The 20-square island in the US Virgin Islands, nearly two thirds of which is covered by National Park, is a place meant for exploration, tailor made for independent travelers, for those who know how to seek out the richness of a destination.
And that means it’s one of the Caribbean’s premier villa destinations.
With the increased popularity of villas amid the pandemic, that’s led to a full-fledged tourism boom in St John, with more and more travelers seeking out the space, sanctuary and seclusion of the island’s copious luxury villas.
But navigating them is not easy.
That’s why we reached out to Shanna Dickerson, CEO of Blue Sky Luxury Travels, St John’s premier villa provider, to help.
Here are five must-visit St John villas at the top of her list, from villas with stunning hillside views to one that’s right on its own beach.
Estate Solenberg A seven-bedroom stunner on the north shore of St John, Estate Solenborg has one of the most spectacular settings on the island. With views of the Francis Drake Passage and Denis Bay, it feels completely secluded. Amenities range from two heated pools to a cocktail reception and chef-prepared dinner on arrival. All seven bedrooms have their own en-suite bathroom, outdoor showers and views of breathtaking USVI blue.
A La Mer This nine-bedroom villa is set at Great Cruz Bay, has a direct white-sand beachfront, along with amenities like a pool with a swim-up bar, bocce and shuffleboard courts and even a basketball hoop. The villa is close to Cruz Bay and a 10-minute walk to the beach at the Westin resort.
Villa Marea Here it’s all about space. Set on a peninsula on the southwestern coast of St John, you’re practically on your own island, with a sprawling seven-acre site. All of the five suites have superb ocean views, floor-to-ceiling windows, electric window shades and private balconies boasting outdoor showers. Even better? There are 500 bottles of wine in the walk-in wine cellar.
Kismet A full-fledged grand villa. Kismet, a Moroccan-style estate set on a hilltop, is close to everything: Trunk Bay, Mongoose Junction and the National Park. But you’ll rarely want to leave your spectacular pool deck (home to a hot tub, too) and marvelously landscaped gardens. There’s even a billiard room.
La Vita This five-bedroom villa is set in the sought-after private community of Peter Bay, about 10 minutes away from the bustle and energy of Cruz Bay. The pool deck is the star, with jaw-dropping views of the ocean, a vast infinity pool and hot tub and capacity for up to 10 people.