St Croix US Virgin Islands Travel Guide
The island measures approximately 28 miles in length and 7 miles in width, covering an area of 84 sq mi. This size makes St. Croix expansive enough to present diverse landscapes and activities, yet compact enough for thorough exploration within a few days or a week. You traverse its length and breadth, experiencing a variety of environments without long travel times.
Of the island topography shows a striking contrast from one end to the other. Journey to the eastern side, and you find flatter, drier terrain, often characterized by cactus and scrub brush, with a more arid climate. This eastern landscape gives dramatic, windswept coastlines and sweeping views of the ocean.
Moving westward, the island gradually transforms into a lush, hilly, and more verdant environment. This western section includes sections of rainforest, with cooler temperatures and dense vegetation. Here, the landscape supports a different set of activities.
St. Croix is a fascinating and complex history, evidenced by the seven different flags flown over its soil. This encompasses Spanish, French, the Knights of Malta, English, Danish, American, and briefly, the Confederate States of America. Each colonial power left its mark, shaping the island's architecture, culture, and very identity. The influence of Danish rule, which lasted from 1733 until 1917, is notably visible and profound. During this time, St. Croix developed into a major center for sugar production. This agricultural boom, however, was based on the tragic foundation of the transatlantic slave trade. Thousands of enslaved Africans were brought to the island to labor on vast sugar plantations, a legacy that deeply impacts the island's culture and demographics to this day.
In 1917, a significant shift occurred when the United States purchased the Danish West Indies, which included St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John. This transaction marked the end of over 180 years of Danish colonial rule and ushered in the American era. The purchase was driven by strategic interests during World War I, with U.S. Control over a Caribbean naval outpost. For the isles, it meant a change in governance, currency, and legal frameworks, though many aspects of Danish culture persisted. This transition to an U.S. Territory formed modern St. Croix, with effects on its infrastructure, economy, education system, and legal status.
Christiansted and Frederiksted feature well-preserved colonial architecture.
Cobblestone streets, arcaded sidewalks, and pastel-colored buildings from the Danish past.
Fort Christiansvaern and the Scale House are testaments to Danish engineering and governance.
Remnants of vast sugar plantations reflect the island's economic history.
Museums and historical sites give insight into daily lives and social structures of the time.
The remnants of this era are not just found in history books; they are tangible reminders across the island. Christiansted and Frederiksted, the island's two main towns, feature well-preserved colonial architecture. Christiansted, in particular, boasts cobblestone streets, arcaded sidewalks, and pastel-colored buildings that harken back to its Danish past.
Visitors check out these sites, gaining insight into the daily lives of both colonizers and enslaved individuals, understanding the economic engines that drove the island, and reflecting on the social structures of the time.
The island's rich and sometimes difficult history is openly discussed and presented through its museums, historical sites, and the narratives of its people, offering visitors a thorough experience of this Caribbean gem.
This ancient depth adds layers to the island's natural beauty, inviting a journey through time as you explore its landscapes and towns.
A snapshot of St. Croix has facts to orient yourself for a visit. These details offer a practical overview of expectations upon arrival and during your stay.
These practical details mean you arrive ready, allowing quick settlement into the beauty and experiences St. Croix has.
Christiansted is the historical capital. St. Croix home to approximately 40,000 residents (2020 estimate).
English is the official language. The United States Dollar (USD) is the official currency.
Atlantic Standard Time (AST), UTC-4. No Daylight Saving Time. Traffic flows on the left-hand side.
The electrical system uses 110-120 volts at 60 Hz, with standard North American Type A and B outlets (two-prong and three-prong). U.S. Travelers do not need power adapters or voltage converters.
