St.John USVI Rentals
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A little bit about St John...
The Virgin Islands have earned their reputation for exclusivity over the decades. Both the US and British Virgin Islands are gorgeous petite island paradises. St John, one of the three US Virgin Islands, is an ideal example of perfection.
At under 20 square miles, this jewel in the Caribbean has over 60% of its landmass dedicated as a National Park Reserve. Coupled with this Eden-like island existence, the coral reef off-shore is also protected ensuring that this unspoiled corner of the Caribbean remains exactly that way – unspoiled!
St John’s was acquired by the US in the early 20th Century from the Danish. The aim most probably to secure a foothold for naval purposes in this strategic corner of the globe. Little did they realise that this island, made up of pretty bays, stunning beaches and lush terrain would be one of the most desirable holiday destinations for the discerning traveller.
Flying into the airport in the neighbouring St Thomas, it’s a very short distance to get to any of our St John villa rentals. Unique and exclusive villas dot the island capturing the very best of the views out over sea and the neighbouring islands. St Thomas is a mere 4 miles away as is British Virgin Island, Tortola. The views from any of the St John USVI villa rentals is a celebration of the idyllic Caribbean paradise getaway.
From the terrace of a villa like the Tre Vista Estate, you will relax in your spacious grounds by an infinity pool with views across the turquoise ocean interspersed with green hills dotted here and there with many of St John’s luxury villas.
Things to do
But it’s not all lounging around. When you’ve soaked up enough of the laid-back vibe and indulged your romantic nature, it might be time to get out and about. With the majority of the island dedicated to the protection of the natural world, in my experience, this destination is ideal for those who, like me, enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. It's a place where tropical birds and butterflies fill the air with colour under a canopy of lush palm trees that offer shade.
Some old plantation ruins can be visited harking back to a time when sugar and cotton were farmed on this tiny island. The beaches of Salomon and Honeymoon Bay are, like all the other St John beaches, covered in white soft sand. They are ideal places to snorkel to look at the turtles, underwater life – flora and marine – that is easily accessible from the shoreline.
I have found that the best way to explore St John and the neighbouring islands is by boat. Our concierge can arrange for a crewed vessel to take you and your party on a magical tour of adventure. Following in the sandy footsteps of ancient pirates, you can picnic on deserted cays, explore some of the smaller islands, all within easy reach of St John.
Freedom takes on an entirely new definition as you set out on your maritime adventure. There’s no such thing as a bored teenager – far too much to see and do!
And when you have embraced your sea-faring nature, you can retreat to your villa and unwind with a bespoke barbecue created by your chef. Or perhaps get out and enjoy the urban experience of lunch or dinner in Coral Bay or Cruz Bay.
I think that the best shopping in St John is found in Cruz Bay and Coral Bay. It's a great way to spend a day; ambling lazily through some of the lovely boutiques in town, following by a leisurely lunch at The Beach Bar in Cruz Bay or Miss Lucy’s in Coral Bay is the perfect afternoon choice. Casual food, delicious cocktails looking out over the water. What’s not to love? Heavenly!
One of my favourite places to eat in St John's is Ocean 362 where the unimpeded views complement the scrumptious seafood dishes. As the sun sets, you have a ring side seat to witness the sun's golden glow disappearing beneath a dark violet horizon.
St John is perfection. It’s easy to see why visitors return year on year. It combines that unspoiled and natural quality of life so difficult to find in other tourist destinations. The personality and character of St John is unique, as are all of the Virgin Islands. They may be small but they are truly perfectly formed. Dazzling white beaches, warm, gentle waters, a multitude of sea life, coral formations, flowers, shrubs, butterflies, birds and bees. Add to these, the friendly welcome from the small population of locals and you have a recipe for one of the most relaxing and carefree vacations you could hope for.
Let Exceptional Villas introduce you to some of the St John luxury rentals that can become your home from home while you explore this pretty corner of paradise.