How to Plan Your Visit to Coral World Ocean Park in Cruz Bay

Coral World Ocean Park is a fascinating aquatic park located in Cruz Bay, St. Thomas. It is a must-visit destination for any traveler who loves marine life and wants to experience an interactive journey of discovery. In this guide, we will help you plan your visit to Coral World Ocean Park and make the most of your time there.

Overview of Coral World Ocean Park

Coral World Ocean Park is spread over five acres of land and offers an exciting range of interactive exhibits. With a general admission ticket, you can explore the park at your leisure, touch sea creatures at the Touch Pool, watch teenage sharks feed and swim at Shark Shallows, and experience the living world of an 80,000-gallon open-air reef. In addition, a certified guide will take you through the park for a 45-minute guided tour.

What’s Included?

Your general admission ticket to Coral World Ocean Park includes access to Coki Beach and all-day re-entry. You also get a souvenir map and unlimited access to the park and beach. However, food and drinks and additional activities inside the park are not included in the ticket price.

Meeting and Pickup

The park is open from Monday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. To visit the park, you can simply make your way to Coki Point on St. Thomas Island. There is no hotel/port pickup or drop-off included in the ticket price.

What to Expect

1. Touch Pool At the Touch Pool exhibit, you can get up close and personal with a variety of sea creatures such as sea cucumbers and hermit crabs. You can learn about their unique features and habits from the park’s knowledgeable staff. 2. Shark Shallows In the Shark Shallows exhibit, you can witness the feeding and swimming of various species of juvenile sharks. This exhibit provides an opportunity to observe them as they grow and mature. 3. Caribbean Reef Encounter The Caribbean Reef Encounter is a living world of an 80,000-gallon open-air reef that is home to various types of fish, lobsters, and other marine creatures. You can see them up close and personal through an underwater observatory tower. 4. Stingray Lagoon The Stingray Lagoon exhibit provides an interactive encounter with the gentle stingrays. You can learn about their unique features and how they are an important part of the marine ecosystem. 5. Nature Trail The Nature Trail will take you on a journey through the scenic beauty of the park’s outdoor grounds. As you walk along the trail, you can spot indigenous plants and learn about their unique features. 6. Sea Trek Helmet Dive For a more immersive experience, you can try the Sea Trek Helmet Dive. With a specially designed helmet, you can walk on the seabed, alongside colorful fish, corals, and other marine life. This experience is not included in the general admission ticket price and requires a separate booking.

Booking Your Ticket

Booking your general admission ticket for Coral World Ocean Park is easy. Simply follow the link below and book your ticket online. You can select the date and time of your visit and receive an e-ticket that you can present on the day of your visit. Book the Tour Here In conclusion, visiting Coral World Ocean Park is an excellent way to discover the fascinating world of marine life. With its interactive exhibits and knowledgeable staff, you can make lifelong memories in this beautiful aquatic park. By following this guide, you can plan your visit and make the most of your time at the park.

FAQ about Cruz Bay

Cruz Bay is a quaint town on the island of St. John in the US Virgin Islands. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere. If you are planning a trip to Cruz Bay, you may have some questions. In this FAQ, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about Cruz Bay.

1. How do I get to Cruz Bay?

Cruz Bay is located on the island of St. John in the US Virgin Islands. The closest airport is Cyril E. King Airport on the neighboring island of St. Thomas. From there, you can take a taxi or shuttle to the ferry terminal at Red Hook. The ferry ride from Red Hook to Cruz Bay takes about 20 minutes.

2. What are some popular things to do in Cruz Bay?

Cruz Bay is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. Some popular activities include: – Snorkeling and scuba diving at Trunk Bay, one of the most popular beaches in the US Virgin Islands. – Hiking the trails in Virgin Islands National Park, which covers more than half of St. John’s land area. – Shopping and dining in Cruz Bay’s charming downtown area. – Taking a sunset sail or catamaran cruise around the island. – Relaxing on the beach and soaking up the sun.

3. What is the weather like in Cruz Bay?

Cruz Bay has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine year-round. The average high temperature is around 85°F (29°C), and the average low temperature is around 75°F (24°C). The rainy season is from September to November, but even during this time, the rain usually comes in short bursts and doesn’t last long.

4. What are the best beaches in Cruz Bay?

Cruz Bay is surrounded by some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Some of the most popular beaches include: – Trunk Bay: a breathtakingly beautiful beach with crystal-clear water and a famous underwater snorkeling trail. – Cinnamon Bay: a long, sandy beach with plenty of space for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. – Hawksnest Bay: a quieter beach with calm waters and good snorkeling. – Maho Bay: a popular spot for turtle sightings and snorkeling.

5. Do I need a passport to visit Cruz Bay?

If you are a US citizen, you do not need a passport to visit Cruz Bay, as it is a US territory. However, you will need to bring a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport card.

6. What is the local currency in Cruz Bay?

The official currency of the US Virgin Islands is the US dollar.

7. What language do they speak in Cruz Bay?

English is the official language of the US Virgin Islands, and it is widely spoken in Cruz Bay.

