Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ball court and Carib village that the Spaniards invaded more than 500 years ago. With mod-
ern yachts moored in the bay and the parking lot beneath your feet, it is difficult to picture
either the Caribs or Columbus here. A
visitors center ( 9am-4pm Tue-Thu Nov-Jun)
sits uphill on the shore.
The 700 acres surrounding the Salt River estuary are part of an ecological reserve. Take
one of the highly recommended kayak tours to experience it - especially at night, when
the water glows with bioluminescent life. Daytime paddles will give you a sense of the di-
versity of birds, ranging from peregrine falcons to roseate terns, as you glide through red
mangrove canals.
Beaches
Hibiscus Beach
SNORKELING BEACH
Plenty of travelers head for palm-fringed Hibiscus Beach, less than 2 miles west of Christi-
ansted off Northside Rd (Rte 75). There are two hotels with a beachside restaurant and bars
here, and good snorkeling on the reef joining the coast at the west end of the beach. When
the wind swings northeast, there may be an undertow.
Salt River (Columbus Beach)
FAMILY BEACH
Lying about 4 miles west of Christiansted off Rte 80 on the west side of Salt River Bay,
this is the place where Columbus (actually his men) landed in 1493. While it has historical
importance, there are definitely prettier beaches around the island.
Cane Bay
DIVING BEACH
A long, thin strand along Rte 80 about 9 miles west of Christiansted, Cane Bay marks the
border between some of the best reef dives on the island and the steep hills of the rain-
forest. This beach is a favorite with adventure travelers and sports-minded locals. There are
several small hotels, restaurants, bars, dive shops and even some shade trees. Every month
the island's young and restless (both Cruzans and continentals) head here on the night of
the full moon to party till they drop. It's a great time, if you have the stamina.
