St. Croix Rainforest West End
Explore historic Fort Frederik, discover local art, and venture into the lush West End rainforest for hiking and tidal pools.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better for exploring
St. Croix Rainforest West End
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore historic Fort Frederik, discover local art, and venture into the lush West End rainforest for hiking and tidal pools.
"Fort Frederik offers a fascinating historical experience with local art, and the West End boasts stunning natural beauty."
💰 Cash for Entry
Fort Frederik charges a $5 cash entry fee per person. No credit cards accepted.
🚶 Self-Guided Tours
Explore the fort at your own pace. Consider visiting when local art events are happening.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fort Frederik
Frederiksted Waterfront
Explore this historic 18th-century European fort, now a museum showcasing local art and island history.
Annaly Bay Tidal Pools
Northwest St. Croix
Discover natural tidal pools perfect for a refreshing dip amidst stunning coastal scenery.
Rainforest Horseback Riding
West End St. Croix
Ride through lush rainforests and along scenic beaches for an unforgettable island adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Fort Frederik: A Glimpse into History
West End Adventures: Beyond the Fort
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Cash for Entry
Fort Frederik charges a $5 cash entry fee per person. No credit cards accepted.
🚶 Self-Guided Tours
Explore the fort at your own pace. Consider visiting when local art events are happening.
🥾 Hiking Essentials
Wear sturdy shoes for rainforest hikes and bring water.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning aerial shots and coastal scenery.
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Cash for Entry
Fort Frederik charges a $5 cash entry fee per person. No credit cards accepted.
🚶 Self-Guided Tours
Explore the fort at your own pace. Consider visiting when local art events are happening.
🥾 Hiking Essentials
Wear sturdy shoes for rainforest hikes and bring water.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning aerial shots and coastal scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Fort Frederik an interesting historical site with local art, though some exhibits are basic and guided tours are inconsistent. The $5 cash entry is noted, and the fort's potential is recognized, especially with recent grant approvals. The West End offers beautiful natural attractions like tidal pools and rainforest hikes.
"The fort was very interesting. A lot more information here than Fort Christiansvern actually. It was not fully open, but we were glad to find it open after several tries on other days, even though it was a children’s museum event, they let us walk through! Enjoyed all the exhibits."
Jennifer Watson
"Lots of history! Go on a Monday when the cruise ships are docking and see all the locals and their wares!"
Tammee Barch
"Interesting historical site. Fees charged for entry. Nice ocean views and many rooms have been turned into galleries with offerings from local artist."
c “cfl” lane
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The St. Croix Rainforest West End is best accessed by car. Renting a vehicle is highly recommended for exploring the various natural attractions and Fort Frederik in Frederiksted.
While public transport might reach Frederiksted town, it's not ideal for exploring the wider West End rainforest areas. A rental car offers the most flexibility.
For rainforest trails like Goat Hill, having a GPS or a reliable map app on your phone is helpful. Trails can be rugged, so be prepared.
Yes, Fort Frederik is located on the waterfront in Frederiksted and has accessible parking nearby.
Yes, scenic drives are possible through parts of the West End rainforest, offering beautiful views and access to trailheads.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Fort Frederik charges a $5 cash entry fee per person. They do not accept credit cards.
Advance booking is generally not required for Fort Frederik. It's a self-guided experience, though checking their opening hours is advised.
Most natural attractions and rainforest trails in the West End, like Annaly Bay Tidal Pools and Goat Hill, do not have specific entrance fees, though donations are appreciated.
Opening hours can vary, and it's advisable to check locally or call ahead, as some visitors have reported difficulty finding it open on certain days.
Yes, horseback riding tours through the West End rainforest and along the beaches typically have a fee. Prices vary by tour operator.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Fort Frederik features historical exhibits, local art galleries, and a staged Captain's Quarters. It offers ocean views and insights into the island's past.
Guided tours are not consistently offered at Fort Frederik. It is primarily a self-guided experience, though having staff available to answer questions would be a plus.
The fort hosts art galleries featuring works by local artists. Some exhibits are described as basic or from younger artists.
Annaly Bay Tidal Pools are natural rock formations that create calm pools perfect for swimming and relaxing, offering a unique coastal experience.
Yes, there are hiking trails through the St. Croix rainforest, such as Goat Hill, offering opportunities for exploration and scenic views.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfront at Fort Frederik offers great views, and aerial photography captures the island's beauty. Rainforest hikes and coastal areas provide stunning natural shots.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local advisories before flying a drone, especially near historical sites or protected natural areas.
Absolutely! Horseback riding tours offer unique perspectives of the beaches and rainforest, making for memorable photos.
Late afternoon often provides beautiful lighting for photography at Fort Frederik, with the sun casting a warm glow on the historic structure and waterfront.
Expect lush green rainforests, turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and historic architecture. The West End offers diverse photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When exploring the rainforest, ensure children wear appropriate footwear and stay hydrated. While the trails can be adventurous, they offer a great opportunity for kids to connect with nature. Pack snacks and plenty of water, as amenities can be limited in more remote areas of the West End.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Opting for self-guided exploration over paid tours can also save money. While renting a car is recommended for flexibility, consider if a shorter rental period or utilizing local transport to Frederiksted and then arranging local transport for specific excursions might be more economical. Pack your own snacks and water to avoid purchasing them at tourist-heavy spots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Fort Frederik: History and Art
Entry to Fort Frederik requires a $5 cash payment per person, and it operates on a self-guided basis. Visitors have noted that guided tours are not consistently offered, which can be a drawback for those seeking in-depth historical narratives. However, the fort's location offers pleasant ocean views, and the art exhibits provide a contemporary cultural element. Despite needing some restoration, the fort has received funding for improvements, promising an enhanced visitor experience in the future.
Adventures in the West End Rainforest
For those seeking a more active experience, hiking Goat Hill provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the Caribbean Sea. Horseback riding tours are also a popular way to explore the West End. These tours often take you through the verdant rainforest and along picturesque sandy beaches, offering a memorable way to connect with the island's natural beauty and learn about its culture and history.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit