On behalf of the Staff and Management of Antilles Resorts Mgmt., Inc./Colony Cove Resort, we welcome you and sincerely thank you for choosing us to serve your lodging needs. We value your patronage and it is very important to us that your stay will be a comfortable and enjoyable one. We take great pride in providing our guests with the utmost in professional and personalized service.
This directory is provided to familiarize you with the many services we offer as well as acquaint you with the St. Croix area.
If there is anything we can do to make your visit with us more enjoyable, please feel free to ask our staff members.
We hope you have a great stay and we look forward to your next visit.
Guests are provided with a complimentary gas barbecue near the pool for their use. When you are finished, please make sure the gas is completely turned off and please clean up the area using the nearby waste receptacles. Check with the Front Desk if you experience any difficulty. DO NOT barbecue or cook on the balconies as this is a fire hazard and is not permitted.
Beach and Swimming Pool
Beach towels are available for guest use at the Front Desk. Please use them instead of bringing room towels to the pool or beach.
The pool is for guests of Colony Cove only. There is no lifeguard on duty, so please be careful. For the safety and comfort of you and fellow guests, please:
• Use the pool during the hours of 7:30 A.M. to 10:00 P.M.
• Observe all rules posted at the pool.
• Use plastic drinking glasses or beverages in cans and avoid bringing bottles or drinking glasses to the pool as broken glass is extremely dangerous to our barefoot vacationers.
• Do not use radios without earphones.
Note that all beaches on St. Croix are public. Snorkeling equipment is available at the Front Desk. Snorkelers will enjoy swimming over the artificial reef made up of tires, just off shore to the left.
Caution! Do not leave your towels or personal belonging unattended on the beach. Please ensure that the gate between the beach and pool remains locked, and hold on to your key when on the beach.
Remember that we are close to the equator and the sun’s rays are very strong. You will sunburn much more quickly here than at home. Limit your sunbathing at first, and use a good quality sun block.
GUEST SERVICES
Beaches
Buck Island, Shoy’s Beach, Grapetree Beach, Jack’s and Isaac’s Bay, Hotel on the Cay, Cane Bay, Carambola Beach, Rainbow Beach, Dorsch Beach
Check-Out / Check-In
If you will be checking out when the Front Desk is closed, please use the key drop at the Front Desk.
Check-out time is 11:00 A.M. Check-in time is 3:00 P.M.
If you would like to use the beach or pool after checking out and before leaving for the airport, you are welcome to use our complimentary Guest Changing Room, which offers rest rooms and showers. Please inquire at the Front Desk for more information.
See hours of operation at Front Desk.
Coffee Service
Complimentary coffee available, in room upon arrival.
Credit Card Information
We accept American Express, Visa, and MasterCard.
Dry Cleaning and Laundry
Each unit is provided with a washer and dryer. Please do not use for beach towels and linens. Also, please do not hang items to dry over the edges of the balconies or string a clothesline outside as we like to keep the views as lovely as possible for everyone.
In the event of an emergency, medical or otherwise, please contact the Front Desk for immediate attention or call 911.
Executive Offices for ARM .............................. 1-800-524-2025 or 340-718-9150
Our executive staff is readily available to answer your questions or offer assistance.
Front Desk
340-718-9150 or 800-524-2025
GUEST SERVICES
Housekeeping (Note: No Housekeeping Service on Sundays.)
Housekeeping service is provided according to your package plan. Please check with the Front Desk for the status of your unit’s housekeeping service. If you require additional housekeeping service, please notify the Front Desk. For your convenience, housekeeping service is available 5 days a week.
Keys and Beach Towels
They should be returned to the Front Desk before departing. There will be a $25.00 charge for LOST KEYS and a $15.00 charge for LOST TOWELS.
Mail and Messages ........................................................................................... Touch 0
Mail and messages received at the hotel may be collected at the Front Desk by either calling or stopping by.
Our mailing address is:
Colony Cove Resorts
3221 Estate Golden Rock Christiansted St. Croix US Virgin Islands 00820
Office Services
Fax: Sending $2.00 per page
Fax: Receiving $1.00 per page
Lost Key and/or Tag $25.00 each
Lost Beach Towels $15.00 each
Parking
Complimentary parking is available for all registered Hotel guests. You must register your automobile upon arrival. The Resort cannot be responsible for items left in vehicles on the Hotel property.
Reservations may be made nationwide by dialing our toll-free number, (800-524-2025 – reservations@antillesresorts.com), or contact the Front Desk for assistance.
