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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 ways and schedules, as these change. Patience is helpful when planning to use VITRAN.

Tips for Navigating VITRAN

  • Be patient plus versatile: Bus schedules are set 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. Check the 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 inside its charming towns. Broader island exploration by foot or bike has limitations.

Pedestrian Experience

  • Town Centers: Christiansted and Frederiksted are for walking-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

  • Basic Facilities: 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 more peaceful, less trafficked regions 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 A Protected national landmark (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 companies
  • 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 personal cars, 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: A current 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 fauna (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, particularly at night.

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 personal cars, 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 the beaten path 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 operating a vehicle 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 quality and left-hand driving.

Tour Bus Advantages

Offers led excursions to numerous 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 routes are not safe after dark.
  • Nighttime caution: Stay on well-lit-lit, populated areas in the evenings.
Cycling Road Hazards
  • Traffic: Main roads have traffic, making cycling less safe.
  • Conditions: Varying street conditions and potholes pose risks for bikers.
  • 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 a main transport outside public buses.

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