A Scenic, Low-Key Hotel in St. Croix

 As you know, I have a fondness for under-the-radar locales. And though St. Croix is hardly undiscovered, the eastern end of the island has a more remote vibe that I found quite attractive. Unlike the rest of the island that has lush foliage, the east side is quite arid. But the vistas are expansive and the vibe is low-key. And that’s why I chose the Grapetree Bay Hotel and Villas that’s located on the island’s eastern end as my favorite accommodation. I recently wrote about this hotel for Forbes Life. 

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Art and Artists in St. Croix

When I met artist Barbara Gelardi in St. Croix, I fell in love with her vibrant paintings. So, I was thrilled to see she was commissioned to do most if not all the art at the lovely Grape Tree Bay Hotel on the island’s East End. Next time I visit, I intend to stay at this contemporary, low-key accommodation.

Whether driving, walking or biking, you’re bound to discovery myriad examples of St. Croix’s vibrant street art.

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More Street Art In St. Croix

Among the many street murals on St. Croix, “Change the Cycle” by Taj Francis depicts how the goddess of the seas protects sharks, which are sadly killed for their fins. This dramatic work of art embellishes an apartment complex in Frederiksted.

This striking mural by artist Kelly Spencer is aptly named “A Beautiful Death.” Though the coral displays vibrant purple hues, it’s their last gasp. Already bleached, the fragile coral produces these vivid pigment as a desperate attempt to protect themselves from the sun.

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Botanical Gardens and Monuments on St. Croix

 This Millennium Monument — a sundial of sorts — designed to celebrate the new millennium in the U.S. is sited on Point Udall, the easternmost part of St. Croix, my favorite part of this island, and it’s also the easternmost part of the U.S. territories. With waves crashing below, coral reefs visible, and a nearby hiking trail down to a peaceful cove, it’s worth driving out here and staying a while, especially if you have the place all to yourself.

It’s easy to spend hours soaking up the bucolic vibe at the St. George Village Botanical Garden in St. Croix. I didn’t run into a soul as I explored the myriad specimens, including the Egyptian lotus floating in this lovely pond.

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St. Croix’s Street Art

 On St. Croix, I found the vibrant street art, whether murals or sculptures, captivating. These pepper building facades, sea walls and even garbage receptacles, especially in Frederiksted and also Christensted.

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Visiting St. Croix - Fort Frederik

 Strolling through 18th century Fort Frederik (including the art gallery) first thing in the morning is an atmospheric experience when you have the place all to yourself. This fort is located on the waterfront of Frederiksted in St. Croix. 

The Fort Frederik Museum is hosting an art exhibition until mid September. “The Revolution Is Not A One Time Act” honors Emancipation Day on St. Croix.

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Some of my fave cafes/restaurants on St. Croix in the Caribbean

 On St. Croix, USVI, by far, my favorite place to hang out in Frederiksted was Polly’s At The Pier. I could linger for hours at their atmospheric courtyard in the rear with a slice of lemon cake and an iced latte.

With twinkling lights strung about, tiki torches flickering, and carved walls dripping with foliage and inset with lighted niches, the outdoor courtyard at Savant, a St. Croix restaurant that has a romantic vibe.

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