St. Croix

Geographically isolated 40 miles south of St. Thomas, St. Croix is like the big sister who moved out and got her own apartment. Much larger than its US Virgin Island siblings - St. Thomas and St. John - St. Croix seems like a real place, like you could imagine living there. The island has a fascinating mix of industrialism (a big oil refinery), amazing Dutch colonial architecture, and some of the best opportunities for outdoor recreation. Known for its spectacular diving along the north shore, St. Croix also has great golf, kayaking in the Salt River National Historic Park, and superb snorkeling at places like the Buck Island National ...

Geographically isolated 40 miles south of St. Thomas, St. Croix is like the big sister who moved out and got her own apartment. Much larger than its US Virgin Island siblings - St. Thomas and St. John - St. Croix seems like a real place, like you could imagine living there. The island has a fascinating mix of industrialism (a big oil refinery), amazing Dutch colonial architecture, and some of the best opportunities for outdoor recreation. Known for its spectacular diving along the north shore, St. Croix also has great golf, kayaking in the Salt River National Historic Park, and superb snorkeling at places like the Buck Island National Monument. In Christiansted, the main town, you'll find some great restaurants and shopping, along with the Christiansted National Historic Site. In Frederiksted, the big action occurs only when the cruise ships arrive. The rest of the time, the sleepy town rests on its cool colonial architecture. Between the two main towns, roads wind through former sugar plantations, thick forest and dramatic coastline.

About the Expert

Debra Landau has written eight Lonely Planet guidebooks, including books on the USA, Caribbean, and the South.