St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI), is a hidden gem in the Caribbean that offers a captivating mix of natural beauty, rich history, and a vibrant culture. A sleepy and slower vibe runs the whole island. This is one place where you come to positively sit back, relax and enjoy the vibes. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing beach vacation, a historical adventure, or a taste of the local Caribbean lifestyle, St. Croix has something to offer for every traveler. Here are some compelling reasons why you should visit St. Croix:
1. Stunning Beaches:
St. Croix boasts some of the most picturesque beaches in the Caribbean. From the pristine white sands of Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge to the tranquil waters of Buck Island’s underwater snorkeling trail, beach lovers will find their paradise here. The island’s beaches provide opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, diving, sunbathing, and various water sports. One spot that we can absolutely recommend for a day is Rainbow Beach. Rainbow Beach is located just a mile away from Frederiksted and has beautiful sugar sands, crystal clear waters with a bar and restaurant right on the sand for everything you need. While it is a perfect place to sit back and relax for the day, you need to be prepared for the days cruise ships come in and drop off their load of passengers who will all head straight for Rainbow Beach making it a little more crowded than you may want.
2. Historic Landmarks:
As the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Croix is steeped in history. Visitors can explore the well-preserved architecture of Christiansted and Frederiksted, two charming towns with historic forts, cobblestone streets, and colorful colonial buildings. Don’t miss the chance to visit sites like Fort Christiansvaern, Estate Whim Museum, and St. George Village Botanical Garden, which offer a glimpse into the island’s past. For a beautiful view of the mix of mountains mixed with the beaches and the ocean you will have to stop and visit Point Udall on the Eastern most point of the island. Here you can take in history and beautiful scenery all in one stop.
3. Caribbean Culture and Cuisine:
St. Croix’s vibrant culture is a delightful fusion of African, Danish, and Caribbean influences. The island hosts numerous cultural festivals, music events, and art exhibitions throughout the year. Sample local delicacies like conch fritters, West Indian roti, and fresh seafood at the island’s many restaurants and food stands. We found that all restaurants in the area are on what they call “island time” in which they are open and closed when they feel like its a good time not based off of what Google Maps will tell you. While we tried multiple restaurants in the area, two of our favorites and must try spots are Rum Runners on the water and TLC Cafe, a little cafe tucked into the history of Christiansted that if you are not paying attention, you may just miss it! While at Rum Runners you HAVE to try their conch fritters for an appetizer and you MUST try one of their out of this world deserts!
4. Buck Island National Reef Monument:
Buck Island, located just off the northeast coast of St. Croix, is a protected marine area and a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. It features a pristine coral reef system, an underwater snorkeling trail, and an abundance of marine life. Taking a boat trip to Buck Island and snorkeling in its crystal-clear waters is an unforgettable experience.
5. Diving and Snorkeling Opportunities:
With its clear waters and vibrant marine life, St. Croix offers excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. The island is home to several world-class dive sites, including the famous Cane Bay Wall, where divers can explore stunning coral formations, underwater caves, and encounter a variety of tropical fish and sea turtles.
6. Ecotourism and Nature Reserves:
Nature lovers will find plenty to explore on St. Croix. The island’s lush landscapes are dotted with protected nature reserves and ecological sites like Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve, where you can kayak through mangroves and spot wildlife. Hiking trails offer the chance to experience the island’s diverse flora and fauna up close.
7. Warm and Welcoming Locals:
The friendly and hospitable nature of the locals makes visiting St. Croix an even more enjoyable experience. They take pride in their island and are more than happy to share its beauty and history with visitors. A place that we found that is most welcoming is the Montpellier Domino Club! Here, everyone is more than welcoming and the atmosphere is what you expect to find while visiting a hangout in the jungle on an island. While driving to the Domino Club, be careful on the road there as it gets extremely tight and the road itself gets quite windy very quickly. Once you arrive, sit down, order a MammaWanna Sipper Shot and a Johnny Cake while you wait for your turn to head over and give the pigs a cool drink in the shade!
8. Stay on the Left:
Last but not least, if you rent a car for any amount of time while in St. Croix, know before you go that you must drive on the left side of the road. All around the island, from the time you pick up your rental you will be reminded by the staff, the signs along the road and the locals to remember to stay on the left! While the police force in St. Croix are more than pleasant compared to anywhere else in the world, you do not want to be the cause of an accident in your rental car while visiting the island.
In conclusion, St. Croix, USVI, is an alluring destination that offers a perfect blend of Caribbean charm, historical significance, and natural wonders. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, history enthusiast, beach lover, or simply looking for a serene escape, St. Croix has it all. Discover the island’s hidden treasures and create memories that will last a lifetime.
