Plan Your Visit to Mongoose Junction on St. John

Chrissann Nickel • September 25, 2025
rent your own snorkel gear USVI St. John

Do you have a trip planned to visit St. John in the US Virgin Islands? Then you will definitely want to add Mongoose Junction to your list of must-see spots on the island!


Mongoose Junction is a unique outdoor plaza in Cruz Bay, St. John. Conveniently located a short walk from the main ferry dock, it's a versatile location that you will likely visit again and again. 

sea turtle conservation and sustainable ecotourism in the US Virgin Islands VI Ecotours

First and foremost, it should be noted that Mongoose Junction, beyond everything else it has to offer, is simply beautiful to spend time in. From the appealing archways, detailed stonework, and lush landscaping, it's an incredibly pleasing space to stroll around (and there's plenty of shade!). 


Fun fact --> Mongoose Junction was designed and built by local architect Glen Speer and his crew of fine craftsmen and native stonemasons.


Even the local donkeys like to make regular appearances here (though they stick to window shopping only).

snorkel gear rentals St. John St. Thomas US Virgin Islands

Mongoose Junction is such a popular spot because of the array of shops, restaurants, bars, and activities it has to offer all in one place.


Retail stores like Big Planet, Bamboula, Lulee, and Vibe Jewelry (to name a few) sell so much more than souvenirs. Here, you'll find shops curated with interesting finds that you won't be able to resist bringing home.


The restaurants and bars of Mongoose Junction are always a mix of old favorites and fresh additions to the island. The North Shore Deli is everyone's favorite stop to pack a sumptuous picnic lunch before they hit the beaches up the road. The there's the Tap Room where you can sip St. John brews, St. John Scoops for a refreshing ice cream cone, and Greengo's for tacos and margaritas. And, if you'd like to dine in and enjoy some time in the serenity of Mongoose Junction, you can make reservations at 18°64° The Restaurant.


This spot is also appealing for art lovers as you'll find several local galleries including Bajo El Sol Gallery which is a hybrid art gallery, bookstore, café, rum and cocktail bar.


We can't also forget to mention one of our favorite bars (and new neighbors!), The Sun Dog Cafe. And speaking of neighbors...

snorkeling marine life fish in the US Virgin Islands VI Ecotours

We're excited to now have a location in Mongoose Junction ourselves! The VI Ecotours shop is located just next to Sun Dog Cafe. In our shop, you can check in for your guided tours, rent water sports gear, and find fun items to shop for that appeal to active nature lovers. Not only is it convenient for dining & shopping before or after your island tours with us, it is also just next to the back parking lot which makes it easy to pop in and out with your water sports gear to your car.


Our snorkel gear is our most popular rental item! It is always in top condition—clean, free of wear & tear, and easy to transport in our signature mesh backpacks. We are also the only company in the Virgin Islands that allows you to reserve your snorkel gear entirely in advance. ï»¿

snorkeling marine life fish in the US Virgin Islands VI Ecotours

Please do pop in and visit us on your next trip to St. John! We would love to see you and take you on an island-style adventure.



*all photos courtesy of Mongoose Junction

Chrissann Nickel

About Chrissann Nickel

Chrissann Nickel is a writer & digital marketer who is passionate about all things tropical. An outdoor enthusiast, she spent 12+ years living between several islands in the Virgin Islands, exploring all there is to see both above and below the surface of the Caribbean sea. Her perfect USVI day? Sunrise yoga on a paddle board, and then island hopping via boat with stops for snorkeling and a hike. 

You May Also Like


Three people are in a yellow ocean kayak

Cas Cay Kayak, Hike & Snorkeling Ecotour

A black map pin with a circle in the middle on a white background.

St. Thomas

A black and white hourglass icon on a white background.

3 Hours

Embark on an exclusive morning adventure through the serene beauty of Cas Cay, where tranquil mangroves, vibrant marine life, and breathtaking volcanic vistas await—discover this hidden gem with knowledgeable guides.

