Is St Croix Worth Visiting?
With all the promising destinations in the Caribbean, it can be hard to decide where to plan your next trip! If you want to know whether St. Croix, USVI, should be on your go-to list– you’ve come to the right place.
I absolutely love St. Croix, and so do the thousands of visitors who come to vacation here – many returning year after year!
Below, I’m going to show you why St. Croix is unquestionably worth visiting this year…and a few reasons why it may not be worth visiting for you. It’s up to you, after all!
Is St Croix Worth Visiting?
Yes! St. Croix is worth visiting. There’s something valuable for everyone on this island, which is the largest of the three main US Virgin Islands. Here are my top reasons to visit St. Croix!
Here are just a few of the top reasons St Croix is worth visiting.
You also have two other beautiful islands nearby. Wondering which is best for you?
9 Reasons You Should Visit St Croix This Year (and some travel tips for you!)
Let’s get started!
1. Largest US Virgin Island
St. Croix is one of three main US Virgin Islands, and it is by far the largest territory in terms of size and population.
Although it is not as widely known as some of the other Caribbean islands, it has a lot to offer in terms of natural beauty, history, and culture.
The size is one of the main reasons to visit St. Croix. You get to experience its unique character and get away from the more crowded tourist areas, or hang around the exciting, lively areas if you choose.
2. St Croix offers Spectacular Beaches and Adventures
One of my favorite activities to do on St. Croix (especially on a hot day!) is to head out to the beach and take a soak in the refreshing water.
The beaches on St. Croix are far from average. Mesmerizing blue waters, powdery soft sands, and cool breezes await you at the shorelines of this fantastic island. Although there are many beautiful beaches, however, they are not all the same!
The best beaches on St. Croix each have unique qualities to offer.
Take Rainbow Beach in Frederiksted– it’s the perfect beach for a lively family day, with food, music, and sports right around the corner as you lounge and play.
On the other hand, Isaac’s Bay Beach is a secluded shore only accessible by hiking trail, a relaxing setting fit for couples or solo travelers.
Visit Buck Island offshore (my favorite place in St Croix) for one of the best Caribbean beaches for swimming, snorkeling, or simply taking in the amazing views and the warmth of the sun’s rays.
I’ve spent abundant time in Hawaii and the Caribbean, and still, nothing beats the beaches in St Croix, St Thomas, and St John. There are more than enough spots to explore, so go to as many as you like and find your favorite– we all have one!
3. Even Better Snorkeling Opportunities
The underwater life on St. Croix is in a class of its own. The island has undergone huge measures to preserve its coral reefs and marine wildlife. Buck Island Reef, right off shore, is even a protected national park.
The results are exceptional snorkeling sites that literally submerge you into another world– one alive with diverse and colorful corals, tropical fishes, octopus, squid, rays, starfish, turtles, and countless other majestic sea creatures!
The best snorkeling locations here have crystal clear waters and untouched land.
It goes without saying that St. Croix is a must-visit if you can’t get enough of ocean adventures. Avid snorkelers hop from one beach to the other and explore each shore for its hidden treasures.
For instance, you might dive “The Wall” at Cane Bay, venture to the underwater trail at Buck Island, discover the shipwrecks at Butler Bay, or snorkel alongside the Frederiksted pier– just to name a few!
For less experienced sea-lovers, there are plenty of shallow areas that are equally satisfying to snorkel in and spot a variety of exciting sea life.
4. Buck Island Reef National Monument
This little slice of paradise alone makes visiting St Croix worth your time. It also happens to be my favorite thing that I’ve ever done in the US Virgin Islands.
Buck Island Reef National Monument is located off the coast of St. Croix in the US Virgin Islands.
The monument comprises two distinct areas – the coral reef itself and the surrounding waters of Turtle Bay (known as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world!).
The reef is home to a wide variety of marine life, including turtles, fish, and coral. Snorkeling in this famous reef is the #1 thing to do in St Croix! It beats out even the best snorkeling in St Thomas or St John.
Efforts are underway to protect and restore the reef, ensuring that it will remain a popular destination for generations to come. There’s even an overview look you can hike to for unique views atop this incredible island.
As I’ve mentioned above, this is my favorite activity in St Croix. I’ve not only done it once, but make a point to visit every time I go.
The only way to visit is by tour – I recommend Big Beard Adventure Tours, which I’ve been using since I was a child. They hold a special place in my heart when it comes to my St Croix memories!
