I've never stayed at cottages by the sea, but know people who have and were satisfied with what they got. The area is not great for snorkeling, but you can go north of F'sted and it's very good.

That said, Cottages is a little out of the way. Do you plan on renting a car? If so, you'll be fine. If not, you're a little isolated.

have fun.

I've been to St.Croix 8 times and am planning the 9th visit for this July. Fredericksted is really quiet and a bit of a drive to the other stuff on the island. I strongly recomend the you consder the Buccaneer. Check out their website for prices and promotions. They have a great breakfast buffet that is included in your room rate. They offer free nights,food and beverage credits along with some other stuff. If you stay in a mountain view room, you might find that overall you get a better value for your $. I do not know much about Cottages by the Sea but you will not be dsappointed if you choose the Buccaneer. Either way I'm sure you'll have a great time. St Croix is just a wonderful island. It's by far our favorite of all the 7 or 8 others we' been to.

Although I understand they are currently for sale, my inclination is to recommend Cane Bay Reef Club or The Waves at Cane Bay. Both are quite close to Cane Bay, which has wonderful snorkeling and a great beach.

Another choice could be Hotel on the Cay, which has very good snorkeling off the beach and at a lesser known spot off the back of the island by the old tennis courts. That would give you easy access to all the activities in town - shopping, dining, historic sites, etc. Or stay in Christiansted and take the ferry over to Hotel on the Cay - it takes only 90 seconds.

hey beachbound,

cottages is a nice, quaint little area. it is semi-secluded, but is a few minute drive into frederiksted. unlike most people on here, i highly recommend staying out west in frederiksted. the town is quieter the christiansted and there is plenty of activities going on. and contrary to what some other people have said, the snorkeling off of cottages' beach is just fine. if you head there, swim directly out from cottages and then swim south towards sandy point. if you decide to stay there, paul and his family will be more then willing to help you in any way possible. it's not a resort, so if you're looking for that go elsewhere. but if you want something small and cozy, while being super-relaxed, head to cottages. feel free to shoot me questions on any type of activity you're looking for. this island has more then most people know.

-adam