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

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. 

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