25 Unique Things to Do in St Croix (2026)
Welcome to St. Croix, the largest and perhaps the most underrated of the US Virgin Islands. As a seasoned traveler and a passionate explorer of the Caribbean’s hidden treasures, I’ve journeyed through St Croix, uncovering its unique allure that often goes unnoticed beside its more famous siblings, St. John and St. Thomas.
This island stands out with its seclusion and authentic Caribbean vibe, offering a retreat away from the crowds on other islands. You can immerse yourself in the serenity of Turtle Beach on Buck Island, a national monument celebrated for its breathtaking beauty and a sanctuary for marine life.
From duty-free shopping in quaint boutiques to exploring the lush rainforest and historical monuments, St. Croix offers a plethora of activities for every age and interest.
Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking a peaceful escape or a family looking for an adventure-filled holiday, St. Croix is a destination that caters to all. It’s not easy planning a trip, so let me make it easier by sharing my favorite things to do in St Croix!
As a snorkeling enthusiast, I’ve been captivated by the incredible coral reefs surrounding St. Croix, teeming with a kaleidoscope of fish and underwater wonders.
But St. Croix’s charm isn’t limited to its natural beauty. The island’s rich history echoes through its colonial architecture and historic sites, offering a glimpse into a past filled with intrigue and resilience.
The local cuisine, a delightful fusion of traditional Caribbean flavors and modern culinary techniques, promises a gastronomic adventure for food lovers like myself. Here are my top things to do in St Croix for your trip this year!
1. Excursion to Buck Island Reef National Monument
One of the most memorable experiences I’ve had in St. Croix, and possibly my favorite in the US Virgin Islands, is visiting Buck Island National Reef Monument. Buck Island is a 176-acre island surrounded by a stunning (and well-protected) coral reef ecosystem.
This is a protected sanctuary for endangered sea turtles, a wide variety of fish, beautiful corals, and more. I even spotted a shark while I was snorkeling through the reef!
Not only can you relax on Turtle Beach, but you can also snorkel and scuba dive to fully explore the beauty of the coral reef. Personally, I had an amazing time snorkeling and felt that it offered an incredible experience without needing a scuba certification.
Buck Island is an absolute must-visit when you’re in St. Croix. I make sure to go every time I visit the island because it never fails to astound me.
To reach Buck Island, you’ll need to take a tour as there are only a few operators and limited options per day. However, it’s totally worth it! I’ve only used Big Beard’s Adventure Tours and I’ve never had a complaint about my experience.
WHY I LOVE IT: The beauty of this island and its reef system is truly like something out of a fairytale. I would never recommend anyone visit St Croix without making a trip out here.
2. Watch the Sunrise at Point Udall – the Easternmost Point of the US
Point Udall, located in East End St Croix, is a significant sundial built in 2000. It holds the distinction of being the easternmost point in the United States!
Aside from its symbolic representation of the new millennium, it serves as the site of the first sunlight in the US each day. Point Udall has an interesting history being named in honor of Steward Udall during President John F Kennedy’s administration.
It’s no surprise that the best time to visit is sunrise. The drive up to this spot offers some amazing views, and it’s a great way to start your day on a high note!
Pro tip: Pack your beach bag and head to Isaac’s Bay Beach and Jack’s Beach after you watch the sunrise – these are two of my favorite beaches in St Croix by a long shot.
A short hike from the trailhead will get you there, so pack light.
3. Visit the Historical Sites in Christiansted
Christiansted, a town founded in 1733 and formerly the capital of Danish West Indies, offers a wealth of historic sites to explore.
One of the most notable is Fort Christiansvaern, established in 1738 to protect the island. It’s fascinating to see how this fort played a crucial role in the island’s history.
Another must-visit site is the Old Danish Customs House, a bright yellow building with a magnificent staircase that you’ve probably seen in popular St. Croix photos.
Originally a slave and sugar trading house, it now serves as a library, congressional offices, and park management offices. It’s incredible to witness how this building has transformed over time.
You also don’t want to miss out on the Scale House, another yellow building with an intriguing history. It was once used for weighing imports and exports to St. Croix. Now, it houses a scale and offers insights into the island’s past. You can also find an NPS bookstore and visitor center here.
