Nature, History, and Charm
St. Croix, the largest and perhaps the most underrated of the US Virgin Islands, boasts a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and authentic Caribbean charm.
go
The best time to visit St. Croix is from April to May and September to October. During these months, the weather is mild, and the island is less crowded. You can expect comfortable mid-70s temperatures, making it ideal for enjoying outdoor activities. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, snorkeling, or playing golf, April and May offer blue skies and pleasant conditions. Plus, scuba diving conditions are excellent during this time, with calmer waters and better visibility
do
Here are some of the best must-do attractions:
Buck Island Reef National Monument: Snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters around Buck Island, home to vibrant coral reefs and marine life. Enjoy stunning underwater views and explore the underwater trail. Located near Christiansted.
Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve: Discover the historical significance of Salt River Bay, where Columbus landed in 1493. Explore mangroves, ancient Taino artifacts, and diverse ecosystems. Take a guided kayak tour to experience the bioluminescent bay at night.
Rhythms at Rainbow Beach: Relax on the beach, catch live performances by local musicians, and enjoy beautiful sunsets.Try the famous “Lime In The Coconut” drink and explore the T-Shirt shop for souvenirs. Located near Frederiksted.
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Here are some must-try foods:
Fraco: Pronounced “fray-ko,” this Virgin Island version of a snow cone is perfect for beating the heat. A heaping cup of crushed ice is generously topped with syrup in flavors like banana, almond, tamarind, coconut, and passion fruit. For the best fraco in town, head to Ms. Charlene’s stall next to the post office in downtown Christiansted.
Gooseberry Ice Cream: Armstrong’s Homemade Ice Cream, dating back to 1900, is the place to try gooseberry ice cream. Made from a Danish recipe, this decadent treat incorporates the small, yellow, and incredibly tart gooseberries that locals enjoy as a snack. Be mindful of the tiny seeds while savoring this unique flavor.
Johnny Cake: A traditional island favorite, Johnny Cake is fried bread enjoyed at any time of day. It was originally known as “journey cake” because people would eat it on their way to work. Crunchy on the outside and light and fluffy on the inside, it pairs perfectly with fried chicken or chicken roasted on an open grill from La Reine Chicken Shack.
Paté: Not to be confused with a Jamaican patty, Crucian paté resembles an empanada. It features a crispy, crunchy pastry crust filled with spiced beef, saltfish (salted cod), chicken, conch, lobster, or veggies. Enjoy it with fresh local juice, such as passion fruit or tamarind. Rosa’s Booth in Frederiksted is a great place to try one.
Pot Fish and Fungi: This unofficial dish of the U.S. Virgin Islands has historical roots dating back to the days of slavery. Typically made with red snapper, the fish is fried to a crisp and then cooked down in a rich tomato-based gravy. Pair it with fungi, a cornmeal-based side dish, for a truly authentic taste of St. Croix.
tips
Here are some essential tips to make your experience memorable:
Currency: St. Croix uses the U.S. Dollar as its currency.You won’t need to exchange money, and credit cards are widely accepted.No need to carry cash other than for tips.
Driving in St. Croix: Renting a car is the best way to explore the entire island on your terms.Keep in mind that they drive on the left side of the road, similar to the United Kingdom or New Zealand. However, the driver’s seat is on the left side as the cars are American. Consider renting a car for day trips if needed.
Pack Your Necessities: There is no Target or Walmart on St. Croix, but there is a K-Mart. If you have specific items you like to use at home, pack them to avoid searching for necessities on the island. Keep in mind that prices may be higher due to the need for imported items.
Island Time: Embrace the relaxed pace of life known as “Island Time.”Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and take things at a leisurely pace.
Outdoor Adventures: Explore the rainforest! Take a guided hike through the lush greenery of the El Yunque National Forest in the nearby U.S. Virgin Islands. Go kayaking in the bioluminescent bay. The water glows at night due to tiny organisms—truly a magical experience!
Local Etiquette: Respect the locals: Be friendly and polite. Greet people with a smile and a friendly “good morning” or “good afternoon.”
Dress appropriately: While the island is laid-back, avoid beachwear in town. Cover up when visiting shops or restaurants.
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