Nicknamed “Love City,” Cruz Bay on the island of St. John is the perfect destination for beach-side living, fun, and recreation. With everything St. John has to offer, we’re pretty sure you’ll never want to leave.
What makes Cruz Bay so distinctive is its variety of people, destinations, and experiences. Walk into any of the local island bars and you’re sure to run into an equal measure of locals, retirees, and expatriates who’ve traded in their old lives for an exquisite sun-bleached existence.
Whether you’re thirsting for easy access to ocean activities like snorkeling and diving, or for top-of-the-line restaurants and a diverse island culture, Cruz Bay is the definitive destination for people looking for all the excitement of a slower pace of life.
Leisure
Cruz Bay Beach – The main beach for the town of Cruz Bay, Cruz Bay Beach is the definition of white, sandy paradise. An afternoon on Cruz Bay means listening to the impossibly blue waters rhythmically wash the shore.
The lush green foliage that runs along the entirety of Cruz Bay Beach paints the quintessential island image. There’s perhaps no match to soaking in the gentle warm ocean air here—the only thing you have to worry about is not relaxing an entire day away!
Crandall St. John Massage – Of all the spa experiences available in Cruz Bay, Crandall St. John Massage is the most highly-rated and raved-about from tourists and locals alike. Owners Samantha and Meagan have made a name for themselves as experts in relaxation and pampering.
This is a location-based massage service, so that means they’ll bring their signature “Lazy Donkey” Swedish massage, “Love City” couples massage, and more right to your villa. They are also extremely attentive to preferences and allergies, so any of their signature services can be catered to your particular needs.
Virgin Islands National Park – From Cruz Bay, you can visit the Virgin Islands National Park. Enjoy beautiful beaches, rugged hikes, and learn about 3,000 years of human history.
- Friends of the Park – Many locals and visitors alike enjoy working with Friends of the Park, anon-profit that supports projects for the park
Honeymoon Beach – Honeymoon beach is located within the Virgin Islands National Park, and it is one of the 7 beaches that are part of the Caneel Bay Resort. Snag a Honeymoon Beach All Day Pass to ensure kayak rentals, stand up paddle boarding, snorkel gear, a chaise lounge beach chair, locker to store your belongings, and access to the changing rooms and restrooms.
Maho Beach – Just as beautiful as Cruz Bay Beach, Maho Beach is a quieter, off-the-beaten-path destination. Also known as a major sea-turtle breeding ground, there’s a great chance you’ll be able to enjoy a beautiful experience with one of the area’s most iconic animals.
St. John Animal Care Center – As a perfect combo to relaxing on the beach all day, many locals and visitors enjoy working with the St. John Animal Care Center to walk dogs or even adopt an animal from the islands!
Coastal Retreat – This is a relatively new exercise studio and wellness center in the area with classic ranking from yoga to kickboxing, barre, and much more! Check out their class schedule online for more information.
Nightlife
Whether you’re looking for a fine wine on a warm evening, or a delicious rum drink or local brew, Cruz Bay has some of the best drinking on St. John. Opinions of locals and tourists have informed this list, so you’re sure to find as high-end, or as authentic, of an experience as you desire!
The Tap Room – Stocked with delicious local beer as well as international favorites, The Tap Room is the epitome of island local. St. John Brewery is located here, so you’ll get to enjoy true Caribbean brews from the source, as well as delicious barroom fare.
DR!NK – With great cocktails and even better views of Cruz Bay, this spot is perfect for a sunset drink. Locals and tourists alike rave about their enticing custom cocktail menu and friendly, professional staff. This bar is not to be missed.
Woody’s Seafood Saloon – Woody’s is a fun local hang offering one of the best happy hours on the island.
Doghouse Pub – This spot is definitely well-celebrated by locals, with great drinks and service. Check out this low-key island spot if you want to see what island living is all about.
Food
The food culture of Cruz Bay truly runs the gambit—from established European traditions to exquisite fusions with Caribbean flavors, you’ll fall in love with the zesty and enlightening spices of the island’s array of culinary destinations.
Extra Virgin Bistro – A high-end restaurant serving Italian/Caribbean fusion, this is a great place for a fancy dinner to romance and impress. Well known for their cioppino fish stew and craft cocktails.
Morgan’s Mango – A casual but very busy destination in Cruz Bay, Morgan’s Mango is best known for their extensive craft cocktail and wine list.
The Lime Inn – Enjoy delicious Caribbean food in a cozy and tropical atmosphere. The Lime Inn always has a slew of special events going on, as well as a happy hour that starts at 11:30am.
