St. Croix
St. Croix is the largest island out of the three main islands that make up the U.S. Virgin Islands. St. Croix is broken up into 9 quarters (like neighborhoods or districts), which each have their own distinct feeling, developments, etc. St. Croix is 84 square miles or about 54000 acres (New York City is 468 sq miles), contains 3 national parks, and is home to about 53,000 people. (New York City’s 5 boroughs house approx 8,175,133 people). We describe each of them briefly moving from the west end (less populated) of the island to the east end (more populated).
The West End Quarter (WE) – Many of the attractions on the island are located in this area including Sandy Point National Wildlife Reserve, multiple museums, and Mahogany Road (which is a great way to see the rainforest). The land is very lush and the beaches are plentiful.
Northside Quarter “A” (NA) – This section of island along the west side of the north shore is the most lush and tropical on St. Croix. As you can see on the map, roads are NOT plentiful here. Again, there are many attractions in this quarter including a golf course, the VI Sustainable Farm, beaches, and rainforests.
Northside Quarter “B” (NB) – This quarter takes up the middle section of the north beaches on the island. Most of this quarter is also covered in lush landscapes with mountains, valleys and hills. There are great views in all directions – Mt. Eagle is the highest point on St. Croix. There tend to be lots of water sports, including diving, along the beaches in NB.
Prince Quarter (PR) – Bordering the south shore on the west end of the island, Prince Quarter is considered “mid-island.” Salt River National Park, Cruzan Rum Plant, Henry E. Rohlsen Airport, and an industrial park are all located in this quarter. The land here is forested rolling to moderate hills.
King Quarter (KI) – This quarter borders the south beach in the west – center part of the island. Moving from low and flat to rolling to moderate hills, parks, shopping centers, and Diageo Rum Production Factory are all at home in this quarter.
Queen Quarter (QU) – This quarter is the first quarter (starting from the west) that spans the entire island north to south. Salt River National Park spans from Prince Quarter into Queen Quarter. Going from flat to moderate hills, you’ll find quite a bit of shopping and Juan F Luis Hospital and Cardiac Center here.
Company Quarter (CO) – Surrounding Christiansted Quarter on all sides, Company quarter spans the island north to south. There are many condo complexes along the beach on the north side of the island. Topography varies from flat to moderate hills with more forest-like areas on the west side of the quarter. You’ll find shopping, clubs, and Beeston Hill Medical Center in this area.
East End Quarter “A” (EA) – Residential, shopping and businesses can all be found in this section of the island stretching from north to south, but not actually on the very east end of St. Croix (that’s East End Quarter “B”). Gallows Bay is a popular commercial area bordering East End Quarter “A” and Christiansted. Green Cay island, a protected bird sanctuary, is north of this quarter. EA tends to be more desert like and less forested than the rest of the island.
East End Quarter “B” (EB) – This quarter is the east end of St. Croix and is the most eastern part of the United States. This area is the driest on the island, where you’ll find succulent plants rather than lush forests and the land tends to be flatter than the rest of the island. You’ll find more diving, protected beaches, and Estate Grapetree. Buck Island National Park is located north of this section of St. Croix.
Christiansted (CH) – The smallest of the quarters (by far!), this area is home to the historic town of Christiansted and RE/MAX St. Croix. It also includes 5 historic structures: Fort Christiansvaern (1738), the Danish West India & Guinea Company Warehouse (1749), the Steeple Building (1753), Danish Custom House (1844), and the Scale House (1856). The southern section of this quarter is mostly residential, while the northern side on the waterfront is more commercial.
St. John
St. John is the smallest island out of the three main islands. St. John is made up of 5 quarters. This island is home to the U.S. Virgin Islands National Park that is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of the island. The national park takes up two-thirds of the island. St. John measures 20 square miles, 491.5 acres and has approximately 5,000 residents.
Cruz Bay (CR) – Cruz bay on the island of St.John is the perfect spot to visit if you are looking for a lively, busy place with lots to do. With the island having no airport you would catch a ferry and your final destination is Cruz Bay. Cruz Bay offers bars, restaurants, shopping centers, and a fine selection of vacation condos, private villas, B&B’s, and small inns.
Maho Bay Quarter (MA) – Just 15 minutes away from Cruz bay via car, Maho Bay is a favorite among visitors and islanders alike. Maho bay is a top recommendation to snorkel and has beautiful beaches full of sea life.
Reef Bay Quarter (RE) – Reef Bay is home to the famous ancient petroglyph trail that you can get to through the Virgin islands National Park. Reef Bay offers a few waterfront cottages and holiday villas.
Coral Bay Quarter (CO) – In the US Virgin Islands, Coral Bay is a town and a subdistrict located on the island of St. John. It’s situated on the island’s southeast coast. As the location of the largest plantation, it served as the island’s commercial hub in the 19th century. Coral Bay is a bustling little town, home to little diners outside, supermarkets, shops, and tourism services.
East End Quarter (EA) – East End is mostly made up of beaches and unoccupied lushious land. On the many beaches you can snorkel, hike, and have picnics. There are vacation houses on the East End that allow you to enjoy private luxury and the beauty of the island.