8. What are some popular restaurants in Cruz Bay?

Cruz Bay has a variety of restaurants to suit every taste and budget. Some popular options include: – The Longboard: a trendy restaurant and bar with a beachy vibe and a menu featuring local seafood, tropical cocktails, and wood-fired pizzas. – Extra Virgin Bistro: a farm-to-table restaurant with a Mediterranean-inspired menu and a romantic atmosphere. – The Lime Inn: a casual restaurant serving fresh seafood, steaks, and Caribbean-inspired cuisine. – Sun Dog Cafe: a popular spot for casual breakfast, lunch, or dinner with a menu featuring local ingredients and creative twists on classic dishes.

9. Is Cruz Bay safe for tourists?

Cruz Bay is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any destination, it’s important to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Be aware of your surroundings, keep your valuables secure, and don’t leave belongings unattended on the beach.

10. What is the best time of year to visit Cruz Bay?

The best time to visit Cruz Bay depends on your preferences. The high season runs from December to April, when the weather is mild and dry, and the island is bustling with tourists. The low season runs from May to November, when hotel rates are lower, and the island is quieter. However, it’s important to note that this is hurricane season, and there is a higher risk of storms during this time.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Cruz Bay

If you are looking for a tropical paradise with a relaxed vibe, pristine beaches, and plenty of activities to keep you busy, then Cruz Bay in St. John, US Virgin Islands, is the perfect destination for you. With its stunning natural beauty and friendly locals, Cruz Bay has become a popular spot for tourists from around the world. However, with so many things to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. In this article, we will guide you through some of the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in Cruz Bay.

1. Explore the Beaches

One of the main reasons people visit Cruz Bay is for its stunning beaches. With crystal-clear waters and soft white sand, it’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. Here are some of the top beaches to explore:

Hawksnest Bay Beach

This is a popular beach for locals and tourists alike. It offers plenty of amenities, including picnic tables, restrooms, and showers, making it an ideal spot for families. The beach is also great for snorkeling, with plenty of colorful fish and coral to see.

Trunk Bay Beach

Trunk Bay is known for its clear blue water and underwater snorkeling trail. The trail features signs with information about the underwater creatures and natural formations you will see. The beach also offers plenty of amenities, including restrooms, showers, and a snack bar.

Cinnamon Bay Beach

This beach is known for its long stretch of soft sand and turquoise water. It’s a great spot for water sports, such as kayaking and windsurfing. The beach also has a snack bar and a camping ground if you want to stay overnight.

2. Visit the National Park

Cruz Bay is home to the Virgin Islands National Park, which covers two-thirds of the entire island of St. John. The park offers plenty of hiking trails, beaches, and historical sites to explore. Here are some of the top attractions worth visiting:

Reef Bay Trail

This is a popular hiking trail that takes you through the lush forest to a secluded beach. Along the way, you will see historical sites, such as a sugar plantation and petroglyphs. The trail is about 3 miles long and can take up to 2 hours to complete.

Annaberg Plantation

This historical site takes you back in time to the days of the sugar plantations on the island. The ruins of the plantation have been preserved, and there are signs explaining the history of the site. You can also enjoy stunning views of the Caribbean Sea from this location.

Trunk Bay Underwater Snorkeling Trail

As mentioned earlier, the underwater trail at Trunk Bay is a popular attraction. The trail features signs with information about the creatures and natural formations you will see while snorkeling. It’s a great activity for both kids and adults.

3. Go on a Boat Tour

Cruz Bay is surrounded by crystal-clear waters, making it the perfect place for a boat tour. Here are some of the top tours you can consider:

Sunset Sail

Enjoy a romantic sunset sail around the island, complete with champagne and hors d’oeuvres. You’ll also get to see stunning views of the island from the water.

Island Hopping

Take a day trip to the neighboring islands of Jost Van Dyke and Tortola in the British Virgin Islands. You’ll get to explore the different cultures and customs of the islands, as well as enjoying their stunning beaches.

Private Charter

If you want to explore the waters at your own pace, you can consider renting a private charter. You can choose where you want to go and how long you want to stay there. The captain will also be able to provide recommendations based on your preferences.

4. Sample Local Cuisine

Cruz Bay has a great food scene, with plenty of local restaurants serving up fresh seafood and traditional Caribbean dishes. Here are some of the top restaurants to try:

The Longboard

This restaurant offers a modern take on traditional Caribbean dishes. Some of their top dishes include the coconut curry shrimp and the jerk chicken.

Extra Virgin Bistro

This restaurant prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their menu changes regularly based on what’s in season, but some of their top dishes include the scallops and the seafood linguine.

Rhumb Lines

This restaurant offers a fusion of Caribbean and Asian dishes. Some of their top dishes include the tuna poke bowl and the pad Thai.

Book Your Tour Now

Cruz Bay is a stunning destination with plenty to offer tourists. From relaxing on the beaches to exploring the national park and trying out local cuisine, there’s something for everyone. We hope this guide has given you some ideas on how to spend your time in Cruz Bay. Enjoy your trip!