Step back in time in Christiansted
Anchored by an ancient fort, Christiansted is a step back in time. The port city sits on Saint Croix, the largest of the US Virgin Islands. Unlike other Caribbean islands, Christiansted swaps glitz and glamor for a laid-back vibe. This means you'll soon find yourself chatting to friendly islanders, sipping rum cocktails and slipping into Saint Croix time. As well as discovering the city, Christiansted vacation rentals provide an ideal base for exploring postcard-perfect beaches, historic plantations and botanic gardens.
Tour Christiansted's rum distillery
Dotted with ancient cannons, Fort Christiansvaern watches over the waterfront. It's part of the Christiansted National Historic Site, which offers sweeping views over the waterfront. Over the centuries it's sheltered islanders from pirate raids, Danish invasions and tropical hurricanes. For a glimpse at the island's rum industry, head to the historic Cruzan Rum Distillery. You can learn about the oak-barrel ageing process, peer into the warehouses and sip on plenty of tasters. Can't get enough? Why not pick up a bottle and enjoy sunset rum cocktails on the deck of your Christiansted vacation rentals condo?
Make a splash in Christiansted
Welcoming ships for over 250 years, Kings Wharf is the beating heart of Saint Croix. While it was once used as a landing point for vessels carrying slaves and sugar, today the wharf is dotted with breezy cafes and seafood restaurants. Want to wake up to sparkling harbor views? With sun-drenched decks overlooking Kings Wharf, Christiansted vacation rentals will elevate your morning coffee to the next level. You'll also find plenty of dive shops in Christiansted. Most boats head to Buck Island Reef National Monument, a vibrant coral ridge teeming with tropical fish. If you're not a diver, you can snorkel on the north side of the island, where an underwater trail winds through a sea garden.
Calypso winters in Christiansted
Winter is high season on Saint Croix, when the US Virgin Islands enjoy clear skies and sultry weather. Christiansted vacation rentals make the most of the sunshine, with oceanfront condos just steps from the sand. You could also catch celebrations like the St Croix Agricultural Festival and the Cruzan Christmas Fiesta. Gear up for live calypso music, colorful parades and dusk to dawn parties. If you want to beat the winter crowds, consider visiting from April to June. While temperatures are a little cooler, it's still warm enough to swim and there's every chance of sunshine.
Exploring the beaches and other natural features in Christiansted
Travelers enjoy Christiansted for its island views and seaside. Whether you're looking for fun outdoor activities or just want to take in the scenery, Christiansted is a great place to get outside. Here are a few of the area's most enchanting natural features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:
- Sugar Beach (1.2 mi / 1.9 km)
- Buccaneer Beach (1.5 mi / 2.4 km)
- Shoys Beach (2.2 mi / 3.5 km)
- Chenay Bay Beach (3.2 mi / 5.1 km)
- Buck Island Reef National Monument (6.2 mi / 9.9 km)
- Grape Tree Beach (7.1 mi / 11.4 km)
Traveling to and around Christiansted
The nearest airport is in Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (STX), located 6.9 mi (11.1 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you could also fly into Christiansted (SSB-St. Croix Seaplane Base), which is 0.3 mi (0.4 km) away.