beach, with access to an on-site restaurant and pool.
- The Fred: A modern and stylish hotel in the heart of Frederiksted, just steps away from the beach.
What to Buy in Saint Croix: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Cruzan Rum: Pick up a bottle of Cruzan Rum as a gift or souvenir.
- Hook Bracelets: A popular and unique piece of St. Croix jewelry.
- Haitian Art: Unique and authentic art created by local artists.
Local Culture and Customs of Saint Croix
Visitors to Saint Croix should be aware of the local customs and cultural differences from the mainland United States. Residents of the island are often more relaxed and enjoy a slower pace of life. It’s essential to be mindful of cultural sensitivities, such as using “good morning, good afternoon, and good evening” greetings and adopting a more laid-back attitude.
Best Time to Visit Saint Croix
The best time to visit Saint Croix is between December and April, as the weather is mild and rainfall is less. This period is generally considered the high season for tourism, so be prepared for more crowds and higher prices but still the best time to enjoy the beaches, culture, and natural beauty of this stunning island.
Do’s and Don’ts of Saint Croix
Do:
- Respect the local customs, like the use of proper greetings.
- Protect the environment and natural resources while enjoying outdoor activities.
- Bring sunscreen and insect repellent to protect yourself from the intense sun and mosquitos.
Don’t:
- Wear revealing clothing in public places or beach escapes
- Don’t litter or pollute the environment
- Don’t ignore safety warnings related to water and outdoor activities
Safety and Health
Safety in Saint Croix
Saint Croix is generally a safe island to visit, with low rates of crime. However, visitors should still take standard precautions such as locking their car and not traveling alone in remote areas at night.
Health in Saint Croix
Visitors to Saint Croix should be cautious when drinking water, it is recommended to consume bottled water to avoid any waterborne diseases. Additionally, using sunscreen and mosquito repellents can help avoid sunburn and mosquito-borne illnesses like the dengue virus.
Getting to Saint Croix: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Saint Croix
The main airport near Saint Croix is the Henry E. Rohlsen International Airport, with flights to and from the United States and other Caribbean islands. The Cyril E. King Airport on St Thomas is another option to choose with a ferry across to St. Croix.
Other Options
There are also many airlines that provide connecting flights for Saint Croix through Puerto Rico, St. Thomas or St. Martin.
How to Get Around in Saint Croix
Renting a car is the best way to get around in Saint Croix, particularly for those who want to explore the island. Taxis are also widely available, but they can be expensive. Riding a bike is also an option for those who want to explore the island more leisurely.
Where to Go Next from Saint Croix: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Visitors to Saint Croix can check out the other islands in the U.S. Virgin Islands, including St. Thomas and St. John.
Conclusion
Saint Croix may be a small island, but it’s packed with fun, adventure and unique experiences with an array of cultural and natural attractions. From hiking and biking in the abundant natural landscapes to lounging on the beach and enjoying the food and drink scene, Saint Croix is a paradise worth exploring in every way lively yet relaxed. Before planning your trip to Saint Croix, use our comprehensive travel guide to make the most of your stay and ensure a memorable experience.