Last but not least, and certainly not all, but you can take advantage of strolling down the historic streets where Alexander Hamilton once walked, as he worked in St Croix when it was known as the Danish West Indies.
These historic structures in Christiansted offer both guided and self-guided tours. Whether you’re a history buff or not, exploring Christiansted and immersing yourself in the island’s history is an important part of any visitor experience. During my time in Christiansted, I learned so much about St. Croix, simple facts like knowing that it was the local community of St. Croix who fought to create and protect these historically significant sites.
4. Hike to the Annaly Bay Tide Pools (Carambola Tide Pools)
Annaly Bay Tide Pools encompasses all three, and it is one of the most unique experiences you can have when visiting the island of St. Croix!
Tide pools are pockets of seawater created when the ocean’s tides push water into naturally formed, rocky enclosures located at the coastline. The tide pools are fairly quiet and secluded, about a 45-minute hike from civilization. They are home to various small marine life that can be found both in the water and on the rocks.
if you love a challenge and prefer to “travel like a local”, I would recommend hiking here as it is quite fulfilling (and free!). Research the information and directions beforehand since you’ll likely lose cell service. Jeep tours are a good option if you or anyone in your party aren’t able to hike.
Anyone can enjoy this exciting adventure once well-prepared. I have a complete guide to help you plan for the Annaly Bay Tide Pools here.
5. Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge
Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge, located at the southwest point of St. Croix, is a vital conservation hub for endangered leatherback and hawksbill turtles.
This refuge rewards visitors with educational opportunities such as guided sea turtle observations, bird-watching, picnic spots, and various beaches.
However, it’s crucial to note that the refuge remains closed for a significant part of the summer for sea turtle nesting and is accessible only on weekends during the rest of the year.
Free parking is available, so it’s easy to make your way to the few beaches within the refuge. I wouldn’t say they’re the best swimming beaches on the island, but they are beautiful and it’s worth taking a trip out.
This refuge seamless blend of conservation and education, making the Sandy Point National Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge just one of the many unmissable things to do in St Croix.
6. Snorkeling in St Croix
While Buck Island takes the crown for my favorite snorkeling spot in St Croix, there are plenty more incredible snorkeling beaches in St Croix.
Remember to always wear coral reef safe sunscreen when swimming in the Caribbean to protect the coral reefs. And, for safety, never swim alone. Here are a few great snorkeling spots:
- Cane Bay Beach: Known for its famous underwater vertical drop known as “The Wall.” Ideal for both beginners and advanced snorkelers, it’s a hotspot for diverse marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and occasional sightings of small sharks.
- Buck Island Reef National Monument: Protected area. It’s a haven for tons of protected and endangered species. I’ve even run into a shark here. Only a few tour operators go out on a few trips per day.
- Frederiksted Pier: Suitable for snorkelers of all levels, it’s a great place to enjoy a diverse underwater ecosystem. This is also a popular spot for divers!
- Isaac Bay and Jack Bay Beach: Accessible with a short hike. The bays are known for their healthy coral and fish, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a more remote snorkeling adventure.
- Tamarind Reef: Tamarind is ideal for beginners. The reef is close to the shore and hosts a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, rays, and sometimes sea turtles.
7. Go Hiking
If you’re planning a trip to St Croix, there are a few amazing hiking opportunities for you to check out. The island is home to a variety of incredible natural attractions, and some of the most popular hikes lead directly to them.
Two of the most popular hikes on the island are the Annaly Bay Tide Pools and the Jack and Isaacs Bay Hikes. But if you’re looking for panoramic views of one of the island’s most noteworthy features, be sure to check out the Goat Hill Hike, which offers stunning views of Buck Island – if you aren’t seeing a theme here, Buck Island is simply my favorite.
Of course, there are plenty of other hiking options to choose from, but these are some of my favorites that I’d highly recommend adding to your St Croix itinerary.
If you love hiking, I’d also suggest checking out all of the hikes in St Thomas and St John, because there’s even more over there!