5. History
Curiosity-inspiring landmarks sit at almost every turn on St. Croix, from the ruins of the sugar mills to the seven proudly waving flags that the island has been ruled under.
During my time on St. Croix, I’ve come to realize that there is a riveting story behind every event, custom, and monument, portraying a rich history that you can’t just find anywhere.
History enthusiasts will delight in visiting St Croix's towns which boast of unique colonial architecture - the remnants of the Danish influence on St. Croix.
Christiansted is well-known for being the early stomping grounds of the famous Alexander Hamilton, who spent his childhood years in the town.
The Salt River Bay is known as the location where Christopher Columbus first arrived on the island in 1493. With a wealth of fascinating tidbits like these, exploring the engrossing past of St. Croix USVI is an attraction you can’t miss out on!
The island was originally inhabited by the Ciboney, Carib, and Arawak peoples. The first European settlers arrived in the 1600s, and the island changed hands several times between the French, Danish, and English before finally becoming part of the United States in 1917.
The history of St. Croix is fascinating. Today, St. Croix is a melting pot of cultures, and its residents are proud of their heritage.
6. Culture
St. Croix is a melting pot of African, American, and European influence. Its culture is a huge part of the island's charm.
Picture it– Rhythmic music called quelbe accompanies dancers dressed in the colorful pattern madras as they perform quadrille, a traditional, British-inherited dance. Annual Carnival celebrations attract flocks of people who join joyful troupes of costumed participants.
Dancers on stilts dressed as “moko jumbies”, spirits fabled to protect the people from evil, tower over you at special events.
Cultural artisans create jewelry, woodwork, paintings, clothing, and a variety of other crafts that capture unique themes of the island. Culture is everywhere on St. Croix, so much that it effortlessly becomes a cherished part of you that stays long after you've left the island!
7. Cuisine
My, only the scent of Crucian cuisine is enough to make your mouth water! Whether you're stopping at a roadside food truck (highly recommend), or dining at one of the many fanciful restaurants, prepare to be carried away by delicious, savory, meals.
The food on St. Croix is also a blend of different influences, however it is always rooted in the distinctive Caribbean flavor.
Tip: You'll love walking along the Christiansted Boardwalk and conveniently exploring St. Croix's cuisine right in this one strip. It is lined with bars and restaurants, a diverse array of selections from fresh seafood, to brick-oven pizza, to burgers and local dishes, all with a perfect view of the ocean!
Several local events are essential to experiencing the cuisine on St. Croix, including “Mango Melee”, “Taste of St. Croix”, and the Agricultural Fair.
If you happen to visit during one of the months when such an event is held, be sure to immerse yourself in the experience and support local vendors as they share a variety of incredibly satisfying dishes.
8. Unique Adventures
Last but certainly not least, St. Croix is an amazing destination due to the endless adventure! There's no shortage of activities that you can do here on any day, and once you get started, the fun never ends.
The island is home to bioluminescent bays, where kayak tours are held to experience floating atop water shimmering with glowing organisms.
If you prefer land adventure, try out hiking, horseback riding, ziplining, and ATVs! For a mixture of land and sea, and one of the most unique activities to do on St. Croix, I suggest hiking the trail to the island’s hidden tide pools.
You don't have to look hard and you will easily find opportunities to scratch that itch for adventure and thrill on your trip to St. Croix!
9. St Croix is a US Territory
Yes! St Croix is a US territory. That means US citizens will not need a passport to enter or exit St Croix - or any of the US Virgin Islands.
This makes travel just a little simpler for you and your crew.
Is St Croix Safe 2024?
Is St. Croix safe in 2024? St Croix is a safe island, overall and is considered a safe and popular tourist destination for Americans. The majority of crime in St Croix will be petty theft, so it's best to take normal precautions:
✅ Lock your room doors
✅ Do not keep valuables in your car
✅ Stay together; do not venture alone at night
✅ Stay away from unfamiliar and unknown areas
Overall, the USVI is safe.
What is St Croix Known For?
St Croix is well-known for its history, culture, cuisine, and beaches! What more could you want in a town?
St. Croix is a beautiful island with a rich history and culture. The cuisine of St. Croix is diverse and flavorful, and the island's beaches are simply breathtaking. With that being said, St. Croix has something to offer everyone, and it is truly a paradise.
Visiting St Croix: Things to Know
St Croix Passport Requirements
US Citizens do not need a passport to visit St Croix! This makes it a convenient and easy destination.
