This past month we returned to Sand Castle on the Beach in St. Croix, US Virgin Islands. I went for some rest, relaxation, restoration and to check in on all my friends. Resort owners, Chris Richardson and Ted Bedwell of Sand Castle on the Beach. These two are exemplary hosts. If you haven’t seen my YouTube videos or heard my podcast from my visit in 2021, you are missing out!
This adults-only resort in St. Croix is unique and special to me. They have the best beach and sunsets on the island. Some of the best snorkeling and diving in the world is right around the corner. It also provides a peaceful rest for the most restless wandering of hearts.
New Villas & Renos
My friends have definitely been busy, busy since 2021. I wasn’t able to meet Ted on my last visit he was still flying the friendly skies. So this was a great opportunity to meet and greet! After a few hugs they gave me a grand tour of their newly renovated beachfront villas AND their brand NEW Dolphin villa.
The new Dolphin Villa is a two full bedroom, two bath unit that is impeccably decorated, has a full kitchen and screened in porch also within steps of the restaurant and beach. It’s a little oasis with a bunch of amenities close by.
The beachfront villas are practically the size of an apartment with a great living room area, full kitchen, and huge bathroom.
They also have this wonderful new secluded outdoor sitting area, with a hammock swing and very private outdoor shower. Another great place to grab some sleep or your book and just chill in solitude.
Jon and I were lucky enough to stay in a beachfront villa just ten steps away from the beach.
We met all of our neighbors too who were from Michigan, Kansas and the Northern Virginia area. They equally loved their spaces too and we all sat on the patio watching sunsets and chatting.
All of their rooms can be viewed on their website through a 360degree cam so you can see what you are getting. There are 26 rooms and 10 different room types, it truly is outfitted to each traveler style. Chris and Ted also partner with local artists and you will really enjoy their commissioned pieces from Barbara Gelardi.
The Cafe
The Beachside Cafe is a very special restaurant located right on the resort property and with really amazing views.
The al fresco menu is available for lunch, dinner and brunch on the weekends, but better be sure to make reservations. The menu of course is available on line as well, so you can take a peek before you arrive.
Since we were staying at the resort, we just made reservations as soon as we thought about it for the day or next day. Weekends are busier of course and when the cruise ship is in Frederiksted port.
One of my favorite dishes is pineapple glazed rum cake, made locally and very delicious. Island Rum, for sure.The staff at the restaurant are as warm and welcoming as the summer breeze too. I met Ms. B who is a hostess and server with a big smile. I was able to snag her for a few minutes for the vlog too to so be sure to check that out soon.
What’s Included?
So what is included at Sand Castle on the Beach? There are no completely all inclusive resorts on St. Croix, but Sand Castle on the Beach does include a great deal in your stay. Feel free to explore the island!
🚗 They have excellent parking just across the street from the resort (and you will want to rent a car when visiting the island)
🍽️ They offer a continental breakfast (a few local breads from businesses in Frederiksted, coffee, tea, fresh fruit, etc.) is available at the front desk
🤿 Snorkel gear and equipment as well as kayaks (for single or double) I was able to get a few shots of Jon and I taking one out too. Need to learn how to snorkel or scuba? Great news, Sand Castle partners with local instructors to offer Discovery Scuba lessons right on their beach.
Located in Frederiksted, the resort is open to non-guests or cruisers who are just visiting for the day. Sand Castle on the Beach has DAY PASSES!
PODCAST
We met a few fellow travelers during our visit this week from all over. A family on our Buck Island Snorkeling Tour and another couple while we were dining out. They both purchased day passes to Sand Castle to use the beach and pool. And if I didn’t know any better, they might have had a bit of “resort remorse.” So if you are staying on the island but not with them there is still an opportunity to enjoy the peace and tranquility.
However, my recommendation would be to leave the kiddos behind and get some rest and relaxation for yourself.
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When to Visit St. Croix?
As a travel advisor, I get asked this question quite a bit when is the best time to visit the Caribbean? The answer is anytime, really. It is a year-round destination.
OCTOBER
APRIL
AUGUST
Yes, there are higher chances of storms at certain times of year, but it has been global warming lately. So truly, that could be anytime. We visited this year during storm season and it was absolutely lovely. Low crowds, availability for rental cars and reservations. While it was sweltering in Alabama we were loving it in the 80’s in St. Croix.
St. Croix is also a great because it is a U.S. Virgin Island. No passport required. Although having one makes traveling easier, it’s not required, just a license or legal US I.D.
St. Croix is also what I lovingly refer to as the livable island. It has so much to offer from great restaurants to some new nightlife options, bands and a super chill local vibe. I will share more about my new discoveries soon.
The advantage of visiting the island again and again is seeing it through different seasons. This year we were delighted to see all the vibrant FLAMBOYANT TREES across St. Croix.
I could totally imagine Barbara getting inspiration from the colors of the islands. Next to the sea blues and green palms, these bright orange magnificent trees pop at every turn. So to me August was one of the best times to visit to witness these.
Virgin Voyages!
Inclusive, incredible, Only ADULTS! AND the stop in St.Croix 🇻🇮
Getting to St. Croix
How to get to St. Croix? Well, you’ll be happy to know Delta now offers a weekly flight from Atlanta direct to St. Croix. Yes, I know it’s just once a week, however, you’ll want to stay at least a week. American Airlines flies daily and Spirit flies also from Ft. Lauderdale.
So whether you decide to stay a few days or a week or longer, there are definitely options. Need more help planning a getaway, schedule a private travel consultation today. I design personalized itineraries for Europe, the Caribbean, Hawaii and Alaska.
Whether you read the reviews on-line or visit Sand Castle on the Beach for yourself, you quickly find out why people choose this resort over and over again. It is truly the service and the staff. Locals and visitors alike will comment on how positive and helpful everyone is on property and eager to make your stay peaceful and restful.
Why people choose Sand Castle on the Beach?
By the end of the week we were walking around the property “heying” and “good mornin’” to everyone. I found out almost everyone’s name and yea, they knew mine too. I’m kinda not quiet that way.
From the front desk you are greeted by Michelle, Barbara and Liz. Then, on the beach it was Jordan, Aaron and Brad who generously grabbed our drinks from bar keep, Ms. KT. Yes, it is definitely a different experience at Sand Castle on the Beach. The staff gets to know you and vice versa. There is a culture of family and caring that separates this resort from the cookie cutter resorts on other islands in the Caribbean.
When you pair that with the excellence of design and decor, the natural beauty, beach and attention to detail it is the logical choice when choosing a relaxing beach getaway.
Check out the vlog
I was fortunate enough to have a few minutes to grab a quick interview with Chris & Ted and a few of the employees too. Be sure to watch the upcoming vlog on my YouTube channel soon and listen to the podcast for more on that.
Chris and Ted have big smiles as they share the new updates, renovations and services they now offer at the resort.
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