Why Cruz Bay, St John Should Be Your Next U.S. Virgin Islands Adventure

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, history buff, or beach lover, Cruz Bay has something to offer everyone!

The town is a popular stop for cruise passengers who can make the most of a day.

Turquoise waters, pristine swimming conditions, popping dance clubs, and incredible seafood await you!

You’ll also find plenty of hiking, history, and shopping options.

Let’s dive into why Cruz Bay in St. John should be at the top of your bucket list!

What makes Cruz Bay a top tourist spot?

• The beaches here are absolutely stunning and easily some of the best in the Caribbean! Salomon Beach and Honeymoon Beach are ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and enjoying the translucent waters and soft white sands.
• Party animals will love Cruz Bay for its varied and eclectic nightlife. Take your pick from relaxed bars to high-energy dance clubs! Joe’s Rum Hut is a fine spot to enjoy local island music and try out tropical cocktails, particularly rum-infused ones.
• Tasty sips and snacks await at Cruz Bay’s eateries, cafes, and fine dining restaurants. Try lobster and shrimp dishes at The Lime Inn or a gourmet meal at La Tapa! Woody’s Seafood Saloon has lovely shark bites, crab cake sliders, and conch fritters.
• Cruz Bay is a good base to hike within the US Virgin Islands National Park which is a must-visit destination in the USVI. The Reef Bay Trail merits mention for its challenging hike that features petroglyphs along the way. On the coast, visitors can also enjoy sunset sails, kayaking, and paddle boarding.
• The town is a shopaholic’s haven, and visitors are spoiled for choice at the boutiques selling trinkets, local art, jewelry, and high-end fashion items. Mongoose Junction is an excellent spot to pick up souvenirs!

What are the must-visit historical sites Cruz Bay?

Cruz Bay Battery

Built in 1774, Cruz Bay Battery is a historic fortification dating back to the Danish colonial era.

Destroyed during the 2017 hurricane, the building has undergone an extensive renovation and houses government offices in it today.

This National Historic Site also has a small museum whose artifacts trace the island’s colonial history.

Photographers, architecture, and history enthusiasts will love the location of The Battery (also called Fort Christian), because of the beautiful ocean views it affords.

Elaine I. Sprauve Library and Museum

This cultural landmark is housed inside an 18th-century restored plantation house, offering readers a vast collection of books, photographs, and artifacts.

The library’s main goal is to offer free reading services to everyone—local kids, teens, adults, seniors, and tourists!

Look out for the spacious verandah, wooden shutters, and arched windows – all elements of classic colonial architecture.

History fans will love getting immersed in the history and culture of St. John! Also make sure to check out our guides on Charlotte Amelie and Christiansted, both deeply cultural towns.

Reef Bay Sugar Mill

A visit to the Reef Bay Sugar Mill is one of the top things to do on a St. John’s itinerary.

You’ll need to drive south of the island and then embark on a scenic hike to reach the mill!

This deeply historic site dates back to the 19th century.

Look out for the well-preserved ruins, a mill, smoke chimneys, a rum still, and other structures that offer a peek into St. John’s sugar production history.

Tip: Wear sturdy footwear, and carry water, maps, and insect repellent for the hike.

Catherineberg Ruins

A drive north of Cruz Bay will get you to the remnants of a former sugar plantation that lies nestled within the confines of the Virgin Islands National Park.

While the Catherineberg Ruins are not as widely visited as the other plantations, they do offer a glimpse into St. John’s agricultural history.

Consider taking a licensed guide who will regale you with stories on the well-preserved windmill tower, the cisterns, and stone structures, all of which display 18th-century architectural elements.

This is a must-visit spot for those who enjoy soaking in tranquil environs in a place of historic significance.

Where to stay in Cruz Bay?

Cruz Bay Boutique Hotel

Set in the heart of Cruz Bay, this boutique hotel offers residents easy access to popular restaurants, shopping areas, and the atmospheric Cruz Bay Ferry Terminal.

The property features 14 rooms and a penthouse apartment suite for those in the mood to splurge!

The hotel is green and uses solar panels and solar drum water heaters.

All rooms feature amenities such as a flat-screen television, free Wi-Fi, and a mini fridge.

The penthouse apartment suite is perfect for long-term guests as it contains a fully equipped kitchen and a double futon sofa.

Gallows Point Resort

With direct views of shimmering Cruz Bay Harbor and the Caribbean Sea, Gallows Point Resort beckons with its super luxurious suites, and stunning water views and sunsets.

Moreover, it’s a mere five-minute stroll from downtown Cruz Bay so you won’t need to navigate steep hills with taxis.

Expect to be pampered with in-room amenities such as coffee, snacks, central air-conditioning, and a fully equipped kitchen with a toaster, blender, and coffee maker.

The resort staff will help you organize snorkeling, fishing, sailing, and scuba excursions!

After a hard day’s sightseeing, chill at the outdoor pool and try coconut flavored cocktails.

Estate Lindholm

Perched upon a hillside, Estate Lindholm is an intimate Bed & Breakfast set in a historic plantation house.

From here, guests can enjoy views of Cruz Bay Harbor, Saint Thomas Island, and the distant blue cays.

All 17 rooms come with private balconies, a wet bar, a mini fridge, free Wi-Fi, and air-conditioning.

Those in the mood to live excitably should book the penthouse rooms, Salomon and Haulover!

Rejuvenate at Estate Lindholm’s saltwater pool!

Ask the staff to assist you with planning waterside activities including snorkeling, sea kayaking, windsurfing, scuba diving, and even sport fishing.

Your stay here includes complimentary breakfast and daily housekeeping!

You will also be provided beach towels and coolers.

Lavender Hill Suites

The best part about this property is its location close to all of Cruz Bay’s nightlife, ferry points, shops, and cafes!

Lavender Hill Suites boasts picturesque views of Cruz Bay Harbor, St. Thomas Island, and St. John.

The 1 and 2-bedroom suites feature amenities like a sleep sofa, a DVD player and television, air-conditioning, beach towels, and coolers.

The fully equipped and stocked kitchen is perfect if you want to test out your culinary skills and some island recipes.

After a day out sightseeing, soothe those frayed nerves at the temperature-regulated saltwater pool!

Conclusion

That’s it for our guide to the finest experiences Cruz Bay has to offer.

From soft sand beaches to food trails to rich history, you’ll make memories to last a lifetime!

So pack your bags, grab that sunscreen, and hurry on over to Cruz Bay – your next U.S. Virgin Islands adventure awaits!

Don’t forget to save our recommendations as you prepare for your getaway to Cruz Bay!