

Helpful Resources
Planning a seamless stay at Calypso Condo at Gentle Winds starts with the right tools and information. Whether you need directions, maps, or local activity suggestions, these resources will help you make the most of your time on the island.

Essential Maps & Views
- Highway Map of St. Croix: Get a clear view of the island’s major roads to help plan your drives.
View Map - Sky Cam of St. Croix: Before you arrive, explore a live view of the island’s stunning landscapes.
View Sky Cam - Calypso Condo Floor Plan: Familiarize yourself with the layout of your condo.
View Floor Plan
Directions
From the Airport
Drive on the left! After exiting the parking lot, turn left, then take a right at the first signal onto Melvin Evans Highway. Turn left at the second signal. Fork right when possible, and turn left onto H80 (Sidney Lee Road). Pass Salt River Bay and the marina until you see the Gentle Winds entrance on your right. This is a 10–15-minute drive covering 5.5 miles.
From Christiansted
Ask for a map if renting a car in Christiansted due to the one-way streets. Follow Highway 75 west out of town, then turn right onto Highway 80 north. After passing Salt River Bay, the Gentle Winds entrance will appear on your right. This is a 10–15-minute drive covering 4 miles.
To Calypso Condo at Gentle Winds (C-2)
Upon entering Gentle Winds, veer right at the guard shack. Look for the St. Croix building, which is the third building on the left (all buildings are named after Caribbean islands). C-2 is at the end nearest the entrance, eight steps up. You’ll receive the lockbox combination via email. Please leave the key in the lockbox. The keys for your use are inside, hanging on the key rack.
Condo Information
Inside the condo, you’ll find:
- A parking pass to hang on your rearview mirror. Please leave it in the unit at the end of your stay.
- A detailed notebook with essential information, including the phone number of our housekeeper, our cell and home phone numbers, dining recommendations, and activity suggestions.
Local Etiquette
When speaking to locals, always start with a greeting like “Good Morning,” “Good Afternoon,” or “Good Night” before asking questions. This is considered good manners and helps create a positive connection.
Favorite Activities
Enhance your stay at Calypso Condo at Gentle Winds with these popular local experiences:
- Big Beard’s Catamaran Tour: Sail from Christiansted to Buck Island. (340) 773-4482
- Beer-Drinking Pigs at Mt. Pellier Domino Club: A quirky rainforest attraction. (340) 227-2498
- Cruzan Rum Factory Tour: Witness the open vats and enjoy samples. (340) 692-2280
- St. George Village Botanical Gardens: A serene spot for nature lovers. (340) 692-2874
- Lyric Sails Sunset Cruise: A breathtaking evening on a 63-foot catamaran. (340) 201-3227
- Trimaran Tour from Green Cay to Buck Island: Take a tour with Capt. Heinz or Capt. Carl. (340) 718-3161
- Tour of Coral Nursery Facility: See where new corals are grown; open two days a week. (340) 718-5575
Don’t miss feeding chicken wing bones to the fast-moving tarpon on the Christiansted boardwalk!
Useful Links
- Car Rentals: Centerline Car Rentals (Toll-Free: (888) 288-8755, Local: 1 (340) 788-0450). They can pick you up at Gentle Winds the next day if you take a taxi to the unit, saving on airport fees and one day’s rental.
- Island Insights: Travel & Leisure’s 20 Best Things to Do in St. Croix, According to Locals
- Events Calendar: Virgin Islands This Week | Go to St. Croix
- Question & Answers about Visits to the Island
- Taxi Service: Taxis are usually waiting in front of the airport up until the last plane comes in. Taxis can be reserved ahead of time for late arrivals. Toll-Free (866) 788-1045, Local (340) 778-1088
Questions & Answers
We’ve compiled a helpful guide for commonly asked questions about Gentle Winds. For additional information, refer to the extensive notebook in the unit. Below, you’ll find specific answers to frequently asked questions for first-time visitors.