GUEST SERVICES
Restaurants
Le Cuisinier Restaurant is just along the beach to the east from Colony Cove: Le Cuisinier serves lunch and dinner and features a Sunday Brunch.
Hours are:
Monday through Friday 11:30 A.M. to 9:00 P.M.
Saturday - 11:30 A.M. until 9:00 P.M.
Sunday - 11:30 A.M. until 9:00 P.M.
Coral Sea is accessible at the gate west of D-Building, 340-690-1974.
For personal assistance in group accommodations, please contact the Sales Department. AT A.R.M. 800-524-2025
Swimming Pool
Children must be accompanied by an adult. No glass permitted in the pool area. Swim at your own risk, as there is no lifeguard on duty.
Taxis
Unless one has already been recommended to you, taxicabs are dispatched less than five minutes away from the Golden Rock Shopping Center. Or you can call the Front Desk for a taxi cab pick-up.
Telephone Services
To dial an outside line, dial 340 plus the local number. No long distance calls can be made in units; 1-800 calls are available.
Each unit has a direct number. Contact the Front Desk at 340-718-1965 during business hours to acquire that number.
Callers can leave a message if you are out. If your message light is on and blinking, dial 7000 and follow the directions to retrieve your messages.
Fax Service
Our fax number is 340-718-4009. Fax is available to guest at the Front Desk during our office hours. A charge of $1.00 per page to receive an incoming fax and $2.00 per page (higher for overseas) to send a fax. We will inform you in the morning of any faxes received overnight.
Tennis Courts
A lighted tennis court is available to our guests at no charge, located at Club St. Croix Tennis Resort.
GUEST SERVICES
Trash
Please place your sealed trash bags in the dumpster located in the driveway above the Front Desk and above Building A.
TV Channels
Water and Electric
As on any island, water is precious and expensive. We ask your help in conserving it. Do not let water run unnecessarily. Save soiled clothes and dishes until you have a full washer load whenever possible. Please report leaking fixtures to the Front Desk. However, don’t be concerned about flushing toilets – they use salt water and we have plenty of that! Our water is tested regularly.
Wireless Internet
Colony Cove has wireless Internet service available. Please contact the facility manager for access information.
Final Note:
Our Snorkel Gear is complimentary at the Front Desk for ARM guests, nonARM guests may rent this equipment. A small fee deposit is requested.
A reminder on Saturdays and Sundays we don’t have Housekeeping Service. Regular housekeeping schedule is Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.
CORAL SEA RESTAURANT
Let our friendly staff help you feel at home in our open-air restaurant located on the beach at Mill Harbour Condos. Open from 11:00 A.M. for lunch and dinner.
Relax with a cocktail or choose a dish from our extensive menu. Dinner entrées such as snow crab legs, steaks, mahi mahi, salmon, shrimp tempura, pasta, and our house favorite homemade pizza are served every night from 5:00 P.M. Our lunch menu includes top-class salads and sandwiches, our famous Philly Cheesesteak, original recipe buffalo wings and our signature Cruzan Burger.
Walk west along the beach from Colony Cove, Club St. Croix, and Sugar Beach Condo resorts.
Pizza and Carry-Out Orders Welcome
Wi-Fi Hotspot (small charge)
Coral Sea Restaurant • Telephone: 1-340-690-1974
MENU - LE CUISINIER
Le Cuisinier Bar and Restaurant • Poolside at Club St. Croix
You are just a few steps away from dinner, lunch or a refreshing cocktail.
Daily Hours
Lunch 11:30 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. • Dinner 4:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.
A taste of what you’ll find on our dinner menu:
Starters
Shrimp Cocktail
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Fried Calamari – the best on island
Wings – Hot or BBQ
Salads
Shrimps Louis – chilled shrimp, greens and veggies
Zydeco Salad – mixed greens and Cajun chicken
Caesar Salad – add shrimp or chicken
Tostada Salad – spicy beef or chicken in a crispy shell
Entrées
Flaming Rum Lobster – our signature dish
Blackened Prime Rib
Grilled Chicken Breast
Chicken Malibu – sautéed breast with ham, melted Swiss and fresh herbs
Fish Local Fish grilled to order – Cajun, Jamaican jerk or garlic butter
Beer Battered Shrimp
Linguine Teresina – buttery garlic sauce and parmesan cheese
Pasta Napoli – fresh basil, tomatoes, shrimp and garlic butter over linguine
And we haven’t even mentioned our whimsical décor, tropical libations, enticing lunch menu and tempting desserts.
