Dubbed the 'Garden of the Antilles’, verdant St Croix is the largest of the US Virgin Islands and well known for its friendly feel. Sitting south of St Thomas and St John, this island has also seen the least development, making it a hugely appealing destination for travellers eager to unwind in picturesque surroundings, or to marvel at the natural world both on land and under the water. Accommodation options range from simple B&Bs to indulgent boutique resorts, fit for an array of tastes and budgets. Most of the best places to stay on St Croix are right on the beach, though our picks also include a charming little hotel in historic Christiansted, perfect for culture aficionados.

St Croix was once a big sugar cane producer, and the island's rum production is ongoing -- don't miss the chance to taste a local tipple or two! Head to the Estate Whim Museum for an insight into the island's sugar cane heritage, or take a tour of imposing Fort Christiansvaern. The two towns of Christiansted and Frederiksted offer beautiful architecture, quirky indpendent shops and great eateries. The Caribbean Museum Centre for the Arts in Frederiksted hosts fantastic exhibitions and events.

The dazzling waters around St Croix are brilliant for snorkelling or scuba diving trips. Nearby Buck Island Reef National Monument is a particularly striking spot, whilst Rainbow Beach is lovely for a seaside wander, stand-up paddleboarding, or rum cocktails and live music. Nature lovers will adore Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge and the St George Village Botanical Gardens. Venture further inland for hiking, cycling and horse riding trails, or discover remote beaches and hidden coves by boat. Book a room at a beachfront hotel for excellent watersports facilities — from sailing to kayaking — and plenty of family-friendly activities.

The best places to stay on St Croix fill up fast during peak season (from December to mid-April), so book your trip well in advance!

The Best Places to Stay on St. Croix

For Historic Charm

• Company House Hotel in Christiansted offers 33 elegant rooms in a recently restored 18th-century building. Pick this place for the sense of history, comfortable bedrooms and inviting courtyard pool. An ideal base for exploring historic Christiansted as a family or couple. Business travellers can make the most of the meeting facilities.

For a Seaside Stay

• Tamarind Reef Resort is a laid-back beach hotel with landscaped gardens, four tennis courts, two restaurants and a plethora of land & sea-based activities. Great for families, spacious guestrooms are traditionally-decorated and have private, ocean-facing balconies. Friendly and affordable.
• Chenay Bay Beach Resort promises a fun and relaxed family holiday at the seaside, with flexible accommodation in stone cottages, as well as a large infinity pool, a tennis court, snorkelling gear and kayaks. Cottages are self-catering, and there's also an onsite restaurant.
• Sandcastle on the Beach features 21 bright studios, suites and villas, some of which have two bedrooms. With two swimming pools, a great seafood restaurant and direct beach access, this is a fun mini-resort for a family or couples' trip. Close to Frederiksted, on the west coast.
• The Buccaneer Beach & Golf Resort promises a luxurious island stay. Rooms, suites and cottages have a classic Caribbean feel, and there are eight tennis courts, three pools, an 18-hole golf course, a superb spa and three restaurants. A wonderful resort for families, couples and keen golfers, set on 340 oceanfront acres.

For Great Value

• Carringtons Inn is an intimate, adults-only B&B with just four pastel-coloured rooms and one suite. Expect big breakfasts, a lovely pool and pretty views from the tranquil hilltop location, just inland of Christiansted. An excellent value choice for a couple or friends.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to St. Croix?

• Fly to Henry E Rohlson International Airport and travel to your hotel by ordinary taxi or bus. Alternatively, fly to Cyril E. King Airport in Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas, and take a 2-hour ferry across to Christiansted, St Croix.
• For the freedom to explore St Croix in your own rental car, contact our online partner Rentalcars.
• Expect balmy temperatures of around 25-30°C throughout the year. Peak season is between mid-December and mid-April. Travel between the end of the season and June for great hotel deals!
• The rainy season lasts from June to November, with hurricanes most likely to arrive in August and September. It's best to avoid these months.

Still not sure?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in St Thomas.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the US Virgin Islands.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in St. Croix