Buck Island Reef, a fully protected marine areaPhoto: Christopher Wray-McCann for Condé Nast Traveler
For years St. Croix was the forgotten U.S. Virgin Island, but all that may be starting to change. In Condé Nast Traveler's December issue, Amy Engeler writes "St. Croix is now attracting increasing attention from developers and corporations hoping to transform the island's bucolic paradise. These investors discovered what the island's passionate regular visitors have known for years—a sleepy tropical American island, full of empty green rolling acres, blooming flamboyant and mango trees, miles of untouched coastline, and quiet airport with just two baggage carousels."
Here are few of Amy's favorite places to stay on the island:
* Half the suites at the stunning but casual Carambola Beach Resort are newly renovated. Its greatest asset—seclusion on beautiful Davis Bay—also means that there are just two restaurants and a poolside bar, and no cell phone service (340-778-3800; doubles, $175-$325).
* The 182-room Buccaneer resort is more like a country club, with three great beaches, lawns, and a golf course, as well as a terrific breakfast buffet (800-255-3881; doubles, $354-$815).
* Arawak Bay: The Inn at Salt River is a simple and spacious 14-room B&B (340-772-1684; doubles $140).
Related links
For more adventures on the island, pick up a copy of December 2009 issue or read "The Joy of St. Croix" on cntraveler.com
Our Island News expert Alison Humes on Arawak Bay
Oh how I love st. croix. This gets me thinking that is where I am going on my next trip. The Buccaneer sounds pretty awesome. Prices are a little steep but for 4-5 days it is worth it.