Choosing St. Croix as your destination for an island vacation is a great idea, and whether you’ve decided to rent a villa or book a hotel room, you won’t be disappointed with this scenic and slow-paced Caribbean gem. There’s snorkeling and diving at Buck Island to keep you entertained, along with golf courses, casinos, and even a rum distillery that offers tours. Use the information on this page and under the other tabs to help you plan your trip to St. Croix.
St. Croix is the largest US Virgin Island, with 82 sq. miles, and is the easternmost point of the United States. Island terrain goes from dry and rocky to crystal-white beaches and lush tropics, and is most famous for its incredible underwater activities! St. Croix has the United States’ only underwater National Park (Buck Island) and also world famous snorkeling and scuba diving sites. Gambling is a new activity to St. Croix, giving it another surge of tourism, different from its sister islands. For those not interested in the casinos, the island still has plenty of other diversions. Notable eats include the Whisky Lobster at Duggan’s and the funky Cheeseburger in Paradise. Guests can ride horses, feed non-alcoholic beer to pigs, shop the duty-free stores, visit a rum factory, sail or golf.
St. Croix is the largest and southernmost island in the United States Virgin Islands, located in the Caribbean Sea. It has a rich and diverse history, shaped by indigenous peoples, European colonization, and its pivotal role in the transatlantic slave trade.
The island was initially inhabited by the Ciboney people, who were later joined by the Taino and Carib peoples. However, in 1493, Christopher Columbus claimed the island for Spain during his second voyage to the New World. He named the island Santa Cruz, meaning “Holy Cross” in Spanish.
In the early 17th century, the island was colonized by the Dutch, who established a thriving sugar industry. However, in 1650, the Dutch were driven out by the Spanish, who maintained control until the early 18th century when the island was ceded to the French. The French renamed the island Sainte-Croix and continued to develop the sugar industry, bringing in enslaved Africans to work on the plantations.
In 1733, the island was sold to the Danish West India Company, and the Danish took over control of the island, renaming it St. Croix. Under Danish rule, the sugar industry continued to flourish, and the island became one of the wealthiest in the Caribbean. However, this prosperity was built on the backs of enslaved Africans, who were subjected to brutal conditions and forced labor.
In 1848, inspired by the Haitian Revolution, enslaved Africans on St. Croix revolted and demanded their freedom. The rebellion, known as the “Fireburn,” was led by three women – Mary Thomas, Axeline Salomon, and Queen Agnes – and resulted in the emancipation of all enslaved people on the island. This event is still celebrated today as a national holiday on St. Croix.
In 1917, St. Croix, along with the rest of the Danish West Indies, was sold to the United States for $25 million. The island became a part of the US Virgin Islands, and the US government continued to develop the sugar industry and build infrastructure on the island.
Today, St. Croix is a popular tourist destination known for its pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage, and diverse cuisine. It has a unique blend of Danish, African, and Caribbean influences, seen in its architecture, music, and cuisine. The island also has a thriving arts community, with many local artists showcasing their work in galleries and festivals.
Despite its tumultuous past, St. Croix has emerged as a beautiful and resilient island, with a strong sense of community and a unique blend of cultures. It continues to attract visitors from around the world, drawn to its natural beauty and vibrant history.
Kayak through the Salt River National Historical Park and Ecological Preserves. The tour is three hours, and highlights the ecological and historical aspect of St. Croix. You can also take a 2 1/2-hour moonlight tour that takes you out of the bay to explore a reef. This company also rents kayaks for individual exploring.
St. Croix's three golf courses, the most of any of the United States Virgin Islands, offer three distinct opportunities to enjoy the game. Tee off on one of the two 18-hole courses with a white sand beach and turquoise sea in your view or play a quick 9-holes on the West End before you head off to the beach. Courses are: Carambola Golf Club, The Buccaneer Golf Course, and The Reef Golf Course.
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For a personal experience, the safety and service you desire, N2theBlue specializes in private and semi-private scuba groups by limiting their boats to 6 divers. The Pier, the Wall, wrecks, reefs, night dives, boat dives, shore-dives, and full gear rental -- N2theBlue dives more sites on the west and has a second location servicing the Wall and the Salt River Canyon. Want to try scuba diving? ½ day introductory course for beginners gets you in the water the same day, or try guided snorkeling, photography, and PADI dive instruction up to Divemaster level. Voted #1 Dive Shop by The Daily News' people’s choice and activity by TripAdvisor, N2theBlue is a full service PADI scuba diving center with rental gear, air fills, and Nitrox. Located 100 steps from the Frederiksted cruise ship pier. Call now to reserve your spot aboard.
Getting to St. Croix, USVI and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.
