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- Snorkelers and scuba divers can explore the underwater worlds of dive sites like Buck Island Reef, which has a submerged “trail,” and Butler Bay, which boasts several shipwrecks.
- Going for tastings at rum distilleries like Captain Morgan and dining at popular local eateries like La Reine Chicken Shack are great ways to sample the island’s food scene.
- On-land adventures include touring historic forts like Christiansted National Historic Site and marveling at tropical foliage in the St. George Village Botanical Garden.
As the largest of the three main U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Croix could easily be overrun with sun-seekers looking for a tropical vacation—no passport required. But despite its convenient access from the United States mainland, this island seems to fly under the radar.
We tapped local experts from the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism, the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), and favorite island hideaways like King Christian Hotel and The Waves Cane Bay, to share their picks for the best things to do on St. Croix. From pristine white-sand beaches to a buzz-worthy culinary scene, here’s what they say you shouldn’t miss during your visit.
Sail and swim at Buck Island.
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“St. Croix is a treasure trove of diverse encounters,” says Joseph Boschulte, commissioner of tourism for the U.S. Virgin Islands. With that in mind, a trip to St. Croix isn’t complete without exploring Buck Island, located just a short distance off the island’s northeast coast. Buck Island Reef is home to a unique underwater “trail” with plaques that help snorkelers and divers identify hundreds of fish species and other marine life that flourish along the reef. Local companies offer half- and full-day excursions to the island and its protected ecosystem.
Dive at Frederiksted Pier after dark.
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“It’s totally unexpected, but Frederiksted Pier is one of the best places to dive on St. Croix, which is already an incredible destination for scuba diving,” shares Kristina Leadbeater of PADI. While this dive spot is spectacular any time of day, animals like octopi come out at night, making evening dives at the pier a truly unique underwater experience. The pier is inaccessible to divers when cruise ships are at port, so check with local dive shops for availability in advance.
Indulge in a burgeoning food scene.
Visit USVI
As the unofficial food capital of the Virgin Islands, St. Croix offers diverse dining options packed with the best flavors of the Caribbean. Savant is considered among the top restaurants in the region with its Asian and island-influenced dishes, while Galangal showcases a French-Asian fusion flair. Patio space and frequent live music make Shupe’s on the Boardwalk a favorite in Christiansted.
Visit Protestant Cay.
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A ferry to and from the Christiansted pier whisks beachgoers to the white-sand beaches of Protestant Cay all day long. It’s the most easily accessible beach for visitors staying in the heart of historic Christiansted, where you’ll find hotel options like the King Christian Hotel. This beautiful cay gets its name from its past as a Protestant burial ground.
Tour a historic rum distillery.
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St. Croix’s Captain Morgan distillery has good name recognition, and it’s a solid place to try local spirits, but plan to take a tour of Cruzan Rum Distillery, too. Producing rum on the island for more than 250 years, this distillery is both a historic site and a great spot to sample iconic regional rum.
Celebrate with locals at the Crucian Christmas Festival.
Visit USVI
Boschulte recommends visiting during the holidays for the Crucian Christmas Festival, which “combines traditional celebrations with regional customs for a nonstop party.” The island-wide celebration includes concerts, parades, cultural activities, and pageants, while numerous fairs celebrate the best in local art and culture. There’s plenty of delicious local food available at every turn, too.
Spend a day at Rainbow Beach.
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About a mile from St. Croix’s cruise ship dock in Fredriksted, Rainbow Beach is one of the island’s most beautiful and lively stretches of sand. You’ll find gear rentals for snorkeling and other water sports, plenty of umbrellas and chairs, and options for beachside bites, making this the perfect spot to spend a beach day. Whether you prefer lazy hours on the beach or an active afternoon on the water, Rainbow Beach has so much to offer.
Sample local dishes.
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Crucian fare pulls from local ingredients and beloved Caribbean dishes for a memorable culinary experience. La Reine Chicken Shack is well known for having some of the island’s best johnnycakes and rotisserie chicken, while the bright orange Cruzarican Spot food truck, with its rotating menu of island favorites like potfish with plantains, is another must.
Explore hidden beaches.
