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How to Get to St Croix

How to Get to St Croix

St Croix US Virgin Islands Travel Guide

Air Travel

Airport & Airlines

Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (STX) is the sole commercial airport on St. Croix. It functions as the main gateway for domestic and inter-island flights.

Major Carriers & Regional Flights

  • Major U.S. Carriers: American Airlines, Delta, Spirit Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and United Airlines all offer routes to STX.
  • Regional Carriers: Cape Air and Silver Airways operate flights from San Juan, The Island of enchantment (SJU). Seaborne Airlines also has connections within the USVI.
  • San Juan (SJU) often acts as a connecting point for flights from smaller U.S. Towns or international destinations.

Flight Availability & Airport Facilities

STX is a smaller airport with basic but adequate facilities, often with quicker processing times.

Travel Planning & Amenities

  • Seasonal Fluctuations: Flight frequency and prices generally increase during high season (mid-Dec to May) and holidays. Low season (Aug to Nov) offers better fares.
  • Booking: Book flights well in advance, especially for high-season travel, for better prices. Consider Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.
  • Airport Facilities: Car rental counters, a few eateries, duty-free shops in departure area. Restrooms, baggage claim, information desks are available.

Rental Car

Renting a car is highly recommended for independent island exploration. Counters are at the airport. Find competitive rates from DiscoverCars.com.

Taxis

Taxis are readily available outside the terminal. Fares are fixed for specific destinations; confirm price with driver before journey.

Hotel Shuttles

Some larger resorts and hotels offer shuttle services for guests. Inquire at your place of stay provider before arrival.

Direct Flight Options

U.S. City Connections

  • Miami (MIA)
  • Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
  • Atlanta (ATL)
  • Charlotte (CLT)

New York & Connections

  • New York (JFK/EWR)
  • Direct access from East Coast and Southeast U.S. Makes travel convenient.
  • International travelers typically connect through these U.S. Hubs or San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU).
  • Consider flying into San Juan for short connecting flights if direct options are limited.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Taxes

No particular exit fees or taxes are collected directly upon departure from the U.S. Virgin Islands. Applicable departure taxes are typically part of your flight ticket price at purchase time.

Departure Procedures

For domestic flights to the U.S. Mainland or Puerto Rico, arrive at STX at least TWO hours prior to the scheduled departure time. For international connections, arrive 3 hours before STX departure for potential delays or security lines.

Airport Facilities

The leaving lounge at STX offers quick-service eateries and duty-free shops for last-minute souvenirs, local rum, or other items. Shops adhere to U.S. Duty-free allowances.

Getting Around St. Croix

Public Transportation VITRAN

St. Croix has a public bus system operated by the The Virgin islands archipelago Transit (VITRAN). It serves as a public transport method for residents and visitors, connecting main towns and some other areas.

Routes, Fares & Operation

  • Routes: Mainly connect Christiansted, Frederiksted, and other areas. Comprehensive maps/schedules online are not always readily available or precise.
  • Fares: Low ($1-$2), paid using cash to the driver upon boarding. Have small USD bills or exact change.
  • Hours: Generally daytime, ~5:30 AM to 7:00 PM. Frequency can be irregular, especially on weekends/holidays.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis offer a convenient option for getting around St. Croix, especially for airport transfers. Ride-sharing services are not available on the island.

Identification, Fares & Apps

  • Identifying Taxis: Typically large vans/SUVs, marked with "Taxi" signs or specific license plates. Fares are fixed by the Virgin Islands Taxicab Commission.
  • Typical Fares: From STX to Christiansted ~$25-$30 for 1-2 people. Check the fare with driver. Cash often preferred, some accept credit cards.
  • Ride-sharing Apps: Uber and Lyft do not operate on St. Croix. Do not expect to use these services.

Car Rental

Renting a car is the most recommended method for independent exploration of St. Croix. It offers freedom to visit secluded beaches and hidden gems.

