Crucians are especially vocal about the dramatic snorkeling opportunities off Rainbow Beach. It has gorgeous sandy shores with full facilities, friendly bars and grills that serve tasty burgers and sandwiches.
Just beyond Grapetree and the Divi, this well-known beach is a favorite with residents and tourists in-the-know. You will find expansive picnic areas and plenty of places for the kids to romp.
Care to mix a bit of history with your seaside pleasures? Then you are sure to enjoy relaxing at Salt River Bay. This is where Columbus anchored in 1493 and it is designated a national park. You will usually see wind surfers enjoying the fairly active seas off this beach. However, keep in mind this beach offers no facilities.
This lush beach is part of the Carambola resort complex but is open for the public to enjoy. At Davis Bay, the dense forest forms a fascinating backdrop against the winding shoreline. It is one of St. Croix’s most picturesque spots and offers some of the island’s best snorkeling.
LOCATION: Take Route 63 north of Frederiksted and travel a short distance beyond Rainbow Beach.
Drive a bit further beyond Rainbow Beach and you will come to Sprat Hall Beach. Here, too, you can enjoy food and drink in a friendly locale that attracts residents and visitors alike. While you are in the area, check out the unique ambiance of Sprat Hall Plantation. It features overnight accommodations, and horseback riding, as well as a fabulous restaurant.
LOCATION: Take Route 63 south of Frederiksted.
This is truly one of St. Croix’s most unspoiled spots. Located at the southwestern tip of the island, it provides an ideal nesting ground for the endangered leather-back and green sea turtles that are protected by local environmentalists during the nesting season that runs from early April to early June.
A wide variety of vessels will take you from Christiansted to the island, located one mile off the northeast coast. Opportunities for travel range from motorized party boats to sloops, trimarans and even glass-bottom boats.
Its famous Underwater Snorkel Trail gives a close-up view of aquatic life including colorful fish, interesting corals and even turtles. You can also go exploring on a 45-minute walking trail from West Beach. It leads you into the interior through tropical vegetation and up to fabulous views from the island’s highest peak.
From Route 82, a turn onto Route 60 will take you on to Grapetree Beach on the South Shore. This beach is home to the Divi Carina Bay Resort and Casino. This popular area boasts shade, an exquisite stretch of white sandy beach, resort amenities and calm protected waters.
East of Christiansted on Route 82, just beyond Buccaneer Hotel.
Just beyond Buccaneer Hotel you will find a lively shoreline with a line of lush palm trees known as Shoy Beach. This area is known as a fun place to do some body surfing when the wind is right.
LOCATION: Five minutes east of Christiansted on Route 82.
On the grounds of the world class Buccaneer Hotel you will discover luxurious swimming facilities, tropical cocktails, gourmet food and exquisite shade. Non-guests are charged for parking. There are rafts and beach chairs available for rent.