Walk on down!!!
(Items also available “to go”)
SAFETY AND SECURITY PROCEDURES
We have security cameras throughout the complex.
Your safety and the security of your personal property are of the utmost concern to those of us who welcome you as our guest. We urge you to take advantage of the following suggestions.
Crime is everywhere and St. Croix is no exception. However, all you need to do is take the same precautions here that you would in a strange city. Keep personal belongings with you. Do not leave valuables in your car and follow instructions given by your car rental agency.
Colony Cove provides a security patrol until 6:00 A.M. on weeknights and weekends and makes every effort to deter theft and vandalism. However, this service is for the protection of the property. Personal belongings remain the responsibility of their owner.
Safe Deposit Boxes SOME UNITS
DO NOT LEAVE MONEY OR VALUABLES IN YOUR ROOM. We provide a safe for your use in every guest room. However, under state law, the hotel is not responsible for the loss of articles that have been secured properly in these boxes. Locking mechanisms for the safe are available with a deposit at the front desk or from the facilities manager.
Double Locks and Chains
For additional security, utilize the deadbolt lock provided on your door upon entering. This will prevent the door from being opened by a regular room key. As an additional precaution, please secure the safety chain lock.
Admittance
Do not admit persons to your room without first making identification. A “peep hole” is provided in your door for your convenience. If there is any doubt about the person’s true identity, please contact the Front Desk.
Keys
Do safeguard your key. Be sure to leave it with the front desk or key drop upon departure. Do not leave it in the room or in the door. Do not give your key to others.
Fire
Please familiarize yourself with the location of the exit stairway. In the unlikely event of a fire, please move quickly but calmly to the stairs. Report fire or smoke to the Hotel Operator.
SAFETY AND SECURITY PROCEDURES
We hope these procedures will help to contribute to your comfort and wellbeing during your stay at our Hotel.
Fire Safety Procedures
Like all buildings, condos can have fires. Plan what to do when you check in. You won’t have time to plan during a fire.
If the fire is in your condo, get out and close the door. Once out, report the fire.
If the fire is not in your condo, leave if you can. First, feel your door. If it is cool, open it slowly and go to the nearest exit. Crawl in smoke. Fresh air will be at the floor. Take your key so you can get back in if you can’t use the exits.
If your door is hot, don’t open it. Your condo may be the safest place to be. Seal all cracks with wet towels. Shut off fans and air conditioners. Signal at your window. Call the Fire Department and wait to be rescued.
Security
For after hours emergencies, please contact security at 340-690-1800. Security is available from 5:00 P.M. to 8:00 A.M. for your convenience.
EVALUATION FORM
Thanks for choosing Antilles Resorts Mgmt., Inc. Please don’t forget to fill out the EVALUATION FORM.
Please take a moment to give us your impressions of our facilities and service to you.
Your assistance will help us to improve our services in the future.
You could also mail it to us at:
Antilles Resorts, Mgmt. Inc.
Attn: Athlene Cuffy
3280 Est. Golden Rock
Christiansted USVI 00820-4105
COLONY COVE
BRIEF HISTORY OF THE U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS
Many know the U.S. Virgin Islands as “America’s Paradise”. Many are not aware that this small group of Caribbean islands has been a territory of the United States since its purchase in 1917 for just $25 million from the Danish government. Famous for world-class scuba diving, the best marlin fishing in the world, beautiful beaches and island-style hospitality, the U.S. Virgin Islands have a rich history beginning with Columbus’ discovery of the New World in 1492.
The U.S. Virgin Islands are comprised of four unique islands, each distinctly different from the other three. St. Croix, the largest of the four islands, was once home to sugar cane plantations. Today it is known for its well-preserved historical landmarks. St. John, the smallest commercial island, is devoted largely to National Park, a generous gift covering 2/3 of the island donated by Laurance Rockefeller to the U.S. government in 1956. This is a favorite retreat for hikers and other ecotourists. St. Thomas is the most cosmopolitan of the four islands. Its historic port of Charlotte Amalie, once teeming with four-masted trading ships, now plays host to visiting cruise ships and a fleet of sail and power yachts. Water Island, recently named the fourth Virgin Island, has no gas stations or garbage trucks!
During our history, the islands have been home to many European nations, including Spain, France, England, The Netherlands, Denmark, the Order of the Knights of Malta, and finally the United States of America. The melting pot of nationalities in the Caribbean has created a rich and varied culinary tradition. One would have great difficulty pointing to a dish or an ingredient that is solely Caribbean – our ingredients and dishes have been appropriated and recreated from cuisines from all over the world.
Traditional Island Cuisine
Fungi A cornmeal porridge flavored with okra and thyme – like Caribbean polenta.
Rice and Peas A pilaf prepared with aromatic vegetables and pigeon peas.
Johnny Cakes Made for the journey, this fried bread dough was made by locals to take them on their travels.
Paté Johnny Cake dough filled with spiced beef, saltfish, chicken, conch or vegetables.
Stew Chicken, All dishes braised with vegetables and served with rice and or local
Stew Mutton sweet potatoes. and Oxtail
Conch in Stewed conch with onions and peppers in a buttery veloute sauce
Butter Sauce flavored with thyme.
Kallaloo Local soup prepared traditionally with dasheen leaves, coconut milk, okra and seafood.
Saltfish Used widely on all islands, a salt preserved cod fried or soaked and marinated for salads.
Roti
From the island of Trinidad, this dish consists of an Indian chicken curry served wrapped in a traditional chick pea flatbread.
Art Thursday
AREA ATTRACTIONS
In addition to the natural beauty that surrounds visitors and locals alike, St. Croix offers a wide variety of art venues to explore. Art Thursday is an event in Christiansted that takes place one Thursday a month from November to June. It involves art galleries, jewelry studios, coffee shops and fine retail stores that all stay open late for a relaxing evening on the town. The variety of art shown spans from paintings in oil, watercolor and acrylic, to jewelry, photography, sculpture, fine carpentry, fabric arts and furniture.
Buck Island Reef
Here is the only underwater United States National Monument (we call it a “National Park”). The Park itself covers more than 850 acres, including the island proper, with a sandy beach, picnic tables and barbecue pits. The reef has two major underwater trails – Turtle Bay Trail and East End Trail. Numerous boats operate off the dock in Christiansted; your hotel has specifics.
Cramer Park
A nice place to relax the day away during the weekdays. The park has a beautiful beach and picnic area. On weekends, the park is transformed into an outdoor bar atmosphere with DJs and music.
Eastern End of the Island
You’ve gone as far as you can go in the United States on the easternmost point of St. Croix, Point Udall. The spot is barren, but beautiful. Bring your camera. Catch a spectacular sunrise here!
Estate St. George Botanical Garden
Consisting of lush woods and rich land, covering 16 acres. Contains ruins of a 19th-century sugar cane village and rum factory, including workers’ homes, a manager’s house, a bake oven, stone dam, blacksmith’s shop and foundations of a watermill. A small admission fee is charged.
Eye to the Sky
Less than a mile from Point Udall, the National Science Foundation has funded the installation of a giant $5-million-dollar antenna – 82’ in diameter. This 260ton dish is used to explore the unknown universe. Visit the site, where guides will explain that the antenna is identical to nine others around the U.S. Together, the ten make up a single radio telescope, sharing their data over the Internet.
Jazz in the Park - Last Friday of the month
5:30 P.M. to 7:30 P.M.
Jump Up
Want to see a glimpse of Crucian culture and have a great time, too? Get all that and more at a festive event called “Jump Up”. The CRRA (Christiansted Restaurant and Retail Association) invites visitors to come out and discover what Christiansted fine restaurants and retail stores have to offer. The CRRA has been putting on the Christiansted “Jump Up” for more than 16 years. The evening events start at around 5:00 P.M. until about 9:00 P.M. Once a month on a Friday night in November, February, May and July, the efforts of local businesses, police and entertainment come together for a memorable night out. Enjoy an evening of strolling the well-lit Old Danish streets, while enjoying live music, local cuisine, Moko Jumbie stilt walkers, and a festive presentation of Downtown Christiansted!
Lawaetz Family Museum
Managed by the St. Croix Landmarks Society, the Lawaetz Family Museum is nestled in a valley northeast of Frederiksted. This 18th-century estate house, with
AREA ATTRACTIONS
its accompanying ruins and rambling garden, has a charming old-island quality. Enjoy the hundred-year-old gardens and orchards filled with flowers, fruits and vegetables. Hike the lush valley and natural hillside trails. Tours available Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays in season. Route #76, Frederiksted. Tel: 340.772.1539 www.stcroixlandmarks.com
Rain Forest
Head towards Frederiksted, and you’ll come upon Creque Dam Road and the 15 acres of the “Rain Forest” (technically a tropical forest). The dam itself is 150 feet high. Go along Mahogany Road, which is lined with beautiful mahogany trees, yellow cedar, and Tibet trees (also called “mother’s tongue” because of the pods that rustle in the wind). The air is filled with the scent of many of our island fruits, and the call of mountain doves. The Forest is private property; the owners have graciously consented to let locals and visitors tour.
