How to Spend One Day in Cruz Bay, St. John from a Cruise Ship

Cruz Bay, the vibrant heart of St. John has an action-packed schedule lined up for you.

Enjoy it all in Cruz Bay, from snorkeling its pristine soft-sand beaches to visiting historic ruins, and shopping around Mongoose Junction.

What are the best things to do in Cruz Bay in one day?

9. Mongoose Junction

St. John’s top dining and shopping destination is easily accessible on foot.

There are tons of boutique shops, bars, restaurants, and art galleries to explore.

Pick up cool island specialties from the gift shops before settling in for a tasty seafood lunch.

Mongoose Junction’s stone architecture, high ceilings, walkways, and multi-level staircases are beautiful and won’t be lost on culture travelers.

8. Cruz Bay Battery (also called Fort Christian)

Culture travelers and photographers will love this historic fort which dates back to 1774 to the Danish colonial era.

The fort was heavily damaged in the hurricane of 2017 and has been extensively renovated since then.

Today, this National Historic Site is home to important government offices and an interesting museum that showcases the island’s complicated history.

Make sure to get photos of the unparalleled ocean views from up here!

7. Catherineberg Ruins

Rent a car and drive three miles east of Cruz Bay to these ruins inside the US Virgin Islands National Park, a must-visit destination.

This former sugar plantation offers visitors insights into the agricultural prowess of the islanders.

Take along a guide who will be able to explain the workings and significance of the cisterns, the windmill tower, and all those stone structures that have been wonderfully preserved.

The Catherineberg Ruins were also the epicenter of a slave revolt that took place between 1733 and 1734.

The drive to these ruins is atmospheric as you pass through lush jungles.

The greenery, blue sky, and stone ruins make for pretty pictures!

6. Reef Bay Sugar Mill

More history awaits at this mill in St. Johns which is also part of the Virgin Islands National Park. Drive south of Cruz Bay and then set out on a 2.5-mile hike along the Reef Bay Trail to reach the Reef Bay Sugar Mill.

The mill traces its origins to the 18th century.

There’s much to see at this well-preserved West Indies sugar operation.

The island’s sugar industry comes to life through remnants like the mill, a rum still, smoke chimneys, and other structures.

It is highly recommended that you wear strong shoes with traction and carry water, maps, and insect repellent.

5. Elaine I. Sprauve Library and Museum

The museum is housed inside an 18th-century restored plantation house.

Browse through the impressive selection of artifacts, books, and photographs.

The main goal of the Elaine I. Sprauve Library is to provide free reading services to everyone.

The building’s architecture is soaked in history.

Watch out for colonial elements such as the sprawling verandah, quaint wooden shutters, and arched windows.

This is also a great spot to seek refuge if it’s sweltering hot outside or if sudden rain showers strike. Visitors who are keen on history and culture should check out our guides on Charlotte Amelie and Christiansted in Saint Croix.

4. Cruz Bay Visitor Center

This center is a short walk from the ferry dock and a great starting point to explore St. John.

The exhibits here throw light on the Virgin Islands National Park and the Coral Reef National Monument.

The Park Rangers are extremely helpful and will give you tips on walking trails, beaches, routes, and local eateries.

The gift shop lets you pick up souvenirs and T-shirts to take back home to friends and family.

3. The St. John Experience Gallery

Founded by Jillian Grossman and Jason Hubert, this gallery is dedicated to showcasing the beauty of St. Johns through mind-blowing photographs taken from unique angles and perspectives.

These are more than the formulaic tropical island photos.

The image quality is top notch and the staff will gladly oblige any requests to ship the prints to your home country.

You could also pick island-inspired handcrafted jewelry and accessories at Bamboo Studio.

2. Salomon Beach and Honeymoon Beach

Both of these gorgeous, soft sand beaches are reachable via a short hike from Cruz Bay’s port.

The scenic Lind Point Trail which weaves through a forest gets you here.

Spend a few hours taking in the Caribbean beach vibes.

Sun bask without a care and snorkel to your heart’s content before you get ready to move on to your next stop.

1. Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church

Nicknamed the “Parish in Paradise,” this is the only Roman Catholic church in St. John.

It has been welcoming tourists and locals since its founding in 1962.

The choir is an absolute delight to listen to if you’re lucky enough to catch them practicing or performing!

A stone’s throw from the church is a popular night spot, The Beach Bar which hosts excellent live music in a waterfront setting.

What attractions are close to Cruz Bay’s port?

• Cruz Bay Visitor Center, Mongoose Junction, Salomon Beach and Honeymoon Beach are all within walking distance from Cruz Bay’s port.
• Conveniently, the town is quite compact so quite a few of the attractions are within walking distance and can be easily reached by foot.

What transportation options are available in Cruz Bay?

• Consider renting a car or a jeep to explore the rest of St. Johns! Note that some parts can be quite mountainous and winding. Car rental agencies are conveniently situated right near the dock.
• Taxis are often spotted around the ferry dock and they tend to charge per passenger. The rides are not metered so make sure to decide on a price before commencing your ride!
• A public transit system called VITRAN is a good option for travelers on a budget! Keep in mind that these buses do not ply every part of the island.
• Note: Uber rides do not exist at the moment at Cruz Bay nor is it possible to rent scooters.