Cruz Bay Beach is one of the island’s liveliest spots — and it’s easy to have a full day (or evening) of fun without ever straying far from the sand.  Easy access and located directly next to the People Ferry.  Start by plopping your towel down and soaking up the sun overlooking the bay with lots of boat action. The Sea Grape trees provide a lot of shade along the way and there are beach chairs and picnic tables available for use, first come first serve.  Right on the beach you can walk over to The Beach Bar, a quintessential island hangout with tropical cocktails like Painkillers and Bushwhackers, laid-back beach games, and live music most nights against a stunning sunset backdrop — a perfect blend of sand, sea, and island vibes to keep you relaxed or ready to party as the sun goes down.

Just steps from the shore you’ll also find High Tide, a welcoming open-air restaurant and bar where you can take a break from the beach for breakfast, lunch, or dinner with fresh seafood, Caribbean-inspired dishes, and refreshing cocktails while enjoying ocean breezes right beside the water. When you’re ready to explore off the sand, the town of Cruz Bay is full of great options for shopping and browsing — from unique local gifts and spices at St. John Spice Company to beachwear and island art around town at places like Made in St-John, and the lovely galleries and boutiques tucked into Mongoose Junction.