St. Croix is one of three US Virgin Islands, the other two being St. John and St. Thomas. Of the three, St. Croix is the biggest and least visited, so does that mean it’s the best US Virgin Island, too?
The Least Visited US Virgin Islands
Even though St. Croix is the largest in size of the U.S. Virgin Islands, it is not the most visited and therefore the least crowded. St. John and St. Thomas, both of which are separated by just a six dollar and 20-minute ferry ride, are generally more popular. By comparison, it takes a 45-minute ferry ride to reach St. Croix.
Being a bit more out of the way, St. Croix is the US Virgin Island that seldom sees massive tourist numbers, and consequently, tourist dollars. While many Caribbean visitors enjoy the convenience of the two-for-one experience between St. John and St. Thomas, interest is growing in the farther-flung St. Croix. In recent years, improved infrastructure and revitalization efforts have shifted St. Croix as the Virgin Islands’ best-kept secret.
St. Croix’s Caribbean Culture
This is where the peacefulness of St. Croix island thrives. Cobblestone sidewalks and ornate archways take you back in time, leading through streets integrated with historic, vibrant architecture. One such landmark, the Steeple Building, is an 18th Century Lutheran Church, which previously served as a school, hospital, military bakery, and history museum for the Christiansted community and beyond.
Sugar Mills of St. Croix
The sugar mills are another historical and cultural structure in St. Croix. These mills, scattered across the agricultural areas of the island, were used to grind sugar cane grown on the island’s plantations during 18th Century slavery. They signify the island’s history and stand as a reminder of perseverance. Today, over three-quarters of the islands’ populations are Afro-Caribbean. During slavery, this was roughly the same, if not a wider disparity. Today, the total combined population of the US Virgin Islands sits at just over 100,000 people. Learn how these numbers contributed to slave revolts on all the islands, and eventually, freedom for its occupants.
Caribbean Food
We cannot talk about the history of this island, nor can you visit, without experiencing one of the most culturally significant attractions: food. From Indigenous soups—Maufe—to locally grown guavaberry, coconut, and other fruit tarts, you can taste the soul of St.Croix at one of the many fairs, farmers markets, and outdoor markets in Frederiksted and Christiansted!
Weather in St. Croix
St. Croix is temperate year-round, making it a great travel destination during any season! One caveat though: The island experiences extreme tropical weather during the Atlantic hurricane season from later summer through fall.
Snorkeling & Bioluminescence
On a brighter note, St. Croix’s climate contributes to some of the most incredible snorkeling in the Caribbean, as well as the opportunity to kayak through “living light” at a bioluminescent bay!
Easternmost Sunrise in the US
Rolling hills to your right and coastal beauty to your left, the blue hour drive to Point Udall is incredibly serene, even though it’s done mostly in the dark. Speaking of driving, fair warning: the U.S Virgin Islands are the only place in the country where drivers travel on the left side of the road, even though the vehicles are of American import and still have left-side steering wheels!
The end of the road to Point Udall culminates with a sundial and an unobstructed view of the Caribbean Sea. The hike down the coast is the easternmost point in the United States making it the first spot the sun’s rays graze American land every morning. You’ll be rewarded again for getting up early on the scenic drive back in the dazzling morning light.
An uncrowded experience
St. Croix is a quiet, culturally rich, and naturally beautiful island, waiting to share its history with anyone looking for an authentic and uncrowded experience. Traveling to St. Croix and investing in its local amenities not only aids in the island’s growth but brings important history to the table and lessens the tourism burden on its sister islands.
More Tips for Visiting St. Croix
Car Rental
This island is a great place to explore beaches, snorkeling spots, and great food, and you’ll need a car to get around! I generally don’t recommend Jeeps, but St. Croix roads are rough, so if you really want to get out without worry, a Jeep or 4×4 capable vehicle is necessary.
Annaly Bay Tide Pools
Take a hike through dense jungle to beautiful blue, and often people-free, tide pools!
Shops
Explore and purchase local handmade art from paintings to jewelry, inspired by the land and the Caribbean Sea.
Facts About St. Croix & the US Virgin Islands
- In the US Virgin Islands, cars drive on the left side of the road, but most vehicles American-style left-oriented
- St. Croix is the largest US Virgin Island in size but the least-visited of the three US Virgin Islands
- The total combined population of the US Virgin Islands is roughly 100,000 people
- St. Croix is home to the easternmost point in the entire United States & its territories, Point Udall
- US Citizens don’t need a passport to visit St. Croix or any of the US Virgin Islands because they are a US territory
- St. John, one of the three US Virgin Islands, is home to Virgin Islands National Park, a protected land excellent for marine wildlife watching