8. Spend the Day Beach Hopping
St. Croix is absolutely blessed when it comes to beautiful beaches! One of the most popular beaches, Cane Bay Beach, is notably famous for its snorkeling and diving wall.
If you’re into watersports, head over to Chenay Bay, where you can kayak or paddleboard to your heart’s content. The seagrass offshore makes for great marine life spotting.
Personally, my two favorite beaches are Isaac’s Bay Beach and Jack A. Beach. They’re only accessible by hike – but simply stunning and are definitely two of the most beautiful in the US Virgin Islands.
Last but not least, we have Rainbow Beach – the most popular beach in Frederiksted. Not only can you indulge in a variety of watersports, but also the water is absolutely beautiful here too.
9. Sunset Sail
There are plenty of unique things to do on St Croix, but sailing at sunset is definitely one of the best. The view is breathtaking, and it’s a great way to relax after a long day of exploring.
A sail around St. Croix is the perfect way to spend an evening. The boat will take you through the harbor and out into the open sea, where you can relax and take in the beauty of the islands.
There is nothing quite like watching the sunset over the Caribbean Sea, especially if you’re celebrating an anniversary or honeymoon!
10. Visit the Frederiksted Pier
You can dive, snorkel, jump off the side, watch the sunset, or simply go for a stroll and enjoy the bustling area.
There’s some history that goes along with this pier too! It’s a staple on the west side of the island, so don’t visit without seeing the pier!
11. Protestant Cay
If you’re looking for a unique and relaxing way to spend your day in Christiansted, then Protestant Cay is the perfect spot for you. This not so hidden gem is a 5-acre cay located off the coast of Christiansted.
You can only get here by taking a short ferry ride, which adds to the adventure. Plus, it’s the closest beach to Christiansted, making it a convenient location for beach lovers who don’t want to travel to the shorelines.
Hotel guests of Hotel on the Cay get to enjoy the ferry ride for free, but don’t worry if you’re not a guest – you can still hop on the ferry for just a few dollars.
Once you’re on the cay, you can rent beach chairs and hang out for a few hours. I wouldn’t recommend staying at the hotel, but there are plenty of great hotels in Christiansted is you want to stay nearby.
11. Shop the Boutiques and Bring Home Duty-Free Gifts
Did someone say duty-free shopping?! The US Virgin Islands, including St Croix, allows US citizens to bring home $1600 of duty-free items every 30 days.
That means it’s time to shop til you drop! Head to the local boutiques, jewelry stores, and markets and shop to your heart’s desire. My favorite St Croix item I’ve ever brought back was a silver clip bracelet with the outline of St Croix and Buck Island.
Don’t forget to leave extra room in your suitcase to bring your new goodies home!!
12. Visit During the Crucian Christmas Festival
St. Croix Crucian Christmas Festival is held on the first Friday and Saturday of the New Year, and continues on for much of the month.
Carnival Village opens and the festivities begin! You’ll find International Cultural Night, parades, arts and crafts fair, and the long-awaited adults parades and childrens parade, held on separate days.
Parades involve vibrant costumes, floats, entertainers, and more. It’s a true cultural celebration for the island.
Festivities take place in Frederiksted, mostly. If you’re on the island for New Year’s or January, keep an eye out for the calendar of events and be sure to experience a real St Croix celebration.
13. Enjoy Caribbean Dishes or Crucian fare
Stewed chicken, rice and beans, plantain, goat rodi, and curry meat are just a few of the melting pot dishes that have made their way to Crucian dinner plates. And if you have a sweet tooth, you can find ginger candies, homemade jams, and some sweet frozen treats for after dinner.
Unfortunately, many local Crucian favorites on the island have closed – like Kim’s and VI Breeze. Parris Tees has some great Roti and Corrines food van offers some yummy fare. Your best bet is to spot the busy food trucks during your adventures 🙂
14. Take in History at Fort Frederik
Fort Frederik was built in the 1750s (est.) to defend the island from pirates and other invaders. Fort Frederik played a significant role in the history of St. Croix – so if you want to learn about the local history, it’s worth a visit.
You can enter and tour inside for $5 cash. It feels like somewhat of a time loop; very heavy and deeply educational – an incredibly important part of any trip to the island.
