Caribbean Villas of St John Office Location:
Palm Plaza, Unit 1B, Cruz Bay
St. John Office Phone Number: 340.776.6152
If our St. John Office is closed & you have an emergency, please call or text 340.473.0733
IF A MEDICAL EMERGENCY, CALL 9-1-1
MEDICAL FACILITY | Myrah Keating Smith Community Health Center | 340.693.8900 Visit Website
The Myrah Keating Smith Community Health Center is a comprehensive primary healthcare facility located on St. John, where 5,000 residents share a beautiful island with the Virgin Islands National Park. For residents and the thousands who visit each year, the center provides 24-hour emergency services and outpatient clinics Monday through Friday.
Volunteering:
ANIMAL CARE CENTER (ACC) of St. John: The ACC has a staff of just a few employees, and they rely on the assistance of volunteers to help care for their cats and dogs. If you are looking to volunteer during your vacation, they welcome any time you can devote to them. Visit Website 340.774.1625
St. John Etiquette:
CARIBBEAN MANNERS: You will be rubbing shoulders with another culture so please remember to start all conversations with a cheery “Good Morning”, “Good Day”, “Good Afternoon”, or “Good Evening”. West Indian culture considers it bad manners to jump into a conversation without first exchanging a greeting.
DRESS CODE: Very Casual, including evening dining. Never go barefoot or shirtless. Never wear your bathing suit without a cover-up in town or in any public place, especially in restaurants. This is considered very bad manners and you could be fined a hefty fee.
Planning Ahead
Private Taxi Transfers St. Thomas Airport to Red Hook:
WARREN GORDON | 340.998.1077 Visit Website
Private Water Taxi:
SEAHORSE LAND & WATER TAXI | 340.474.4905 Visit Website
DOLPHIN WATER TAXI | 340.774.2628 Visit Website
Baby Equipment Rentals & Babysitting:
ISLAND BABY VI EQUIPMENT RENTALS | 340.998.8327 Visit Website
KIDS NIGHT IN – BABYSITTING SERVICE | 321.431.9113 Visit Website
Provisioning Services:
LANDLUBBER LOGISTICS | 340.514.9343 (Billy) & 340.227.1690 (Cory) Visit Website
Catering Services:
ST JOHN CATERING | 877.690.9393 & 340.777.5464 Visit Website
TED’S SUPPER CLUB | 340.514.2855 & 340.693.7793 Visit Website
FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF OUR RECOMMENDATIONS, CLICK HERE.
General Information
CONSERVATION: Very Important!!!
WATER. The only source of water comes from rainfall, which is stored in cisterns located beneath the villas. We inspect the cisterns before your arrival; however, if you run out of water during your stay, we can arrange for a tanker delivery. Please note that this delivery may take up to a day, which can be pretty inconvenient during your vacation. To help us conserve water, please avoid leaving the tap running while washing your hands or brushing your teeth. Only flush the toilet when necessary, and consider taking “California Showers”: wet your body, turn off the water while soaping up, and then rinse quickly.
ENERGY. Our electricity rate is $0.42 per kilowatt, one of the highest rates in the world. We kindly ask that you turn off the air conditioning units and all lights when you are not in the room, particularly when you leave the villa. Thank you for your cooperation!
CONSTRUCTION: Due to the amount of new villa construction on St. John, it is possible that construction may occur near your villa. Any construction noise or disruption during your vacation is out of our control. Every phase of construction is different & we never know how disruptive it will be during a guest’s stay. There will be no compensation due to construction.
DRY CLEANING: Elite Dry Cleaners, located just before Tamarind Inn in Cruz Bay.
DUTY-FREE ALLOWANCE: The law allows Americans returning to the U.S. from the U.S. Virgin Islands to bring back $1,600 in duty-free items.
GAS STATIONS: EC Gas Station and Racetrack Gas Station are located on the South Shore Road (Rt. 104). If returning a rental vehicle, we recommend you fill up at EC Gas Station as it is on a flat surface. The Racetrack Gas Station is on hill, and sometimes you will think you have filled your tank, but then find a gas surcharge because the vehicle was not returned full. Any other time, the Racetrack Gas Station is fine. About midway between Cruz Bay and Coral Bay, on the Centerline Road is Midway Gas Station. There aren’t any gas stations in Coral Bay.
GROCERY STORES: Dolphin Market – located in Cruz Bay, Starfish Market – located at the Market Place Complex just outside of Cruz Bay, St. John Market – located at Greenleaf Plaza, before the Westin Resort. In Coral Bay, Dolphin Market – located at Cocolobo Plaza, Calabash Market, and Love City Mini Mart. Click here to see a full list.
INSECTS & CRITTERS: Remember, this is the tropics. We have heat, humidity and rain which means we have all kinds of critters and creatures. We do exterminate every month but this is the tropics and critters do exist.
MOSQUITOES & SAND FLIES. The trade winds usually keep pests away most of the time. However, when the wind calms down or after heavy rain, they may become more noticeable. It’s advisable to take precautions by using a repellent that contains DEET.
During drier periods, you might see small red-brown ants moving in lines. We regularly exterminate them, which helps control their population.
For the rainy months and hurricane season, consider bringing additional items to enhance your stay at your villa rental.
–Theramcell E90 Rechargeable Mosquito Repellent
–Thermacell EX90 Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller
–Thermacell Mosquito Portable Adventure Repeller
If you notice any critters such as roaches, ants, or birds, please call us. We will send the exterminator. Some good info to remember: keep all food with sugar (breads, chips, sweets, etc) in the fridge or freezer and never leave dirty dishes in the sink. Never leave food out, wipe up spills immediately & dispose of your trash regularly. This will help keep your villa ant-free. There will be no refunds due to insects.
SCORPIONS. We recognize that scorpions are a reality in our area. If you spot one, don’t hesitate to reach out to us—we will promptly send an exterminator to handle the situation. While their sting isn’t poisonous, it can cause allergic reactions in some people. For your safety and peace of mind, we strongly recommend that you contact the Myra Keating Clinic at 340.693.8900 if you experience any issues.
RODENTS. Rodents are often attracted to the fruit trees in the yard, but they won’t hesitate to invade your home for food. They can chew through plastic containers and even soap or shampoo bottles in their relentless pursuit. Don’t let these pests compromise your space! Call us at 340.776.6152 for a prompt response, and we’ll send a professional exterminator to handle the problem effectively.
IGUANAS. Please refrain from feeding the iguanas. They will not go hungry, I assure you. While they may seem adorable and are great for photos, feeding them actually leads to dependence on human food and diminishes their natural wariness of people. These iguanas enjoy lounging around or swimming in pools. If you encounter one, kindly encourage it to move along. Your cooperation helps keep them safe and healthy!
POWER OUTAGES: Our island occasionally experiences power outages, and the duration of these outages can be unpredictable. During any outage, it is imperative that you do not run water or flush toilets. This will cause the pump to lose its prime, disrupting water flow once the power is restored. If the pump loses its prime, you must call our St. John Office at 340.776.6152 for immediate assistance. Our maintenance team will either help you prime the pump or guide you through the necessary steps. