St. John, a jewel in the Caribbean, offers a vacation experience unlike many of its tourist-heavy neighbors. Forget sprawling, all-inclusive mega-resorts; St. John’s charm lies in its intimate, unique accommodations that embrace the island’s laid-back spirit. While you won’t find drink flags waving you down at every turn, you will discover incredible “St John style” resort options that promise memorable stays.
If you’re dreaming of a St. John getaway and envisioning resort-style amenities with a distinctive island touch, you’re in the right place. Let’s explore the best St. John’s resorts and resort-like accommodations, each offering something special beyond the typical hotel experience. These havens provide shared pools, opportunities to connect with fellow travelers, and services that often surpass those found in private villa rentals, making your St. John vacation truly exceptional.
Top St. John’s Resorts and Resort-like Stays
The Westin St. John Resort Villas: Traditional Comfort with Island Flair
For those seeking a touch of traditional resort luxury, The Westin St. John Resort Villas comes closest to that familiar experience. Nestled on the beautiful Great Cruz Bay, this resort boasts a stunning crescent of white sand beach perfect for relaxation and recreation. Guests can enjoy a wide array of amenities including multiple pools, diverse dining options, a well-equipped fitness center, and a rejuvenating spa offering massages and treatments.
Choosing a Westin Vacation Rental provides the perfect balance of enjoying these resort amenities while also having a sense of privacy and space. It’s an ideal choice for families or those who appreciate a resort atmosphere with a touch of home.
Lovango Resort & Beach Club: An Exclusive Island Escape
For a truly unique and newer St. John’s resort experience, venture to Lovango Cay, just a short 10-minute boat ride away. Lovango Resort & Beach Club spans 40 waterfront acres, offering an exclusive island paradise. This resort is a destination in itself, featuring the Lovango Bar & Restaurant right on the water, the vibrant Green Oyster tequila + raw bar, and boutique shopping at Lovango Village. Relax by the infinity pool, indulge in poolside cabanas, or choose from luxury villa accommodations, unique treehouses, or glamping cottages.
Lovango isn’t just a resort; it’s a destination for weddings, events, and day trips to its renowned Beach Club. Activities abound, from hiking and snorkeling to sailing, shopping, and exquisite dining. As part of the Little Gem Resorts family, known for The Nantucket Hotel and Winnetu Oceanside Resort, Lovango brings a pedigree of hospitality to St. John.
Caneel Bay Resort: A Historic Gem (Temporarily Closed)
Caneel Bay Resort is a legendary St. John’s resort, steeped in history and natural beauty. Renowned for its seven pristine white sand beaches nestled amidst plantation-era ruins and lush gardens, it’s entirely surrounded by the protected Virgin Islands National Park. Caneel Bay has captivated generations of visitors, drawing them back year after year to its unparalleled setting and tranquil ambiance.
Please note: Caneel Bay Resort is currently closed for hurricane repairs and its reopening date is still to be announced. However, its legacy as a premier St. John’s destination remains strong, and anticipation for its revival is high.
Grande Bay Resort: Cruz Bay Convenience and Comfort
If being in the heart of the action is your priority, Grande Bay Resort offers unbeatable convenience. Located mere steps from Cruz Bay’s bustling beach, diverse shops, lively bars, excellent restaurants, and transportation hubs, Grande Bay places you at the center of St. John’s vibrant atmosphere.
Despite its central location, Grande Bay doesn’t compromise on resort-like amenities. Guests can unwind at the rooftop heated saltwater pool and spa, boasting breathtaking views of Cruz Bay. A fitness room equipped with treadmills, workout stations, free weights, and a Pilates machine caters to wellness routines while traveling.
Gallows Point Resort: Waterfront Serenity, Walkable Town Access
Gallows Point Resort offers a unique blend of tranquility and accessibility. Positioned on a picturesque 5-acre peninsula at the entrance of Cruz Bay harbor, this resort is surrounded by the stunning turquoise waters of St. John. Gallows Point boasts a prime walk-to-town location, allowing guests to easily explore Cruz Bay’s offerings. Snorkeling opportunities are literally at your doorstep, inviting you to discover the underwater beauty just steps from your suite.
Accommodations consist of spacious 1 and 2-bedroom suites, each featuring kitchens and options for harbor or ocean views. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a comfortable, self-catered stay with resort-style surroundings and easy access to town.
Lavender Hill Suites: A Hidden Gem in Cruz Bay
Often overshadowed by its larger neighbor, Grande Bay Resort, Lavender Hill is a true “best-kept-secret” in Cruz Bay. Lavender Hill offers the same incredible walkability to all of Cruz Bay’s attractions and conveniences, nestled perfectly between Grande Bay and Gallows Point. Its distinctive purple roof and colorful architecture are a welcoming sight for ferry arrivals to Cruz Bay, hinting at the unique charm within.
Lavender Hill provides a more intimate and often overlooked option for those wanting to be close to the action but perhaps seeking a quieter ambiance than the larger resorts.
Concordia Eco Resort: Reconnecting with Nature (Reopening)
Concordia Eco Resort was once a beloved destination for eco-conscious travelers seeking a “glamping” experience immersed in nature. Sadly, the hurricanes of 2017 caused significant damage, leading to its closure and subsequent sale. However, excitingly, Concordia Eco Resort is in the process of reopening under new ownership, promising to revive its unique connect-with-nature ethos.
While details are still emerging, the anticipation is building for the return of this special St. John’s eco-resort. For those interested in similar eco-friendly accommodations, exploring alternatives to Concordia Eco Resort in the meantime can provide options for nature-based stays. Please note that contacting Concordia directly for updated reopening information might be necessary due to communication challenges.
Cinnamon Bay Resort & Campground: Beachfront Cottages and Eco-Tents
Reopened in January 2022, Cinnamon Bay Resort & Campground offers a diverse range of accommodations right on St. John’s longest beach, Cinnamon Bay Beach. Guests can choose from charming cottages or eco-tents, providing varying levels of comfort and connection with the outdoors. Eco-tents offer a camping-style experience with shared shower and bathroom facilities, while cottages provide more traditional amenities. A restaurant on-site adds to the convenience of this beachfront St. John’s resort option. Cinnamon Bay is perfect for beach lovers and those seeking a relaxed, nature-focused vacation.
St. John B&Bs and Charming Inns: Personalized Island Hospitality
For a more intimate and personalized stay, St. John’s Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs) and small Inns offer a delightful alternative to traditional resorts. Bridging the gap between a full-service resort and a private vacation rental, these smaller establishments provide unique experiences with distinct locations, personalized amenities, and varied price points.
Coconut Coast Villas: Beach House Comfort, Boutique Style
Coconut Coast Villas presents itself as a “beach house comfortable” boutique hotel, offering studios, two, and three-bedroom vacation condos. Their philosophy centers on providing clean, comfortable, and conveniently located oceanfront accommodations at a fair value. Situated in a quiet residential neighborhood close to town, Coconut Coast Villas features two buildings surrounding an oceanfront pool, hot tub, and patio. Each room includes a large oceanfront patio where the sounds of the waves create a relaxing ambiance.
Amenities include free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, queen beds, private baths, air conditioning, fully equipped kitchens, guest laundry, and beach essentials like coolers and towels. Beach chairs and snorkel gear are also available for guest use, enhancing your St. John’s experience.
Garden by the Sea B&B: Romantic Suites and Homemade Breakfasts
Garden by the Sea B&B offers a truly charming and intimate experience with just three romantic suites: the Garden Suite, Terrace View Room, and Wild Ginger Room. A highlight of a stay here is the full, homemade breakfast served daily on the shaded veranda, surrounded by local flora. Enjoy fresh coffee, tea, juice, and fruit alongside delectable dishes like Eggs Benedict and Pina Colada French Toast.
Beach chairs, towels, blankets, and coolers are provided for guest convenience. Access to a common kitchen area with a microwave, refrigerator, and blender adds to the home-away-from-home feel. Garden by the Sea is perfect for couples seeking a romantic and personalized St. John’s escape.
Your Perfect St. John’s Resort Awaits
While St. John may not boast the typical mega-resorts found elsewhere, its collection of unique resorts, resort-like accommodations, B&Bs, and inns offers a diverse range of choices for discerning travelers. From beachfront luxury to eco-conscious escapes and intimate B&Bs, St. John’s resorts provide the perfect base for discovering the island’s natural beauty and laid-back charm. Explore these options and find your ideal St. John’s haven for an unforgettable Caribbean vacation.