Beach, Snorkeling, & Swimming
How is the snorkeling and swimming at the beach? Is the water warm and clear?
- The water is warm and crystal clear. A swimming area with a sandy bottom inside the reef is marked off with buoys. Reef fish can be spotted between the buoys and the reef.
- For more advanced snorkeling, a narrow passage leads beyond the reef, offering views of reef fish and fan corals. Beware of the medium-strength current.
- For easier snorkeling, drive south of the pier on the west end, where there is no current, to explore basket sponges and dead man’s finger sponges. Cane Bay on the North Shore is another great spot.
Do we need water shoes?
Water shoes are recommended, as some loose pieces of coral are in the sand. They’re also essential for walking around the points at the ends of the beach.
Do you provide snorkel gear?
Some snorkel gear is available in the unit, but fit cannot be guaranteed. You can rent or buy gear from local dive shops.
Tour operators provide snorkel gear. To test the fit, place the mask over your face without putting the strap around your head, inhale to create a vacuum, bend over, and see if it stays on. If it falls off, it has let in air, and you need a different size.
Is there a beginner’s diving or snorkeling experience for teenagers?
For beginner’s diving, N2 The Blue in Frederiksted is highly recommended. It’s on the west shore where the waters are calm.
Condo Amenities
What amenities are provided?
- Beach Towels & Hair Dryers: Towels are available and can be air-dried. Each bathroom has a blow dryer.
- Shampoo & Conditioner: Yes, provided in the unit.
- Washer/Dryer: A large washer and dryer are inside the unit.
- Coffee Maker: There is a drip coffee maker, a small espresso maker, and a coffee bean grinder. Bring your own coffee for stronger brews, as local coffee is expensive.
- Ice Source: Tap water is purified on-site using reverse osmosis, and we have a filter for flavor as well.
- Bar: In the spring, it is fully stocked with vodka, gin, bourbon, Scotch, and several flavors of rum. Guests are asked to replace what they use.
Is there an outside grill?
Yes, a brand-new propane grill was installed in April 2024.
A large gas grill is also available at the rec room on a first come, first served basis.
Do you provide cleaning supplies?
Supplies for dishwashing and laundry are typically available but may run out. Guests are asked to replace what they use.
Do you provide daily cleaning services?
Cleaning services, including bed-making and basic cleanup, can be arranged for an additional fee. The manager will discuss options upon arrival.
Transportation
Should we rent a car or take a taxi?
- For late arrivals, it is recommended that you take a taxi to the condo. The next day, you can rent a car. Centerline Car Rentals is highly recommended—reserve in advance.
- Driving is on the left side of the road.
Is taxi service reliable?
Yes, but it can be expensive compared to car rentals if used frequently.
What is the parking process?
Hang the parking pass provided in the unit on your rearview mirror and return it after your stay.
Food & Drinks
Is there a restaurant or snack shack on the property?
The beach shack is open from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., with reduced hours during the low season. They are open four days a week from May through August unless there is a greater demand and closed in September and October. They accept credit cards.
Are groceries available nearby?
- Grocery stores include:
- Pueblo: Closest at La Reine.
- Plaza Extra East: Larger, at Sunny Isle (10 minutes farther).
- Food Town: 15 minutes further.
- Seaside Market & Deli: East of Christiansted with fresh fish.
- Cost U Less: Just beyond Sunny Isle and is like Costco.
- You can order groceries ahead of arrival for pickup.
Can we buy fresh fish or shrimp?
The condo’s notebook includes directions to the local fish market. Fresh lobster is sometimes sold roadside.
Should we use bottled water?
No, the water is safe to drink. Additional filters are installed on the kitchen sink and refrigerator.
Recreation & Excursions
Can we fish from the shore?
Fishing is allowed at the Lagoon or Frederiksted Pier without a license, provided you don’t sell your catch.
Are there day trips to Buck Island?
