I’ve been extremely lucky to get to spend some R&R on the island of St. Croix twice over the last 4 months. Of course the first trip was mostly exploratory and getting the lay of the land but the 2nd trip I was jumping off the plane with a list of places I *had* to go back to!

The first trip down, my mom graciously had set up a play-date with one of her friends to take me around the island and explore all the places the locals love. We got to drive thru the rain forest, drive up and down the coastline and even scout thru a sugar mill, an old plantation and one of my favorite places, Fort Christiansvaern.

I will preface this post by saying, when I travel, I like to eat and I like to eat well. So although there are some activities and things to do listed here, this list is mostly comprised of places to dine. Oh and on another note, since my mom lives on the island, I can’t really speak on lodging since I always stay with her. However, I hear the Sand Castle on the Beach club has really nice quarters and another fun place to stay would be The Fred.

This list is in no particular order:

01 SION FARM DISTILLERY

Stop here to enjoy a delicious Italian Jam sandwich, black bean hummus and a Mutiny Island Painkiller! Don’t forget to take a tour of the distillery.

02 SAND CASTLE ON THE BEACH

Most of my free time, while mom was at work, was spent on Sand Castle Beach, a private beach club located in Frederiksted. It’s clean and has a great diner right on the beach. You can get a chair/umbrella + a towel (basically a day pass) for $10.

03 AMA AT CANE BAY

Hi bottomless mimosa’s while sitting on the beach, I miss you. If you’re looking to have brunch with a view, this is your place.

04 ROSEWAY SUNSET SAIL

One of the coolest experiences on the island and for a great cause. You’ll have to catch the Roseway at the right time because this 137’ sailboat travels between Salem, Massachusetts and St. Croix. This sail boat is operated primarily by women and on your sail they’ll give you a tour and the lowdown on the history of the boat.

05 BIG BEARD’S ADVENTURE TOURS (SNORKELING)

An all inclusive trip to Buck Island Reef National Monument. They provide all the gear and education needed to snorkel around Buck Island. ⚠️ Warning: on the way back from this tour they will serve you rum punch. It is delicious and will sneak up on you!

06 40 STRAND EATERY

A great cafe in downtown Christiansted. The atmosphere is chill and the food is amazing.

07 SONYA’S FINE ISLAND JEWELRY

If you’re looking for a souvenir, make it something that will last for years. Sonya’s is the maker of the original hook bracelets and island tradition. My mom got me one when she first moved to the island and I wear it ever single day!

08 DUGGAN’S REEF

Most will argue this is the best place on the island to get the freshest lobster. Can’t recommend the whiskey steak and lobster enough! Make reservations early - they only serve what they catch that day and typically run out!

09 COMMON SENSE PUB

Another local favorite with a chill atmosphere. If you go, try their Nashville chicken tenders and stay for a game of Bingo!

10 ZION MODERN KITCHEN

A great place to sit outdoors and enjoy hors d'oeuvres.

11 RUM RUNNER’S RESTAURANT

A steakhouse located on the Christiansted boardwalk.

12 LE REINE’S CHICKEN SHACK

More commonly called “the chicken shack” is a local favorite located on Centerline Road. They have the best bbq chicken and johny cakes!

13 TOO.CHEZ RESTAURANT AND BAR

An open-air boutique style American-French restaurant located in the heart of Christiansted.

14 CRUZAN RUM FACTORY

A great place to tour the factory and taste Cruzan rum.

15 POINT UDALL

A sharply wedged sundial marks the point at which each day in the United States begins. Point Udall is the easternmost point of the United States.

16 FORT CHRISTIANSVAERN

Built in 1738 this fort is the oldest structure in Christiansted! A French-style Danish fort that protected shipping from potential attacks by foreign invaders, privateers and pirates.

I’d also highly suggest just jumping in the car and cruising up and down the coastline and pulling off when you see something that sparks your interests. So many beautiful sites to see on the island of St. Croix that can’t be narrowed down to a bulleted list.

I hope this post inspires you to get outside + explore more.

xx,

Riss