Salt River
Here’s where Columbus first arrived in the Virgin Islands in November 1493 on his second voyage to the New World, with 17 ships and 1500 men. He named this island Santa Cruz.
St. Croix Leap
Find a group of talented wood carvers in the Rain Forest. Order wood sculptures, chairs and tables all made from local mahogany and have them shipped to your home.
Sunset Jazz
For a change in scenery, consider visiting downtown Frederiksted for Sunset Jazz. Enjoy live local jazz performances, while viewing breathtaking sunsets in the western part of the island. Held on the third Friday of each month at the Frederiksted waterfront, Sunset Jazz takes place on the lawn next to Fort Frederik.
Whim Plantation Museum
Managed by the St. Croix Landmarks Society, the Whim Plantation Museum is an authentic Danish sugar estate dating from the 1700s, offering an unforgettable glimpse into the days when sugar was king and rum flowed freely on St. Croix. The stately greathouse welcomes you with gracious guides who will tell the stories of past inhabitants and plantation life. Our museum store offers a tempting cornucopia of West Indian crafts, prints and whimsical whatnots. Tours available Monday through Saturday in season. Route #70, Frederiksted. Tel: 340.772.0598 www.stcroixlandmarks.org
Weather and Power Outages
Weather:
St. Croix experiences sunny weather the majority of the year however June through November is Hurricane Season through the Leeward Islands. Local news and radio broadcasts will alert you to inclement weather that may affect the territory and instruct you in the proper procedures at that time and Hotel Staff is here to assist. Please stay in your room during a severe storm. It is recommended as a precaution that you stock up on water and non-perishable foodstuff.
Power Outages
From time to time the island experiences power outages. Emergency lighting will automatically come on. These interruptions are usually brief. Please contact the Front Desk if you need assistance.
Cramer’s Park, East End
BEACHES
Cramer’s Park has a reputation for being a bit loud and rowdy on the weekend with locals. Is that a bad thing? It takes on a fun, party-like atmosphere where people walk from covered area to covered area, joining each other’s BBQ and conversation. There are bathrooms, grills, tables and lots of shade, no strong currents, a long sand beach, and even a bit of coral reef for snorkeling. A great spot for the kids. During the week, it stays pretty empty, so it is a nice place to get away.
Tamarind Beach, East End
Tamarind Beach has a wide sandy beach, palm-thatched cabanas, lounge chairs, snorkeling, kayaking, iguanas, a beach shack, bar and restaurant, WHEW! Tamarind is great for the entire family. Large boulders create a calm sea ”pool” where you can lounge in the tubes provided, or teach the kids how to swim or snorkel. Just on the other side of the large rocks is a beautiful underwater environment enriched with sea-life perfect for snorkeling. Turtles, octopus, snapper, rainbow runners, puffer fish and Caribbean lobster make up this unique underwater neighborhood of marine life. Bring your own gear, or rent from the beach shack.
Shoys Beach, East End
The perfect swimming beach! Enter in through the Buccaneer Hotel’s entrance, and then take a right into the Shoys subdivision; ask the guard for directions. Make your way through the sea-grape trees and behold this BIG beautiful beach. The sand goes on in each direction, as if to hug the warm water it surrounds. A sandy and grassy bottom makes for a nice swim, whether for pleasure or exercise.
Sandy Point
The idyllic beach scene has been used for several movies and TV commercials. Sandy Point is located on the west end of St. Croix, and is the L O N G E S T stretch of white sand beach found on St. Croix. The beach extends out into, well, a point. The waves sometimes tend to be a bit larger, making skim-boarding fun for the kids (larger, but not dangerous!). Sandy Point is a wonderful area for playing on the beach or playing in the water, but with its sandy bottom, there’s not much to see for snorkelers. The area is a protected wildlife refuge, so nature abounds.
Dorsch Beach
Dorsch Beach located in front of Sand Castle On The Beach Hotel in Fredrickstead is one of the most beautiful beaches on St. Croix. With beautiful soft sand and mild turquoise surf it’s a favorite location for locals and vacationers. The mild surf makes this location ideal for swimming, kayaking and paddle boarding. A restaurant, Beach Side Cafe, is also available for cocktails, lunch and dinner.
