Last updated: October 2025. Comparing the best places to stay in St Croix? This local guide explains each area – Christiansted, North Shore, Frederiksted, East End, and Mid-Island -who they suit, typical drive times, and safety basics, with maps and links to deeper guides so you can choose fast and book with confidence.
Where to Stay in St. Croix (2025 Local Guide)
St. Croix has a handful of distinct areas — from Christiansted’s waterfront to Frederiksted’s beaches — each with a different feel. Whether you want walkable nightlife, quiet coves, or family-friendly beaches, you’ll find the best area of St. Croix for your style here.
See our St Croix vacation rentals guide for villa and condo picks.
Best Areas of St. Croix Explained
| Area | Best for | Drive from STX airport | Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Christiansted (East/Central) | Dining, bars, boat trips, walking waterfront | ~20–25 min | Lively, walkable core + quiet pockets nearby |
| North Shore | Diving & snorkeling, scenic coves, upscale resorts | ~25–30 min | Green, hilly, scenic drives |
| Frederiksted (West End) | Calm beaches, sunsets, pier snorkeling, cruise-day bustle | ~35–45 min | Quieter most days, very relaxed |
| East End | Beaches, wind sports, scenic points, seclusion | ~30–40 min | Open, breezy, less built-up |
| Mid-Island / Central | Budget stays, central access if you’ll drive everywhere | ~10–20 min | Suburban/commercial, not walkable to sights |
Map: Where the Main Areas Are
Use this map to gauge drive times and beach access before you pick a base.
Quick Picks by Traveler Type
Which Area Fits You Best?
Families: Frederiksted or Christiansted (calm water, food nearby). Divers: North Shore near Cane Bay. Couples: East End for privacy and views. Budget/Long-stay: Mid-Island for value and central access.
First-time visitors
Christiansted gives the smoothest first trip: restaurants, boat excursions, and short drives to beaches on both sides of the island. Stay in town for walkability or just east for quieter nights.
Best beaches and sunsets
Frederiksted/West End has long, calm beaches and the island’s best sunsets. Great for swimming and beginner snorkeling; the pier is a top macro-diving site on calm days.
Diving and scenic coves
North Shore packs wall dives, reef snorkeling, and lush views along Cane Bay and Davis Bay. It’s quieter at night; plan dinners as short drives.
Seclusion and wind sports
East End suits guests who want open views, breezes, and fewer neighbors. Good for beach time and exploring by car; dining options are more spread out.
Best Areas to Stay in St Croix: What Makes Each Unique?
Each area of St Croix offers something different, so the best area to stay depends on whether you want walkable nightlife or quiet beaches. For nightlife, stay in Christiansted. For beachfront living, try the East End of the North Shore. For total solitude, stay on the south shore.
Do You Need a Car?
Yes for most travelers. St. Croix is large and sights are spread out. Taxis exist but are limited outside the towns. If you prefer not to drive, stay in or very near Christiansted and choose lodging that’s walkable to the boardwalk and marina.
Safety Basics
- Tourist areas are generally safe. Use normal city awareness at night.
- Don’t leave valuables visible in cars or unattended on remote beaches.
- Plan night driving routes in advance; roads can be dark and winding.
Area Snapshots
Christiansted
Historic center with a boardwalk, rum distilleries, and boat trips to Buck Island. You can walk to cafes and bars in town; beaches are short drives away. Good base for couples and first-timers. Great waterfront, dining and boat excursions.
Read the full Christiansted area guide.
Christiansted harborfront boardwalk in St Croix
North Shore
Cane Bay to Davis Bay is dive-country with dramatic views and small coves. Expect quieter evenings and scenic drives; great for divers and travelers who value nature over nightlife. If you love reefs, wall dives, and lush hillsides, then head to the North Shore.
The Cane Bay scene
Frederiksted (West End)
Frederiksted is famous for its laid-back charm, with calm water, long beaches, and the famous pier. Cruise-ship days bring daytime crowds; evenings are quiet. Ideal for easy swimming and sunset walks. Here you’ll find gentle water and island scents. Try Rhythms at Rainbow Beach for a classic beach bar atmosphere and good grub.
Compare beaches and stays in the Frederiksted guide.
Frederiksted waterfront stroll
East End
Open landscapes, steady breezes, and fewer buildings. The East End is great for beach hopping and relaxing with space. You’ll drive for dining and groceries, so a car is essential here.
Mid-Island / Central
Located inland near the airport and main highway. Best for longer stays or budget travelers who plan to drive everywhere. The mid-island is not scenic or walkable, but convenient access to both coasts.
How Many Nights Do You Need?
4–5 nights covers highlights near your base. 7 nights lets you split days between North Shore dives, West End beaches, and East End viewpoints without rushing.
What to Book First
- Lodging in the area that fits your style (walkable vs. secluded).
- Rental car (high demand in winter and holidays).
- Boat trip to Buck Island (if it’s on your list) and any dive days.
FAQs About Where to Stay in St. Croix
What part of St. Croix is best to stay in?
For convenience and dining, choose Christiansted. For calm beaches and sunsets, pick Frederiksted. Divers and nature lovers tend to prefer the North Shore.
Do I need a car in St. Croix?
Usually yes. Attractions are spread out and taxis are limited outside the towns. If not renting a car, stay in central Christiansted and plan tours with pickup. Check out our rental car recommendations.
Which side has the best beaches?
Many favorites are on the West End for calm water and sunsets, while the North Shore offers reefy coves and dive entries. Here’s our local guide to the best St Croix beaches.
Is St. Croix safe for tourists?
Yes in the main visitor areas. Use normal precautions, avoid isolated places after dark, and don’t leave valuables in vehicles. For more maps and visitor info, see US Virgin Islands Tourism. It’s a valuable source of information on where to stay in St. Croix.