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“The east side of the island has the best beaches, by far,” says Yadirah Ramos, a St. Croix local from Neighborhood Establishment, the community development and hospitality firm behind beloved island spots like King Christian Hotel and The Waves Cane Bay. “White-sand beaches like Shoys Beach are local favorites, quiet despite being so lovely,” she says. Consider the all-natural Hams Bluff, too—what it lacks in beach amenities it makes up for with empty stretches of sand and stunning, dramatic scenery.
Stroll through St. Croix’s botanical garden.
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Over 1,500 species of tropical plants await at the St. George Village Botanical Garden, an ideal stop for visitors looking for a serene and shady escape in St. Croix. Covering over 16 acres on the ruins of one of the island’s many former sugar plantations, this lush garden is within a 15-minute drive of Frederiksted and brings new life to a historic destination.
Visit Christiansted National Historic Site.
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Established in 1952, Christiansted National Historic Site spans seven acres and comprises multiple historic buildings, including customs and government structures from the colonial era. The impressive Fort Christiansvaern is the centerpiece of the site and the best-preserved of the Danish-built forts in the U.S. Virgin Islands. It’s the perfect destination for history buffs, and plenty of locals and visitors make use of the area’s well-kept lawns for picnics and events.
Snorkel in tidal pools.
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For a one-of-a-kind experience, bring your snorkel gear to Annaly Bay Tide Pools, where naturally formed pools hide abundant marine life along a remote stretch of the island’s north coast. It’s a bit of a journey to reach this wonder; the 2.5-mile, one-way jungle hike is challenging enough to keep most people away. That also means it’s not overcrowded. Adventurous visitors will want this spot on their island itinerary.
Shop in Christiansted.
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The cruise ship dock in Frederiksted means the island’s western side has its fair share of shops, but head to Christiansted for some truly special finds. Boutiques selling home goods, perfume, and locally crafted jewelry—like the island’s iconic hook bracelet from Sonya’s—make it a one-of-a-kind spot for shopping. With a high concentration of shops, colorful King’s Alley is worth exploring.
Enjoy a sunset sail.
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There’s nothing like taking in a St. Croix sunset from the water. Local charters and tour operators like Big Beard’s Adventure Tours offer plenty of options for group excursions and private sailings year-round.
Sip drinks by the ocean at Ama at Cane Bay.
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From its enviable waterfront location, Ama at Cane Bay serves up great cocktails and some of the most delicious food on the island. Sustainably sourced local ingredients shine, while the cocktail menu features both island favorites and new creations. There’s no better way to end a day spent scuba diving or snorkeling than at beloved Cane Bay Beach.
Kayak through a bioluminescent bay.
Bush Tribe Eco Adventures
Glass-bottomed kayaks float through what feels like a sea of stars at Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve. The waters of this St. Croix landmark are inhabited by bioluminescent microorganisms and jellyfish that appear to light up on contact for a magical nighttime experience.
Feast at the Taste of St. Croix.
A Taste of St Croix
St. Croix’s annual foodie event takes place just one evening in April each year, but it’s well worth timing your trip to coincide with this fete. Considered one of the finest food and wine events in the Caribbean, Taste of St. Croix has been attracting thousands of hungry guests for more than 25 years. Attendees rub elbows with everyone from local restaurateurs and rum distillers to celebrity chefs, all while sampling tasty food and drink.
Explore Fort Frederik.
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Completed in 1760, Fort Frederik is one of St. Croix’s most important historic sites from its Danish colonial period. It was also the spot where the island’s governor declared emancipation in 1848 after a landmark revolt led by enslaved peoples. While Christiansted National Historic Site boasts more historic buildings to explore, Fort Fredrik’s stunning red hue is remarkable against the blue ocean, and its proximity to St. Croix’s cruise ship dock makes it a much more convenient stop for visitors arriving for just a day.
Hit the links at Buccaneer Beach & Golf Resort.
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Tiny St. Croix is home to three golf courses, but the one at Buccaneer Beach & Golf Resort is an easy favorite. With ocean views from 13 of its 18 holes, this challenging yet playable course offers a memorable experience even if you’re just riding along in the cart.
Dive at Butler Bay.
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The waters of Butler Bay on the island’s west side hide immense treasures for eager divers, making this one of the most fascinating dive sites near the island. Two distinct shipwreck sites are all accessible in just one adventure-packed dive, including a tugboat that hides eels and colorful corals. The wreck of a colossal oil barge is home to some of the bay’s most stunning marine life.
