St. Croix, the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, is a Caribbean gem known for its relaxed vibe and deep cultural roots. Among the three main islands that make up the USVI, St. Croix stands out for its authenticity, history, and welcoming spirit. With turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and only two main towns—Christiansted on the northeast coast and Frederiksted on the west end—St. Croix is easy to navigate, taking about an hour to drive from one end to the other. While Christiansted is more developed, Frederiksted offers a quieter, more laid-back atmosphere.
Frederiksted is ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful escape rich in local culture and natural beauty. Its calm charm, historic streets, and stunning West End beaches make it a perfect base to explore the rest of the island. Less developed than other parts of St. Croix, Frederiksted gives visitors a chance to connect with the island’s roots while enjoying everything from oceanfront sunsets to friendly neighborhood vibes. There’s much to discover in Frederiksted—whether you’re into history, relaxation, or adventure.
Where to Stay in Frederiksted
Frederiksted, St. Croix offers a peaceful escape far from the typical tourist bustle—there are no big-name hotel chains, sprawling resorts, or towering condos here. Instead, the town is home to a handful of charming boutique hotels, each with a unique character that complements the laid-back, beachside atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where relaxation comes naturally and time seems to slow down.
Cottages By The Sea
Cottages by the Sea is a beloved boutique hotel located just a mile south of Frederiksted’s historic town center. Nestled along a quiet stretch of sandy shoreline, this beachfront property features 27 individually designed cottages, each offering a cozy blend of island charm and modern comfort. Many of the cottages come equipped with full kitchens, private patios, and direct ocean views, while others are tucked into lush garden settings just steps from the water. Interiors are thoughtfully updated, combining clean, coastal décor with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Known for its peaceful vibe and stunning sunsets, Cottages by the Sea is ideal for travelers seeking a more authentic, tranquil stay on St. Croix’s West End.
The Fred Hotel
The Fred is Frederiksted’s newest boutique hotel, set within a beautifully restored historic estate right on the beach just south of town. Behind its gates lies a secluded oasis featuring lush tropical landscaping, a serene pool area, and an inviting infinity spa. The poolside bar and grill offers gourmet sandwiches and drinks, perfect for a laid-back afternoon in the sun. One of the hotel’s standout features is the modern Sky Deck, complete with a wading pool and panoramic views—making it one of the best spots on the island to catch St. Croix’s breathtaking West End sunsets.With its unbeatable setting and amenities, The Fred might just be the best value resort in the Caribbean.
Victoria House
Victoria House is a charming, centrally located option in the heart of Frederiksted, housed in a recently restored historic estate. Positioned directly across from the waterfront, the property offers lovely views from its front-facing rooms and showcases classic Caribbean-style décor throughout. While it isn’t directly on the beach like some other accommodations, its prime in-town location offers easy access to shops, the pier, and local attractions. On the ground floor, guests and locals alike gather at “Flyers,” a popular restaurant known for its relaxed vibe and flavorful nightly specials.
The Frederiksted Hotel
The Frederiksted Hotel is an oceanfront property offering stunning views and a convenient location just minutes from beaches, restaurants, and local attractions. Guests can enjoy easy access to activities like snorkeling, diving, shopping, jet skiing, and sunset sails. With friendly service and beautiful Caribbean sunsets, it’s a relaxing base for exploring the best of St. Croix’s west end. The hotel offers a convenient on-site daily breakfast at an added cost.
Sandcastle on the Beach
Sandcastle on the Beach is a relaxed hotel nestled on a palm-lined Caribbean beachfront, just a short walk from Fort Frederik’s cultural sites. Accommodations range from simple rooms to spacious 1- and 2-bedroom villas with kitchens and furnished terraces, all equipped with Wi-Fi and modern amenities. The property features a beachfront café and bar, an inviting outdoor pool, and direct access to plenty of beautiful nearby beaches, offering guests a variety of options to swim, sunbathe, or explore the crystal-clear waters of St. Croix.
Things to Do in Frederiksted: “West Is Best”
When it comes to vacationing in the Caribbean, beach time is a must—and Frederiksted on St. Croix’s west end delivers some of the best beaches around. But here, “West is Best” isn’t just about the sand and surf. If you’re like me and can’t stay on the beach all day every day, Frederiksted offers plenty of exciting things to explore beyond the shoreline. From historic sites and local culture to outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the vibrant spirit of this laid-back west end town.
