Many consider the island of St. John to be the jewel in the Caribbean crown. Affluent and tranquil, this tiny tropical paradise is only 13 miles long and four miles wide.
The U.S. Virgin Islands (St. John, St. Thomas and St. Croix) present a colorful palette of romantic travel options ideally suited for U.S. travelers (no passport required, easy flights and U.S. currency is used). The beauty of the islands is incomparable, the history is rich, and the charming people warmly welcome everyone.
Many consider the island of St. John to be the jewel in the Caribbean crown. Affluent and tranquil, this tiny tropical paradise is only 13 miles long and four miles wide. Sixty percent of the island is protected Virgin Islands National Park, and holds some of the Caribbean’s most spectacular and pristine beaches. Who can resist seduction by sugar-white sand and turquoise waters? (And why would you try?) You’ve found your own personal paradise.
Accessible only by boat or ferry, St. John is defined by its tranquility and unspoiled beauty.
CANEEL BAY
On St. John’s north coast lies one of the Caribbean’s most cherished treasures: Caneel Bay. Founded in 1962 by Laurence Rockefeller and built on the site of an 18th-century sugar plantation, Caneel Bay is a resort unlike any other. Rockefeller recognized the unique beauty of the island and worked hard to preserve it. His vision thrives in this enchanted enclave.
One of the charming aspects of Caneel Bay is the digital detox you’ll experience during your stay. You won’t find a television or phone in your room; your wake-up call is a friendly knock on your door. As you disconnect from the outside world, you’ll appreciate the low-key luxury that envelopes you. Seven picture-perfect beaches border 170 lush acres. Every accommodation offers a private retreat, furnished and decorated with natural woods, native Caribbean stone, and hand-crafted furniture. Accommodations intuitively suit your needs: beachfront cottages, ocean, garden and court-side views—even Rockefeller’s original private estate house, Cottage 7, can be yours.
Caneel Bay is currently rated the No. 1 Caribbean tennis resort and the no. 6 tennis resort worldwide by tennisresortsonline.com. You can also enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, sailing and hiking. Don’t miss the sunset cocktail cruise around Caneel Bay’s shores (Thursday and Sunday evenings).
Be good to yourselves with Caneel Bay’s complete line of spa treatments and book a massage in a cabana overlooking the ocean, or a couple’s massage in your suite.
Showcasing the natural resources of the islands, a number of onsite restaurants will satiate every craving. Overlooking the resort and ingeniously incorporating 18th-century ruins, The Sugar Mill is set against the backdrop of the glittering evening lights of St. Thomas. For a storybook evening you’ll never forget, book dinner for two by candle and torchlight among the ruins.
There is something magical about Caneel Bay. It’s not easy to define, but once you have been, you’ll feel it. The resort puts its watermark on your memory, and you’re not alone. Scores of loyal guests return year after year to celebrate anniversaries of all kinds, requesting their original rooms, celebrating their return with loyal staff members who are as much a part of the Caneel Bay experience as the beauty of St. John. You are always among friends.
NIGHTLIFE: CRUZ BAY
One of the great things about St. John is that wherever you go, you will feel welcome. If you decide to venture out for exploring, shopping or nightlife, nearby Cruz Bay is a short drive from the resort.
Recommended Dining
All of the following are gay-friendly, easily within reach and highly recommended.
ZoZo’s Ristorante
Exquisite Italian fare; recently selected as FIRST CHOICE by Travel & Leisure Magazine,”Where to dine in the Virgin Islands”
www.zozos.net
La Tapa
Contemporary Mediterranean with chef/owner Alexandra Ewald’s own personal interpretation. Personalized menus for groups or special occasions upon request.
www.latapastjohn.com
Asolare
Asian Fusion cuisine presented with impeccable service, complemented by unparalleled sunset views of the Caribbean Sea.
www.asolarestjohn.com
La Plancha Del Mar
Drawing on inspiration from Spain and France, traditional dishes with a local twist. Don’t miss Movie night – movie themed courses, plus popcorn and a show!
www.laplanchadelmar.com
WHEN TO GO
Year-round, weather is summer-like: highs in the 80s, lows in the 70s. Nights are pleasant with cool Caribbean breezes. Peak tourism: December – April; off-season is April – December. Officially, hurricane season begins in June and ends in November. (NOTE: Caneel Bay operates a seasonal closure from the end of August through the beginning of November.)
GETTING THERE
Flights are available directly to St. Thomas on most major carriers. St. John is only accessible by boat or ferry, which will be pre-arranged with your accommodations.
IMMIGRATION & CUSTOMS
No passport is required for U.S. citizens traveling to the USVI. A valid passport is required for non-U.S. travelers.
ACTIVITIES
All activities referenced can be arranged through the resort.
RATES
Room rates vary be selection by season.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Caneel Bay, A Rosewood Resort
P.O. Box 720
St. John, U.S.V.I. 00831-0720
Tel. 340.776.6111
Email: caneel@rosewoodhotels.com