15. Visit St Croix’s Farmer’s Markets
The Farmer’s Market at the Agricultural Fairgrounds is the most popular and you cannot leave St Croix without strolling through! There’s tons of produce – which is great if you’re like me and enjoy cooking a meal or two on vacation.
There’s also prepared foods to taste, pastries, and of course – locally made arts and crafts!
It starts very early every Saturday. If you want to grab the best produce and foods, I’d recommend getting there early as things do sell out! The market usually winds down around 2pm.
There’s also a smaller farmer’s market, La Reine Market, held on Wednesdays.
16. Bioluminescent Bay Kayak Tour
Experience the magic of bioluminescence as you paddle into the darkness of the Salt River Bay in St Croix. This natural wonder allows you to witness microorganisms glow in the dark waters, giving off an otherworldly impression.
Red mangrove trees surround Salt River Bay, providing the perfect environment for this phenomenon to occur.
Make sure to research the moon phases before planning your trip; without any moonlight, you’ll be able to see the glowing microorganisms much clearer. Hop into a clear kayak for an unforgettable experience as you watch these little wonders lighting up the night.
There are only a few places in the world where this is possible, so you don’t want to miss out on a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see them!
17. Visit the Cruzan Rum Distillery
From local sugarcane to a decade of aged barrelling, you can learn the process of how this famous St Croix distillery has been making some of the most popular rum in the country!
From New Orleans to Sacramento, I’ve seen Cruzan Rum on the shelves and bars of establishments across the country. There was nothing cooler than to see it made from the ground up.
Tours haven’t been up and running for a while, but they seem to be making a comeback. Even if they’re not touring, I’d recommend stopping anyway to bring a bottle of flavored rum to share back home.
This is a great opportunity to learn why rum is so important to St Croix! I’ve been with my family and as an adult with friends. Overall, I’d say it’s a pretty fun family-friendly activity if you’re okay with the kids being around some alcohol.
18. Parasailing
If you’re looking for a great family-friendly activity to do while in St Croix, I highly recommend parasailing! The views are absolutely stunning, especially on a clear day when you can see for miles out into the distance.
On a calm and clear day, you’ll be able to spot sea life and see tons of cays around St Croix from above, giving you once-in-a-lifetime views. I’ll never forget the views parasailing in the US Virgin Islands.
PSA: You usually cannot go parasailing from August and October, as it can get super windy during hurricane season.
19. Visit the Sugar Mill Ruins
Sugar Mills were key under Danish rule in the US Virgin Islands. You’ve likely heard of or seen the Sugar Mills in St John, as they’re very popular.
But, St Croix was one of the leading sugar producers in the entire Caribbean! They are so well-known on the island that there’s even a website marking all of the known mills around the island!
If you’ve seen The Bachelor, you’ve likely seen the private dining experience in the Buccaneer sugar mill turned into a one-on-one dinner extravaganza.
The Estate Mount Washington is another popular one located on the North Side in Frederiksted. Admission is free and it’s a self-guided experience. It’s most beautiful when the flowers bloom and the trees are bright green.
I’d recommend renting a Jeep or 4WD vehicle, as the road can get a little bumpy on the way up. It’s not very difficult to get around St Croix, but a 4WD vehicle always helps.
There are tons of sugar mills around the island to explore. So many that not all of them have been found!
Some of them are on private property, however, so don’t go snooping around unless you know it’s okay to access them. You’re visiting their island, not the other way around.
20. Explore the Historic Buildings in Frederiksted
Aside from Fort Frederik, The St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church was built in 1848 and has been since reconstructed after Hurricane Maria. The architectural grandeur inside is beautiful and definitely worth a visit. There are also two other historic churches nearby – Holy Trinity and St Paul’s.
Walking around Frederiksted, you’ll also see old Victorian-style houses and buildings. And lastly, the Frederiksted Pier isn’t as old as some of the buildings around here, but still comes with a bit of history!
21. Walk Along the Christiansted Boardwalk
If you’re looking for a place to truly experience the island vibe of St. Croix, you’ll definitely want to check out the busy downtown Christiansted waterfront. The historic town is bustling with life, with both tourists and locals coming together to enjoy the many bars, restaurants, and shopping options available.
