St Croix in the US Virgin Islands is a wonderful place to ocean kayak and has an awesome Hobie dealer and guide in Bryan Updyke at Virgin Kayak. He's a character and you never fail to get a history and nature lesson when you go with him.
My favorite kayaking spot on the island is Great Pond on the southshore of St Croix. Great Pond and its adjacent beaches feature several miles of long and rather deserted beaches, lots of sea turtles, and a barrier reef that keeps the water relatively flat. You need a four-wheeler to get to the beach, but it's worth the trip.
My other favorite spot to kayak on STX is on the dramatic NW coastline known as "Ham's Bluff". On a calm day, which is about 2 out of every 7, it's spectacular. Put in at Carambola Beach Resort.
Kayaking over to Buck Island is also a great open water adventure. Buck, a Natl Park, is about two miles off the north shore on the east end of the island. Currents and winds make it challenging some days, but the mirage system makes the difference and you'll likely be joined by green turtles and dolphins. Riding the current down the north side of the island to the main city is another favorite trip, ...when I could convince someone to come pick me up!
Lived on STX for four years and enjoyed it immensely. Great diving and beautiful coastlines to kayak.