You also don't need a passport to visit the other US Virgin Islands, so hop on a ferry or hopper plane and check out St Thomas and St John as well.
Christiansted and Frederiksted
There are two main cities in St Croix. Christiansted and Frederiksted are both popular destinations and hold many things to do, places to see, and places to stay in St Croix!
Christiansted is known as the more lively downtown area. It's filled with fine dining, excursions, bars, and shopping!
Frederiksted is smaller and quieter but filled with history, museums, and adventure.
US Virgin Islands Require Reef Safe Sunscreen
USVI Law requires you to use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine wildlife and coral reefs around the islands! Protect the land and plan ahead. Pro tip: Pack your reef-safe sunscreen before, as it can be expensive on the island!
Avoid oxybenzone, octinoxate, and octocrylene. Check verified sources like savethereef.org or the National Ocean Service before purchasing your sunscreen for any Caribbean islands.
Get my favorite reef-safe sunscreen before arriving ►
A Few of Things to Do in St Croix
Here are some notable St Croix things to do:
✅ Excursion to Buck Island Reef National Monument
Voted a top-rated activity in St Croix, you can't forget to plan an excursion to Buck Island Reef National Monument.
There are tour companies that will take you out to snorkel around this famous reef, hike on the beach, or dive. You can go alone, but it will require an anchoring permit, so be sure to plan ahead.
I recommend Big Beard Adventure Tours, which I've been using since I was a child.
✅ Play All Day at Rainbow Beach
Rainbow Beach is located on the west end of St Croix and is one of the most popular beaches on the island. Snorkeling is awesome; you can choose so many water sports to stay busy all day.
Sea Sports St Croix offers a full-day package with unlimited use of kayaks, paddle boards, floats, and snorkel gear.
➡️ View pricing and availability for Rainbow Beach
✅Cultural Cooking Class
Learn to cook like a local with this authentic cooking class in St Croix.
➡️ View pricing and availability for St Croix cooking class
✅ Frederiksted Historic District
St. Croix is a historic island with a rich cultural heritage. The Frederiksted Historic District is a prime example of this, as it contains many well-preserved 18th and 19th-century buildings.
This area was once the center of the island's sugar industry, and today it is a popular tourist destination.
In addition, there are several museums and art galleries in the district, making it a great place to learn about the island's history and culture. Whether you're interested in architecture, history, or art, the Frederiksted Historic District is definitely worth a visit.
✅ Shopping in Christiansted
You can find endless shopping from local boutiques and larger stores all around St Croix! Christiansted is popular for its markets and small shops; you could spend a whole day just shopping around!
Don't forget, US Citizens (including children!) can take $1600 worth of duty-free shopping back from USVI to the USA every 30 days. Shop till you drop!
Where to Stay: St Croix Resorts
Christiansted and Frederiksted are the most popular places to stay in St Croix. Christiansted is the bustling downtown, whereas Frederiksted is much quieter and near the beach. You'll find many of the beach resorts near the North Shore.
Buccaneer Hotel Resort
This luxurious resort in St Croix offers an 18-hole golf course, oceanfront views, spas, restaurants, and more. They offer romantic packages, packages for family savings, beach excursions, dining, and basically everything you need to never have to leave!
Book your stay at the Buccaneer Hotel ►
Sugar Apple B&B
With only twelve guest rooms, you'll be sure to have plenty of peace and quiet during your stay. You can choose from double beds or superior king rooms.
Check prices at Sugar Apple Bed and Breakfast ►
Tamarind Reef Resort
Nestled on a 40-acre property Tamarind Reef Resort is one of the most popular Christiansted St Croix resorts on the beach. The resort offers stunning oceanfront views, along with a poolside bar and private patio for each room.
Plan your stay at Tamarind Reef Resort ►
All Inclusive
St. Croix, one of the US Virgin Islands, may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of all-inclusive resorts.
In other words, you won't find St Croix all-inclusive resorts on this island like you do in the Bahamas and St Lucia.
While this may disappoint some travelers who prefer the convenience and predictability of all-inclusive accommodations, it actually offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and cuisine fully.
There are plenty of charming small hotels and bed and breakfasts that allow guests to experience the authentic St Croix lifestyle while enjoying breathtaking scenery and a more intimate atmosphere.
From exploring historic sites to indulging in savory local dishes, St. Croix offers an unforgettable vacation experience that cannot be found in a generic all-inclusive resort.
