US Virgin Islands
This is the quintessential "day trip" from St. Croix. Located just a few miles northeast of Christiansted, this protected area includes a pristine barrier reef and an uninhabited island, Buck Island. Turtle Beach on Buck Island ranks among the world's most beautiful beaches.
Buck Island is only accessible by licensed tour boats. Numerous operators depart from the Christiansted waterfront throughout the day. These tours typically last a half-day or a full-day.
St. Croix presents several natural escapes for outdoor recreation and immersion in the island's diverse landscapes. These excursions frequently feature adventure.
Located on the eastern end of the island, this preserve features a challenging hike to two secluded and pristine beaches: Jack Bay and Isaac Bay. The trail winds through dry forest and yields stunning coastal views. It suits nature lovers seeking tranquility and an untouched environment away from crowds.
Found on the island's north shore, these natural tide pools form from volcanic rock, yielding an unique swimming experience.
While day trips from St. Croix mainly comprise Buck Island, combining your visit with other U.S. Virgin Islands creates an excellent multi-day extension. This allows you to experience the distinct personalities of each island.
Adding a few days to St. Thomas presents a different Caribbean experience. St. Charlotte Amalie, its capital, features a busy cruise port and a lively atmosphere.
For nature lovers and those seeking pristine wilderness, St. John is a top choice. Over two-thirds of St. John is preserved as the Virgin Islands National Park, featuring extensive hiking trails, untouched beaches like Trunk Bay, and a more relaxed, eco-focused ambiance.
Should you enjoy St. Croix's blend of history and natural beauty, St. John offers more of the latter, while St. Thomas features more urban amenities and shopping.
Short inter-island flights form the main way to travel between St. Croix (STX) and St. Thomas (STT). Flights take approximately 20-30 minutes.
For long-term stays (months), consider renting a vacation villa or apartment with a kitchen and laundry facilities. This provides a home-like setting and greater cost savings.
Staying connected and communicating on St. Croix is straightforward, specifically for English speakers.
For U.S. Citizens, major U.S. Mobile carriers (like AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and Sprint) typically service St. Croix without roaming charges, as it is an U.S. Territory. Check your specific plan before traveling.
Most hotels, resorts, restaurants, and cafes across St. Croix offer free Wi-Fi access for their customers. While connectivity generally exists in populated areas, quality and speed can vary, especially in more remote parts of the island.
Most hotels, resorts, restaurants, and cafes across St. Croix offer free Wi-Fi access for their customers.
English, the official language of St. Croix, is universally spoken by residents. Visitors from English-speaking countries encounter no significant language barrier.
The pace of life on the island often mirrors a relaxed approach.
Most retail shops, notably those catering to tourists in Christiansted and Frederiksted, generally operate from 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Saturday. Some tourist-focused shops may open for limited hours on Sundays, especially if cruise ships are in port.
Restaurant hours vary widely. Many are open for lunch (typically 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM) and dinner (starting around 6 PM until 9 PM or 10 PM). Some smaller, local eateries might have more flexible or limited hours.
Banks generally operate from 9 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Friday. ATMs are available 24/7 at bank branches, supermarkets, and resorts.
ATMs are widely available for withdrawing U.S. Dollars.
St. Croix observes all federal U.S. Holidays.
St. Croix's culture is warm and welcoming; basic courtesies receive appreciation.
Politeness earns high regard in St. Croix. Always greet people with "Good morning," "Good afternoon," or "Good evening" before asking a question, making a request, or starting a conversation. This simple courtesy goes a long way and is expected.
Generally, taking photos of scenery, landmarks, and public areas is acceptable.
The U.S. Virgin Islands are generally welcoming to visitors. As an U.S. Territory, federal anti-discrimination laws apply.
Be discreet and respectful when taking pictures at religious sites or during local ceremonies.
Your travel spending directly impacts St. Croix's economy.
Seek out and support small-scale operations that directly benefit local families or villages.
When shopping for souvenirs or gifts, prioritize items that are locally made and sold directly by the artisans.
Direct your spending to locally owned restaurants, tour operators, shops, and guesthouses where possible. This keeps money circulating within the St. Croix economy, assisting job creation and local livelihoods.
