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Getting Around St Croix

Getting Around St Croix

St Croix US Virgin Islands Travel Guide

Public Transportation Details

VITRAN operates several bus routes across St. Croix. This system is less wide-ranging and frequent than public transport in large cities, but it offers a genuine local experience.

Inquire locally—ask the hotel staff staff or residents—for the most current routes and schedules, as these change. Patience is helpful when planning to use VITRAN.

Tips for Navigating VITRAN

  • Be patient and flexible: Bus schedules are unpredictable. Allow extra time for travel.
  • Confirm routes: Ask locals or VITRAN staff about the best route for your destination.
  • Have small bills: Pay your fare in cash with small denominations.
  • Combine with walking: Buses are useful for getting between main towns, but walking to specific attractions from bus stops is often necessary.

Route Coverage

VITRAN routes mainly connect Christiansted, Frederiksted, and other areas.

Main Office

The main VITRAN office is in Anna's Hope, near Christiansted, for up-to-date information.

Accessibility

Not all VITRAN buses are fully accessible. See if it's available and routes beforehand if you need accessible transport.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing Specifics

Taxi Service Details
  • Licensed Taxis: Typically large vans or SUVs, marked with "Taxi" signs or specific license plates.
  • Fixed Fares: No meters; fares are fixed by the Virgin Islands Taxicab Commission based on destination and number of passengers. Confirm price.
  • Availability: Readily available at the airport, cruise port, major hotels, and central areas of Christiansted/Frederiksted.
Payment & Safety
  • Payment: Cash often preferred, some accept plastic. Have small USD bills.
  • Hailing: You can flag down them on main roads, or your hotel can arrange one.
  • Safety: Always use licensed taxis. Avoid unmarked vehicles. Confirm fare and destination before starting.

Driving Environment & Laws

Driving Side

Left-hand side of the road.

Road Quality

Paved but potholes; secondary roads rough/steep.

Parking

Limited in town centers.

Speed Limits

Generally lower (20-55 mph).

Walking & Cycling in St. Croix

Walking and cycling offer intimate ways to experience St. Croix, especially within its charming towns. Broader island exploration by foot or bike has limitations.

Pedestrian Experience

  • Town Centers: Christiansted and Frederiksted are pedestrian-friendly, best explored on foot.
  • Christiansted Boardwalk: Popular walking area, harbor views, restaurants, and shops.
  • Self-Guided Tours: Available with maps/brochures at visitor centers, explore at your own pace.
  • Historical Insight: Learn about towns' rich history and architecture.

Cycling Considerations

  • Limited Infrastructure: St. Croix has limited dedicated bicycle lanes or infrastructure.
  • Road Safety: Cycling on main roads is generally not recommended due to traffic, varying road conditions, and left-hand driving.
  • Scenic Routes: Experienced cyclists find some routes in quieter, less trafficked areas of the island (eastern or rural roads).
  • Rental Availability: Some resorts/guesthouses offer bicycle rentals for guests, not widespread for general tourist use.

Specialized Transport Options

  • Tour Buses: No formal hop-on-hop-off service. Many private tour operators offer guided bus tours around the island.
  • Informative Commentary: Tours usually include commentary from local guides.
  • Booking: Simple through your hotel or a local tour agency.
  • Boat Taxis & Water Transport: No regular ferry service between St. Croix and St. Thomas/St. John.
  • Boat Tours: Essential for reaching attractions like Buck Island Reef National Monument (boat-only access).
  • Other Tours: Options for fishing, sunset cruises, or private charters.

Accessibility & Unique Transport

Accessibility Services

Travelers with mobility challenges find public transportation and some older historical sites difficult.

  • Uneven surfaces
  • Lack of ramps
  • Limited accessible options
Recommended for Mobility Needs

Renting a car (with modifications) or arranging private, accessible tours is an alternative.

  • Direct inquiries with accommodations
  • Direct inquiries with tour operators
  • Confirm specific accessibility features
Local Transport Not Present

St. Croix does not feature cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems.