A group of people are walking down a path towards the ocean.
A black map pin with a circle in the middle on a white background.

St. John

A black and white hourglass icon on a white background.

3 Hours

Hike & Beach Adventure Tour: Discover Honeymoon Beach on St. John

Looking to pack a BIG experience into a short amount of time? Then we’ve got just the adventure for you! This tour is designed for groups of 4 or more.

A group of people are swimming with sea turtles in the ocean.

Swim alongside graceful Hawksbill and Green Sea Turtles in the crystal-clear waters of St. Croix on this unforgettable guided snorkel tour. Explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter diverse marine life with expert guides ensuring a safe and memorable experience. Perfect for all skill levels, this unique adventure offers an up-close look at St. Croix’s stunning underwater world—an experience you’ll never forget.

A black map pin with a circle in the middle on a white background.

St. Croix

A black and white hourglass icon on a white background.

1.5 Hours

St. Croix's Best Snorkeling with Sea Turtles

Other Blogs


By Chrissann Nickel • October 28, 2026
While we are known here in the USVI for our temperate year round weather, we do experience some seasonal changes that make certain activities here more or less approachable. If you’ve got an upcoming trip to the Virgin Islands planned and are worried about what you’ll do if the weather doesn’t cooperate with your plans, not to worry! Here are some suggestions as to how you can still make the most of your time in paradise, regardless of the weather:
By Chrissann Nickel • October 27, 2026
Enjoy a St. Thomas sunset kayak tour through the Mangrove Lagoon, with a gentle guided paddle, golden-hour views, and opportunities to spot wildlife.
By Chrissann Nickel • October 27, 2026
Explore a St. Thomas kayak tour through the Mangrove Lagoon to Cas Cay, with an easy eight-minute nature walk, the Red Point Blowhole, and snorkeling.
By Chrissann Nickel • October 26, 2026
Planning to snorkel with sea turtles in the USVI? See why a local guide saves vacation time, what you'll spot, and which island tour fits your group.
By Chrissann Nickel • September 29, 2026
While we love to always look on the bright side of life and focus on sharing the must-dos when in the USVI, we thought it might be helpful to also give some insights into what you should avoid the next time you’re here snorkeling in the USVI. Snorkeling should not only be fun and safe for you, but it should also leave the sea free of damage. Here are our 5 Don’ts When Snorkeling in the USVI
By Chrissann Nickel • August 27, 2026
For many people, their vacation in the US Virgin Islands is the first time they’ve gotten the opportunity to try stand up paddle boarding (also known as “SUP”). And while many of them arrive just a little intimidated at first, it ends up being one of the most fun experiences of their trip. If you, too, aren’t sure if paddle boarding in the USVI is for you, we’d like to encourage you to give it a shot. You’ve got this! We have stand up paddle boards available for rent on all three islands: St. Thomas , St. John , and St. Croix . With a SUP rental in the VI, you have endless opportunities to explore and to spend quality time in our gorgeous Caribbean waters. Your SUP rental opens up a world of adventure for you. Here are some answers to the frequently asked questions we get regarding stand up paddle boarding in the Virgin Islands to set your mind at ease:
Blue snorkeling mask and snorkel resting on a rocky shore by the water
By Chrissann Nickel • July 30, 2026
What was that?! USVI underwater mysteries solved: anemones, flamingo tongue snails, sea hares, white urchins, and reef squid explained by our guides.
Child watching a small frog resting on an outstretched hand outdoors in sunlight
By Chrissann Nickel • June 29, 2026
8 fun Virgin Islands nature facts for kids: sea turtles, pelicans, mongoose, mangroves, and more wild facts to explore on your USVI family trip.
A large body of water with boats in it and a city in the background
June 26, 2026
Things to do in St. John: top Virgin Islands National Park hikes, beaches, snorkeling spots, cultural sites, and dining, for families, couples, and explorers.
Show More