St. Croix

St. Croix – U.S. Virgin Islands

St. Croix is the only territory in the New World that has been under seven flags during its history – Dutch, Spanish, British, French, Knights of Malta, Danish and the USA. This gorgeous sunny island is the largest of the US Virgin Islands, yet it is quieter and less crowded than the nearby island of St. Thomas, with fewer people, shops and cruise ships. This makes it one of thebest places to stay in the Virgin Islands – especially for families and couples.

Its easy-to-navigate roads are lined with shady trees and its topography isn’t as rugged and wild as other Caribbean Islands – which makes it easier to travel. The island is quite well developed, and there are plenty of resorts, restaurants and things to do in St. Croix. However, it’s also easy to get off the beaten path and explore some of the island’s beautiful natural spots and historic sites.

Major Cities in St. Croix

The main cities of St. Croix are Frederiksted and Christiansted. Christiansted is a popular cruise port with plenty of lovely historic Danish architecture, and Frederiksted has mostly Victorian era architecture. The narrow roads and closely spaced buildings are packed with shops, cafes and restaurants and are a delight to explore.

Downtown Frederiksted

Downtown Christiansted

How to Get There

By Air: It’s quite easy to get to St. Croix by air – there are several national and regional airlines offering flights including JetBlue, American Airlines and US Airways. Most of the flights will make a connection in San Juan, Puerto Rico before arriving at Henry E. Rohlsen Airport on St. Croix.

By Sea: St. Croix is a popular cruise ship destination and many cruise lines such as Celebrity Cruise Line Disney, Holland America Line and Carnival Cruises stop there.

What is St. Croix Known For?

St. Croix is known for the diversity of its landscapes – from sandy beaches in the southwest to rainforests in the north and dry plains in the east. It is also home to many plantation ruins, dating back to the days when St. Croix was a producer of sugar. Also, the weather in St. Croix is notoriously wonderful – with sunny days and refreshing trade wind breezes.

Best Activities to Do in St. Croix

Visiting Buck Island Reef National Monument is a must when you are in St. Croix. Go exploring in this gorgeous wilderness where you will find walking trails through frangipani trees and fascinating underwater national park trails for St. Croix scuba diving and snorkelling. You can also take a trip to Sandy Point Wildlife Refuge to see endangered leatherback turtles.

Buck Island Reef Firecoral Jackfish

Take a peaceful stroll around the grounds of the former plantation at the St. George Village Botanical Garden. Another interesting historical attraction is the Christiansted Historic Site which includes the warehouse where Alexander Hamilton once worked before he moved to New York.

St. George Botanical Garden

Interesting Facts about St. Croix

  • St. Croix is the most easterly area of land in the USA. Point Udall, specifically, is the easternmost point.
  • St. Croix is within the passageways of the cooling Trade Winds. They are the most reliable winds in the world and they were guaranteed to carry the shops on their routes between countries – which is why they were called the trade routes.
  • St. Croix is the only location in the present day United States that was given its name by Christopher Columbus.