All-Inclusive and Adults-Only Hotels on St Croix
Best Hotel Options on St. Croix for All-Inclusive or Adults Only
Many folks will plan a visit to St. Croix based on other Caribbean resort vacations. As an incredible do-it-yourself island of experiences, it’s important to leverage the advantage of all-inclusive and still explore the unique island vibe. For a couple with a goal of getting away, you may value the all-inclusive adults-only resort on St. Croix. Despite a history of plans for large resorts, on St. Croix there is currently only one all-inclusive resort, Divi Carina Bay. The advantages there are the amenities included like pre-paid dining and drinks, an on-site casino, and access to a beach and pool. You can read reviews of this resort and make that decision. Location is not a concern, as the island is only 22 miles end to end, and since you will rent a vehicle, you can explore the entire island wherever you stay and explore the many incredible activities which appeal to you.
Divi is the largest hotel on Saint Croix with 200 rooms, and the primary current competitor would be The Buccaneer, with 134 rooms. It is not all-inclusive, but has the elements (other than a casino) available:
The Buccaneer is the top-of-mind choice for a St. Croix getaway. Convenient to Christiansted and familiar to fans of “house hunting in the Caribbean” shows, this family-friendly resort features three beaches, two pools, and a renowned golf course. It stands out as a premier alternative to all-inclusive resort plans, offering a variety of dining and activity options.
Situated on the secluded north shore, Carambola Beach Resort was a 150-room Marriott property and has been purchased with a plan to be developed as Club Med St Croix. The property is currently closed to undergo a $50 million renovation which is rumored to include an expansion of at least 25%. This will be St. Croix’s second all-inclusive resort, and one would expect that when it opens it will be slightly larger (201+ rooms) than Divi. The location has incredible traditional tropical charm and some investment should bring it back to its "retro luxury" glory. This beachfront haven featured a pool and an on-site dive shop perfect for shore diving and it also serves as an ideal base for hiking to the Carambola Tide Pool. The resort was built by Laurance Rockefeller on the iconic beach where the finale of the movie Trading Places was filmed.
Under separate ownership and just up the hill is the Carambola Golf Club, with a championship-level golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., “featuring rolling fairways, pristine greens, and breathtaking views.”
There are a half-dozen smaller hotels with 20-50 rooms, a bunch of boutique hotels, and a thousand or so rental properties.
Adults Only Hotel Options
The Fred
The Fred is a chic, adults-only boutique resort that redefines the St. Croix getaway by blending historic West End architecture with modern, eco-conscious luxury. As the only beachfront hotel in Frederiksted, it offers an exclusive "barefoot chic" experience centered around its saltwater pools, full-service spa, and award-winning sunset views. The property features a collection of designer rooms in restored heritage buildings, providing a sophisticated but unpretentious atmosphere for travelers who value both high-tech amenities and authentic local culture. Its marketing captures a vibrant, social energy that bridges the gap between a private sanctuary and a lively community hub, making it the premier destination for those seeking an upscale, independent island vibe.
Sand Castle on the Beach
Sand Castle on the Beach is a serene, adults-only sanctuary tucked away on a pristine stretch of white sand just south of historic Frederiksted. This mid-century jewel, designed by renowned architect John Randall McDonald, offers an intimate and inclusive atmosphere featuring two freshwater pools—one of which is located in a private, clothing-optional courtyard. Known for its eco-conscious operations and legendary sunset views, the resort provides a range of accommodations from economical studios to beachfront villas with full kitchens. Guests can indulge in island-inspired seasonal fare at the award-winning Beach Side Café or explore the calm, turquoise waters directly from the shore, which offer some of the island’s most accessible snorkeling and kayaking. Balancing a laid-back Caribbean vibe with impeccable, personalized service, Sand Castle remains a premier choice for LGBTQ+ travelers and couples seeking a tranquil, unpretentious escape.
