MileHacker Logo
Best Times to Visit

Best Times to Visit

US Virgin Islands

Climate Patterns

Average daily temperatures on St. Croix fluctuate between 75°F (24°C) in the cooler winter months and 85°F (29°C) in the warmer summer. Nighttime temperatures rarely dip below 70°F (21°C), with comfortable evenings outdoors. This consistent warmth means enjoyment of beach activities and outdoor dining regardless of the season.

Humidity levels remain consistently high throughout the year, typically ranging between 70-85%. This tropical humidity presents a pronounced feel, especially during the wetter months. Loose, breathable fabrics are for comfort in these conditions.

Precipitation Overview

  • St. Croix has distinct wet and dry seasons.
  • Driest months: February to April, 2-3 inches (50-75 mm) of rain. Sunny days are common, brief showers pass quickly.
  • Wettest months: September to November, 5-6 inches (125-150 mm) rainfall. Rain often comes in short, heavy bursts, followed by clear skies.
  • Sustained rainy days are less common, even during the wet season.

Seasonal Considerations

The warm temperatures year-round mean St. Croix remains an attractive destination.

High Season

Mid-December to May

Pros:

Pleasant weather (cooler temperatures, lower humidity, less rainfall). Ideal for outdoor activities and bustling atmosphere.

Cons:

Higher demand with increased prices for flights and accommodation. More crowds at popular attractions and beaches; earlier bookings for tours and dining.

Shoulder Season

June-July, Early December

Pros:

Good weather, often before peak hurricane season. Fewer crowds than high season. Potentially lower prices for lodging and flights.

Cons:

Humidity levels begin to rise, and occasional rain showers are more frequent. Climate shifts towards a wetter period.

Low Season

August to Mid-December

Pros:

Lowest prices for flights and accommodation, budget-friendly options. Less crowded, a more serene and local experience. Increased rainfall makes for lush, green landscapes.

Cons:

Peak hurricane season, risk of tropical storms or hurricanes affecting travel. Highest humidity, more frequent rain showers. Some smaller businesses or tours operate on reduced hours or close.

Ideal Timing for Activities

Snorkeling/Diving

You engage in these activities year-round. However, calmer seas, often found during the drier, winter months (December to May), offer clearer visibility and comfortable boat excursions to sites like Buck Island.

Hiking

The drier months from February to April are preferable for hiking. Trails are less muddy, and lower humidity makes outdoor exertion comfortable.

Hurricane Season Considerations

  • Season Dates:

    Official Atlantic hurricane season: June 1 to November 30.

  • Peak Activity:

    Typically mid-August to late October.

  • Impact:

    Tropical storms bring heavy rain, strong winds, and rough seas, disrupting travel.

  • Travel Insurance:

    Travel insurance with hurricane coverage is highly recommended if traveling during this period.

  • Monitoring:

    Monitor weather forecasts from the National Hurricane Center.

Hurricane Preparedness

  • Direct hits on St. Croix are infrequent, but tropical storms present travel disruption.
  • Airlines might cancel flights, and some businesses close temporarily.
  • Consider visiting in early December for low season prices with improving weather.

Travel Tip: Events

For specific cultural events, plan your visit around their schedule.

Visa & Entry Requirements

Entry to St. Croix is straightforward, especially for U.S. Citizens, as it is an U.S. Territory. However, rules differ for non-U.S. Citizens, with careful attention to U.S. Immigration laws.

Visa Types and Application

Standard U.S. Visa requirements apply for non-U.S. Citizens traveling to St. Croix. Visitors generally need a valid visa for entry into the United States, in addition to a valid passport.

Specific Requirements

  • U.S. Citizens: Passport not legally required for direct travel from U.S. Mainland/Puerto Rico. A valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license) is necessary for air travel. A passport book or card is highly recommended for all air travel and re-entry.
  • Non-U.S. Citizens: Specific visa type depends on country of origin and visit purpose (tourism, business).
  • Visa Waiver Program (VWP) travelers: Eligible to travel without a visa but obtain an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to departure.
  • Consult the official U.S. Department of State website or your local U.S. Embassy for visa information. For assistance, consider IVisa or VisaHQ.

