Frederiksted Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Frederiksted, U.S Virgin Islands, with our comprehensive travel guide, including top things to do, places to stay, and safety tips.


Introduction to Frederiksted

Frederiksted is a picturesque town located on the western coast of Saint Croix, one of the U.S Virgin Islands. Frederiksted is known for its colonial architecture, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage. The town was founded in the 18th century and named after King Frederick V of Denmark.

Frederiksted has something for everyone, ranging from historical sites to outdoor adventures, making it a perfect travel destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

List of Places to Visit in Frederiksted

Here are some of the top attractions to visit in Frederiksted:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fort Frederik: This fort was built by the Danes in 1752 to protect the town from pirates and other invaders. Today, it is a museum that houses historical artifacts and exhibits related to the history of St. Croix.

  • Estate Whim Museum: This museum is housed in a restored sugar plantation from the 18th century and showcases the history of the sugar industry in St. Croix.

  • St. Patrick’s Catholic Church: This is one of the oldest Catholic churches in the Caribbean, dating back to the early 19th century.

Natural Attractions of Frederiksted: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge: Located a few miles west of Frederiksted, this refuge is famous for its pristine white sandy beach and clear turquoise waters. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and bird-watching.

  • Frederiksted Pier: This pier extends into the Caribbean Sea and offers stunning sunset views. Visitors can go swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters.

  • Rainbow Beach: This beach is perfect for families with children. The calm and shallow waters make it easy to swim and snorkel. It is also a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Frederiksted

Frederiksted has several hiking and biking trails that offer breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and the lush greenery of St. Croix.

  • Annaly Bay Trail: This is a strenuous 2.5-mile round-trip hike that takes visitors through a forest of mahogany trees and offers stunning views of the northwestern coast of St. Croix.

  • Buccaneer Trail: This is a 4.5-mile round-trip hike that takes visitors along the eastern coast of St. Croix and offers panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea.

  • Judith’s Fancy Trail: This is a 1.5-mile round-trip hike that takes visitors through a forest of tropical trees and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Best Things to Do in Frederiksted: Activities and Tours

Frederiksted offers a wide range of activities and tours for visitors of all ages and interests.

  • Buck Island Reef National Monument Tour: This tour takes visitors to Buck Island, a protected marine park that offers world-class snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities.

  • Sunset Sailing Cruises: These cruises offer a romantic way to enjoy the sunset while sipping on cocktails and sampling delicious snacks.

  • Horseback Riding Tours: These tours take visitors through the scenic countryside of St. Croix and offer a unique way to explore the island’s natural beauty.

Week-Long Itinerary for Frederiksted

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Frederiksted:

Day Activity
1 Visit Fort Frederik and explore downtown Frederiksted
2 Snorkel at Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge
3 Take a horseback riding tour of St. Croix
4 Visit Estate Whim Museum and learn about the history of the sugar industry in St. Croix
5 Take a sunset sailing cruise and enjoy cocktails and snacks as you watch the sunset
6 Go hiking on the Annaly Bay Trail and enjoy panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea
7 Relax at Rainbow Beach and swim in the calm turquoise waters

Food and Drink Scene of Frederiksted

Frederiksted offers a variety of culinary experiences, from locally sourced seafood to Caribbean and international cuisine.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Saltfish and dumplings: This is one of the traditional dishes of St. Croix and consists of salted codfish and flour dumplings cooked in a spicy tomato sauce.

  • Stewed chicken: This is a Caribbean classic and consists of chicken cooked in a flavorful stew of onions, peppers, and spices.

  • Fried plantains: This is a popular side dish in St. Croix and consists of ripe plantains sliced and fried until crispy.

Local Beverages

  • Cruzan Rum: This rum is made in St. Croix and is a staple in many local cocktails, including the famous “Painkiller.”

  • Maubi: This is a traditional Caribbean drink made from a tree bark that is sweetened with sugar and flavored with spices and ginger.

Where to Stay in Frederiksted: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Frederiksted offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses.

  • The Fred: This beachfront hotel offers spacious rooms with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. It also has a restaurant, a bar, and an outdoor pool.

  • Sand Castle on the Beach: This boutique hotel is located on a secluded beach and offers romantic rooms with private balconies and ocean views. It also has a restaurant, a bar, and a spa.

  • Arawak Bay: This guesthouse is located in downtown Frederiksted and offers budget-friendly rooms with free Wi-Fi. It also has a garden and a terrace.

What to Buy in Frederiksted: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Frederiksted offers a variety of souvenirs and local products to bring home, including:

  • Cruzan Rum: This is a great gift for rum lovers, and there are many flavors to choose from, including vanilla, coconut, and pineapple.

  • Handmade jewelry: Local artisans make beautiful jewelry using materials such as sea glass and shells.

  • Hot sauce: St. Croix is known for its spicy hot sauce, made from locally grown peppers.

Local Culture and Customs of Frederiksted

The people of Frederiksted are friendly and welcoming, and English is the official language. The culture is a mix of African and European influences, and there are several cultural events throughout the year, including the Crucian Christmas Festival in December and the Three Kings Parade in January.

Best Time to Visit Frederiksted

The best time to visit Frederiksted is from December to April when the weather is dry and mild. The summer months can be hot and humid, with a higher chance of rain and hurricanes.

Do’s and Don’ts of Frederiksted

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions, including dress codes for religious sites.

  • Try the local cuisine and drinks to experience the culture of St. Croix.

  • Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable shoes for hiking and walking.

Don’t:

  • Don’t wear camouflage clothing, as it is illegal in the U.S Virgin Islands.

  • Don’t litter or damage the environment.

  • Don’t forget to bring cash, as many small businesses do not accept credit cards.

Safety and Health

Safety in Frederiksted

Frederiksted is generally considered a safe destination for tourists, but visitors should take basic precautions, such as locking car doors and not leaving valuables unattended on the beach.

Health in Frederiksted

Visitors should drink bottled water and take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, as mosquitoes can carry diseases such as Zika and dengue fever.

Getting to Frederiksted: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Frederiksted

  • Henry E. Rohlsen Airport is the main airport on St. Croix and is located about 7 miles from Frederiksted. It offers flights from several U.S cities, including Miami, Atlanta, and Charlotte.

Bus Stations Near Frederiksted

  • The VITRAN public bus system serves St. Croix, and there is a bus stop in downtown Frederiksted. However, the buses are not always reliable, and visitors may prefer to rent a car or take a taxi.

Other Options

  • Taxis are widely available in Frederiksted and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance through a hotel or tour operator.

  • Rental cars are also available, but visitors should be aware that driving is on the left-hand side of the road in the U.S Virgin Islands.

How to Get Around in Frederiksted

Walking is a popular way to get around Frederiksted, as many of the town’s attractions are within walking distance of each other. Taxis and rental cars are also available for longer trips.

Where to Go Next from Frederiksted: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Christiansted: This historic town on the northeast coast of St. Croix is known for its colonial architecture, museums, and shopping.

  • Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge: This protected marine park offers some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in the Caribbean.

  • St. John: This neighboring island is part of the U.S Virgin Islands and is known for its stunning beaches and national parks.

Conclusion

Frederiksted is a hidden gem in the Caribbean, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore historical sites, or try new foods and drinks, Frederiksted has something to offer for everyone. With our comprehensive guide, you can plan your trip to Frederiksted with ease and make the most of your time on this beautiful island.