Procedures & Requirements

  • Requirements: Generally 21-25 years old (age varies by company), valid driver's license (U.S. Licenses accepted), IDP needed for non-English licenses.
  • Major Companies: Hertz, Budget, Avis, Enterprise at STX and Christiansted. Local companies also operate.
  • Recommendation: Book in advance, especially during high season, for availability and better rates.

Driving & Road Conditions

Driving Rules & Environment

  • Driving Side: Drive on the left-hand side of the road. Approach turns, intersections, and roundabouts with extra care.
  • Road Conditions: Main roads are mostly asphalted but feature potholes. Secondary roads can be unpaved, rough, narrow, or steep. Drive carefully.
  • Parking: Limited in historic town centers (Christiansted, Frederiksted). Look for designated lots. Speed limits are lower than on the U.S. Mainland.

Motorcycle/Scooter & Bicycle Rentals Limited

  • Motorcycle/Scooter: Less common, generally not recommended due to road conditions and left-hand driving.
  • Bicycle Sharing: Dedicated programs are limited or non-existent.
  • Bicycle Rentals: Some resorts or guesthouses offer rentals for guests; availability is not widespread for general tourist use.
  • Walking "No-Go" Areas: Don't walk or cycle on major highways, especially at night (lack sidewalks, lighting).
  • Night Safety: Certain isolated areas or unlit paths may not be safe for walking after dark. Stick to well-lit, populated areas in the evenings.
  • Bike Safety: Cycling on main roads is generally not recommended due to traffic and varying road conditions.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Walking and cycling offer intimate ways to experience St. Croix, especially within its delightful towns.

Town Centers & Routes

  • Christiansted: Historic cobbled roads and waterfront boardwalk, inviting leisurely strolls.
  • Christiansted Boardwalk: A popular walking area with harbor views, access to restaurants and shops.
  • Frederiksted: Grid arrangement and Architecture from the victorian era lend themselves to walking tours.

Walking Tour Options

Explore the towns at your own pace with self-guided tours.

Historical Exploration

  • Self-Guided Tours: Available in Christiansted and Frederiksted.
  • Resources: Maps or brochures often available at visitor centers.
  • Learning: Discover the towns' rich history and architecture at your own pace.

Bicycle Infrastructure

St. Croix has limited dedicated bicycle lanes or infrastructure. Cycling on main roads is generally not recommended due to traffic.

Road Conditions for Cycling

Roads can be different, and the left-hand driving rule adds a challenge. Experienced cyclists find scenic routes in quieter, less trafficked parts.

Pedestrian Safety

Avoid walking or cycling on major highways, especially at night, as they often lack sidewalks and proper lighting. Certain isolated areas may not be safe after dark.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses & Water Transport

St. Croix offers modes of transportation tailored for tours or specific island experiences.

Guided Tours & Boat Excursions

  • Tour Buses: No formal hop-on-hop-off. Private tour operators offer guided bus tours circling the island.
  • Boat Tours: Essential for accessing attractions like Buck Island Reef National Monument (boat-only access from Christiansted).
  • Specialty Cruises: Boat tours for fishing, sunset cruises, or private charters are available.

Inter-Island Travel & Accessibility

Understand options for travel between islands and accessibility for diverse needs.

Connecting & Accessible Options

  • Ferries: No regular ferry service Between St. Croix and St. Thomas or St. John (due to distance). Inter-island travel to these is typically by short flights.
  • Accessibility Services: Public getting around and some historical sites may be difficult for mobility challenges.
  • Recommended Accessibility: Renting a car (with modifications) or arranging private, accessible tours is recommended. Inquire with accommodations and providers.

Unique Local Transport Not Present

Cable Cars

St. Croix does not feature cable cars.

Funiculars

St. Croix does not feature funiculars.

Tuk-Tuks / Jeepneys

St. Croix does not feature unique local transport systems like tuk-tuks or jeepneys.

Booking Tour Buses

Booking guided bus tours through your hotel or a local tour agency is simple.

How to Get to St Croix. Flights, Transportation, Airlines