U.S. Virgin Islands

Cruz Bay

A laid-back seaside hamlet serving as the vibrant gateway to the protected wilderness of Virgin Islands National Park.

Region: Caribbean
Country: U.S. Virgin Islands

What to see

Trunk Bay

A world-famous white-sand beach featuring an underwater snorkeling trail marked with educational marine plaques.

Virgin Islands National Park Visitor Center

The essential starting point for trail maps, ranger-led walks, and exhibits detailing island ecology and Taino heritage.

Wharfside Village

A lively waterfront cluster of boutique shops, open-air eateries, and beach bars steps from the ferry terminal.

Experiences

Located on the western tip of St. John, Cruz Bay is just a scenic passenger ferry ride across the sound from Charlotte Amalie. The town exudes an unhurried, bohemian atmosphere defined by open-air rum bars, barefoot-friendly beach cafes, and vibrant pastel-colored buildings surrounding a sheltered harbor.

Cruz Bay functions as the primary hub for outdoor adventures, providing seamless access to the national park's legendary hiking trails and pristine northern beaches like Trunk Bay and Cinnamon Bay. After exploring coastal rainforests and sugar plantation ruins, visitors gather around Wharfside Village to toast the sunset with locally brewed craft beer or Caribbean cocktails.

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