One of the great things about this area is the sheer variety! Resorts lining the waterfront, boutiques and local shops on King Street, and so much more.
There’s everything from food trucks to fancy restaurants, so you’re sure to find something that suits your taste. Personally, I love taking a break at Breakers Roar Tiki Bar – they’ve go the cutest cocktails and a steamy, mysterious vibe I’m obsessed with.
And if you’re up early enough and looking to start your day off right, be sure to check out Caroline’s Breakfast for delicious local fare – they were closed for renovations last time I check in on them, but they’ll be open soon enough!
22. Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve
If you’re on a mission to find a secluded, picturesque oasis, then Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve is the perfect destination.
It’s been quiet here since the hurricane but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a popular spot on St Croix. I’m hoping they’ll open up a little more in the coming months.
People love coming here for kayaking and lounging on the beach. However, keep in mind that it’s a bit of a trek to get here and it’s best to opt for a jeep or a private tour guide.
23. Explore St George Village Botanical Gardens
St George Village Botanical Gardens – a stunning sanctuary of greenery that’s bound to take your breath away! It’s not hard to see why both locals and visitors alike love to spend time here.
And the best part? Admission is affordable, with most days open to the public. Spring and summer are undoubtedly the best times to visit – the gardens come to life with an abundance of colors and fragrances.
Make sure to mark your calendar if you’re visiting in July, as they host a fun-filled festival to celebrate the perfect blooms.
While you’re here, don’t forget to explore the preserved sugar mill in the gardens. It’s just one part of the remarkable history and preservation that makes St George a truly special place.
So whether it’s your first time or your hundredth, a visit to these botanical gardens is an absolute must-do on your trip to St Croix.
24. Scuba Dive Butler Bay, Frederiksted Pier, and Salt River Bay
Scuba divers and underwater world explorers – this one’s for you! The scuba diving in St Croix is incredible. Starting at Butler Bay – lots of wrecks to explore, which really gives a sense of the island’s history. It’s a cool mix of nature taking over these sunken ships.
Next, head to Frederiksted Pier, but not just for any dive, for a night dive! The locals will tell you this is the coolest time to dive here! Totally different vibe, with so much marine life hanging around the pier’s structure.
Salt River Bay is another must-do. Diving along the wall there gives you this amazing sense of scale, and the marine life is super diverse.
But my top pick? Buck Island Reef National Monument. It’s a protected area, so the coral and fish life are incredible. There’s even an underwater trail – super helpful for navigating the reef.
It’s a bit more organized than the other spots, as only a few operators and charters can go out each day. Each dive site in St. Croix offers a unique experience – from historical wrecks to vibrant reefs. Any diving enthusiast will love it here! 🤿🐠🌊
25. Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts
The Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts (CMCArts) in St. Croix is a cultural hub showcasing the rich artistic heritage of the Caribbean. With a diverse range of exhibitions, including historic and contemporary art, the museum offers a unique window into the creative expressions of the Caribbean.
Visitors can explore various themes, from African heritage to local community and spirituality, reflected in the artwork.The museum’s dynamic approach to art, including interactive exhibits and educational programs, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone keen to immerse themselves in the Caribbean’s artistic legacy. You can find classes for all ages here – they even have clay-making classes (awesome – that’s been on my radar for a while)!
Where to Stay in St Croix
There are two main cities most visitors choose to stay in St Croix, Christiansted and Frederiksted.
Christiansted is known as more of the downtown area and Frederiksted is a calmer town on the opposite side of the island. There are plenty of places to stay around the island, all offering unique accommodations to make your next vacation perfect.
There are hotels on the beach, beautiful villas, and resorts around the island to choose from.
The Buccaneer Hotel
Steps away from Mermaid Beach and Buccaneer Beach, this luxury hotel is a perfect choice for an “all-in-one” feeling. The resort holds an 18-hole golf course, oceanfront views, spas, restaurants, snorkel gear, a pool, and more.
The hotel works to provide you with an all-inclusive, retreat-like experience. If you’re looking for the whole family, check out their special family summer discounts.
