Where to Stay on the North Shore, St. Croix (2025 Local Guide)

Last updated January 2025. St. Croix’s North Shore runs from Cane Bay to Davis Bay and is famous for its reef diving, green hills, and slower rhythm. It’s the island’s natural escape — quiet at night, scenic by day, and only half an hour from Christiansted. If you want nature over nightlife, this is the place to stay.

Why Stay on the North Shore

The North Shore gives easy access to Cane Bay’s reef and the famous Wall, where coral drops a thousand feet just offshore. Small beach bars, hillside villas, and boutique resorts line the coast. The drive along Route 80 is one of the most scenic on St. Croix, with lookouts and photo stops overlooking turquoise water. Visitors who base here trade crowds for reef time, sunsets, and sea breezes.

Best for

• Divers and snorkelers who want quick access to the reef.
• Couples seeking quiet nights and open ocean views.
• Travelers who enjoy nature and don’t need walkable nightlife.

Where to Stay

Popular choices include hillside villas above Cane Bay and small beachfront inns such as Davis Bay’s boutique resorts. Many rentals have kitchenettes and decks facing the sea. For easy access to diving, look for properties within walking distance of Cane Bay Dive Shop. Expect higher rates in winter and discounts from May to November.

Beaches, Diving, and Activities

• Cane Bay Beach – the island’s best-known shore dive with easy entry, reef snorkeling, and casual dining at Cane Bay Beach Bar.
• Davis Bay – a calm cove with mountain backdrop, part of the protected coastline near The Renaissance resort.
• Mount Eagle Drive – scenic road through rainforest hills with panoramic views of the North Coast.

Most diving operators run out of Cane Bay or Christiansted. You can also drive 10 minutes to the Salt River Bay National Historical Park for kayaking and bioluminescent night tours.

When to Stay

December through April is dry, calm, and best for diving visibility. Summer and early fall bring warmer seas, greener hills, and lower prices. Rain showers are brief, and temperatures stay around 85°F (29°C) year-round. Hurricane season officially runs June to November, but major storms are rare.

Getting Around

A rental car is essential. Distances are short but roads curve through hills. Christiansted is about 25–30 minutes away, and the airport about 35–40 minutes. Parking is free at most beaches and villas. Gas stations are located at La Vallee and Frederiksted.

Local Tips

• Book dives or kayak tours early in high season — operators fill quickly.
• Carry cash for beach bars; some locations have limited card service.
• Bring reef-safe sunscreen and good footwear for rocky beach entries.

Explore Other Areas

For a lively, walkable base, stay in Christiansted. For calm swimming and sunsets, try Frederiksted. Compare all regions in our Best Places to Stay in St. Croix (2025 Guide).

FAQ: North Shore

Is the North Shore good for first-time visitors?

Yes, if you value reef access and quiet settings. Christiansted offers more nightlife; North Shore offers more nature.

Do I need a car on the North Shore?

Yes. Beaches, villas, and restaurants are spaced apart, and taxis are limited outside town.

Are the beaches calm and safe for swimming?

Most days, yes, though swells can rise in winter. Check with dive shops or locals before shore diving or long swims.

More visitor info at the official USVI Tourism website.