St. Croix, located in the U.S. Virgin Islands, is a tropical heaven in the Caribbean. Snorkeling enthusiasts flock to this Caribbean gem to explore its great underwater world. Snorkeling in St. Croix will leave you in awe with its vibrant coral reefs and dazzling marine life. If you’re a snorkeling fanatic or love exploring the oceans, St. Croix is an absolute must-visit destination. Let’s dive into the details of this underwater paradise!
About St Croix
St. Croix is the largest of the United States Virgin Islands, with an area of 84 square miles. It is located in the Caribbean Sea, about 40 miles south of St. Thomas. The island has a population of around 50,000 people. The largest city and capital is Christiansted, which was founded by the Danish in the 18th century. The other major town is Frederiksted. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, including the popular Buck Island Reef National Monument. St. Croix was under Danish rule from 1733 to 1917, when it was sold to the United States. It has been an unincorporated U.S. territory since then.
How to get to St Croix
- The main airport on St. Croix is Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (STX). It’s located near Christiansted and receives flights from major U.S. hubs like Miami, New York, and Atlanta. American Airlines, Delta, and Spirit are the major carriers to St Croix.
- You can book flights directly to STX or connect through other Caribbean islands like San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Note: As St Croix, St Thomas and St John are US Territories, US citizens do not need a passport when traveling to the US Virgin Islands from the United States. However all US travelers need to provide a valid, government-issued picture ID to board flights and return home.
Best time for Snorkeling in St Croix
The U.S. Virgin Islands enjoy warm sunny weather year-round. The average winter temperature is 77ºF (25ºC), and the average summer temperature is 82ºF (28ºC). The most popular time to visit St. Croix is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During these months, you can expect clear, calm waters and an abundance of marine life. Keep in mind that this is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit, so you’ll need to book your accommodations and tours well in advance.
Snorkeling in St Croix- Map
Snorkeling in St Croix- Best Spots
Buck Island Reef National Monument
- This is a small, uninhabited island located 1.5 miles northeast coast of St Croix.
- Buck Island Reef National Monument was first protected by the US Government in 1948 to preserve this finest marine garden in the Caribbean Sea. It was later established as a National Monument in 1961 by President JFK.
- It is undoubtedly the crown jewel of St. Croix’s snorkeling destinations. Buck Island dazzles visitors with its underwater trails, thriving coral gardens, and the famous Buck Island Turtle Beach.
- Two-thirds of the island is surrounded by an Elkhorn coral barrier reef. The coral reefs are home to an abundance of colorful tropical fish, including parrotfish, angelfish, sergeant majors, butterflyfish, black tip sharks, nurse shark, eagle rays, and barracuda.
- You can only get here either by guided boat or a private boat. Guided snorkeling tours are highly recommended by Snorkdive. Book your snorkeling trip well in advance.
- Tour operators depart from Christiansted, Green Cay Marina, and the St. Croix Yacht Club.
Cane Bay Beach
- Cane Bay Beach is located on the north shore of the island of St. Croix. It is about a 30-minute drive west of the town of Christiansted.
- It is a white and soft sandy beach lined with many trees which provide good shade. The coral reefs start just offshore that make it a popular spot for snorkeling.
- The beach has a relaxed vibe and the underwater visibility is excellent.
- The cane bay beach is also renowned for Scuba diving and horse riding. Its a family friendly beach.
- The beach is a little rocky with sea urchins around, so wearing water shoes is recommended.
- This is the best beach to snorkel with turtles. You may also encounter Sea fans, sting rays, octopuses, and plenty of fish.
- Bars, restaurants, and dive shops for rental available on site.
Frederiksted Pier
- Frederiksted is a nice little town with beautiful colonial influenced buildings. It is located on the west end of the island of St. Croix.
- The Frederiksted Pier is a long concrete pier that extends out into the Caribbean Sea. this place is considered one of the best places for snorkeling in St Croix.
- There are entry points along the sides of the pier where snorkelers can easily get into the water.
- Cool place to swim, snorkel and dive. Sea turtles, barracudas, schools of fish, all types of crabs, eels, star fish, etc. are hanging out on the cemented pillars of the pier.
- Parking, rent shop and public restrooms are available near the pier entrance
Isaac’s and Jack’s Bay
- Two beautiful secluded beaches accessible only by a hike down from a parking spot close to Point Udall.
- Point Udall is located at the easternmost point of St Croix. About a 20-30min hike from Pt. Udall, you can reach to the beach at Isaac Bay. From the Isaac Bay find a connecting trail west. Turn left after a few minutes to reach the Jack Bay.
- The hike to the bays is moderately strenuous, but it’s worth the effort.
- Both bays have limited amenities, with no developed hotels or restaurants immediately on the beach.
- Both Jack and Isaac Bays are considered among the most scenic and unspoiled beaches on St. Croix.
- The waters are calm with good visibility. You can start snorkeling just off shore.
Rainbow Beach
- Rainbow Beach is situated on the west end of St. Croix, just north of Frederiksted. It’s easily accessible and offers plenty of parking.
- This Beach is known as the “Sunday Funday” hangout spot as It’s a popular destination for both locals and visitors on weekends.
- The water at Rainbow Beach is typically calm, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling, Kayaking and paddleboarding.
- You can rent Snorkeling gear, jet skis, paddleboards, kayaks, or even jet boats from West End Water Sports.
- There’s a beach bar called Rhythms where you can grab food and drinks. Restroom is also available on site.
- The sea bottom is rocky at some places so wearing water shoes is recommended.
- You may Spot Sea turtles, barracudas, schools of fish, crabs, eels, starfish etc. while snorkeling.
West End Beaches
- There are many spots along the western coast of the island, on either side of Frederiksted, that offer calm waters and good snorkeling.
- There are good number of gear rental shops along the western coast.
Best Tours for Snorkeling in St Croix
Big Beard’s Adventure Tours – 340-773-4482 – Snorkel Gear and Lessons included. Full and Half Day Buck Island Tours. Sunset Sails, Weddings, Private Charters
Buck Island Charters – 340-718-3161 – Departs from Green Cay Marina, ‘H’-Dock
Captain Heinz’ Teroro II – Trimaran, Buck Island tours, 340-773-3161
Caribbean Sea Adventures – 340-773-2628 – 59 King’s Wharf, Christiansted
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Does St. Croix have a reef?
A: Yes, St. Croix is one of the best-developed reef systems in the tropical Atlantic Caribbean area. Two-thirds of Buck Island is surrounded by an elkhorn coral barrier reef, providing a perfect ecosystem for marine life. So, if you’re a reef enthusiast, St. Croix is definitely worth a visit!
Q: Can you swim with sea turtles in St. Croix?
A: The famous Buck Island Turtle Beach and Cane bay are the best spots to snorkel with turtles.
Q: What should I know before snorkeling in St. Croix?
A: Be aware of the Christmas winds, which can make snorkeling challenging. Stick to the western part of the island during windy periods.
Q: Is it worth going to St. Croix?
A: As the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Croix has a fascinating history, lush rainforest trails, beautiful beaches, the coral reefs and clear turquoise waters make for excellent snorkeling and scuba diving.