Required Documentation

Prepare these documents for entry into St. Croix.

Documents

  • Passport Validity: Non-U.S. Citizens' passports are valid for at least six months beyond planned departure.
  • Photos: Passport-style photos for U.S. Visa applications for non-U.S. Citizens. Not typically for entry to USVI itself.
  • Return/Onward Ticket: Immigration officials may ask for proof of a return or onward ticket.
  • Proof of Funds: Evidence of sufficient funds to cover travel expenses during your stay.

Entry & Permits

Entry Fees & Procedures

  • No specific entry fees for tourists beyond airfare.
  • Immigration procedures mirror U.S. Port of entry.
  • Present required documentation to the immigration officer.
  • Health-related entry requirements: Currently no specific requirements for travelers. Check CDC for latest guidance.

Special Permits

  • Generally, no special permits for typical tourist activities (beaches, historical sites, water sports).
  • Specific tours, like Buck Island Reef National Monument, have booking requirements handled by tour operators.
  • For unusual or research-oriented activities, research specific permit needs.
  • Routine vaccinations are recommended for all travelers.

Health-Related Entry Information

  • No specific health-related entry requirements for travelers.
  • Routine vaccinations recommended for all travelers.
  • Always check the latest guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
  • Vaccine requirements change; verification prior to travel.

Budgeting & Costs

Budgeting for a trip to St. Croix guides expense management and comfortable visit tailored to spending preferences. The island uses the United States Dollar.

Currency & Exchange

  • Official currency: United States Dollar (USD). U.S. Travelers do not need currency exchange.
  • ATMs are available in Christiansted and Frederiksted, and at major resorts; they dispense USD.
  • Most businesses accept major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover).
  • Carrying some cash is advisable for smaller purchases, tipping local vendors, or smaller, independent shops.

Cost Breakdown Estimates Daily, per person, excluding flights

Budget Traveler: $100 - $150 USD

  • Accommodation: $40-$70 for hostel dorm or basic guesthouse (limited availability).
  • Meals: $30-$50 at local eateries, food trucks.
  • Transportation: $5-$10 on public bus (VITRAN) or walking.
  • Activities: $20-$30 for free attractions or inexpensive entry fees.

Mid-range Traveler: $200 - $350 USD

  • Accommodation: $100-$200 for mid-range hotel or vacation rental.
  • Meals: $60-$100 for mix of casual and some nicer restaurants.
  • Transportation: $30-$50 (rental car $40-$70/day, or taxis/buses).
  • Activities: $30-$50 for popular paid tours (e.g., Buck Island).

Luxury Traveler: $500+ USD

  • Accommodation: High-end resorts or private villas, $300-$800+ per night.
  • Meals: $150+ for fine dining (per person, excluding drinks).
  • Transportation: $50+ for private transfers, premium rental cars, or chartered services.
  • Activities: Easily exceed $50 for private charters, multiple tours, spa services, or exclusive experiences.

Price Ranges & Tipping

These estimates provide a general idea of expenses; they fluctuate based on choices and current economic conditions.

Price Ranges Examples

  • Accommodation: Budget: $40-$80; Mid-range: $100-$250; Luxury: $300-$800+
  • Meals: Local/Street Food: $8-$15; Casual: $15-$30; Mid-range: $30-$60; Fine Dining: $70+
  • Transportation: Public Bus: $1-$2; Taxi: $5-$30+ (per ride); Rental Car: $40-$70/day (plus gas/insurance)
  • Attractions: Buck Island Tour: $80-$120; St. George Village Botanical Garden: $10-$15; Estate Whim Museum: $10-$12; Rum distillery tours: $10-$20

Tipping Culture

  • Restaurants: 15-20% standard. Check for included service charges.
  • Taxis: 15-20% of the fare.
  • Tour Guides: 15-20% of tour cost for good service.
  • Hotel Housekeeping: $2-$5 per day.
  • Baggage Handlers: $1-$2 per bag.

