Best Under-The-Radar Things To Do In St. Croix, US Virgin Islands

St. Croix is the largest of the US Virgin Islands, and while travelers might think that it welcomes many tourists, it still flies under the radar. You might think the beaches and attractions would be packed with people, but the truth is very different. This makes the island the ideal place for a tropical vacation in the sun for Americans. Meanwhile, those who know the island well believe it is a true Caribbean gem.

St. Croix is a ‘treasure trove’

Speaking to Travel + Leisure, Joseph Boschulte, Commissioner of Tourism in the US Virgin Islands, famously said:

St. Croix is a treasure trove of diverse encounters

We can’t include all the wonderful, under-the-radar activities available in St. Croix in this article. However, the following are some of the best places to go and things to do on the US Virgin Islands, according to the island’s friendly locals.

Night diving at Frederiksted Pier

St. Croix has many amazing dive spots, but one that is unexpected is Frederiksted Pier, which is among the best places to dive on the island. What makes it different is that divers can experience this location at night, when many of the marine animals come alive, including octopi. However, visiting divers should be aware that the pier is not available for dining when cruise ships are moored in the port.

Stroll in St. George Village Botanical Garden in St. Croix

A former St. Croix sugar plantation was transformed into St. George Village Botanical Gardens. Here, the gardens grow over the stone ruins, making for a unique experience. Meanwhile, the garden hosts more than 1,000 species of tropical plants bringing new life into a historic location. Moreover, the garden is easy to access as it is only a short drive from Frederiksted. A perfect location for a day trip or picnic.

Visit Christiansted National Historic Site

Nestling on the northern shores of the island, Christiansted National Historic Site offers a look into St.Croix’s history. The site was first established in 1952 and stretches over seven acres, with many historic buildings to visit. These include customs and government buildings from the colonial era. One is Fort Christiansvaern, the best-preserved of the Danish-built forts in the US Virgin Islands. History buffs will love this location, while others can enjoy a picnic on the well-manicured lawns.

Head to Protestant Cay

Travelers can hop in a water taxi from Christiansted Pier to the beautiful white-sand beaches of Protestant Cay. Moreover, it is among the most easily accessed beaches when staying in historic Christiansted. Meanwhile, this beautiful cay earned its name as an old Protestant burial ground. Should visitors head here around Halloween, they can enjoy ghost tours of the cay by the King Christian Hotel. It is also good to note that Protestant Cay is a great place to enjoy a sunset or go snorkeling in the clear water.

Enjoy exploring these off-the-radar destinations while on vacation in beautiful St. Croix in the US Virgin Islands.