Looking to travel to St. Croix? St. Croix & the Virgin Islands offer a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure for visitors. And, because it is part of the United States, it is one of the easiest Caribbean islands to get to from the US mainland, since Americans do not need a passport to travel.
Whether you are planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation or a solo trip, there are plenty of things to see and do on this stunning Caribbean island. Before you pack your bags and head to St. Croix, we’ve put together this guide to help you in your travels, from getting here to staying here.
Getting to St. Croix
St. Croix is easily accessible by air, with direct flights into Henry E. Rohlsen airport from Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, Atlanta, Puerto Rico and, seasonally, New York and Charlotte. Major airlines operate flights to St. Croix from the continental United States, including American Airlines, Delta and Spirit Airlines. Flights vary seasonally, with most airlines offering additional flights during high season.
Henry E. Rohlsen airport is located on the south side of the island; no hotels or lodging are within walking distance. You will need transportation such as a rental car or taxi to take you to your accommodations. Taxis are available at the airport, as are rental cars, which we recommend reserving in advance.
Alternatively, you may choose to fly into St. Thomas and catch a quick 30-minute flight from the Cyril E. King airport, a seaplane flight from the seaplane base, or a ferry from the marine terminal (the ferry trip takes about two and a half hours, and may not operate if sea conditions aren’t favorable). Silver Airways and Cape Air provide air service between St. Croix, St. Thomas and Puerto Rico.
Before you book your flights, be sure that you have the necessary documentation to travel. US citizens do not need a passport to enter St. Croix, but must travel with a valid government-issued ID and proof of citizenship. Non-US citizens should check with their embassy or consulate to see if they need a visa to enter St. Croix.
Where to Stay on St. Croix
There are accommodations across the island to suit many needs and budgets. Rental options on St. Croix range from large resorts to small boutique hotels to homes and condos for rent. You may even choose to stay in a cabin or a tent in the rainforest, or aboard a sailboat.
- Large hotels and resorts– Buccaneer Resort, Carambola Resort and Divi Carina Bay offer all the amenities at your fingertips, from beaches to pools and dining options. They can help you arrange tours and, if you choose not to rent a car, taxis to get you to places beyond the resort.
- Small boutique resorts and hotels – These charming options provide plenty of amenities as well. King Christian Hotel, Sandcastle on the Beach, The Fred, The Waves at Cane Bay, The Palms at Pelican Cove, Grapetree Bay, Tamarind Reef Resort, Bungalows on the Bay and several others are scattered across the island, and most are beach or waterfront. Check with each hotel to discover the amenities and rates they offer.
- Long-Term Vacation Rentals– Multiple homes and condos are offered for rent across the island through local rental companies, airbnb and VRBO, and at many different price ranges. Many of our local agents specialize in Long Term Vacation Rental Properties, so if you’re looking for a large villa with an amazing view and chef’s kitchen for a private chef to make your meals, we can help you can find that. But you can also find budget-friendly spaces that are highly reviewed and well situated.
- Adventurous Options- If you’re looking for something a bit different, consider a cabin or tent camping in the rainforest, a farm stay, or even chartering a boat to stay aboard and cruise around on during your trip.
Check before traveling to see if your accommodations have air conditioning. Most hotels and resorts will have air conditioning in the room. Some homes, however, are not air conditioned, and rely on trade winds to cool the home.
Getting Around St. Croix
While it is possible to enjoy your stay on St. Croix without renting a car, a rental car is the recommended way to get around if you’d like to explore the island. Public transportation is very limited, and taxi fees add up quickly if you’re taking lots of trips.
Multiple rental car companies offer daily and weekly rentals originating from the airport, near the seaplane base/Christiansted boardwalk and other locations on the island. It is recommended to book your rental before traveling, as they are sometimes fully booked during high season.
We do drive on the left in St. Croix, which can take a little time to get used to, but the big stickers on most rental cars (and the sign leaving the airport), will help to remind you.
If you’re staying in Christiansted or Frederiksted, or staying at one of the larger resorts, and you don’t plan to take many excursions, walking and taxis will likely be sufficient. Your hotel will be able to provide you with phone numbers of taxi services and direct you to the taxi stand in Christiansted. If you need to take a taxi from somewhere other than Christiansted, the airport or a resort, you will need to arrange pickup directly with a driver, as you cannot easily hail a cab from a street in St. Croix. There are no ridesharing services in St. Croix.
Getting Around on the Water
If you’d like to go to Buck Island, or out for a day sail or sunset sail, several tour companies offer daily trips out of Christiansted and Frederiksted. If you’re looking for something private, boats are available for fishing and sailing day charters, and even for travel between St. Croix, St. Thomas and St. John, weather permitting.
What to Bring to St. Croix
On St. Croix, you’ll find nearly anything you need is available to purchase. However, it is easier to pack some items in your luggage.
St. Croix is a tropical island, with a temperature averaging a breezy 75 to 85 degrees most of the year. Short sleeves, shorts and lightweight, breathable clothing are often the most comfortable. You may need a light jacket or pants at night. Most restaurants do not have a dress code, and “island casual” is typically acceptable. A collared shirt or blouse and pants or a dress is plenty formal at even the nicest restaurants.
Comfortable shoes are an important item to pack. Streets and sidewalks tend to be uneven, and many parking areas are dirt or gravel, so even walking in Christiansted and Frederiksted require footwear you’re comfortable in. Multiple hikes can give you a great view of the island, for which a good pair of sneakers will be appreciated. Because of the uneven surfaces, you may find yourself opting for flat shoes, even for dinners out, over heels.
As you’ll almost definitely want to take in the Caribbean Sea, don’t forget your swimsuit and cover-up. Not only will a cover-up keep the Caribbean sun off, but it’s also necessary to wear when you leave the beach, as local custom (and law) dictates that swimwear should be covered when not at the beach.
Sunscreen can be purchased at many locations on the island. If you do bring sunscreen with you, be sure that it is reef safe, as other sunscreens are not permitted.
If you require any prescription medications, be sure to bring enough to last for the duration of your trip. There are pharmacies on St. Croix, but it’s best not to rely on them having necessary medications on hand.
You will find several ATMs on the island, available to use for a fee, if you need cash for any transactions. Most businesses accept cards, but having cash on hand for tips (such as tour guides) is helpful.
Eating on St. Croix
Grocery stores can be found across the island, from larger stores to smaller markets. They offer many of the items found in mainland grocery stores, though you may find slightly fewer options or different brands. You may also find that prices are a bit higher than Stateside.
You’ll find restaurants serving a variety of cuisines at a range of prices. It is easy to accommodate most diets on St. Croix – vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options are available at most restaurants and grocery stores.
Island Hopping
Hoping to see the other US Virgin Islands while you’re visiting St. Croix? A quick flight, either from the airport or the seaplane base, will get you to St. Thomas from St. Croix. There is also daily ferry service (weather permitting) to St. Thomas from St. Croix. Once on St. Thomas, ferries are available to get to St. John and Water Island.
