A nightlife guide for st croix

Posted: 02/09/2007--25/11/2008 || Rate this Article: 3 || Views|| Sign In || Register ||Hello Guest

St. Croix C the very name conjures up images of endless white beaches and vast expanses of warm blue ocean. Only 28 miles long, St. Croix is the largest of the US Virgin Islands.

The islands two main towns, Christiansted on the east end, and Frederiksted on the western shore, are full of shops and historic sights, but once the sun goes down, St. Croix really comes to life. Its a honeymooners paradise, and the perfect spot for those who want to get away and enjoy the feel of Caribbean nightlife.

Most of St. Croixs nightlife revolves around food and music C fortunately, theres enough of a variety that just about everyone can find something they enjoy!

Ready to try your hand against Lady Luck? Check out the Virgin Islands first and only casino at Divi Carina Bay Resort in Christiansted. Thirteen gaming tables and over 250 slot machines will keep you busy at this gamblers paradise.

Christiansteds waterfront district also features an event called Jump Up, which is held at various times each year. This evening-long festival includes steel bands playing in the streets, dancing, arts and crafts, all in a carnival-like setting.

From reggae to rock, calypso to jazz, music is a huge part of the rich history of the Virgin Islands. Steel drum and island dancing shows are featured at a number of different hot spots, and nearly all of the hotels and restaurants feature live bands in the evenings. If you want to hear a steel band, hang out at Duggans Reef in Teague Bay on Fridays, the Buccaneer Hotel on Sunday evenings, or Rumrunners on Thursdays.

The Caribbean Dance Company performs their incredible island dance show at the Hibiscus Beach Hotel, but this show is popular, so reservations are required.

The Quadrille Dancers also put on performances regularly, and are considered a real cultural icon, because their dances capture the memories of the islands plantation history. The women are decked out in long dresses and turbans, while the men are dressed to the nines in flamboyant shirts and tight black trousers. Beware, though! Once youve caught on and learned their moves, they may well invite you to join them onstage!

If dancing the night away is more your style than watching others perform, Club 54 in Christiansted is one of the most popular night spots on the island. The multi-level nightclub, with indoor and outdoor party areas, is popular not only with tourists but with the locals as well. Club 54 also boasts a big-screen TV so patrons can keep up with sporting events.

The current trendy spot to kick back with a cold one is Changes in LAttitude. Located near Frederiksteds Pier, this popular eatery offers a little bit of Tex-Mex and a little bit of American cuisine, as well as darts, pool tables, and C believe it or not C snorkeling.

For those who just want to relax and eat some great food, St. Croix is full of fantastic restaurants, many of which feature a show with dinner.

Chef David Kendrick, who has been featured on the Discovery Channels Great Chefs of the Caribbean, kicks things up a notch at Kendricks, the elegant restaurant he owns with his wife, Jane. Located in historical downtown Christiansted, Kendricks features traditional island cooking with a gourmet flair.

If you prefer a taste of Italy while youre on your Virgin Island excursion, make sure you stop in to eat at Tutto Bene, located near Gallows Bay. Its a favorite with the locals, and word is that the Veal Saltimbocca is unparalleled.

St. Croix has a rich and diverse cultural history, and for a uniquely Caribbean experience, be sure to check out the Reichhold Center for the Arts, in nearby St. Thomas. A popular destination for the natives, the 600-seat center offers not only dramatic presentations but a symphony as well.

And just when you thought youd seen and done all there is to see and do gear up for the crab races. Yes, the crab races. A popular activity on the island, crab races can be found at any number of restaurants and bars in St. Croix. This was the best in gambling entertainment before casinos were legalized. Visitors can sponsor one of several hermit crabs, which are then placed in the center of a circle. The winning crab is the one who reaches the outside first, and the sponsor collects a small prize. It may sound silly, but its good for plenty of entertainment. Ask at your hotel to see where and when the next crab races are being held.

Although not technically a night spot, one of St. Croixs most popular tourist destinations is the Cruzan Rum Distillery in Frederiksted. Tours are available all week long, and the distillery is open to all ages. Be sure to check out the world-famous Cruzan Rum Cakes!

St. Croix may be a small island, but its home to endless amounts of entertainment. The best part of St. Croix is that theres literally something for everyone, whether you want a fast-paced disco environment or a laid-back and romantic getaway. Take advantage of the way this tropical paradise comes alive once the sun sets, and enjoy the nightlife of beautiful, sunny St. Croix!