• If you are a U.S. citizen a passport is not required, but it still serves as the best identification when traveling. Otherwise, you must be prepared to show evidence of citizenship when departing the islands, such as a government-issued ID or a raised-seal birth certificate.
• If you are not a U.S. citizen, then a passport issued by your country of origin is required.
• If you are not sure of your status, please contact the U.S. Customs & Border Protection agency (www.cbp.gov).
• If you are planning on a day trip to the BVI, be sure to bring your passport.
Two ways to get to St. Croix; direct or connecting in St. Thomas (STT) or San Juan (SJU)
Direct:
Inter-island/Connecting
Henry E. Rohlsen Airport
None.
On the left.
1. Taxis: Taxis are the most convenient and popular mode of transportation in St. Croix. They can be found at the airport, cruise terminal, and major tourist areas. They are usually metered, but it is recommended to negotiate the fare before getting in.
2. Car Rental: Renting a car is a great way to explore the island at your own pace. There are several car rental companies available at the airport and in major towns. Remember to drive on the left side of the road in St. Croix.
3. Public Buses: The VITRAN bus system operates on St. Croix, providing affordable transportation around the island. Buses run on predetermined routes and schedules, but they can be infrequent and unreliable.
4. Scooter/Moped Rental: For a fun and unique way to get around the island, consider renting a scooter or moped. They are easy to maneuver and can be rented from various rental companies on the island.
5. Bike Rental: Another eco-friendly option for getting around St. Croix is to rent a bike. There are many bike rental companies on the island, and some even offer guided bike tours.
6. Water Taxis: St. Croix has several water taxi services that can take you to different parts of the island, including popular beaches and snorkeling spots. They are a great way to see the island from a different perspective.
7. Walking: Many areas in St. Croix are walkable, especially in the main towns. Walking is a great way to explore and discover hidden gems on the island. Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated.
8. Private Boat Charter: For a luxurious and personalized mode of transportation, consider hiring a private boat charter. This is a great way to visit neighboring islands and secluded beaches.
9. Helicopter Tours: For a unique and breathtaking experience, take a helicopter tour of St. Croix. It is a great way to see the island’s beautiful scenery from above.
10. Horseback Riding: For a more adventurous way to get around, consider horseback riding. There are several horseback riding tours available on the island, offering a fun and scenic way to explore.
Before making their way to St. Croix, USVI , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in St. Croix, USVI even more relaxing.
| Capital: | Charlotte Amalie |
|---|---|
| Population: | 53,234 |
| Size: | 84 sq. miles; 28 miles long and 7 miles wide |
| Electric Current: | 110 |
| Time: | zone:-4 (GMT/UTC ) |
| Official Language: | English. |
| Currency: | U.S. Dollar |
| Tipping and Taxes: | USVI tax: 12.5%
Tips/Gratuities
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| Dress Code: | St. Croix is rather laid back, and is considered casual, but bathing suits, short shorts, no shirt and/or shirts that are unbuttoned are frowned upon while walking around town or in stores. 'Resort casual’ is usually as dressy as it gets on St. Croix for men and women, so a sundress for ladies or linen slacks and a polo shirt for men is all you need for a ‘nice’ dinner. |
| Topography: | Rolling hills, long stretches of white, sandy beaches, and an array of varied landscape from dry cactus in the east to a lush rain forest in the west. |
| Telephone: | Area code 304 + 7 digit number |
Vacationers don’t just stay in St. Croix, USVI villas - they come to paradise to get married and celebrate their honeymoons! Apply for a marriage license by writing to:
Territorial Court of the Virgin Islands
Box 70, St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. 00804 or call and request an application at (340) 774-6680.
Applicants must appear before a notary public and have the application notarized. If either or both applicants have been divorced, it is required that a certified copy of the divorce decree be filed along with the application.
Applicants should also attach a letter to the court detailing the following:
- The date of arrival to the island
- The length of their stay
- Desired date of the ceremony
- Posting the Application
Upon receipt of the notarized application at the Territorial Court, an eight-day waiting period is required. During this time, the couple’s application is posted for public inspection.
Before a marriage license can be issued, applicants are required to personally appear before the Clerk of the Court, or her designee, to be examined under oath. Some form of identification is required. Note: No physical examination or blood test is required.
All fees must be paid by certified check, money order, or by cash, when paying in person. Marriage Application: $25 Nonrefundable fee. Marriage License: $25
Ceremony performed by a judge, $200 fee, ceremonies done only on Wednesdays.
Court Office Hours: 8 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday, except holidays and on Saturdays from 10 am to noon, except on Carnival Saturday. Additionally, by pre-arrangement and $150 per couple surcharge, the court will be available on Sundays and holidays between 9:30 am and 10:30 am.