BEACHES
Rainbow Beach, West End
This is what you imagine the Caribbean to be like. The sea is so calm, blue and beautiful out west. This beach goes on forever and has interesting things to see both above and below the water. Find large starfish, cuddle fish, tons of snapper, French angels and the like when snorkeling. The water stays shallow for quite some time, so even though you can go far, you’re still in shallow water. Above the water, find some great shelling around exposed rocks; but the rocks do not interfere AT ALL with the powder white sand! Find a fun beach bar with live music on the weekends, cold drinks and bathroom facilities.
Cane Bay Beach
By our Crucian standards, this beach tends to be a bit more crowded than others (by state-side standards, that means LOTS of room!). This popular North Shore Beach is enjoyed by everyone, every day of the week. The restaurants and bars in the area help keep visitors fed and hydrated; feel free to bring your own cooler of food and drinks and park it for the day. Start up a game of beach volleyball with the people you’ve made friends with, and just let the day happen! Snorkel, scuba dive the famous Wall, or relax under the warm Caribbean sun.
Turtle Beach, Buck Island
Whether you arrive by catamaran, powerboat or kayak, Turtle Beach is a beautiful site to see as you approach Buck Island from the west. The lush green peak of the island and the incredible shade of turquoise of the sea envelop this beach. Buck Island is uninhabited, which makes this beach free of unnecessary distractions. It is what you daydream at work about. White powder sand to stretch out on - check. Calm waves gently rolling ashorecheck. Friendly aquatic life to snorkel amongst - check. Walk this beach around to the northwest side and you come across a virtual nursery for marine life. In the water you’ll see juvenile reef sharks, parrotfish and more, who make the safety of this area their home until they are mature enough to go out on their own. The underwater national monument part of Buck Island is accessible only through licensed tour operators, but Turtle Beach is accessible to all. Any day is a good day for Buck Island, but Sunday is the day that locals arrive on their private boats and enjoy one of the reasons they live on St. Croix to begin with.
Jack’s + Isaac’s Bay
This area is too beautiful not to let others know about it. Jack’s and Issac’s could very well be the United States’ most easterly beaches. Hike the dirt road on the right before you get to the top of Point Udall and park on the side of the road. The first bay is Issac’s - play a little in the surf and then hike over a small peninsula to Jack’s and BEHOLD what Caribbean vacation ads are made of. When you fly on an airplane, look down and see the multi-blue water ... and wish you could dip your feet in it? Well, here you are. The water is shallow. There is plenty of reef to snorkel around and plenty of marine life to view – you’re in THEIR fish bowl now! There are plenty of sand areas to just “chill” in the water and float. There is plenty of coastline to walk, explore – oh yes – and relax. There is plenty of sunshine and beautiful views to enjoy!
Photo by Ana Singh on Unsplash
OTHER ISLANDS
St. John
St. John is easily accessible with a short ferry ride from St. Thomas’ east end Red Hook dock. Enjoy the shopping in Cruz Bay and Mongoose Junction, a short walk from the ferry dock. There are many selections of fine restaurants to choose from as well. Island National Park, renowned throughout the world for its breathtaking beauty, covers approximately 3/5 of St. John. Within its borders lie protected bays of crystal blue-green waters teeming with coral reef life, white sandy beaches shaded by seagrape trees, coconut palms, and tropical forests providing habitat for more than 800 species of plants. To these amazing natural resources, add relics from the pre-Columbian Amerindian civilization and remains of the Danish Colonial sugar plantations. These are reminders of African slavery and the subsistence culture that followed during the 100 years after emancipation – all part of the rich cultural history of the Park and its island home.
St. Thomas
Charlotte Amalie, the capital of the United States Virgin Islands, is the most popular cruise port in the Caribbean. Charlotte Amalie (named for a Danish queen) is where cruise ships dock and the white and pastel houses are heavily sprinkled against a background of emerald hills. Colorful sloops dock along the waterfront, and a few steps back, down alleyways lined with old Danish warehouse buildings, is a world-famous shopping center.
When walking in St. Thomas, you will see the bustle of Main Street and cool emerald hills. Look for the view from Mountain Top, the spiral of winding streets from the base of Savan, and the quiet French countryside feeling on the far side of the island. Hoteliers offer accommodations to suit all tastes.
British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands are easily accessible with a short ferry ride from St. Thomas or St. John, but usually require 24 hour notice and your passport. Of the more than 10 islands that comprise the BVI, the larger include Tortola, Virgin Gorda and Anegada.