Money-Saving Tip

Save money on dining by having a large, late lunch at a local spot and then a lighter, self-prepared dinner.

Health & Safety Considerations

St. Croix is generally safe for tourists, with understanding of potential concerns.

Vaccinations & Common Concerns

No vaccinations are officially required for entry to St. Croix for most travelers. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests all travelers ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Chickenpox, annual Flu shot).

For travelers visiting most developing regions, including the Caribbean, Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines are often recommended, especially for eating outside major restaurants or adventurous dining.

Common Health Concerns

1

Healthcare Access

Juan F. Luis Hospital & Medical Center (JFL) in Christiansted functions as the main hospital facility on St. Croix, with emergency services and various medical treatments.

Several private clinics and urgent care centers operate for non-emergency medical attention.

Emergency Services: Dial 911 for Police, Fire, and Ambulance (standard U.S. Virgin Islands emergency number).

2

Water & Food Safety

Tap water in St. Croix is generally safe to drink, from desalinated and treated sources. Some visitors prefer Bottled water due to taste or sensitivity.

Consider a Reusable water bottle with a filter (like LifeStraw) for plastic waste reduction.

Food hygiene standards match mainland U.S. Eat at reputable establishments. Common sense applies for street food.

3

Safety & Crime

St. Croix is generally safe for tourists. Petty crime (pickpocketing, bag snatching) can occur in crowded areas or after dark.

Stay aware of surroundings, especially in busy tourist zones. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas.

Secure valuables, do not display large amounts of cash. Use hotel safes. Do not leave belongings unattended or visible in rental cars. Consider Pacsafe for anti-theft bags.

Risk Management & Emergency Contacts

Category Consideration Action
Natural Disasters Hurricanes (June-Nov, peak Aug-Oct). Earthquakes (minor tremors). Rip Currents. Monitor forecasts. Follow local authority warnings. Swim in designated areas.
Travel Insurance Covers medical emergencies (including evacuation), trip cancellation/interruption, lost/delayed luggage. Comprehensive policy recommended. Compare providers like World Nomads, SafetyWing, or Insubuy.
Emergency Contacts Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 911. U.S. Citizens: U.S. Consulate General in Barbados for non-life-threatening issues. Keep physical and digital lists of important contacts. Share itinerary with trusted person.

Healthcare Facilities

  • Hospitals:Juan F. Luis Hospital & Medical Center (JFL)
  • Clinics:Several private clinics and urgent care centers
  • Pharmacies:Available in Christiansted and Frederiksted
  • Emergency Dial:911 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)

General Safety Precautions

  • Petty Crime:Occasional, especially in crowded areas
  • Night Walking:Avoid alone in unfamiliar, poorly lit areas
  • Valuables:Secure, use hotel safes, do not display cash
  • Car Safety:Do not leave belongings visible in rental cars

Recommended Vaccinations

  • Routine Vaccinations:MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella, Flu Shot
  • Additional (Caribbean):Hepatitis A, Typhoid

Food & Water

  • Tap Water:Generally safe (desalinated, treated)
  • Food Hygiene:Similar to mainland U.S. Standards
  • Street Food:Select places with high customer turnover, clean areas

Travel Insurance Benefits

Medical Emergencies:Coverage for illness or injury
Emergency Evacuation:Coverage for transport to suitable medical facility
Trip Cancellation:Reimbursement for unforeseen cancellations
Trip Interruption:Coverage for shortened trips
Lost Luggage:Reimbursement for lost or stolen bags
Delayed Luggage:Coverage for essential items during delay

Additional Health Recommendations

  • Consult a healthcare professional for personalized vaccination advice.
  • Monitor weather forecasts for hurricane season (June 1 - Nov 30).
  • Have an evacuation plan if traveling during peak hurricane activity.
  • Swim in designated areas and know rip current safety.
  • Keep a physical and digital list of important contacts.