Things to Do in Cruz Bay
The island’s front door, a walkable little town around the ferry dock.
See top-rated activities »About Cruz Bay
Cruz Bay is where almost every trip to St. John begins and ends. The passenger ferries tie up right in the middle of town, and within a couple of blocks are taxi stands, rental-car desks, grocery stores, bars, restaurants and small shops. It is lively in the evenings, especially in winter, and much quieter than anything on St. Thomas.
Start at the Cruz Bay Visitor Center of Virgin Islands National Park, a few minutes’ walk from the dock, for maps, current trail conditions and ranger programs. From behind the visitor center, the Lind Point Trail climbs over the headland to Salomon Bay and Honeymoon Beach, an easy way to reach a beach without a car.
Mongoose Junction, a stone-built shopping and dining courtyard on North Shore Road at the edge of town, holds galleries, jewelry studios, cafes and the tap room of St. John Brewers. Closer to the water, the streets around the park and the ferry dock fill with open-air bars at sunset, and Gallows Point on the south side of the harbor has some of the best evening views across to St. Thomas.
Many boat trips leave from Cruz Bay, including snorkel sails, private charters and day trips around the island. If you have only a day on St. John, a boat tour from here is the easiest way to see several bays in one go.
Don’t Miss
Maps, exhibits, ranger advice and the latest trail and beach conditions, a short walk from the ferry.
A short trail from town over the headland to Salomon Bay and Honeymoon Beach, with harbor views on the way.
A stone courtyard of galleries, boutiques and cafes on North Shore Road.
Passenger ferries from Red Hook and Charlotte Amalie arrive here; the Port Authority posts current schedules.
Top-Rated Tours, Tickets & Activities in Cruz Bay
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ViatorTours, tickets, prices and reviews from Viator (a Tripadvisor company) and Tiqets — prices are per person, from, and were checked October 28, 2026. Best of St. John may earn a commission when you book, at no extra cost to you.
Plan your time in Cruz Bay
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Get free trip quotes »Cruz Bay — FAQ
Is Cruz Bay walkable?
Yes. The ferry dock, restaurants, shops, visitor center and Mongoose Junction are all within about ten minutes on foot, though the streets are hilly and some lack sidewalks.
Can I visit St. John for a day from a cruise ship?
Yes. Ships dock on St. Thomas; take a taxi to Red Hook and the ferry to Cruz Bay, or book a ship or independent tour. Leave plenty of time to get back for all-aboard.
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