10 Amazing Things To Do In St Croix
St Croix is the largest of the major US Virgin Islands which comprises of 84.17 square miles representing 63% of the landmass of the entire group of islands. The other significant islands in the group are St Thomas, St John and Water Island.
In this article, we outline ten extraordinary activities that you can enjoy in St Croix to give you a rich appreciation of the landscape, beaches and significant locations on the island.
Take A Ferry To St Thomas
While St Croix is the largest of the US Virgin Islands, St Thomas is the hub of commercial and economic activities.
As such, there are many exciting things to do in Charlotte Amalie which is the capital city.
Many businesses and retail chains have larger branches and hence a wider range of products and services available.
This truly makes it one of the best islands in the Caribbean for duty free shopping.
One major advantage that US citizens have when visiting St Thomas, St Croix and the US Virgin Island group is that each visitor including children is allowed $1600 each of duty free purchases back to the mainland.
High end chains and luxury brands include Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Little Switzerland, Diamonds International and Bebe have a huge retail presence in St Thomas.
Once in St Thomas there are ferry services available for onward connections to the British Virgin Islands.
However, passports are required for entry by US Citizens into the British territories.
Relax On Rainbow Beach
Rainbow Beach is one of the most visited beaches located in West End by both visitors and locals alike.
As a result, individuals should expect a crowd on weekends and when there is a cruise ship in harbor.
The waters are calm and clear which makes it appropriate for swimming, snorkeling and a range of water sports activities.
Beach chair and umbrella rental, water sporting gear rental and ease of parking are some of the amenities available.
Additionally, Rhythms is the name of the restaurant on the beach which opens daily with a delicious lunch and dinner menu.
Another notable beach in St Croix is Cane Bay Beach which is an excellent spot for families due to its calm waters. It is also an amazing beach for scuba diving enthusiasts.
Visit Point Udall
Explore the Eastern End of the island at Point Udall which is an area of prominence for the entire United States of America as this is the first place that the American soil experiences the sunrise.
Named after the former Secretary of the Interior, Stuart Udall the Millennium monument was erected in the year 2000 to highlight the beginning of a new millennium for the United States.
The drive to the Point Udall is relaxing, breathtaking and allows you to experience the more arid features of the island.
Explore The Botanical Gardens
The 16 acres of St George Botanical Garden Village was established in the 1970’s and is also home to the St George Village museum.
It showcases the diversity of the flora and fauna of St Croix. The garden is also a venue for a range of community activities such as plant sales and Christmas family events.
There is also a herbarium dedicated to preserving the species of plants.
The property also features a museum which showcases artifacts from the early Amerindians who lived on the island from 100 AD until about 1,000 AD.
Hike Jack and Isaac Bay Preserve Trail
Located on the Eastern part of the island, the trail head begins near Point Udall where parking is accessible.
There are signs on the path for ease of direction.
Hikers will first encounter Isaac Bay and thereafter Jack Bay. Both locations are excellent for snorkeling as there is a reef.
As a result, you will get up close the various species of fish and marine life in St Croix.
Kindly note that it is recommended to wear sunscreen as the path is not densely covered in forestry.
This hike is moderate in terms of difficulty and hence it is suitable for beginners.
Take Pictures At Ham’s Buff Lighthouse
This is a magnificent location for scenic views of Annaly Bay and Davis Bay where you can take Instagram worthy pictures.
The lighthouse was designed and built by the Danish between 1913 and 1915.
In 1917, the Danish West Indies was sold to the United States of America.
Access to Ham’s Buff Lighthouse is via a 40 minute uphill hike and therefore one should be in relatively good shape for this walk.
The structure of the lighthouse is unused and over time has depreciated and therefore care should be exercised when entering.
Spend The Day At Buck Island
Buck Island is situated approximately 1.5 miles from mainland St Croix and is unpopulated. The island is accessible via speed boat or kayak. It is the home to the famous Buck Island Reef National Monument which is protected marine environment.
There is an underwater snorkel trail and white sand beach with turquoise waters called Turtle Beach.
This beach is also an award winning spot, voted by National Geographic as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches and is a perfect environment for snorkeling. Visitors are not permitted to remove shells, sand, rocks and plants from the island.
Explore The Capital City
The capital city of Christiansted is located on the Northern coast. It is a small town with traditional Danish architecture.
Nature lovers can enjoy a visit to the Salt River Historic Park. The Salt River is a place of historical land.
Furthermore, the park has the largest mangrove forest in the Virgin Island which makes this a location of ecological significance.
For food enthusiasts, there are a number of restaurants, bars and bakeries that you can experience the authentic local cuisine.
Cruzans as the locals fondly refer to themselves like bush tea which is made from herbs grown on the island. There are also vegan friendly food options with restaurants such as Ital In Paradise a favorite of both locals and visitors alike. The St Croix Food and Wine Experience is an annual event which attracts both foodies as well as world renowned chefs to celebrate and enhance the marvelous cuisine.
Learn To Ballroom Dance
Situated in the heart of the city, The St Croix Ballroom & Latin Dance Studio offers classes for beginners as well as advanced dancers.
It is a great activity to socialize as well as a fun method of exercising. The studio offers various types of dances included samba, tango, salsa, foxtrot, rumba and more.
Play A Game of Golf
There are three golf courses in St Croix being Buccaneer Golf Course, Carambola Golf Club and The Reef Golf Course respectively.
The Buccaneer Golf Course was designed by Bob Joyce in 1973. It consists of 18 holes with magnificent views of the Caribbean Sea.
The Reef Golf Course is located in Teague Bay and consists of nine holes. There is also a driving range where you can practice your swing and develop your skills.
The third course is Carambola Golf Course. It was designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. and is a par 72 that has many uphills and rolling fairways.
The course is surrounded by beautiful, lush green hills.
Conclusion to visiting St. Croix
St Croix is the perfect destination to choose if you are interested in having a peaceful and quiet vacation.
As an overseas territory of the United States of America, there are direct flights from the US Mainland to Henry E Rohlsen Airport which is situated six miles from the capital city.
The island lies within the hurricane belt and hence individuals should consider travel insurance to safeguard against damages and delays due to tropical storms.
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Around The Caribbean is an online travel magazine dedicated to sharing information about the Caribbean islands. The content provides helpful and meaningful tips for individuals who want to relocate or vacation in the region.
