The largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, at 84 square miles, St. Croix is the easiest and most rewarding to explore. Don't pass up a chance to see terrain outside of the two towns-it varies from dry cactus-studded hills out east to lush tropical forests in the west, with dozens of sugar mills and other plantation ruins along the way. Rent a car or reserve an island tour by safari van, taxi van, or jeep to see our wide open spaces.

Ask your hotelier for assistance in ordering a taxi and reserve one day ahead for return transportation to the airport. Taxi rates are fixed so there are no meters. You'll find taxi stands at the airport, on King Street in Christiansted, and on Strand Street near the Fort in Frederiksted. There are also limo services available on St. Croix if you are planning a wedding or simply want to go places in style.

St. Croix's Heritage Trail covers 72 miles of roads, with signs marking noteworthy spots. Look for the brown square sign picturing a sugar mill, and try to get a copy of the Heritage Trail Brochure, a map packed with great information about the island, its history, and culture. www.stcroixheritagetrail.com

Rental cars are available at the airport and at some hotels or locations like the Seaborne Airlines seaplane terminal. Bring your driver's license and proof of insurance. Companies without onsite airport locations will bring the car to you. (Sorry, you cannot rent if you are under age 25 due to insurance regulations.) Remember: We drive on the left side of the road.

Interested in a little island-hopping? Seaborne Airlines offers flights throughout the day from the Christiansted waterfront to the Charlotte Amalie waterfront on St. Thomas, with connections to San Juan. Cape Air can also get you there, airport to airport. St. Croix has ferry service twice daily Friday through Monday from Gallows Bay to Charlotte Amalie.