Altona Lagoon is a serene and scenic lagoon located on the eastern side of Christiansted. Known for its tranquil waters and lush natural surroundings, the lagoon is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike who enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and birdwatching. The surrounding mangrove forests add to the lagoon’s ecological richness, making it an important habitat for various fish species and migratory birds.
One of the unique aspects of Altona Lagoon is its relatively undisturbed environment, offering a peaceful retreat compared to some of the island’s more bustling areas. It’s a perfect location for nature enthusiasts interested in the diverse ecosystems of St. Croix. The lagoon is also adjacent to a sandy beach area, ideal for picnics and family outings, and features facilities like picnic tables and small boat ramps, making it accessible for those looking to spend a day by the water.
Altona Lagoon holds historical significance, as it lies near Christiansted, one of St. Croix’s historic towns with deep ties to the island’s colonial past. Exploring the lagoon provides visitors with a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and rich history of St. Croix, making it a memorable destination for anyone looking to experience the island’s peaceful side.
The name Altona may have been inspired by the Altona district in Hamburg, which was historically part of the Danish Kingdom until 1864. Altona in Hamburg is significant in that Governor Peter von Scholten’s daughter lived there, and it is where Governor Von Scholten lived out his final days. The term “Lagoon” derives from the French lagune (itself from Latin lacuna, meaning a hollow or cavity). French terms and influences were common in Caribbean place names because of the region’s multicultural colonial history. On the Oxholm map of Christiansted, “La Goon” might reflect an attempt to blend or approximate the French term. On older maps, words were sometimes split phonetically or due to spacing constraints. “La Goon” could simply reflect a stylistic choice in labeling.
How to get there.
From Gallows Bay, turn left to enter the park . The new concrete bridge is to the left, and the temporary steel bridge to the right. Take the concrete bridge. The road around the park is a loop with many speed bumps. Taking the road to the right goes past the Lagoon, and at the east end there is a road to the right that takes you to Little Bay, a cute, little known sandy beach. Continuing to the left, there is a fork to the right that climbs up to Fort Louise Augusta, but the trail is rough and overgrown. Bear to the left to pass by the ocean side beach, back towards the concrete bridge.
While not part of Altona Lagoon, Little Bay is well known among locals but isolated from the usual tourist traffic. It has a cute beach with parking and picnic tables, but the access from the Lagoon Park loop is deeply potholed demanding a higher ground clearance than a standard sedan.