  • No tuk-tuks
  • No jeepneys
  • Mainly private vehicles, taxis, and public bus

Rental Options - Continued

Renting a car has the most recommended method for exploring on your own of St. Croix.

Car Rental Requirements

  • Age: Generally 21-25 years old (check company policy for surcharges under 25).
  • Driver's License: Valid license required. U.S. Licenses accepted.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): For non-U.S. Citizens with non-English licenses.
  • Credit Card: Typically required for a security deposit.

Booking & Companies

  • Advance Booking: Recommended, especially for high season or holidays, for availability and better rates.
  • Major Companies: Hertz, Budget, Avis, Enterprise are at Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (STX) and Christiansted.
  • Local Options: Local rental companies additionally run on the island.
  • Airport Convenience: Counters are at the airport for easy pick-up.

Driving Safety & Awareness

Driver Awareness

Be aware of different drivers, pedestrians, and animals (wild donkeys, goats) on the roads.

Animals on roads

Potholes & Turns

Roads can have chuckholes. Approach intersections and curves with care.

Caution needed

Drink & Drive Laws

Laws are strict, similar to the mainland U.S. Avoid driving under influence.

Strict enforcement

Walking & Cycling Zones

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas
  • Public beaches: Many beautiful free beaches for free enjoyment.
  • Historic streets: Christiansted and Frederiksted offer historic streets for exploration on foot.
  • Paths in nature: Accessible hiking trails for walking and experiencing local flora/fauna.
Avoid for Safety
  • Major highways: Lack sidewalks and proper lighting; not for pedestrians or cyclists.
  • Unlit paths: Remote areas or unlit paths may not be safe for walking after dark.
  • Security concerns: Stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially in the evenings.

Specialized Transport Summary

  • Tour Buses: No hop-on/hop-off. Private guided tours are common.
  • Ferries: No direct ferry to St. Thomas/St. John. Inter-island travel by short flights.
  • Boat Tours: Access to Buck Island and other marine activities.
  • Beach & Marine Tours: Available for various activities like snorkeling.
  • Accessibility: Public transport and some historical sites are difficult for mobility challenges.
  • Accessible Rentals: Renting a car (with modifications) or private tours are recommended.
  • Unique Local Transport: St. Croix does not feature cable cars, funiculars, tuk-tuks, or jeepneys.
  • Main Modes: mainly private vehicles, taxis, and the public bus system.

Additional Rental Information

Detailed options for transportation to suit various preferences and needs.

Car Rental Benefits

  • Freedom: Visit secluded beaches, hidden gems, and attractions off main bus routes.
  • Independent Exploration: The most recommended method for independent exploration.
  • Flexibility: Control your schedule and itinerary fully.
  • Convenience: Pick up your vehicle at Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (STX) upon arrival.

Driving Tips & Local Etiquette

  • Left-Hand Driving: Be mindful of driving on the left, especially at roundabouts and turns.
  • Caution: Drive carefully, roads can be uneven with potholes.
  • Strict Laws: Drink and drive laws are strictly enforced.
  • Scooters/Motorcycles: Not widely recommended due to road conditions and left-hand driving.

Tour Bus Advantages

Offers led excursions to multiple attractions with local commentary. Simple booking via hotels or agencies.

Water Transport Access

Boat tours are essential for marine attractions like Buck Island Reef National Monument.

Mobility Solutions

Private reachable byurs or adapted rented vehicles are available for travelers with mobility needs.

Walking & Cycling Limitations

Pedestrian Safety Warnings
  • Poor lighting: Major highways often lack sidewalks and proper lighting.
  • Unsafe paths: Some remote areas or unlit paths are not safe after dark.
  • Nighttime caution: Stick to well-lit, populated areas in the evenings.
Cycling Road Hazards
  • Traffic: Main roads have traffic, making cycling less safe.
  • Conditions: Varying road conditions and potholes pose risks for cyclists.
  • Limited lanes: Absence of dedicated bicycle lanes.

Important Note on Uber/Lyft

Major ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft do not operate on St. Croix.

Plan for traditional taxis or rental cars as your main transport outside public buses.

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