Virgin Islands National Park (VI) – The Virgin Islands National Park is an American national park that protects approximately 60% of the land area of Saint John in the United States Virgin Islands, as well as more than 5,500 acres (9 square miles) of ocean and nearly all of Hassel Island, just off the Charlotte Amalie, Saint Thomas harbor. The park’s entrance port and visitor center are located at Cruz Bay. The park offers miles of hiking paths through the tropical rainforest and is well-known for its scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities.
St. Thomas
St.Thomas is the second largest island out of the U.S. Virgin Islands. The island is made up of 11 quarters. St. Thomas measures 32 square miles, 20480 acres in size, and has a population estimated around 42,261. This island is home to the capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands which is Charlotte Amalie. Just a 20 minute ferry away from Charlotte Amalie is Water Island. Water Island is the smallest out of the U.S. Virgin Islands and it is a 492-acre island.
West End (WE) – Even for such a small island, the West End quarter of St. Thomas is rather isolated. There are very few beaches that are accessible. In this quarter there are opulent luxury villas listed online that come with a spa, pool, chef, maid, and butler service, among other amenities.
Little Northside (LI) – Rich vegetation and breathtaking views of the British Virgin Islands are well-known features of St. Thomas’ northside. Little Northside is less populated and has fewer eateries and shops than other parts of St. Thomas which draws visitors to the area because of its beaches. This part of St. Thomas has local beach hangouts, one of the world’s top ten beaches, and undiscovered beaches.
Great Northside (GR) – While Great Northside is primarily residential, there are local communities where residents gather. Great Northside is home to communities such as Mandal, Peterborg, Louisenhoj, Lerkenlund, and Canaan. Great Northside is a highly desirable location for many homebuyers. You’ll find beautiful properties with stunning ocean views.
Southside (SO) – Beginning from Botany Bay and ending at Cabrita Point is the southern portion of St. Thomas. Brewers, Lindbergh, Morningstar, Limetree, Bolongo, Secret Harbor, Cowpet, and Great Bay are a few of the beaches. While Secret Harbor is the most well-known beach for snorkeling, the others are all excellent locations. The town of Charlotte Amalie, which was established in 1671, is the most notable aspect of the Southside. There are two cruise ship docks, lots of attractive shops, and architecture.
Kronprindsens (KR) – Kronprindsens quarter is a really vibrant area on St.Thomas. This area includes property, the Virgin Islands Lottery Ticket Office, Office of the Virgin Islands Inspector General, and Sabroso Restaurant.
Queens (QU) – Queens quarter is a very fascinating place that is full of rich history. This area, also known as Dronningens Quarter, is where you’ll find the bustling center of government, schools, offices, shopping, and residences. It’s home to both old and new Charlotte Amalie. The step streets (known as “frigangs”) are a unique feature here, dating back to the mid-1700s. The commercial area along Main Street is particularly accessible and historically interesting.
King (KI) – King Quarter is a very captivating area! This area includes Blackbeard’s Castle and Fort Christian. Although you have a few options, you’re in luck if you are looking for somewhere to stay in this area! There is also land available if you are looking.
East End (EA) – The East End quarter on St.Thomas offers a mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and recreational activities. A popular attraction featuring an underwater observatory, marine exhibits, and interactive experiences is Coral World Ocean Park. A favorite among tourists is Coki Point Beach that features a vibrant coral reef great for snorkeling and spotting tropical fish. Some communities in the East End include Benner, Nazareth, Nadir, Frydendal, and Smith Bay.
New (NE) – The New Quarter is often referred to as “downtown” Charlotte Amalie. It’s a bustling epicenter with schools, shops, art galleries, local restaurants, and offices. If you’re looking for a taste of New Orleans cuisine with a Caribbean flair, visit the French Quarter Bistro located in the heart of Frenchtown, St. Thomas. If you’re interested in land, there are various parcels available for purchase in St. Thomas. Other options range from smaller lots to larger acreage, with varying prices. Feel free to explore the vibrant New Quarter and enjoy the unique flavors of the French Quarter Bistro!
Red Hook (RE) – Red Hook is a vibrant area located at the east end of St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Red Hook overlooks Pillsbury Sound and offers stunning vistas of the neighboring island of St. John. The area features an unofficial “town” with red-tiled roof homes and businesses dotting the rolling coastline. Red Hook hosts several hotels, marinas, and a busy port. It’s a hub for fishing and boating excursions and serves as a departure point for ferries to nearby islands. Explore island-style shops, dine at restaurants and bars, and visit offices and banks.
Frenchman’s Bay (FR) – Frenchman’s Bay Quarter is a picturesque area on the South Shore of St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands. Estates in Frenchman’s Bay Quarter offer stunning views, spacious properties, luxurious homes and large lots. Frenchman’s Bay faces the Caribbean Sea, providing warmer and drier weather compared to the cooler Atlantic side. It’s close to Havensight, a world-famous cruise ship port, just a short drive away. Whether you’re looking for real estate or simply want to explore this scenic area, Frenchman’s Bay Quarter has much to offer!