Free & Cheap Things to Do

ST. CROIX

Need a wallet-friendly reason to wake up early? Head to Point Udall, the easternmost point of the United States, where the stunning sunrise views are worth losing a little shut-eye. But any time of the day, this spot — named for former Secretary of the Interior Stuart Udall, a champion of USVI’s economy — offers incredible views of the Caribbean’s beautiful blue waters. Be sure to stop and admire the Millennium Monument. Erected in 2000, the huge sundial marks the first place the sun rises on U.S. soil.

Located a short four-minute drive north of Frederiksted, Rainbow Beach has all the elements St. Croix’s beaches are known for — crystal-clear water, soft sand, stellar sunset views — with the added bonus of no entry fee and the opportunity to hear live music from the popular Rhythms at Rainbow Beach restaurant. The beach’s calm waters make it especially inviting for families with young children and water sports enthusiasts.

For a nominal fee, visitors can explore one of the Caribbean’s best-preserved colonial forts, Fort Christiansvaern. Part of the Christiansted National Historic Site established in 1952, the yellow-hued fort is a prime example of Danish colonial architecture and features seven acres in which to experience the island’s fascinating history. Nearby are other historic buildings, including the Danish Custom House and the Scale House. Pick up a self-guided tour pass at the gate entrance.

ST. JOHN

Making up two-thirds of the island’s land and waters, Virgin Islands National Park is packed with things to do and see, many of which are free. Hikers of all levels won’t want to miss the more than 20 miles of trails offering plenty of postcard-perfect views. The well-known Reef Bay Trail features some of the island’s oldest trees and ancient rock carvings. Popular snorkeling spots include Trunk Bay, Maho Bay and Salt Pond. Bring your own gear and save even more.

A fast and easy car ride from Cruz Bay, the Peace Hill Sugar Mill is one of the island’s most peaceful areas, with awe-inspiring views. Located amid a grassy clearing between Hawksnest and Denis bays, this no-fee spot features an easy hike that includes the site of an early plantation windmill ruin, Peace Hill Windmill. The relaxing vibes get turned up on Sundays when free meditation sessions are offered here in the early evening.

Free doesn’t often translate to fantastic, but it does at Hawksnest Beach. Located on the North Shore, this narrow, sea grape tree-lined beach offers terrific swimming and snorkeling, the latter courtesy of three small reefs of elkhorn corals and the small fish who love them. Uncrowded and shady, Hawksnest also offers amenities such as changing rooms, restrooms, picnic tables, and accessible paths and ramps.

ST. THOMAS

To best appreciate the wonderful charms of St. Thomas’ capital, set off on a leisurely stroll of the Charlotte Amalie Historic District. You’ll find plenty of noteworthy sites that tell the story of this quaint waterfront town. Before the 1848 emancipation, Market Square was the center of a large slave-trading site. Today, it’s an open-air food market. Salmon-hued Fort Christian, dating from 1680, is the oldest standing building in the USVI. Fringed with colorful flowers and palm trees, the 99 Steps, one of St. Thomas’ most recognizable landmarks, provide a one-of-a-kind workout, as well as a treat at the end: Blackbeard’s Castle. Crafted from the ballast bricks of tall ships from the Old World, these steps are one of several step-streets created to help navigate the area’s steep terrain.

The highest point on St. Thomas at 1,200 feet, Mountain Top offers breathtaking views of Magens Bay below, as well as surrounding islands, free of charge. Be sure to try Mountain Top’s famed banana daiquiri, which was invented here by a cocktail-savvy sea caption in I953. If shopping is on your to-do list, the island’s largest duty-free gift shop is here, too.

Located on the north side of the island, Drake’s Seat not only offers panoramic views of the point where the Atlantic Ocean joins the Caribbean Sea, it also has an interesting story to tell. As local legend has it, this is where Sir Francis Drake watched for enemy ships of the Spanish fleet (look for the green bench dubbed The Drake Seat). Even if the tale isn’t true, this spot is worth a visit for its amazing views of several islands, including St. John, as well as the blue waters of Magens Bay Beach below.

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