Book your stay at the Buccaneer Hotel!⭐
Best Time to Visit St Croix
The best time to visit St Croix is December to June! The weather all year round in St Croix, and the US Virgin Islands, is pretty warm and sunny! But, you’ll find unique St Croix things to do all year round.
Hurricane season goes from mid to late June to November. They consistently track hurricanes in St Croix, so you’ll know ahead of time if your trip is in danger!
During the rainier seasons, you’ll likely get a mix of showers and sunny weather throughout the day. When deciding what do to in St Croix during the rainy season, it’s best to plan for travel insurance and refundable bookings, just in case!
How to Get Around St Croix
Rental Cars
I would suggest renting a car to get around St Croix. Car rentals in St Croix are actually cheaper than rentals in St Thomas!
You can rent a car in St Croix for less than $100 a day! There are plenty of rental options from $50-$80. With those prices, it’s crazy to rely on taxis to get you around!
Having your own car will give you the ability to travel anywhere around the island, anytime! With two cities with endless attractions and fun, from breathtaking beaches to historic sightseeing, you’ll want your own car to explore the island on your own time.
⭐Reserve your rental car from St Croix Airport (STX)
⭐Pickup your rental car from Christiansted
Taxis
It is easy to get a taxi, particularly in the two cities, Frederiksted and Christiansted. You also won’t have a problem getting taxis to and from your hotels, airports, or popular beaches.
If you’re planning to do some off-the-beaten-path exploring and check out more secluded beaches/activities, be sure to keep some taxi numbers and a charged phone to schedule a pickup when you’re done.
There are plenty of taxi services available on the island, so it’s definitely possible to get around the island if you’re willing to give up some convivence.
However, with rental cars being as affordable as they are, I’m not sure it’s worth relying on taxis! Keep in mind that taxis charge per person in St Croix.
What to Pack for St Croix
Now you know what to do in St Croix, but do you know what to pack?! I know you might be thinking “I know how to pack for a Caribbean vacation” – but there are a few things that might not be so obvious!
Necessities for your Caribbean Packing List:
- USVI Sunscreen Law requires you to have reef-safe sunscreen in the ocean!
- Water shoes – some of the shorelines and ocean floors are rocky and dangerous to walk barefoot in! Protect your feet with a good pair of water shoes
- Your own snorkel set if you want to explore the island looking for the coolest reefs in the Caribbean
- If you’re going during the rainy season (June-December), I’d suggest packing a rain jacket or poncho to keep dry during afternoon showers.
FAQ
What is St. Croix best known for?
St. Croix is best-known for its beautiful beaches and rich history and cutlure. It’s also home to Buck Island Reef National Monument, a protected reef and island with some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Caribbean!
What is nicer St. Thomas or St. Croix?
If you want a quieter island with more culture and less tourism, St Croix is the better option. However, if you want a larger city with more convenience and activities, along with close proximity to St John and BVI for island hopping, I’d recommend heading to St Thomas.
Comparing St Thomas vs St Croix simply depends on your preferences.
Is St. Croix walkable?
No – St Croix is not walkable! You will absolutely need a rental car or taxi to get around the island. Unless you’re staying in Christiansted and don’t want to see the rest of the island, St Croix is not walkable.
Unique Things to Do in St Croix: Summary
⭐My Top Pick for the Absolute BEST Thing to Do in St Croix USVI:
Tour to Buck Island Reef National Monument!
As you can see, there’s no shortage of things to do in St. Croix. From exploring the bioluminescent bay, savoring the local rum at the Cruzan Rum Distillery, to parasailing above the stunning coastline, every day offers a new adventure. I personally fell in love with the history etched in the island and of course, the incredible Buck Island Reef National Monument.
Remember, as a U.S. citizen, visiting to St. Croix is just like visiting to any of the 50 states – no visas or special permissions needed.
If you’ve never visited this hidden gem in the Caribbean, I wholeheartedly recommend making the trip. So, pack your bags and get ready to create unforgettable memories in St. Croix. Trust me, once you’re there, you’ll understand why it holds such a special place in my heart.lk
