Welcome to Saint Croix, one of the most beautiful and diverse islands that make up the United States Virgin Islands (USVI)! As a first-time visitor, you’re in for a treat. The island has a rich culture, beautiful beaches, and plenty of activities to keep you busy.
Here’s a quick 6-step guide to help you make the most of your trip.
Getting around:
The island is quite small and easy to navigate, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or ride a public bus. Renting a car will give you the most flexibility, but keep in mind that you’ll need to drive on the left side of the road. Centerline Car Rentals comes highly recommended and has been serving Saint Croix since 1990. Check them out for your car rental needs. Taxis are great but can be expensive at times. However, they are great for arranging tours of the island. Iron’s Safari Tour & Taxi (340-642-8245) is a great taxi option and offers discounted group rates for island tours. The public buses are also a good and cheap option to move around.
Dining:
Saint Croix offers a wide variety of dining options, from local Caribbean cuisine to American favorites. Be sure to try some of the island’s delicious seafood, such as conch, mahi-mahi, and wahoo. There are also many different rum distilleries and breweries on the island, so be sure to sample the local spirits and beers. More on the island’s notable restaurants to come.
Activities:
There’s no shortage of things to do on Saint Croix. The island has a rich history and many historical sites to visit, including the Cruzan Rum Distillery, the Christiansted National Historic Site, and the Buck Island Reef National Monument. The island also has beautiful beaches and clear waters, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Take a hike to one of the island’s scenic vistas for panoramic views of the island.
Nightlife:
Saint Croix has a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of options for entertainment. You can dance the night away at a beach party or club, listen to live music at a local bar or restaurant, and enjoy a quiet night in with a sunset cruise or a trip to a casino. Both Christiansted and Frederiksted have a diverse selection of hot spots to boogie well into the night. We dive into most all of them, so keep an eye out!
Sightseeing:
There’s no shortage of beautiful sights to see on Saint Croix. The island’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in the Caribbean, and are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The island also has many historic sites and buildings, such as Christiansted’s 18th-century Danish buildings. Take a scenic drive through the island’s lush green hills and discover hidden gems. Or visit the popular Frederiksted Pier which welcomes cruise ships to the island and hosts some of the best snorkel and dive spots on the island.
Weather:
The island is tropical, and the weather is generally warm and sunny all year round, with an average temperature of around 84 degrees Fahrenheit. The best time to visit is in the winter, between December and April when the weather is at its most pleasant and there is less chance of rain.
Tips:
- Pack your sunscreen and bug repellent, it can be very sunny and buggy.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes if you plan to go hiking or explore.
- Wear light clothing, it can get quite hot and humid.
Saint Croix is a wonderful place to visit, with a rich culture and plenty of activities to keep you busy. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just relaxing on the beach, you’re sure to find something to enjoy on this beautiful island.
Definitely on top of this years list,,,,,just need a good and clean hotel to stay at,,,,,any suggestions are appreciated,thank you.
Hi David,
From a new visitor perspective, it really depends on what you are looking for with regards to location, amenities, activities, and area. I am currently staying at The Fred in Frederiksted, it is wonderful. Nice beach and pool areas with a great menu. Perfect spot for some of the best sunsets on the island. And music almost daily too. We plan to add hotels from around the island, so please stop for more recommendations. Cheers!