Pros & cons
PROS
- Steps from the Cruz Bay ferry dock
- Direct access to Lind Point Trail for Salomon and Honeymoon beaches
- Helpful rangers, exhibits, maps, restrooms, and a small park store
CONS
- Very limited parking; day passes are first-come and not guaranteed
- Hours can be limited and change; often closed on weekends
Overview
This is the park’s hub in Cruz Bay and the best first stop if you arrive without a plan. It’s compact but useful: friendly rangers and volunteers, bite-size exhibits (including Coral Reef National Monument info), clean restrooms, drinking water, maps, and a small store with books, souvenirs, and reef‑safe sunscreen.
Why Start Here
Staff will set you up with current beach and trail conditions and steer you to the right hikes and snorkeling spots. Families can ask about Junior Ranger activities, which have included both the park badge and an Underwater Explorer option.
Trail Access Right Out Back
The Lind Point Trail starts directly behind the building and leads roughly a mile to Salomon and Honeymoon Beaches—perfect if you’d rather walk than taxi. It’s an easy way to turn a quick info stop into a half‑day beach-and-hike combo.
Parking and Getting There
It’s an easy walk from the Cruz Bay ferry dock. Parking is scarce; some visitors report limited, same‑day parking passes if you arrive early, but don’t count on it. If you’re planning to hike from here, go early and ask inside about your options.
What You’ll Find Inside and Around
- Exhibits, brochures, and maps to help you plan your day
- Restrooms and drinking water; a modest park store for basics
- A few shaded picnic tables outside
- Expect the occasional resident chicken strutting by—this is the islands, after all
Hours
Recent schedules have run roughly Monday–Thursday 8:15 a.m.–4:00 p.m. and Friday until about 1:30 p.m., with weekend closures. Hours do change—confirm the latest before you go.
Best Time to Visit
Hit it on a weekday morning: you’ll beat the heat, find the rangers free to chat, and have the best shot at any limited parking. If you’re hiking Lind Point, morning light and cooler temps make the climb more pleasant. Cruise‑day mid‑mornings can be busier.
Is It Worth a Stop?
Yes—especially if it’s your first time here or you’re day‑tripping. You’ll get smart advice in minutes, then you can walk straight to one of the island’s prettiest beaches via the trail behind the building.
Where it is
18.3328, -64.7938Tips for Virgin Islands National Park Visitor Center
- 01Arrive early if you hope to snag a limited day parking pass.
- 02Ask rangers for up‑to‑date beach conditions and the best snorkel spots.
- 03Grab or photograph the trail map before heading up Lind Point Trail.
- 04If visiting with kids, ask about current Junior Ranger activities and badges.
- 05Plan around hours—Fridays close early and weekends are often closed.
Amenities
Near Virgin Islands National Park Visitor Center
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayLind Point TrailShaded Cruz Bay path to Salomon and Honeymoon BeachEasy · 2 mi · 1 hr
0 mi awaySalomon Bay TrailShort, shady hike to a quiet, snorkel-ready cove.Moderate · 2 mi · 1 hr
0.3 mi awayLind Point OverlookQuick hike to panoramic Cruz Bay and St. Thomas viewsScenic Viewpoint
0.4 mi awaySalomon BeachQuiet, hike-in beach with clear water and easy snorkel
0.5 mi awayCaneel Hill OverlookSteep climb to a wooden deck with sweeping bay-and-island viewsScenic Viewpoint
0.5 mi awayHoneymoon BeachShady, calm bay for easy snorkeling plus a low-key beach barRestroom · Parking
1.7 mi awayPeace Hill TrailFive-minute climb to sweeping bays and a windmill ruinEasy · 0.2 mi · 6 min
1.7 mi awayDenis Bay TrailQuick drop to a quiet, shaded beach with smart snorkel optionsEasy · 0.4 mi · 12 min
