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St. Croix, the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, offers a blend of rich history, natural beauty, and unique experiences. If you’re planning a visit, here’s a guide to three must-see attractions on the West Side of the island: Prosperity Farms Distillery, Rainbow Beach, and the Caledonia Rain Forest.
Prosperity Farm Distillery: A Taste of Local Craftsmanship
Located next to Rainbow Beach along Mahogany Road, Prosperity Farm Distillery is a farm-to-bottle distillery set on a 180-acre estate that was once part of a historic sugar plantation. Visitors can enjoy guided tours that delve into the distillation process, from harvesting sugar cane to crafting premium spirits using copper pot stills. The distillery also offers tastings, handcrafted cocktails, and hosts live music and community events, providing an immersive experience into St. Croix’ agricultural heritage. The farm is located just five minutes from the St. Croix cruise ship pier.
Rainbow Beach: Sun, Sand, and Serenity
Just across the beach road from Prosperity Farm Distillery lies Rainbow Beach, a popular spot for both locals and visitors. Known for its soft sand and clear waters, it’s an ideal place to relax, swim, or enjoy a meal at the beachfront bar and restaurant. The beach is, adjacent to Prosperity Farm making it easily accessible for cruise passengers and tourists alike.
Caledonia Rain Forest
Don’t let the name fool you: The Caledonia Rain Forest is located on the West Side of St. Croix, not in Scotland! Over four miles of gentle hiking trails afford hikers and bird watchers an excellent venue to observe an equatorial rain forest. Best of all, the fain forest is located just seven minutes north of the St. Croix cruise ship pier – and just three short minutes from Prosperity Farm Distillery and Rainbow Beach. At the rain forest the two favorite attractions are Estate Mount Washington, with its stone labyrinth – and Sprat Hall Nature Preserve, with well-groomed and well-labeled (and signed) hiking trails..
Planning Your Visit
• Distance Between Attractions: Prosperity Farm Distillery is approximately 4/5 of a mile (4,000) feet from the St. Croix Cruise Ship Pier and across the street from Rainbow Beach. The Caledonia Rain Forest is about ½ mile (2,500 feet) north of Rainbow Beach. These modest distances make it feasible to visit all three attractions in a single day.
• Transportation: Walking, biking, or taking a short taxi ride are convenient options to travel between these sites. On several days of each week, Prosperity Farm Distillery offers a free tractor -pulled wagon shuttle from the cruise ship pier to the farm.
• Best Time to Visit: The farm distillery offers tours and tastings throughout the week with the Farmhouse Bar and Tasting Room open Thursday to Sundaywhile Rainbow Beach and the rain forest are best enjoyed during daylight hours.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a farmer-at-heart, a history enthusiast, a beach lover, hiker, birder or a fan of local handcrafted spirits, the West Side of St. Croix has something to offer everyone. Watching the sun set over the ocean is a time-tested favorite activity. The close proximity of Prosperity Farm Distillery, Rainbow Beach, and the Caledonia Rain Forest allow for a diverse and enriching experience of St. Croix’s charm. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore these attractions during your next visit to the island.
