The Palms at Pelican Cove

The Palms at Pelican Cove immediately looks like a slice of tropical paradise -- complete with a sandy beach, coconut trees, and if you’re lucky, the pelicans to which the hotel owes its namesake. Roosters and giant iguanas wander the property too, so if pelicans are harder to find, these will at least add some life to the already vibrant scene. The large semi-open air lobby is kept cool by overhead ceiling fans and set with gray wicker furniture topped with marine-blue cushions. Yellow paint on the walls could use a touchup, and a bulletin board tacked with announcements next to the front desk looks cluttered. Overall, the vibe is laidback and friendly, which appeals to families with small children. 

Palms at Pelican Grove is located in Christiansted, on the eastern side of St. Croix, near the Long Reef (which is good for snorkeling). It takes just 12 minutes by car to get to the waterfront shops and restaurants in downtown Christiansted, and 18 minutes to the Henry E. Rohlsen Airport. The resort is only accessible via car, so getting to explore the dining and nightlife options requires a taxi or rental.  The seafood restaurant Waves at Cane Bay is a 20-minute drive away, as is the diving spot in the same bay. Getting to Point Udall, the easternmost point of the United States, requires driving for about a half an hour.

40 guest rooms are large, private, and most have gorgeous postcard-like views of palm trees and the sandy beach, mere steps from the rooms, though cheaper rooms overlook a pretty garden. Decor is cheerfully tropical: yellow walls, pelican-themed lamps, four-poster beds, and palm tree printed pillows. Extra touches include fresh flower bouquets and a small bottle of the local Cruzan rum. Bathrooms have big showers and plenty of counter space. A basket filled with toiletries is accented with a huge seashell. Some rooms have double sinks and all include a small hairdryer attached to the wall. Televisions, coffeemakers, and mini-fridges, along with private outdoor patios are featured in all the rooms. Rooms are clean, but look a bit dated, and there are maintenance issues like rust in the mini-fridges and cracks in the walls. 

The on-site Palms Restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a weekly brunch. Prices aren’t cheap and service can be slow, but that seems typical for the island. Room service is available. The food is above average and sometimes there are themed nights with live music and a special menu. The hotel also has an adjacent bar with its own respective menu and comfy lounge seating. Happy hour and wings specials are common occurrences. 

The hotel lobby has a small corner with a computer and printer for guests to use, and there’s also free Wi-Fi throughout the property. The on-site pool is small and adjacent to both the beach and the waterfront restaurant. It’s where diving lessons happen for those who want to be scuba-certified, something the hotel can help to organize. The hotel also offers free snorkeling trips with the owner and his son just off the beach, complete with a picture CD at the end. Snorkeling gear is free to borrow. Guests can use the outdoor tennis courts and borrow free equipment.

The resort’s beach is lovely not only for the idyllic vista, but it’s also the first site on the island to receive Blue Flag status -- an international award to recognize water safety, quality, and environmental management and education. It spans the property and grants shade under the numerous palm trees dotting the grounds.