Cruz Bay Visitor Center: Gateway to Virgin Islands National Park
Your adventure starts here! Discover St. John's natural beauty, hiking trails, and underwater snorkel trails at the Virgin Islands National Park.
The Cruz Bay Visitor Center serves as the primary information hub for Virgin Islands National Park on St. John. Located a short walk from the Cruz Bay ferry dock, it offers exhibits, maps, brochures, and guidance from park rangers to help visitors explore the park's natural and historical treasures.
A brief summary to Cruz Bay Visitor Center
- 86M4+4F4, Virgin Island National Park, Caneel Bay, St John, 00830, VI
- +1340-776-6201
- Visit website
- Monday 8:15 am-1:30 pm
- Tuesday 8:15 am-1:30 pm
- Wednesday 8:15 am-1:30 pm
- Thursday 8:15 am-1:30 pm
- Friday 8:15 am-1:30 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to popular beaches like Trunk Bay, as parking lots often fill up by 10:00 am.
- Check the visitor center's schedule for ranger-led programs, historical tours, and cultural demonstrations.
- Bring plenty of water and avoid hiking during the hottest part of the day.
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid touching unknown plants, as some, like the Manchineel tree, are poisonous.
- Protect the coral reefs by not touching or standing on them while snorkeling or swimming.
Getting There
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Walking
The Cruz Bay Visitor Center is conveniently located within a short walk from the Cruz Bay ferry dock. Upon disembarking the ferry, head north on Route 20, and the visitor center will be on your left, approximately two blocks from the dock.
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Public Transport
If arriving via public transportation (VITRAN bus), the bus travels from the Cruz Bay ferry dock along Centerline Road to Salt Pond Bay with various stops along the way. Check with the driver for the return schedule. The visitor center is a short walk from the ferry dock bus stop. A one-way fare is around $1.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available at the Cruz Bay ferry dock. A taxi from anywhere in Cruz Bay to the Visitor Center should be a short, inexpensive ride, typically costing around $5-$10. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your trip.
Discover more about Cruz Bay Visitor Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Trunk Cay, United States Virgin Islands
3.6 km
Explore the underwater wonders of Trunk Cay, a stunning islet in St. John's famed Trunk Bay, offering an unforgettable snorkeling experience.
Catherineberg Estate Ruins
3.7 km
Discover the enchanting remnants of Catherineberg Estate Ruins in St. John, where history meets breathtaking Caribbean views.
Cinnamon Bay Plantation Ruins
4.6 km
Step back in time at Cinnamon Bay Plantation Ruins, exploring St. John's captivating history and the echoes of its sugar-producing past.
Virgin Islands National Park
4.8 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich history of Virgin Islands National Park on St. John, a tropical paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Cinnamon Bay Trail
4.9 km
Hike through history amidst tropical beauty on St. John's Cinnamon Bay Trail, where sugar plantation ruins meet breathtaking island views.
Reef Bay Sugar Mill Ruins
5.2 km
Explore the enchanting Reef Bay Sugar Mill Ruins and immerse yourself in the historical charm and natural beauty of St. John in the US Virgin Islands.
Whistling Cay, United States Virgin Islands
5.7 km
Discover the enchanting Whistling Cay, a serene island paradise in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where pristine beaches and vibrant marine life await.
St John
6.9 km
Experience the serene beauty and vibrant culture of St. John, the jewel of the U.S. Virgin Islands, featuring stunning beaches and lush landscapes.
Thatch Cay, U.S. Virgin Islands
7.0 km
Discover Thatch Cay: An unspoiled Caribbean island offering pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and a tranquil escape just off St. Thomas.
Annaberg Sugar Plantation
7.5 km
Explore the historic Annaberg Sugar Plantation in St. John, US Virgin Islands, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Caribbean.
Little Thatch
9.9 km
Escape to Little Thatch Island in the British Virgin Islands for pristine beaches, tranquil waters, and a serene Caribbean getaway.
Steele Point Estate
10.5 km
Discover the ultimate group getaway at Steele Point Estate, a luxurious retreat in the British Virgin Islands with breathtaking ocean views and top-notch amenities.
St Thomas
10.6 km
Discover St. Thomas: stunning beaches, duty-free shopping, and a vibrant Caribbean culture await in this US Virgin Islands paradise.
