Christiansted's Artisan Shopping Tour

Christiansted Experience Blends History, Art, Shopping and Island Leisure

CHRISTIANSTED, St. Croix — A unique Christiansted experience brings together the island’s rich history, vibrant artistic culture and laid-back Caribbean leisure in a single outing. Round-trip transportation is available from select hotels and the cruise port, while guests may also choose to meet at the starting point. The experience begins at Joyia Inspirational Jewelry, housed in a historic building and former workshop setting, where visitors can learn about Christiansted’s architecture and watch artisans create one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces. Guests can explore handcrafted gold, silver and gemstone creations, including signature intention jewelry personalized with names, dates or meaningful words. A complimentary signature cocktail, curated crystals and handcrafted jewelry add a touch of indulgence, while families are welcomed with a cozy lounge featuring a LEGO table and books for children. The experience also provides a brochure and QR code for guests interested in discovering more local artists and exploring Christiansted’s historic beauty.

The walking experience continues through the town’s distinctive collection of galleries, boutiques and creative studios. Visitors can discover the handcrafted jewelry of local artist and metalsmith Whealan Massicott at ib designs, browse island apparel and gifts at From The Gecko Boutique and Molly’s Tropical Boutique, and sample handcrafted chocolates made with local Crucian cacao at Bleu Chocolàt Workshop. The route also includes FantaSea Jewelry, known for genuine gemstone and precious-metal jewelry created in its historic studio, as well as local artwork and photography. At Mitchell Larsen Studio, visitors can admire colorful, handmade glass creations produced on site, while Eden South showcases the work of 38 local artists and writers and features Jack’s Bay Pepper Sauce and Rainforest Inspired T-shirts. RJS Handmade Designs offers handcrafted sterling silver and gold jewelry, while Southern Saint presents luxury clothing and swimwear inspired by island living. The self-guided and walking experience allows visitors to enjoy these creative stops at a relaxed pace, with admission to the featured galleries and shops included.

A centerpiece of Christiansted’s historic landscape is Fort Christiansvaern, located within the Christiansted National Historic Site and offering a fascinating glimpse into the Danish colonial era in the West Indies. Located in Alexander Hamilton’s hometown, the 7.5-acre site was once the seat of Danish colonial power and remains an important landmark for understanding the history and development of Christiansted. The fort provides visitors with an opportunity to explore the architectural and historical character of the Danish colonial period while gaining a deeper appreciation for the town’s role in the history of the Caribbean. A self-guided tour is available through the National Park Service app, allowing visitors to explore the site at their own pace and learn more about its historic significance. Approximately 30 minutes is allotted for the visit, and admission to the site is free.

After exploring Christiansted’s history, art and shopping scene, guests can continue their island escape with a ferry ride to The Hotel on the Cay, located on Protestant Cay just a short distance from town. The peaceful beach retreat offers soft white sand and calm, turquoise waters ideal for swimming and relaxation. Visitors can spend about an hour enjoying the shoreline, taking a refreshing swim or simply soaking up the Caribbean scenery before returning to Christiansted. The experience includes the ferry admission and ticket to Hotel on the Cay, as well as alcoholic beverages, a signature cocktail and a gemstone presented with a card and pouch; gratuities are not included. Combining historic landmarks, local craftsmanship, family-friendly attractions, shopping and a tranquil beach escape, the experience offers a distinctive way to discover Christiansted’s culture, creativity and island charm.