Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of deep blue waters as far as the eye can see at the easternmost point (by travel) in the United States! Point Udall is one of St. Croix’s most sought out attractions not only because of its breathtaking views but also the location’s significance. It was named in honor of Stewart Udall who served as United States Secretary of the Interior under Presidents John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson from 1961-1969. As the year 2000 marked the start of a new millennium, Point Udall was selected as the site for the United States Millennium Monument. Complete with a sundial, this stone structure marked what was the first U.S. sunrise at the turn of the century. The monument consists of four angular wedges that point up from the ground around a central pole. The wedges are made of a composite material of smaller stones joined by cement. The sundial still remains to this day and continues to tell solar time. Fun Fact: Did you know that the westernmost point in the United States is also called Point Udall? It is located in Guam and is named in honor of Morris Udall, who was Stewart Udall’s brother.
Seeing the sunrise at Point Udall is a regular bucket list item for visitors. You will be one of the first persons in the United States to see the sunrise. Do an Internet search to see what time the sunrise is scheduled to happen on the day you’re planning to go and arrive at Point Udall 35-45 minutes BEFORE this time. This guarantees that you see the sun as it breaks through the water and rises into the sky! Bonus Tip: Cellphone service is spotty out on this end of the island. Be sure to visit with someone or let a friend or family member know where you’re going in the event of an emergency.
Article written by Anquanette Gaspard (agaspard@cruzanfoodie.com) for Coldwell Banker, St. Croix Realty
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