How to Get to St Croix
There are a few cities you can fly direct to Saint Croix from, like Charlotte and Miami. Most flights will take you to STX, St Thomas's airport. St Thomas is the main USVI and home to the capital, Charlotte Amalie.
When you arrive at St Thomas Airport you can take a hopper plane into St Croix.
St Croix Airport
The Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (HERA) is located towards the bottom middle of the island, about 7-9 miles from Frederiksted and Christiansted. You can pick up a rental car from the hotel, or easily grab a taxi from the airport to your hotel destination!
If you're able to fly direct from the US to HERA, St Croix is worth visiting simply for the ease of travel! Plus, not needing a passport makes it even quicker.
Christiansted Harbor Seaplane Base is located right in downtown Christiansted, so it's a great option if you want to land and be as close as possible to your hotel if you plan to stay in Christiansted.
How to Get Around St Croix
It's easy to get around St Croix; there are two main options to choose from, rental cars and taxis!
Rental Cars
Renting a car in St Croix is very affordable! You can find rental cars for $50-$100 per day, depending on the size of vehicle you're looking for. Car rentals are the most efficient way to get around St Croix and it's highly recommended that you do!
Don't forget they drive on the LEFT side of the road!!
There are many off-the-beaten-path beaches and adventures around St Croix. It's such a large island, you don't want to rely on taxis to get everywhere!
You also may have a hard time finding a taxi in those more secluded areas! Keep your freedom and enjoy convenience with your own rental car during your stay.
➡️Book your rental car here through Expedia!
PRO TIP: Small islands have fewer rental cars! Reserve your car ASAP!
Taxis
Taxis are easy to catch throughout St Croix, particularly at hotels, popular beaches, and the two downtowns, Christiansted and Frederiksted.
Taxis in St Croix charge per person, so traveling with a group will be more costly! You can view the current taxi rates here.
| Airport to Frederiksted | approx. $6/person |
| Airport to Christiansted | approx $9/person |
| Christiansted to Frederiksted | approx $11/person |
FAQ: Visiting St Croix
Which is better to visit St. Croix or St. Thomas?
In my opinion, St. Thomas has more vibrant shopping and attractive developments, while St. Croix has more easygoing vibes and relaxation.
While both St Croix and St Thomas are wonderful to visit, so it depends on your personal preferences.
Why do people go to St. Croix?
Many people go to St Croix to participate in the island's famous holiday festivities, while others go in search of the island’s peaceful getaways.
St. Croix is a coveted destination for travelers interested in history, fine dining, water sports, outdoor adventures, family fun, romantic resorts, athletic pursuits, and so much more.
What are the best months to visit St. Croix?
If you are looking for an escape into the relaxing, tropical paradise, visit St. Croix during April when it is quiet and the weather is perfect.
If you’re excited to delve into St. Croix’s rich culture and lively events, the best month to go is December/January, when it is vibrant and festive! Your best time to visit depends on which qualities of the island you are drawn to!
Is St. Croix expensive?
Overall, St. Croix is slightly more expensive than the US mainland, but it’s not overly pricey.
If you are planning a trip complete with luxury accommodations, exquisite dining, and private excursions, then the expenses will certainly pile up, if you choose!
Thankfully, you do not have to go all out to have an amazing time on St. Croix. Plan wisely and you will get great value.
Is St. Croix safe to walk around?
Yes– St. Croix is generally safe to walk around. To avoid the risk of any danger, you should always be aware of your surroundings on a trip.
Don’t walk alone at night, venture into unfamiliar neighborhoods, or expose your valuable belongings.
Avoid poorly lit areas; Instead, stick to the well-known spots.
Can you swim in the ocean in St. Croix?
Yes, you can swim in the ocean in St. Croix. In fact, there are so many stunning beaches on St. Croix that are ideal for swimming.
These beaches have calm currents, clear waters, and sandy bottoms that keep sea-bound travelers coming back year after year!
Final Thoughts: Is St Croix Worth Visiting
Now that we've gone over everything you need to know about the largest US Virgin Islands territory, let's get back to the original question.
Is St Croix Worth Visiting? I can easily say yes, St Croix is worth visiting this year, and you should absolutely add it to your Caribbean to-do list as soon as possible!
Whether you're looking for a laid-back vacation or an adventurous getaway, St. Croix is definitely worth a visit.
With so much space, so many beaches, nightlife options, and history, a St Croix vacation is a great spot for you no matter what you're looking for. For families, honeymoons, or a girl's getaway, you'll find it easy to fill a whole itinerary for your trip!
Time to start planning!
