St. Croix is a laid-back island that works well for family vacations. Henry E. Rohlsen Airport is small and manageable, and getting to your accommodation with kids is straightforward if you plan the transport piece.
Car seat requirements
USVI law requires child car seats for children under 5. This applies to all vehicles, including taxis. The problem is that walk-up taxis at STX do not carry child car seats. If you have children under 5, you either bring your own seat (which airlines allow you to check for free) or book a private transfer and request the appropriate seat.
Most transfer services on St. Croix can provide rear-facing infant seats, forward-facing child seats, and booster seats. Request them at least 48 hours before arrival. On a small island, inventory is limited.
The airport experience with kids
STX is one of the easiest airports to navigate with children. The terminal is small, there is one baggage carousel, and the walk from the plane to the taxi area is very short. There are no long corridors, no trams, and no complicated terminal changes. Kids will not have time to get restless.
The terminal has basic bathroom facilities including changing areas. There is no dedicated family lounge, but the small scale means you do not need one.
Vehicle options
Standard taxis on St. Croix are enclosed sedans and SUVs, which is better for families than the open-air safari vans common on St. Thomas. Air conditioning works, seatbelts are available, and there is trunk space for luggage.
For a family of four with bags, a standard SUV transfer works. For five or more passengers or heavy luggage (think strollers, pack-and-plays, and beach gear), request a minivan or larger vehicle when booking.
Getting to family-friendly destinations
The most popular family resort areas and approximate transfer costs:
- Christiansted area hotels: $25-$50, 15-25 minutes
- Buccaneer Resort: $30-$50, 20-30 minutes
- Cane Bay (north shore): $25-$45, 20-25 minutes
- Frederiksted: $15-$30, 10-15 minutes
- East End: $35-$55, 25-35 minutes
Rental car consideration
If your family is staying for more than a few days, a rental car is worth serious consideration. St. Croix is the largest US Virgin Island, and beaches, restaurants, and activities are spread across it. A car gives you the freedom to explore on your own schedule. Driving is on the left side of the road, but the roads are flatter and less intimidating than on St. Thomas.
The airport rental agencies can usually provide child car seats with a rental, though you should reserve these in advance.
Practical tips for families
- Apply sunscreen before leaving the terminal. Even the short walk to your vehicle is in direct sun.
- Bring water bottles. The airport has limited beverage options.
- If your children are tired, a private transfer gets you to your hotel fastest with no detours for other passengers.
- Pack a light change of clothes in your carry-on. If luggage is delayed (rare but possible), you will want something fresh for the kids in the Caribbean heat.