Caribbean Ports, Cruise Ports, Port Adventures, St. Croix

St. Croix Cruise Guide: Top Things to Do

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View of the Frederiksted cruise port in St. Croix featuring Fort Frederik and the historic clock tower along the waterfront.
Frederiksted’s waterfront with Fort Frederik and the historic clock tower overlooking the cruise port.

St. Croix is one of the most rewarding cruise ports in the Caribbean, offering a mix of history, beaches, culture, and easy island exploring the moment you step off the ship. The island feels relaxed and welcoming, yet it’s packed with memorable things to do — from colorful towns and national parks to rum distilleries and some of the best snorkeling in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Whether you want a laid‑back beach day or a full day of adventure, St. Croix makes it incredibly easy to enjoy your time in port.

Below are ten great things to do after arriving in St. Croix.

1. Christiansted National Historic Site

Fort Christiansvaern’s bright yellow walls overlooking the waterfront at Christiansted National Historic Site in St. Croix.
The iconic yellow Fort Christiansvaern stands along the Christiansted waterfront, preserving centuries of island history.

Christiansted National Historic Site is one of the most charming historic districts in the Caribbean, and it’s a wonderful place to start your day. The area includes Fort Christiansvaern, a bright yellow Danish fort that overlooks the water, along with several restored buildings that tell the story of St. Croix’s colonial past. You can walk the waterfront, explore the shaded arcades, and enjoy the colorful architecture that makes Christiansted so photogenic. Because everything is close together, it’s easy to explore at your own pace. Visitors love the calm atmosphere, the ocean views, and the chance to learn about the island’s history while still enjoying a relaxed Caribbean setting.

Explore more details, tips, and photos in my full guide to Christiansted National Historic Site.

2. Christiansted Boardwalk

The Christiansted Boardwalk with colorful waterfront buildings and boats anchored in the harbor.
A peaceful stroll along the Christiansted Boardwalk with beautiful harbor views.

Christiansted is full of small shops, cafés, and waterfront restaurants, making it a great place to spend part of your day. You can browse handmade goods, try local dishes, or simply enjoy the colorful streets and historic buildings. The town has a relaxed, walkable layout, so it’s easy to explore without a strict plan. Many visitors enjoy grabbing lunch by the water or picking up souvenirs before heading back to the ship. Because Christiansted blends history, culture, and food, it’s a well‑rounded stop that appeals to a wide range of travelers.

See more photos, tips, and details in my full guide to the Christiansted Boardwalk.

3. Buck Island Reef National Monument

View from Turtle Beach at Buck Island Reef National Monument, looking across turquoise water toward St. Croix.
Looking back at St. Croix from the white sands of Turtle Beach at Buck Island Reef National Monument.

A trip to Buck Island is one of the most memorable experiences you can have in St. Croix. The island is part of a protected national monument, and it’s known for its clear water, white sand beaches, and vibrant underwater life. Many tours include a guided snorkeling trail, where you can swim through coral formations and see colorful fish. The beach at Turtle Beach is also stunning, with soft sand and bright turquoise water. Because Buck Island is only accessible by boat, it feels like a true escape. If you have enough time in port, this half‑day adventure is absolutely worth it.

See more photos, tips, and details in my full guide to Buck Island Reef National Monument.

4. Frederiksted Pier

St. Croix Harbor
Beautiful scenery with harbor of St Croix, green mountain, water and town along the coastline.

The Frederiksted Pier is one of the most iconic spots on the island, and it’s located right next to the cruise terminal. You can stroll along the pier, enjoy ocean views, and watch local divers jump into the water. The pier is also a popular spot for snorkeling, especially if you want to see sea turtles or colorful fish close to shore. Visitors love how easy it is to access and how scenic the views are, especially on clear days. It’s a simple, relaxing activity that doesn’t require any planning, making it perfect for cruise travelers.

See more photos, tips, and details in my full guide to Frederiksted Pier.

5. Cruzan Rum Distillery

wooden rum barrels stored inside a Caribbean distillery.
The Cruzan Rum Distillery offers a behind‑the‑scenes look at St. Croix’s rich rum‑making tradition.

The Cruzan Rum Distillery is a fun and flavorful stop for visitors who want to learn about St. Croix’s rum‑making history. The tour walks you through the production process, from fermentation to bottling, and ends with a tasting of several popular Cruzan varieties. The guides are friendly and knowledgeable, and the experience is relaxed and easygoing. Many visitors enjoy the chance to try local rum cocktails before heading back to the ship. Because the distillery is not far from the main tourist areas, it’s a convenient excursion that adds a cultural and culinary twist to your day in port.

See more photos, tips, and details in my full guide to the Cruzan Rum Distillery.

6. Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge

Sunny day at Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge in St. Croix, with untouched white sand, coastal vines, and the refuge sign visible along the tree‑lined horizon.
Untouched white sand and coastal foliage at Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge, filmed near the final scene of The Shawshank Redemption.

Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge is one of the most stunning natural areas in St. Croix, known for its long stretch of untouched white sand and bright turquoise water. It’s a peaceful, scenic stop that feels completely different from the busier beaches near the pier. Visitors love the dramatic shoreline, the quiet atmosphere, and the chance to see one of the most important leatherback turtle nesting beaches in the Caribbean. However, it’s important to know that the refuge has limited hours and is often closed during nesting season. There are no facilities, and swimming isn’t recommended due to strong waves. Even so, it’s close to Frederiksted and perfect for photography, nature lovers, or anyone who wants a beautiful, uncrowded place to explore for a short visit.

See more photos, tips, and details in my full guide to Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge.

7. Estate Whim Museum

Animal mill and stone windmill on display at Estate Whim Museum in St. Croix, showing historic sugar plantation structures.
The animal mill and stone windmill at Estate Whim Museum highlight the historic sugar‑making heritage of St. Croix.

Estate Whim Museum offers a meaningful look at plantation life on St. Croix. The grounds include a restored windmill, historic buildings, and open spaces where you can learn about the island’s past. The museum focuses on the people who lived and worked on the estate, and the exhibits help bring their stories to life. Visitors appreciate the combination of history, architecture, and outdoor exploration. Because the site is easy to navigate and not overly crowded, it’s a comfortable stop for travelers who want to learn more about the island’s heritage without feeling rushed.

See more photos, tips, and details in my full guide to Estate Whim Museum.

8. Cane Bay Beach

Calm turquoise water and palm‑lined shoreline at Cane Bay Beach on St. Croix’s north shore.
Cane Bay Beach offers clear water, soft sand, and a relaxed north shore atmosphere.

Cane Bay is famous for the Cane Bay Wall, a dramatic underwater drop‑off that attracts snorkelers and divers from around the world. Even if you stay close to shore, the water is clear and full of marine life, making it a great spot for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike. The beach itself is relaxed and scenic, with palm trees, soft sand, and a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors love how easy it is to enter the water and explore at their own pace. If you’re looking for a memorable snorkeling experience during your cruise stop, Cane Bay is one of the best places on the island to spend a few hours.

See more photos, tips, and details in my full guide to Cane Bay Beach.

9. Salt River Bay National Historical Park

Calm blue water and mangrove‑lined shoreline at Salt River on St. Croix’s north shore.
Salt River offers peaceful views, calm water, and the natural beauty that defines this historic north shore bay.

alt River Bay National Historic Park is one of the most fascinating places to visit in St. Croix, combining deep history with rare natural beauty. This is the only documented site in the United States where Christopher Columbus landed, and the area holds important Indigenous, colonial, and archaeological significance. Visitors also come for the protected mangrove forests, calm inlet, and opportunities for kayaking or guided eco‑tours. However, it’s important to know that facilities are limited, and the park is best experienced with a tour rather than on your own. Swimming isn’t the focus here, and access can vary depending on conditions. Even so, the scenery is peaceful, the history is meaningful, and the setting feels completely different from the busier areas near the pier. It’s a great stop for travelers who enjoy nature, culture, and unique island experiences.

See more photos, tips, and details in my full guide to Salt River Bay National Historical Park.

10. St. George Village Botanical Garden

Macro close‑up of an orange hibiscus flower after the rain, showing detailed petals and fresh droplets.
A vibrant orange hibiscus glistens with rain droplets, one of the many tropical blooms found at St. George Village Botanical Garden.

The St. George Village Botanical Garden is a peaceful and beautiful place to explore, especially if you enjoy nature and photography. The garden sits on the grounds of a former sugar plantation, and you can wander through tropical plants, historic ruins, and shaded walking paths. The combination of lush greenery and old stone structures creates a unique atmosphere that feels both relaxing and historic. Visitors often comment on how quiet and refreshing the garden feels compared to the busier areas near the pier. It’s a great way to experience a different side of St. Croix while enjoying a calm break from the sun.

See more tips and details in my full guide to St. George Village Botanical Garden.

Final Thoughts

St. Croix offers a refreshing mix of history, beaches, culture, and natural beauty, making it an easy and rewarding cruise stop for every type of traveler. Whether you spend your day exploring historic towns, relaxing on the sand, snorkeling along dramatic reefs, or discovering the island’s unique ecological sites, St. Croix delivers a memorable experience from the moment you arrive. For more details on each attraction, explore my individual St. Croix posts to help plan your perfect day in port.

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Posted In: Caribbean Ports, Cruise Ports, Port Adventures, St. Croix

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