Fantasizing about a Caribbean getaway with pristine white sands, turquoise water, and lush rainforest? It’s the quintessential tropical escape, but if you’ve never been abroad and don’t have a passport, or just realized your passport has expired, you don’t have to give up on that dream. In fact, there’s an exotic island that CNN Travel just ranked among the most underrated, and it doesn’t require a passport for Americans: St. Croix.
The largest and least visited of the U.S. Virgin Islands, the publication notes that, unlike St. Thomas, you won’t see multiple massive cruise ships docked here, but you can enjoy uncrowded beaches and tracts of rainforest that make it “the most ‘virgin’ of the USVI.”
The Caribbean with a Scandinavian Vibe
Those who enjoy a Scandinavian vibe (and exploring history) will find that too, with sites that include Fort Frederiksted and the Christiansted National Historic Site. St. Croix was a Danish colony for more than 200 years, and even the food traditions reveal its Scandinavian past with menus featuring everything from fish cakes (fiskefrikadeller) and saltfish (klipfisk) to Gundi, a local dish similar to sildessalat, a Danish pickled herring salad.
Idyllic Beaches
Of course, for many travelers, the main reason to visit the Caribbean is to enjoy the beaches, and St. Croix has plenty of idyllic options. In fact, we recently included several in the 9 Best Beaches in the US Virgin Islands, like Cane Bay on the north shore, popular for diving, horseback riding, and more, with a beach bar right on the sand for cold brews and burgers.
Relaxation and Adventure
A wealth of opportunities await for relaxation and adventure. You might discover a secluded beach like Shoys for sunbathing and peaceful swims with few others around, or enjoy a day of pampering at a local spa. But just gazing out at the incredible views can instantly melt stress away. If you want to unwind with a drink in hand, perhaps enjoy a tour and tasting at one of the two rum distilleries to find your favorite.
Outdoor adventurers won’t want to miss the opportunity to snorkel or dive, as St. Croix is one of the top spots in the Caribbean when it comes to an underwater paradise. Admire everything from corals, sea fans, and sponges to sea turtles, sea horses, and an array of colorful fish. Nearly every beach offers excellent snorkeling, and divers can discover fascinating wrecks.
On land, not only is horseback riding on the beach possible, but you can ride through the rainforest while watching for wildlife. Green iguanas, deer, mongoose, and all sorts of birds, from the island’s state bird, the bananaquit, to hummingbirds and kestrels, can be spotted here. Plus, there are three scenic courses for golf enthusiasts, too.
