Hello! We are 5 adults traveling to STX 12/20-12/27- staying at Pelican Cove Condos. We have rented one car and are toying with the idea of renting a second. I feel like there are so many things to do while on the island and we just don't have enough time to do/see them all _and_ relax while enjoying STX. I firmly believe the more educated a traveler is about their destination, the more enjoyable the trip. So I'm hoping you can help me narrow down our options; we have 6 full days.
The men in the family like to golf and fish- they plan on golfing maybe twice and doing a deep sea fishing outing one day. I have contacted Bunny and she is available- we're just hoping to find others to help fill the boat and bring prices down. They're also into kayaking... I know there are tours but I'm not sure how worthwhile they are.....?
I keep reading about Tan Tan Tours and how amazing it is. I've called Wave, but I haven't been able to get a hold of him. I have also emailed- no response. I'm hoping to get us booked on a full day tour.
We are all certified scuba divers though I'm probably the most serious diver. I'm thinking of diving with Dive Experience. Maybe 2 mornings and for sure one night dive. Thoughts? Would this be the best dive company re: location for us? Or does that really matter?
Here's where I need help- Beaches!! What are the must visit beaches? Are they easy to find? Which beach would you say is the most beautiful? Best snorkeling? Where do we need to worry about our belongings?
Buck Island- I know there are several tour operators. Which one do you suggest and why? What are the differences between the operators?
Christmas Day & Eve- the men were thinking about golfing- will the courses be open? When do more restaurants shut down- Day or Eve? Anything we need to be aware of re: the holidays?
And finally, re: safety. We know to use common sense and be "smart." Is it really recommended to leave car doors unlocked? Glove compartment open? Trunk open? (I think I read that) We know not to leave anything of value in the car.. anything else we need to be aware of?
I really don't want our days to be jam packed- I feel like I've listed the more suggested activities. If I have left anything off, please let me know!
Thanks- we cannot wait to leave!

Friends of mine have used this for diving & raved about it.

http://www.stcroixscuba.com/

Oh, and on Thursdays they did a 3 way dive in 3 different areas. Not too clear on the details but sure got great reviews.

Thanks for your thoughts! Anyone else???

TX Gal--
I agree with you that planning ahead always makes your experience travelling a whole lot easier. So congrats on working on that

It seems, though, that you have a lot on your "to do" list for six days. Might be fine but I think you need to ask yourself what's more important--experiencing every possible thing on STX or having a relaxing vacation? For some people, those two things can be accomplished simultaneously. For others they need to have some "do nothing" days to be relaxed.

I can't comment on scuba diving or Tan Tan because I've done neither. We are going to try to do the Tan Tan tour when we go to STX for the 8th time in February. Sounds like a great time but I'm sure you can enjoy STX without going on the tour this time around.

We like going to Buck Island (definitely a must) with Tesoro out of Green Cay marina. It's a bit further for you to get there but we like that they go snorkeling first and then to the beach (which is gorgeous). Very friendly.

Those on STX will be better able to answer the question about what's open around Christmas. But I would definitely make some dinner reservations.

We have never had a problem with crime on the island but have usually not rented a car and gone to remote beaches (we stay at the Buccaneer). I would be careful about safety as I would be here back at home but not overly worried. Many people really like the beaches in the Fredericksted area (Sandy Point is supposed to be gorgeous but may only be open on weekends).

You should definitely read the St. Croix forums on tripadvisor. com. There are some good suggestions there from locals.

Have a great time! And be sure to give us a trip report when you return.

Sorry for piggybacking on your post but I'm also very curious to know about things being open xmas eve & day, as we'll be there at the same time.

We made reservations with Caribbean Sea Adventures to Buck Island based on recommendations here, but obviously can't recommend them firsthand yet. They aren't running boats after noon on Dec 24, so it's possible other things will be closed as well.