Introducing North Shore

Luminescent bays, Chris Columbus’ landing pad and hot dive sites await along the north shore.

About 4 miles west of Christiansted on Rte 80, Salt River Bay National Historic Park is the only documented place where Christopher Columbus washed ashore on US soil. Don’t expect bells and whistles; the site remains undeveloped beach. The 700 acres surrounding the Salt River estuary is an ecological reserve. The best way to see its mangroves and egrets is by kayak with Caribbean Adventure Tours, located at Salt River Marina on the bay’s west side; or with Sea-Thru Kayak Adventures, which does its tours in über-cool clear kayaks. Paddling Salt River Bay at night, when the water glows with bioluminescence, is a St Croix highlight.

Sand seekers hit palm-fringed Hibiscus Beach, with good snorkeling and amenities, less than 2 miles west of Christiansted off Rte 75. Cane Bay, a long, thin strand along Rte 80 about 9 miles west of Christiansted, is also deservedly venerated. Cane Bay provides easy access to some of the island’s best dives, and it’s also the gateway into the rainforest’s steep hills. The beach has several small hotels, restaurants, bars and the Cane Bay Dive Shop.