Reservations are typically available but are dependent on weather conditions. It’s best to call ahead.
Are there jeep excursions?
Jeep excursions are recommended for first-time visitors but may be rough for senior citizens. Call the provider for details.
Technology & Entertainment
Do you have a DVD player?
Yes, along with a Smart TV.
Additional FAQs
Do you provide spices, vinegar, oil, and coffee filters?
Yes, we do provide these items, but they are replenished by guests, so freshness, especially of the olive oil, may vary. There are several grocery stores nearby if you need to purchase more.
Does the king bedroom have an attached patio?
No, however, the upstairs queen bedroom has an attached patio. The downstairs king bedroom is connected to a covered veranda instead.
Are the electrical outlets the same on St. Croix as they are in the U.S.?
Yes, the electrical outlets on St. Croix are the same as in the U.S.
Are life vests available for use?
We provide “noodles” for floating, and you can use two or three of them. Life vests can be purchased or rented at various dive shops on the island.
Are beach towels provided?
Yes, beach towels are provided. You can hang them to dry on the wall or lay them on patio chairs in the sun. Please avoid drying them over the balconies, and do not use the dryer to prevent sand from clogging it.
Do we pay for food and drinks as we get them, or can we run a tab for the condo unit?
You can pay with a credit card, and it’s possible to pre-pay and run a tab. Nick is very accommodating in this regard.
Can we use credit/debit cards on the island?
Yes, credit and debit cards are accepted, but it’s important to notify your card provider before you travel to avoid issues with card blocks. It’s always a good idea to bring at least two cards in case one doesn’t work.
What are the typical costs for food, drinks, and other items?
While we cannot provide specific prices, please note that items like coffee tend to be more expensive than in the U.S. However, rum prices are fairly reasonable. We recommend bringing your own coffee if you prefer.
Can we leave as late as 11 a.m. on our departure day?
If no one is coming on the same day, you can leave at any time; just let our housekeeper know in advance. If someone is arriving that day, you can still stay on the property and store your luggage in the nearby storeroom. You can use the pool and changing rooms by the pool until your departure.
Is there a recommended group for scuba diving or other activities?
According to TripAdvisor, there are several highly rated dive shops on St. Croix:
- N2 The Blue (Frederiksted): 5-star ratings from 29 reviewers; calm waters on the west end.
- Dive Experience (Christiansted): 5-star ratings from 71 reviewers and 4-star ratings from 5 reviewers; enjoy lionfish hunting using spear guns that they provide when you take their class.
- Sweet Bottom at Carambola (North Shore): 5-star ratings from 115 reviewers and 4-star ratings from 2 reviewers.
- SCUBA (St. Croix Ultimate Bluewater Adventures): 5-star ratings from 220 reviewers, 4-star ratings from 9 reviewers, and 3-star ratings from 3 reviewers; well-regarded for their services.
- Cane Bay: Rated moderately with 5-1-0-0-1 reviews; a more affordable choice for shore dives.
- Anchor Dive (Salt River Marina): Fewer reviews and not highly rated recently.
For beginners, N2 The Blue is a great starting point. You can progress to other shops like Sweet Bottom or SCUBA. It’s always best to call ahead, especially on cruise ship days, to ensure you have a spot.
General Tips
- Mosquito Repellant: We recommend wearing repellant at all times to avoid mosquito-borne viruses, such as dengue or chikungunya. Bring one with DEET. Cutter’s Dry Spray (10% DEET) is non-greasy, non-fragrant, and lasts two hours.
- Local Restaurants: Options include Cane Bay favorites such as The Landing, Off the Wall, AMA, and Rowdy Joe’s.
- ATM Access: Available at the airport, STX Brew Pub, and drive-through banks. Most vendors accept credit and debit cards, though small vendors may prefer cash.
For more detailed guidance, refer to the condo’s notebook or reach out during your stay. Enjoy your vacation at Calypso Condo at Gentle Winds. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to contact us today.