Omar's Fusion
11.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean at Omar's Fusion, a top restaurant in Soper's Hole, Tortola, known for its fresh seafood and live music.
VOYAGE Charters
11.3 km
Experience the beauty of the British Virgin Islands with luxury yacht rentals at VOYAGE Charters, your gateway to unforgettable sailing adventures.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bajo el Sol Gallery, Art Bar Cafe & Rum Shop
0.1 km
Explore the artistic heart of St. John at Bajo el Sol Gallery, where art meets Caribbean culture in a vibrant café setting.
Captain Jug Charters
0.2 km
Discover St. John's hidden gems with personalized boat tours. Snorkel, explore secluded beaches, and create unforgettable memories on the Caribbean Sea.
Freedom Statue
0.2 km
Visit the Freedom Statue in Cruz Bay, St. John, a poignant symbol of emancipation and resilience in the Virgin Islands.
Cruz Bay
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant heart of St. John: ferries, shops, restaurants, and access to the island's natural wonders all in Cruz Bay!
Lind Point Trail
0.3 km
Hike from Cruz Bay to secluded beaches, discover historical remnants, and enjoy panoramic views on St. John's scenic Lind Point Trail.
Honeymoon Beach
0.9 km
Discover Honeymoon Beach in St. John: pristine sands, clear waters, and a tranquil escape within the Virgin Islands National Park.
Caneel Bay
1.4 km
Discover the pristine beauty and rich history of Caneel Bay, St. John, where turquoise waters meet the remnants of a bygone era.
Caneel Bay Beach
2.0 km
Discover the beauty of Caneel Bay Beach in St. John, a serene escape with soft sands, calm waters, and a rich history within Virgin Islands National Park.
Hawksnest Beach
2.0 km
Discover Hawksnest Beach in St. John: a scenic and accessible beach with calm waters, excellent snorkeling, and convenient amenities for a perfect Caribbean getaway.
Turtle Bay Beach
2.1 km
Discover tranquility at Turtle Bay Beach in St. John: a serene escape with white sands, clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Perfect for relaxation and snorkeling.
Oppenheimer Beach
2.4 km
Discover a serene St. John beach with calm waters, excellent snorkeling, and a fascinating history connected to J. Robert Oppenheimer.
Jumbie Beach
3.0 km
Discover Jumbie Beach: St. John's secluded paradise offering tranquility, clear waters, and stunning views, just steps from the iconic North Shore Road.
Lovango Cay, U.S. Virgin Islands
3.5 km
Discover Lovango Cay: A private island escape offering snorkeling, luxury accommodations, and breathtaking Caribbean views just minutes from St. John.
Trunk Bay
3.5 km
Discover Trunk Bay, St. John: voted one of the world's best beaches, offering pristine sands, turquoise waters, and vibrant snorkeling.
Essential places to dine
Ekaete Pink Corner
8.6 km
Discover the flavors of the Caribbean at Ekaete Pink Corner in Coral Bay - a delightful restaurant serving authentic dishes with stunning views.
Lime Out VI
8.7 km
Discover unforgettable flavors at Lime Out VI, a premier restaurant in Coral Bay offering fresh seafood and stunning ocean views.
Patricias Beach Bar
11.9 km
Discover culinary delights at Patricias Beach Bar - a tropical grill haven in the heart of the British Virgin Islands.
Ocean Seven Too
12.6 km
Experience exquisite Caribbean cuisine at Ocean Seven Too in White Bay, British Virgin Islands - where every meal is a feast for your senses.
Claude’s Big Stop Restaurant & Bar
12.6 km
Discover authentic Caribbean flavors at Claude's Big Stop Restaurant & Bar in Belle Vue - a true gem for food enthusiasts visiting the British Virgin Islands.
Long Bay Beach Resort
13.2 km
Experience luxury and tranquility at Long Bay Beach Resort in the British Virgin Islands - your perfect tropical escape.
Tipsy Shark
13.3 km
Discover culinary excellence at Tipsy Shark in Belle Vue, where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views in the heart of the British Virgin Islands.
Corsairs Beach Bar & Restaurant
13.3 km
Discover Corsairs Beach Bar & Restaurant: A Culinary Oasis in Belle Vue Offering Breathtaking Views and Delicious Local Cuisine.
