Our Favorite Things to Do in Cruz Bay

Cruz Bay is a small town that packs a big punch in terms of charm and adventure. It’s the gateway to the Virgin Islands National Park—and a great place to grab a bite to eat, shop local and do some exploring before you head to your favorite St. John beach. Best of all, it’s an easy day trip from any of our Island Luxury villas and condos on St. Thomas. Read on to learn about our favorite things to do in Cruz Bay. 

Getting There

Cruz Bay is just a 20-minute ferry ride from St. Thomas’s East End. You can reach Cruz Bay by car ferry, passenger ferry or boat charter. If you’re taking a ferry, be sure to note departure times so that you don’t miss your trip back to St. Thomas.

Travel Tip: Our concierge service can help Island Luxury guests arrange transportation to St. John. Contact us for assistance and help discovering more things to do in Cruz Bay.  

The Cruz Bay Visitor’s Center

Two-thirds of St. John lies within the Virgin Islands National Park - that’s a lot to explore, especially if you’re just visiting for a single day! A quick stop at the Cruz Bay Visitor’s Center will help acquaint you with the park highlights. You’ll also learn about the history of St. John, from the ancient Taino people to today. If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to stop in and grab your junior ranger packet. They can complete the activities inside then return to be sworn in as an “official” Virgin Islands National Park Junior Ranger, complete with their own badge. 

Travel Tip: The visitors center is open Monday-Thursday from 8:15 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Friday from 8:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Check the website for holiday closures. 

Hike the Lind Point Trail to Honeymoon Beach

You don’t need to drive or taxi to the beach - one of the most stunning stretches of sand on St. John is an easy hike away. The Lind Point Trail starts near the Cruz Bay Visitor’s Center and winds through the scrub and foliage before ending at Honeymoon Beach. You can also take a side trail to Solomon Beach. The loop to the beach and back again covers two miles and takes 1-2 hours for most hikers to complete. 

Travel Tip: Wear hiking sandals or tennis shoes, and bring some flip flops to change into once you reach the beach. Don’t forget plenty of drinking water and sunscreen! 

Shop Local

Get your shopping fix, grab a sandwich or enjoy an ice cream at Mongoose Junction, a Cruz Bay shopping center that’s just a five-minute walk from the Red Hook-Cruz Bay ferry dock. Built from local stone and coral, this shopping center was inspired by Danish structures from the island’s colonial history. 

If you’re looking for the perfect hook bracelet, we recommend stopping in at Vibe Jewelry. This locally owned store specializes in handmade jewelry that reflects the beauty of the islands. In addition to the hook bracelet (traditionally worn as a way to signify whether you’re married or single), they also have jewelry inspired by the Taino petroglyphs on St. John and many other local creations. 

Travel tip: Stop in at Mongoose Junction’s North Shore Deli and grab sandwiches and drinks for a picnic lunch on the beach. 

Grab a Bite

One of our favorite things to do in Cruz Bay is enjoy a meal at one of our favorite restaurants. There are many amazing options, but are a few of the standouts:

Upscale: Morgan’s Mango

This family-owned restaurant has been serving up island-fresh flavors for more than 30 years. Ask about the catch of the day or visit on a Tuesday or Saturday for fresh-caught Caribbean lobster. 

Breathtaking Views: The Windmill Bar

If you’re looking for breakfast, lunch or dinner with a side of ocean views, don’t miss The Windmill Bar. Enjoy live music and after eating, grab a photo in the ruins of the Susannaberg windmill that gives the restaurant its name. 

Good Drinks and Good Vibes: The Beach Bar

Get your island party started at The Beach Bar! This oceanfront bar and restaurant is a favorite of locals and tourists alike. It’s a great place to grab a burger, enjoy an island-classic Painkiller and relax to live music. 

Enjoy a Glass or Buy a Bottle: The Wine Shop

Stop into The Wine Shop at Wharfside Village for a glass of fine wine, a classic cocktail and small bites, or pick up a bottle to enjoy later. 

What are your favorite things to do in Cruz Bay? 

Cruz Bay is more than just a starting point — it’s the heart of St. John. Enjoy your time in this special place, and please leave a comment and tell us your favorite things to do in Cruz Bay!