Mongoose Junction
513 Mongoose Junction, Enighed, St. John, 00830
If you’re looking to shop while visiting St. John, Mongoose Junction is the place to go. Considered the island's premier shopping and dining destination, Mongoose Junction is home to a number of stores selling local Caribbean products such as furniture and textiles, clothing, jewelry, and beach essentials.
The basics
In addition to stores, Mongoose Junction features a range of dining options, including local microbrewery St. John Brewers, which pours out a selection of IPAs, stouts, and even hard seltzers, among other craft beers. You’ll also find eateries serving up sushi, tacos, pizza, salads, sandwiches, ice cream, and more. Plus, you can rent water sports gear and book a snorkeling or kayaking excursion here.
Things to know before you go
Since St. John is a US territory, the island’s currency is the US dollar.
Some levels of Mongoose Junction are only accessible by staircase, making it not very wheelchair user-friendly. There are two food spots that are wheelchair-accessible, though.
Clean public restrooms are available on-site.
How to get there
Mongoose Junction is about a 3-minute walk from the ferry dock at Cruz Bay, located on the west coast of St. John. For those relying on public transit, the buses running between Cruz Bay and Coral Bay (on the opposite side of the island) aren’t considered reliable, but they are inexpensive. Keep in mind that taxis don’t have meters on St. John, as the rate depends on where you’re traveling. Shared taxis—often called “safari-style taxis” given their similarity to the open-air vehicles used on safaris—are another option. If you’re driving, free customer parking is available at the shopping complex.
When to get there
The entertainment complex hosts Mongoose Mondays and First Fridays. Mongoose Mondays feature live music, drink specials, cultural offerings, and more during happy hour. First Fridays showcase the art galleries and include live entertainment. There are also seasonal events like Christmas and Halloween parties. Each store's hours vary, so you may want to check the website for the most up-to-date information.
What to buy at Mongoose Junction
A Caribbean tradition that signifies unity and love, the hook bracelet has been worn by locals for centuries. Folklore says that if you wear the hook facing in, you’re keeping love close to your heart; if it’s facing out, it means that you're open to new love. Believed to have been brought to the islands by European settlers, the bracelet is also known as a “Danish wedding band.” Head to Caravan Gallery at Mongoose Junction to get one as a souvenir or as a gift.
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