St. Croix, the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, offers diverse options for accommodations, activities, and dining experiences. Every beach that you want to explore while on the island will not disappoint. You will find water, amazing sandy beaches, and many historical sites seen all over the island. Whether you choose Frederiksted, Christiansted, or the east side of the island, there are unique offerings to explore.
Where to Stay:
If you seek a vibrant city atmosphere, Frederiksted on the West Side might be your preferred location. However, the beaches in this area tend to be rockier and narrower. On the other hand, Christiansted is home to multiple hotels and condos, including the picturesque Sugar Beach Condos. The beach at Sugar Beach Condos is particularly stunning, making it a highly recommended place to stay.
What to Do:
- Beach Exploration: The island offers an array of beautiful beaches to explore, including Sugar Beach, Rainbow Beach, and Sandy Point Beach. Down below I list other beaches and my favorites that I explored.
- Snorkeling: Enjoy the vibrant underwater world through snorkeling expeditions.
- Buck Island Visit: Plan a trip to Buck Island for an unforgettable experience. Companies to use include: Big Beard Tours, Caribbean Sea Adventures. We did the whole day tour which was $95 and it took you to Buck Island and let you snorkel as well. Many people recommended the full day; book in advance!
- Bioluminescent Bay Kayak Tour: Embark on a fascinating adventure with a kayak tour of Bioluminescent Bay. We used the Company, Sea Thru Kayak, but there is also Virgin Kayak Tour. I recommend the clear kayaks; it is $70 per person and we did the earlier tour which is what I recommend.
- Island Exploration: Delve into the heart of the island, discovering its unique offerings. There is so much this island offers and getting a car is the best way to see that.
- Shopping: Indulge in some retail therapy and explore the local shopping scene. Christiansted is where you would want to go to wonder through the shops.
- Rainforest Exploration: Immerse yourself in the beauty of the island’s rainforest.
- Explore Christiansted: There is many different restaurants, shops and historical sites to see in the city.
- Christiansted National Historic Site: Fort Christiansvaern was a wide military defense network, and served as the town jail back in 1749. You are able to walk around the ground and see the fun bright yellow buildings.
- Horse back riding: You are able to ride through the water and the rainforest on horseback. Cruzan Cowgirls is an often used company.
- See the most Eastern Point of the United States: This is a beautiful drive to the east Side of the island. This side of the island was very well maintained.
Beaches to Explore:
1. Cane Bay Beach: this was my favorite beach on the island. Crystal clear water with amazing snorkeling.
2. Shoy’s Beach: This is beach is kind of hidden but gorgeous. This was my second favorite beach.
3. Sugar Beach: This was the beach right in front of our condo and it was amazing. There is clear water and great snorkeling if you explore out far enough.
4. Sandy Point Beach: This was a nature preserve that is only open during certain parts of the year since this is the area where leatherback turtles are hatching. It is only open to none locals during the weekends as well.
5. Rainbow Beach: This is a fun little beach on the west side of the island. Rhythm is a fun restaurant located right on the beach.
Food:
- The Mill: If you are looking for amazing pizza then look no farther than The Mill. The pizza was amazing and it is right on the boardwalk.
- Rhythm: Located on rainbow beach. A fun little beach bar.
- Mt. Pellier Domino: If you are looking for a fun and different experience, check this place out. Here, you will find pigs that enjoy drinking (nonacoholic) beer. Make sure to try to get there early because they will get tired after a certain point.
- Toast diner: The sandwich I got here was amazing and the perfect lunch before heading on the boat to Buck island (since it is right beside the dock).
- Rum Runners: Many locals said to go here during brunch.
- Nate’s Boathouse: This places was very good for dinner with great tasting fish, located right on the Christiansted boardwalk!
- Goat Soup and Whiskey: Located on the east Side of the island. It will not disappoint, but check the hours because it is not open all year around
- The Landing Beach Bar: This is located right on Cane Bay beach. You need to go here if you are looking for some amazing food with fabulous views.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Landed on the Island and settled into the condo, hung out on the beach.
Day 2: Explored Rainbow Beach and Frederiksted. Then, we went to The Mill and had pizza; it was so good!
Day 3: Sandy Point Beach- National reservation only open to public on weekends. You can’t put beach umbrellas in the ground due to the leatherback turtles. Then, we went to Mt. Pellier dominion where you can feed beer to the pigs.
Day 4: We finally enjoyed our condo’s Beach and then did the bioluminescent kayak tour.
Day 5: This was the day we went to Buck Island and did some snorkeling. We had breakfast and did some shopping at Christiansted.
Day 6: We went to the eastern most past of the USA and the island, then headed to Shoy’s Beach.
Day 7: Finally hit my favorite beach, Cane Bay and had an amazing lunch at The Landing.
Day 8: The sad day of going home.
Things to Know:
– Get a rental car, it is so fun to explore the island.
– The island feels very safe, but like most Caribbean islands just have common sense and don’t walk alone during late hours.
Up to the Sky 
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