Cruz Bay: The Heart of St. John
Experience the vibrant heart of St. John: ferries, shops, restaurants, and access to the island's natural wonders all in Cruz Bay!
Cruz Bay is the main town on St. John, serving as the island's transportation hub and commercial center. Here, visitors arrive by ferry, explore local shops and restaurants, and access the Virgin Islands National Park.
A brief summary to Cruz Bay
- Cruz Bay, St John, VI
Local tips
- Bring cash, as many parking lots and smaller vendors prefer it.
- Explore Mongoose Junction for unique shops and local art.
- Visit the National Park Visitor Center for information on hiking trails and park activities.
- Check the ferry schedule in advance, especially for late-night departures.
- Be aware that parking can be challenging, especially during high season.
Getting There
-
Walking
From the ferry dock, most of Cruz Bay's attractions are easily accessible on foot. The National Park Visitor Center, shops, and restaurants are all within a short walk. Be aware of uneven sidewalks and pedestrian traffic.
-
Public Transport
The VITRAN bus system offers an inexpensive way to travel from Cruz Bay to other parts of St. John. The bus travels along Centerline Road, with stops at various points towards Coral Bay and Salt Pond Bay. The bus stop is near the public restrooms next to the customs dock. Keep in mind that the bus schedule may be unreliable. A one-way fare is around $1-3.
-
Taxi
Taxis are readily available at the ferry dock in Cruz Bay. They are a convenient way to reach destinations throughout the island. Taxi rates are per person and per destination, with fares to popular beaches like Trunk Bay typically around $10-$15 per person. Be sure to confirm the rate with the driver before departing. Taxis also offer island tours at an hourly rate. Expect to pay a premium for private taxi service.
-
Ferry
To reach Cruz Bay from St. Thomas, you can take a ferry from either Red Hook or Charlotte Amalie. The Red Hook ferry is more frequent and takes approximately 20 minutes, costing $7 per adult and $1 per child each way, plus $2-$4 per luggage. The Charlotte Amalie ferry takes about 45 minutes. Another ferry route is from Crown Bay in St. Thomas to Cruz Bay, which takes about 35 minutes and costs $20 for adults, $15 for seniors, and $10 for children.
Discover more about Cruz Bay
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Catherineberg Estate Ruins
3.7 km
Discover the enchanting remnants of Catherineberg Estate Ruins in St. John, where history meets breathtaking Caribbean views.
Lovango Cay, U.S. Virgin Islands
3.7 km
Discover Lovango Cay: A luxurious private island escape in the US Virgin Islands, offering pristine beaches, vibrant reefs, and upscale amenities.
Trunk Cay, United States Virgin Islands
3.7 km
Explore the underwater wonders of Trunk Cay, a stunning islet in St. John's famed Trunk Bay, offering an unforgettable snorkeling experience.
Cinnamon Bay Plantation Ruins
4.7 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
4.7 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
5.0 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
5.1 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
5.9 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
7.2 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
7.6 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
10.6 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
10.7 km
Discover St. Thomas: stunning beaches, duty-free shopping, and a vibrant Caribbean culture await in this US Virgin Islands paradise.
Omar's Fusion
11.3 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Roti King
0.1 km
Experience the authentic flavors of the Caribbean at The Roti King, a culinary treasure in Cruz Bay, St. John.
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.
Bajo el Sol Gallery, Art Bar Cafe & Rum Shop
0.2 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of St. John at Bajo el Sol Gallery, where art meets culinary delights in a lively Caribbean setting.
Parasail Virgin Islands
0.2 km
Experience breathtaking views and exhilarating adventures with Parasail Virgin Islands, the ultimate parasailing destination in St. John.
Virgin Islands National Park Service Headquarters
0.3 km
Explore the gateway to the Virgin Islands National Park, where adventure, nature, and history come together in a Caribbean paradise.
EXPERIENCE ST JOHN ISLAND TOURS USVI
0.3 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of St. John Island with exceptional guided tours showcasing the island's landscapes, culture, and marine life.