The Longboard Coastal Cantina – This is a newer, trendy restaurant in Cruz Bay. Their menu is focused around local ingredients and cocktails inspired by the islands.
Greengo’s in Mongoose Junction – Greengo’s is most famous for their tequila collection, with over 300 varieties, including a barrel tequila aged on the premises. Enjoy authentic Sonoran-style Mexican cuisine at this local haunt.
Lucky Chops – Lucky Chops is also a new spot on the island, offering Asian-inspired food using fresh local ingredients with affordable pricing. They have a great patio and there are always fun events happening in their lounge.
High Tide – This bar and seafood grill is a great local spot. They offer local American fair and really good drinks, definitely not to be missed!
The Terrace Restaurant – An inspired French seafood restaurant that delivers truly exclusive specials with an eye for aesthetically-pleasing presentation. Also features an extensive wine list and some classic-contemporary culinary creations.
The Marketplace – Known for the best selection on St. John in terms of groceries, food, and alcohol, The Marketplace has several stores that’ll fulfill any need you may have for an extended stay. Fresh fruits and vegetables, on-demand comfort food, and day-to-day essentials all can be found here.
Pink Papaya – From clothing and jewelry to souvenirs and locally-crafted art pieces, Pink Papaya has something for everybody. With a revolving selection, locals and tourists alike visit year after year to chat up the owner Linda as well as find their next prized possession.
St. John Spice – Perhaps the best-known spice and coffee shop on the island, St. John Spice is great for those looking to revamp their home cooking. A wide selection and friendly staff make this a local favorite in Cruz Bay.
St. John Bracelet Company – In a low-key corner storefront on the beach, St. John Bracelet Company brings jewelry and other small fashion pieces from all over the island. Known for their original and handcrafted selection!
Lulee – A true lifestyle store, Lulee has everything from clothing to home goods, perfect to outfit your new home in quintessential island fashion!
Bamboo Studio – If you’re looking for beautiful custom jewelry made by locals on the island, then Bamboo Studio is a must stop. Find personalized hook bracelets and other items made from solid sterling silver and 14 karat gold.
Mongoose Junction – Mongoose Junction is a large shopping center in Cruz Bay, with tons of great local stores and restaurants. This is a great place for souvenirs and gifts, as all of the stores feature items made on the island!
Recreation
Some of the best experiences are those that break a sweat. From water sports to land-borne recreation, Cruz Bay has something for everyone.
Palm Tree Charters – An award-winning seaborn island-hopping experience. Highly-rated by hundreds of clients, Palm Tree Charters is the best experience for circling and navigating the azure-blue waters of St. John.
SUP St. John – Paddle boarding is a great way to break a sweat and enjoy the open water, and SUP St. John is the best provider of gear for this great recreational activity. Friendly staff, great value, and lessons available for those wanting to find their next passion.
Cruz Bay Watersports – Known as the most diverse watersports company in the Virgin Islands, Cruz Bay watersports has everything from snorkeling excursions to boating trips, and everything in between.
Arawak Expeditions – This is the most popular canoe and kayaking operator in Cruz Bay, and for good reason. Extremely friendly staff, lessons on demand, and high-quality equipment rentals are part and parcel to the Arawak way of having fun!
Sunshine’s Jeep Rentals – Want to take a land excursion? Sunshine’s Jeep Rentals is the best way to rent an automobile, four-wheeler, and more for glorious island road drives.
Love City Excursions – Love City Excursions is a great local service offering boat charters both in the USVI and BVI. Trips can be completely customized for the passengers to include snorkeling, bar hopping around the islands, and more!
Ocean Runner – Ocean Runner is a well-established power boating company in St. John. They offer day trips, boast rentals guided tours, private charter trips, and captained vessels.
Low Key – If you are interested in trying out some diving while you’re in Cruz Bay, Low Key is the place to star. They offer dive trips, courses, and rentals so you can see all that the islands have to offer.
Virgin Islands EcoTours – Virgin Islands EcoTours offer everything from excursions and adventures on the island, to equipment rentals, and even the Honeymoon Beach Day Pass to enjoy some recreation and relaxation.
With so much to offer from food to oceanside fun, Cruz Bay is one of the most valuable best-kept secrets in the Virgin Islands. Holiday Homes specialize in properties perfectly placed to take advantage of all the best Cruz Bay has to offer.
Contact Holiday Homes today to find your next personal paradise!
