The islands of Mompong, Maniwaya and Polo are three of the most popular islands in Sta. Cruz, Marinduque. They are frequented by island-hoppers and visitors for their fine sand beaches and underwater coral gardens. 
Maniwaya, the biggest of these populated islands has been bruited about by new developers as another Boracay in the offing due to its proximity to the Luzon mainland. (Just 45 minutes from Gen. Luna, Quezon).Bathala Caves, still is a popular attraction due to its historical and cultural importance, but has not been protected from vandals over time. It still provides that unique experience with stalactites and stalagmiteste, natural stone formations, resident bats flying in droves and occasional boas.
A huge cave with a small entrance, the San Isidro Cave, was discovered in recent years in a barangay with the same name. It revealed a subterranean river system the entire length of which has not been trodden to-date. Its timely discovery fortunately triggered a new impetus among the populace on the need to conserve and protect nature’s wonders. Sta. Cruz town is considered the sea food capital of the province. The town has been blessed by large tracts of mangrove forests, some of which have been converted into fishponds. Manakla, crawfish, punaw bivalves and lato seaweeds are among those that visitors have heard about and look for.
The Sta. Cruz Church is the oldest in the province, with intricately-carved retablos and pulpit still intact. Most of the church interiors and furnishings are well-preserved. 
The church complex includes a large convento used from time to time to hold social functions.
A well-preserved baluarte in the village of Bitik still stands as a witness to local incursions by the pillaging pirates of yore.
Sta. Cruz is a 1st class municipality with a population of 61,322 in 2007.
Battle of Morions in Sta. Cruz