Cruz Bay Visitor Center
0.3 km
Explore the natural splendor of Virgin Islands National Park at Cruz Bay Visitor Center, your essential hub for information and adventure.
St John Experience Gallery
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant artistic expressions of St. John at the St. John Experience Gallery, showcasing local talent and Caribbean culture.
Captain Jug Charters
0.4 km
Explore St. John's stunning waters with personalized boat tours, snorkeling adventures, and unforgettable memories with Captain Jug Charters.
Cruz Bay Beach
0.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of Cruz Bay Beach, a tropical paradise in St. John, US Virgin Islands, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Lind Point Trail
0.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lind Point Trail, a scenic hiking area in St. John, US Virgin Islands, offering stunning views and lush landscapes.
Honeymoon Beach
1.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Honeymoon Beach in Caneel Bay, St. John, where pristine sands meet crystal-clear waters for an unforgettable tropical escape.
Caneel Bay Beach Club
1.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Caneel Bay Beach Club in St. John, a perfect escape for relaxation and adventure amidst stunning Caribbean landscapes.
Caneel Bay
1.5 km
Experience the tropical charm of Caneel Bay in St. John, US Virgin Islands, where pristine beaches and vibrant marine life await every traveler.
Steven Cay, United States Virgin Islands
1.5 km
Discover the untouched beauty of Steven Cay, a hidden gem in the United States Virgin Islands, perfect for adventure and relaxation alike.
Essential places to dine
Ekaete Pink Corner
8.5 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
12.0 km
Discover culinary delights at Patricias Beach Bar - a tropical grill haven in the heart of the British Virgin Islands.
Ocean Seven Too
12.9 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
12.9 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.
1748 Restaurant
13.4 km
Experience exquisite Caribbean cuisine with stunning views at 1748 Restaurant in Long Bay, British Virgin Islands.
Tropical Fusion Beach Bar And Grill
13.5 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.
Tipsy Shark
13.5 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
13.5 km
Discover Corsairs Beach Bar & Restaurant: A Culinary Oasis in Belle Vue Offering Breathtaking Views and Delicious Local Cuisine.
A&B Bar and Restaurant
13.5 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
13.5 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
13.5 km
Savor authentic Caribbean cuisine at Cool Breeze Sports Bar & Restaurant in Great Harbor – your go-to spot for breakfast and sports!
Harris' Place
13.6 km
Discover authentic Caribbean flavors at Harris' Place in Jost Van Dyke—where every meal is a celebration of local culture and cuisine.
Pinky's delight
13.6 km
Discover authentic Caribbean cuisine at Pinky's Delight in Great Harbour, Belle Vue – a dining experience like no other!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
VI National Park Store
0.3 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
11.4 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
11.5 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
12.9 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
12.9 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
13.3 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
13.5 km
Explore the breathtaking underwater world at Jost Van Dyke Scuba, a top diving destination in the British Virgin Islands.
Rudy's Marketplace
13.5 km
Explore the unique offerings of Rudy's Marketplace, a vibrant destination in Belle Vue, British Virgin Islands, blending shopping, dining, and local culture.
The SHOPS at Yacht Haven Grande
13.5 km
Discover luxury shopping and local treasures at The SHOPS at Yacht Haven Grande, offering stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere in St. Thomas.
Foxy's Giftshop
13.5 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
13.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and Caribbean culture at Foxy's, the quintessential beachfront bar in Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands.
JVD Grocery
13.5 km
Explore JVD Grocery in Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke for an unforgettable shopping experience with local flavors and essentials.
Christine's Bakery
13.6 km
Discover a delightful bakery experience at Christine's Bakery in Belle Vue, offering fresh pastries, artisan bread, and local flavors.
By Isah Chinnery
15.0 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
2.6 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
10.5 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
12.0 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
12.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Coco Locos Beach Bar in White Bay, British Virgin Islands, where refreshing cocktails meet stunning ocean views.