A&B Bar and Restaurant
13.3 km
Experience the best of Caribbean cuisine at A&B Bar and Restaurant in Belle Vue - where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.
Ali Baba's
13.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of the British Virgin Islands at Ali Baba's Grill - where every meal is a celebration of local cuisine.
Cool Breeze Sports Bar & Restaurant
13.3 km
Savor authentic Caribbean cuisine at Cool Breeze Sports Bar & Restaurant in Great Harbor – your go-to spot for breakfast and sports!
1748 Restaurant
13.4 km
Experience exquisite Caribbean cuisine with stunning views at 1748 Restaurant in Long Bay, British Virgin Islands.
Pinky's delight
13.4 km
Discover authentic Caribbean cuisine at Pinky's Delight in Great Harbour, Belle Vue – a dining experience like no other!
Tropical Fusion Beach Bar And Grill
13.4 km
Experience tropical flavors and breathtaking views at Tropical Fusion Beach Bar And Grill in Long Bay - a culinary gem in the British Virgin Islands.
Harris' Place
13.4 km
Discover authentic Caribbean flavors at Harris' Place in Jost Van Dyke—where every meal is a celebration of local culture and cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
VI National Park Store
0.0 km
Shop for unique souvenirs and support conservation efforts at the charming VI National Park Store in St. John.
Riteway Harbour Market
11.3 km
Experience the vibrant local flavors and fresh produce at Riteway Harbour Market in Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands.
BVI Island Surf and Sail
11.3 km
Experience the thrill of water sports at BVI Island Surf and Sail in the breathtaking British Virgin Islands, where adventure meets paradise.
Harbor Market
11.4 km
Discover local flavors and essential supplies at Harbor Market in Soper's Hole, your go-to supermarket in the British Virgin Islands.
Coco Loco
12.6 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Coco Loco, the ultimate beach bar in the British Virgin Islands offering stunning views and refreshing drinks.
BVI Adenture
12.7 km
Explore the best sporting goods in the British Virgin Islands at BVI Adventure, your one-stop shop for outdoor gear and equipment.
Sugar & Spice Snack Bar
13.1 km
Experience the taste of the Caribbean at Sugar & Spice Snack Bar in Belle Vue, offering a delightful grill menu with stunning coastal views.
Jost Van Dyke Scuba
13.3 km
Explore the breathtaking underwater world at Jost Van Dyke Scuba, a top diving destination in the British Virgin Islands.
Rudy's Marketplace
13.3 km
Explore the unique offerings of Rudy's Marketplace, a vibrant destination in Belle Vue, British Virgin Islands, blending shopping, dining, and local culture.
Foxy's Giftshop
13.3 km
Explore the vibrant culture of the British Virgin Islands at Foxy's Giftshop, where unique souvenirs and delicious Caribbean cuisine await.
Foxy's, Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands
13.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and Caribbean culture at Foxy's, the quintessential beachfront bar in Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands.
JVD Grocery
13.3 km
Explore JVD Grocery in Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke for an unforgettable shopping experience with local flavors and essentials.
The SHOPS at Yacht Haven Grande
13.4 km
Discover luxury shopping and local treasures at The SHOPS at Yacht Haven Grande, offering stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere in St. Thomas.
Christine's Bakery
13.4 km
Discover a delightful bakery experience at Christine's Bakery in Belle Vue, offering fresh pastries, artisan bread, and local flavors.
By Isah Chinnery
14.8 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Isah Chinnery's Gift Shop in Long Bay, British Virgin Islands, capturing the spirit of island life.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Windmill Bar
2.5 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and relaxing ambiance of The Windmill Bar in Cruz Bay, a perfect stop for grill lovers and tropical drink enthusiasts alike.
West End
10.4 km
Explore the natural beauty and vibrant culture of West End, a serene peninsula in the British Virgin Islands perfect for beach lovers and adventure seekers.
Admiral's Bar
11.5 km
Experience the lively spirit of Admiral's Bar in the British Virgin Islands, where exceptional drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.
Nigel’s Boom Boom Beach Bar & Grill
11.9 km
Discover the vibrant taste of the British Virgin Islands at Nigel’s Boom Boom Beach Bar & Grill, where delicious food and stunning views await.
Coco Locos
12.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Coco Locos Beach Bar in White Bay, British Virgin Islands, where refreshing cocktails meet stunning ocean views.
