Christiansted is a colourful harbour town on the island of St. Croix. Pastel Danish buildings, arcaded sidewalks and a yellow fort line the waterfront. Meanwhile, turquoise water and coral reefs sit just offshore. So, this guide covers the best things to do, plus how to get there and when to go.
Quick Facts About Christiansted
| Country | United States Virgin Islands |
| Region | North shore of St. Croix |
| Known For | Fort Christiansvaern, Danish colonial buildings, the boardwalk and Buck Island |
| UNESCO Status | Not a UNESCO World Heritage Site |
| Founded | Established by the Danish in the 1730s |
| Best Time to Visit | December to April |
| Getting There | Fly into Henry E. Rohlsen Airport, about 20 minutes away |
| Time Needed | Two to four days |
| Continent | North America, in the Caribbean |
Where Is Christiansted?
The town sits on the north shore of St. Croix, the largest of the US Virgin Islands. It faces a sheltered harbour protected by a reef. To the east, the coast runs toward Point Udall, the easternmost point of the United States. In contrast, the quieter town of Frederiksted lies on the west end.
As a US territory, the island uses the US dollar. In addition, American citizens do not need a passport to visit. As a result, it is one of the easiest Caribbean escapes from the mainland.
Why Visit Christiansted?
First, the historic centre is beautifully preserved. Many buildings date back to the 18th century, when Denmark ruled the island. Second, the waterfront boardwalk is lively, with bars, dive shops and seafood restaurants. Third, the snorkelling and diving nearby are superb.
Above all, Christiansted blends history and beach life in one walkable town. It also feels less crowded than many Caribbean ports, since large cruise ships usually dock elsewhere on the island. If you enjoyed our guide to Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, you will love these colonial streets too.
Getting around the centre is easy on foot. Most streets are flat, and the covered arcades give shade from the sun. For longer trips, taxis wait near the boardwalk. Alternatively, rent a car for a day or two. That way, you can reach remote beaches, viewpoints and farm stands at your own pace.
Things to Do in Christiansted
Most sights sit within a few blocks of the harbour. However, the best beaches and reefs are a short drive or boat ride away.
Explore Fort Christiansvaern
Fort Christiansvaern is the star of the town. The Danes built this bright yellow fort between 1738 and 1749. Today, it is part of Christiansted National Historic Site. Inside, you can see cannons, a dungeon and soldiers’ quarters. Afterwards, climb the ramparts for views over the harbour.
Walk the Historic District
Next, wander through the old Danish streets. Look for the Steeple Building, a former Lutheran church, and the Old Customs House. In addition, the Danish West India and Guinea Company Warehouse tells the story of colonial trade. Notably, it also tells the painful history of slavery on the island.
Stroll the Boardwalk
The boardwalk runs along the harbour near the fort. During the day, it is a pleasant place to watch boats and seaplanes. In the evening, the bars and restaurants come alive. For example, many places serve fresh fish tacos and local rum cocktails.
Snorkel at Buck Island
Buck Island Reef National Monument lies just off the northeast coast. It protects a stunning coral reef with an underwater snorkel trail. Boat tours leave from the Christiansted waterfront most mornings. Meanwhile, the island itself has a white sand beach and a short hiking trail.
Taste Local Rum
St. Croix has a long rum making history. So, consider a tour of a local distillery, where you can learn about sugar cane and sample the results. Similarly, local markets sell johnnycakes, pates and other Crucian snacks.
Dive the Cane Bay Wall
Cane Bay lies about 30 minutes west of town on the north shore. Just offshore, the sea floor drops into a deep underwater wall. As a result, divers can see sea turtles, rays and colourful sponges close to the beach. Even snorkellers can spot plenty of fish in the shallows.
Shop and Browse Galleries
The streets around Company Street and King Street hold small boutiques. For example, you will find local jewellery, including the famous Crucian hook bracelet. In addition, art galleries display paintings by island artists. Prices vary, so take your time and compare.
Here are a few tips for your visit:
- Rent a car to explore the island, and remember to drive on the left.
- Use reef safe sunscreen when snorkelling.
- Book Buck Island tours early in high season.
- Carry water, since the midday heat is strong.
Day Trips From Christiansted
The rest of the island is easy to explore. For instance, Point Udall offers a famous sunrise spot at the eastern tip. Meanwhile, Estate Whim Plantation Museum shows life on a sugar estate. In contrast, Frederiksted has a long pier, a red fort and great sunset views. Finally, the rainforest on the west end is cool and green, with winding roads under tall trees.
One Historical Fact About Christiansted
As a teenager, Alexander Hamilton worked as a clerk for a trading firm in the town. He handled cargo, accounts and ships in the busy port. Later, he moved to North America and became one of the founding fathers of the United States. In short, part of his story began on these streets.
How to Get to Christiansted
Reaching the town is straightforward. Choose the option that suits your trip:
- Flying in: Henry E. Rohlsen Airport has flights from the US mainland and nearby islands.
- Seaplane: short seaplane flights link the harbour with St. Thomas.
- Ferry: boat services between St. Thomas and St. Croix run on some days.
- Driving: from the airport, the trip into town takes about 20 minutes.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is December to April. During these months, the weather is dry and sunny. In addition, the trade winds keep temperatures comfortable. However, June to November is hurricane season. Still, the shoulder months of May and early June can bring good deals. Also, look out for the Crucian Christmas Festival, which brings parades and music from late December into early January.
Is Christiansted Worth Visiting?
Yes, Christiansted is worth visiting. It offers a real sense of place, with Danish forts, local food and world class reefs. Plus, it is easy to reach for American travellers. For another colourful Caribbean town, read our guide to Willemstad, Curaçao.
Final Thoughts
Overall, this harbour town is a gem of the Caribbean. You can tour a historic fort, snorkel a protected reef and enjoy dinner by the water in a single day. So, add Christiansted to your island plans and give yourself time to relax.
Image Credits
Unsplash
- Sergio Aguilera Albesa: Calm water meets green hills on the island, Unsplash License
Wikimedia Commons
- Jerrye and Roy Klotz MD: CHRISTIANSTED NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE.jpg, CC BY-SA 3.0
- Martin Lie: Christiansvaern.JPG, CC BY-SA 3.0
- CaptJayRuffins: Christiansted National Historic Site 101906.jpg, CC BY-SA 4.0
- National Park Service: Buck Island Reef National Monument BUIS0644.jpg, Public domain