Beaches
Rainbow Beach
One of the most popular beaches in St Croix sits about 1 km north of Frederiksted. The beach is beautiful for sure, but so are others on the island. Perhaps its popularity is partially because West End Water Sports sits on the beach’s edge, providing convenient water toy rentals. Plus, one of the island’s top dining spots, Rhythms, is right there as well.
Sandy Point Art Oasis
Located just down the beach from Cottages by the Sea, Sandy Point Art Oasis (SPAO) is a vibrant new spot that captures the best of West Beach and is just a short beach hike from the Sandy Point Wildlife Refuge. This laid-back venue offers cool beach vibes, island music, and some of the area’s most stunning sunsets. Open on weekends and cruise ship days, SPAO features a food truck and a container-style beach bar to satisfy any cravings. Plus, visitors can enjoy a variety of watersports right on site, making it a perfect place to combine relaxation with adventure.
Dorsch Beach
This stretch of beach sits immediately south of Frederiksted. It’s narrower than the other two, but it seemed very popular with the locals. They would park along its length towards the end of every day, and eat, swim, listen to music, and watch the sunset.
Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge
Sandy Point is a stunning, two-mile stretch of white sand beach located at the far southwest tip of St. Croix, just south of Frederiksted. Famous as the filming location for the iconic final scene of The Shawshank Redemption—standing in for Mexico—this beach is a must-visit for both its natural beauty and cultural significance. Open only on weekends and closed from April to August for turtle nesting season, Sandy Point is a protected sanctuary for endangered leatherback, hawksbill, and green sea turtles. Turtle spotters patrol the area daily to safeguard these incredible creatures. Visitors can also enjoy the recently reopened community pool and pavilion, offering families a cool retreat during the hot summer months.
Fort Frederik
Located at the northern edge of Frederiksted’s town center, Fort Frederik is an 18th-century fortress built during the Danish colonial period when St. Croix was under Denmark’s control from 1754 to 1917. The fort was part of a defensive system protecting the island’s two main towns—Christiansted and Frederiksted—both named after Danish kings. Fort Frederik is open for self-guided tours on weekdays. Exploring the fort offers valuable insight into the island’s colonial past and its use as a prison, highlighting the difficult conditions faced by enslaved people who helped build St. Croix’s sugar industry.
Freedom City
Frederiksted is often called “Freedom City” because it was the epicenter of the 1848 slave uprising that ultimately ended slavery on the island. The uprising began right at Fort Frederik, making the town a powerful symbol of liberation and resilience. Nearby, the historic Danish Customs House stands adjacent to the fort, with a statue in front honoring the courage and legacy of those who fought for freedom.
Frederiksted Pier
Just south of Fort Frederik, a long pier extends into the crystal-clear waters, making Frederiksted Pier one of the best snorkeling and scuba diving spots in the entire Caribbean. While St. Thomas is known for its busy cruise port, St. Croix welcomes cruise ships weekly with lively celebrations featuring drum circles and steel bands that bring island culture to life. On these cruise ship days, local vendors set up pop-up tents along the pier, offering unique handmade arts and crafts that showcase the spirit of St. Croix. For underwater enthusiasts, several dive shops located just across the street provide easy access to explore vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life right off the pier.
Discover Frederiksted Town
Frederiksted Town is a small but fascinating area, spanning roughly five blocks in each direction—ideal for a relaxed stroll that can be done in under an hour. The town is a blend of beautifully restored Victorian-era buildings and weathered structures shaped by hurricanes and time, offering an authentic glimpse into the island’s layered past. As you explore, you’ll find hidden courtyards, vibrant street art, roaming chickens, and locally owned shops tucked between the streets. The area is also home to several historic churches and cemeteries, each telling its own story of St. Croix’s cultural and spiritual heritage. Though some may see the town as a bit rough around the edges, its raw beauty and rich history make it a truly memorable place to visit.
Conclusion
Frederiksted, lovingly known as “Freedom City,” captures the heart of St. Croix with its blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re diving beneath the waves at the Frederiksted Pier, lounging on the west end’s stunning beaches, exploring the island’s colonial past at Fort Frederik, or simply soaking in a fiery sunset with island music in the background, this town offers an experience unlike any other. With its welcoming charm, eclectic downtown, historic churches, and relaxed pace, Frederiksted proves that when it comes to discovering the soul of St. Croix—the west is best.
Great review of Frederiksted. We have owned a condo on the beach here in Frederiksted for 18 years and you did a great job of describing our perfect little west end community. It is truly laid back with great beaches, restaurants, and wonderful, friendly people. And of course, the best snorkeling and sunsets on island!