When it comes to the most exclusive Caribbean holiday destinations, the U.S. Virgin Islands are up there with the best of them, and the beautiful St. Croix simply has to be the cream of the crop. The largest of all islands within this picturesque archipelago, it can be found some 65 miles southeast of Puerto Rico and 40 miles of St. Thomas, and makes for a paradisiacal place to spend a relaxing break, featuring the kind of long, white sand beaches, turquoise waters and swaying palms that dreams are made of.
Attracts an affluent crowd of sunseekers – often including celebrities – throughout the year, it’s the perfect destination if you’re craving a restorative getaway where you can rest up, reconnect with nature and enjoy a memorable experience from start to finish.
If you’re eager to tick St. Croix off your travel bucket list in 2022, then look no further – because these five accommodation choices are the very best places to stay while doing just that.
Sand Castle on the Beach
This oceanfront boutique hotel is situated on the island’s western side, in Frederiksted. Set on a truly stunning and unspoilt beach where the daily sunsets will take your breath away, this chic and sophisticated adults-only hideaway is an example of exquisite design, with a wealth of high-end amenities available to guests and impeccable service throughout. You’ll find a pair of beautiful swimming pools, a stylish beach club on site, with equipment for snorkelling and kayaking available for use and plenty of awe-inspiring hiking trails nearby for those who like to keep active.
Accommodation wise, the stunning Seaview Suite is of particular note, and features a tiny terrace overlooking the palm trees and the ocean below. Add to that a sumptuous bed, fully equipped kitchenette, fans in all rooms and plenty of other little extras, and it’s the perfect place to check into for a luxurious getaway that ticks all of the right boxes and more.
Sugar Apple Bed and Breakfast
Situated close to the dock in Christiansted, the Sugar Apple Bed and Breakfast is amongst the newest accommodation options in St. Croix; however, the building in which it sits has a long history behind it. The hotel was initially built in 1780, using island resources, before later being transformed into the opulent Pink Fancy hotel in 1948.
Now, having recently been renovated, this boutique guesthouse exudes a traditional Caribbean feel and features just 12 rooms for a truly exclusive feel. Conveniently located in the centre of the town, it also places you close to all of the best restaurants, bars and shops the area has to offer, as well as providing easy access to boat tours and other excursions, which depart from nearby.
Northside Valley
Northside Valley is a breath-taking eco-friendly estate of villas located on the island’s western side. Comprising eight villas in total, each is surrounded by lush, verdant landscaping and the sound of birdsong can almost invariably be heard throughout the day, making it a veritable nature lover’s paradise. Outside, guests can enjoy beautiful ocean views and a cooling tropical breeze on their private deck, while indoors, villas feature high ceilings, wide windows and a calming colour palette.
A popular destination for avid snorkellers, the crystalline waters that surround the resort are home to a plethora of colourful marine life, including turtles, seafans and the big-eyed squirrel fish.
The Buccaneer Beach and Golf Resort
The first hotel in St. Croix to have been built and operated by an island family, The Buccaneer prides itself on being one of the most unique and historic luxury resorts in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and offers a tranquil setting in which to relax and unwind. Set in a sprawling 340 acres of land and enjoying privileged private access to not one, but three pristine stretches of white sand beach, highlights include two large pools, eight tennis courts, a water sports centre and a full service spa.
Then, of course, there’s the resort’s spectacular 18-hole golf course, which attracts talented players from around the world. Add to that the three restaurants, 24-hour fitness centre and a shopping arcade filled with fine boutiques, and you could easily enjoy the perfect stay here without ever needing to leave the resort.
Coral’s Edge Bed and Breakfast
Nestled in Northshore, just a stone’s throw from the beautiful Cane’s Bay, the Coral’s Edge Bed and Breakfast offers plenty of luxury amenities, including a stand-out pool with views of the stunning north shore, a bistro dining room from which guests can take in spectacular sunsets and sunrises, an honour bar available to guests, and comfortable accommodation, too. Each room has a king mattress, air conditioning, and a ceiling air conditioner.
On a clear morning, you can see across the turquoise waters that lie in front to some of the other islands in this archipelago – there’s nowhere better to sip on a delicious Caribbean cocktail as you listen to the sound of the ocean waves crashing gently against the shore. The daily Caribbean breakfast, inspired by traditional Caribbean cuisine, is a must and includes mimosas, tomato stuffed with ricotta and ham and baked to perfection, eggs Benedict, and Rum Punch Waffles – a mouth-watering way to start your day.
