Island Hopping from St. Croix: Day Trips to St. Thomas and St. John
April 30, 2025
One of the many joys of vacationing in the
U.S. Virgin Islands is how easy it is to experience more than one island in a single trip. While
St. Croix offers its own blend of charm, culture, and adventure, visitors looking to explore beyond its shores will find exciting opportunities for
day trips to St. Thomas and St. John—each offering unique sights and experiences.
Whether you’re craving a lively shopping scene, serene beaches, or a deeper dive into the USVI’s natural beauty, a quick island hop can add a whole new dimension to your Caribbean escape.
Getting There: Transportation Options
There are two main ways to island-hop from St. Croix:
- Inter-Island Flights: The fastest and most convenient way to reach St. Thomas or St. John is by air. Seaborne Airlines and Silver Airways offer quick flights (about 25 minutes) from Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (STX) to Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on St. Thomas. There are also inter-island flights provided by Fly the Whale and Cape Air.
- Ferry Service (Seasonal): Occasionally, high-speed ferry service between St. Croix and St. Thomas becomes available during peak seasons or holidays. While not as consistent as flights, it's worth checking local schedules if you prefer traveling by sea.
Once you arrive in St. Thomas, St. John is just a short ferry ride away—roughly 20 minutes from Red Hook Ferry Terminal.
Day Trip Itinerary: St. Thomas
Morning: Arrive and Explore Charlotte Amalie
- Fly into Cyril E. King Airport early in the morning.
- Take a short taxi ride to Charlotte Amalie, the capital, and a shopper’s paradise.
- Browse the famous Main Street for duty-free jewelry, fragrances, and local crafts.
- Explore 99 Steps and Blackbeard’s Castle for a bit of pirate history and sweeping views of the harbor.
Lunch: Waterfront Dining
- Enjoy Caribbean cuisine at a seaside restaurant like Glady’s Café or The Greenhouse.
Afternoon: Beach Time or Skyride
- Head to Magens Bay, one of the most picturesque beaches in the world.
- Or take the Skyride to Paradise Point for panoramic views and a famous Bushwacker cocktail.
Evening: Return to St. Croix
- Catch a late afternoon or early evening flight back to St. Croix, where the calm vibe of Christiansted awaits your return.
Day Trip Itinerary: St. John
Morning: Ferry from St. Thomas to St. John
- After flying from St. Croix to St. Thomas, take a taxi to Red Hook, then hop on the ferry to Cruz Bay, St. John.
Midday: Virgin Islands National Park Adventures
- Spend your day hiking trails like Reef Bay Trail or visiting the historic Annaberg Plantation Ruins.
- Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters at Trunk Bay, known for its underwater snorkeling trail.
Lunch: Laid-Back Island Dining
- Grab a casual lunch in Cruz Bay at High Tide Bar & Seafood Grill or The Longboard.
Afternoon: Beach Hopping or Kayaking
- Explore other nearby beaches like Cinnamon Bay or rent a kayak to glide along the coastline.
- Don’t forget your camera—St. John offers some of the most Instagram-worthy views in the Caribbean.
Evening: Head Back to St. Croix
- Ferry to St. Thomas and catch your return flight to St. Croix.
Tips for a Smooth Island Hop
- Book flights early to secure ideal times and maximize your day.
- Pack light—a small backpack with swimwear, sunscreen, and ID is all you need.
- Bring cash and cards, as smaller vendors may not accept cards.
- Stay flexible in case of weather or transportation changes, and always confirm ferry or flight schedules in advance.
Turn One Vacation into Three Island Experiences
With Hotel Caravelle or Company House Hotel as your home base on St. Croix, day-tripping to St. Thomas and St. John couldn’t be easier. Whether you’re seeking vibrant shopping, historical sites, or untouched natural beauty, each island brings its own flavor to the U.S. Virgin Islands experience.
Start your island-hopping adventure today—and make the most of your time in paradise.
Nestled along the vibrant Christiansted waterfront, Hotel Caravelle offers more than just a picturesque stay—it serves as your gateway to the rich tapestry of St. Croix's leisure activities. Through strategic partnerships with esteemed local tour operators, guests can immerse themselves in a diverse array of experiences, from underwater escapades to historical explorations. (| GoToStCroix.com ) Dive into Adventure with Big Beard’s Adventure Tours Embark on an unforgettable journey with Big Beard’s Adventure Tours, renowned for their excursions to the pristine Buck Island Reef National Monument. Whether you opt for a full-day sail, a half-day cruise, or a romantic sunset voyage, you'll experience the Caribbean's vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters. Their spacious catamarans and experienced crew ensure a safe and enjoyable outing for all ages. ( Big Beard’s Adventure Tours ) Explore the Depths with St. Croix Ultimate Bluewater Adventures (SCUBA) Dubbed the "Friendliest Dive Shop on Earth," St. Croix Ultimate Bluewater Adventures (SCUBA) offers diving experiences that cater to both novices and seasoned divers. With access to all the moored dive sites around the island, their certified instructors provide personalized attention, ensuring memorable underwater adventures. ( PADI ) Unveil the Mysteries with Haunt: Historic Ghost Tours As night falls, join Haunt: Historic Ghost Tours for a spine-tingling exploration of Christiansted's haunted past. Guided by knowledgeable storytellers, you'll traverse historic streets, uncovering tales of pirates, colonial spirits, and eerie folklore that linger in the island's shadows. ( Expedia-AARP.com ) Glide Through Waters with Mermaid Adventures Experience snorkeling like never before with Mermaid Adventures. Utilizing motorized seascooters, guests are propelled through St. Croix's vibrant underwater landscapes, exploring sites like Frederiksted Pier and Cane Bay. This unique approach offers an exhilarating way to witness the island's marine biodiversity. ( mermaidadventures.net , | GoToStCroix.com ) Reel in the Big Catch with Hook and Sun Fishing Charters For fishing enthusiasts, Hook and Sun Fishing Charters provides both offshore and inshore trips, targeting species like Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, and Snapper. Led by Captain Jens Hookanson, a native with over 25 years of experience, guests are assured a professional and fruitful fishing adventure. ( Tripadvisor , | GoToStCroix.com ) Relax and Play at Caravelle Hotel & Casino After a day of exploration, unwind at the Caravelle Hotel & Casino. Try your luck on a variety of slot machines, enjoy live entertainment in the courtyard, or savor local cuisine at the on-site restaurant. The hotel's prime location also offers easy access to nearby shops and attractions. ( https://www.caravellecasino.com ) Hotel Caravelle seamlessly blends comfort with adventure, offering guests a curated selection of activities that showcase the best of St. Croix. Whether you're diving into the deep blue, uncovering haunted histories, or simply relaxing by the sea, your unforgettable island experience begins here.
Tucked along the picturesque waterfront of Christiansted, Hotel Caravelle offers travelers more than just a place to rest—it’s a gateway to the authentic charm, culture, and adventure that define St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. Whether you're here for a weekend escape or an extended tropical getaway, Hotel Caravelle places you in the heart of everything that makes this island so unforgettable.