Other Significant Hotels
Grapetree Bay Hotel
Grapetree Bay Hotel is a restored boutique retreat on St. Croix’s secluded East End, offering a serene experience that honors its 1960s heritage with modern, eco-conscious charm. Situated within the East End Marine Park, the property features 18 designer guest rooms and 8 beachfront villas, all of which boast private balconies with sweeping views of the turquoise South Shore. Guests can enjoy one of the island's largest freshwater pools, indulge in diverse culinary options—including a Japanese steakhouse and Mediterranean fare—or explore the rugged beauty of nearby hiking trails leading to Jack and Isaac Bays. While its marketing highlights a tranquil, unpretentious atmosphere perfect for nature lovers and corporate retreats, it remains only 10 miles to downtown Christiansted.
King Christian Hotel
Set in the heart of historic Christiansted, the King Christian Hotel offers a rare blend of boutique design, waterfront views, and walkable boardwalk convenience that’s hard to match. Guests stay directly on the harbor, steps from restaurants, shops, and cultural landmarks, while enjoying thoughtfully restored rooms that balance modern comfort with the charm of the island’s Danish colonial past. With its central location, stylish atmosphere, and easy access to both nightlife and day excursions, the hotel positions itself as an ideal downtown location for travelers who want an immersive, car-light experience in one of the island’s most vibrant districts.
Many Resort Plans - Few Large Resorts
There have been many plans for large-scale resort plans on St. Croix, including Amalago Bay, Seven Hills, Golden Gaming, and South Beach St Croix. They have not been built for a variety of reasons including ambitious overreach and environmental hurdles, leaving the island's true charm to be found in its smaller, more authentic accommodations.
Some resort plans for St Croix which have not developed:
Smaller Accommodations and Island Exploration
Interestingly, the occupancy rates are higher in the smaller hotels and rental villas than at the larger hotels. St. Croix is a more friendly and exclusive destination and travelers find a more rewarding experience by choosing private homes and boutique inns.
Privacy & Personalization: Smaller hotels like The Grapetree Bay Hotel, King Christian, or Sand Castle on the Beach offer intimate settings that reflect the island's history without the corporate feel of large chains.
Direct Economic Impact: Staying in small, locally-owned hotel or a privately owned property ensures your tourism dollars support the community directly rather than flowing to off-island corporations.
Freedom to Roam: With a rental car and a central "home base" hotel, condo or villa, you can snorkel the Frederiksted Pier, hike to the tide pools, and dine at a different local spot every night.
One-Week Comparison of All-Inclusive vs. Hotel on St. Croix
The math below is based on research from March 2026 and commonly recommended excursions. For two people, the pricing is comparable but the experience is quite different.
All-Inclusive Plan for 2 for 1 week
Transportation to/from airport: $75 Cash Each Way = $150
All-Inclusive Plan = $750 a night = $5,250
Meals = $0
Drinks = $0
Total Cost = $5,400
Independent Plan for 2 for 1 week
Rental Car from Centerline: $440 + $60 Gas = $500
Grapetree Bay Hotel = $325 a night = $2,275
Groceries plus 1-2 meals at day a local restaurants =$1,600
4 Excursions for 2 people @$150-300 per couple = $950
Sunrise at Point Udall, Various Beaches, Hikes = $0
Total Cost = $5,325
Exploring St Croix
More than most Caribbean destinations, St. Croix is an island that is ideal for exploration. Regardless of where you stay, the opportunities to experience the culture and the natural beauty that is all around are support for the recommendation that a rental car is crucial. The options are wide-ranging and each person will have their favorite elements of a more authentic experience.
The Verdict: How to Book
If you’re traveling as a group and need 2 rooms, consider an AirBnB option or a hotel which allows you to build your own "inclusive" package
If you need 3 or more rooms, the cost advantage of a whole-house rental is significant, and the ability to return to a private home base each day is priceless.
Stay: Book a home, a boutique hotel, or a larger hotel like The Buccaneer which offers breakfast and luxury, or a bungalow at Sand Castle on the Beach.
Eat: Set a daily dining budget and use it to explore a new restaurant every night. Consider a private chef to cook a dinner at your rental property. Make sure you have a plan for leftovers which can be a great cost-effective lunch.
Do: Rent a car for your visit to enable exploration, even if it’s a half-mile down the road to another beach.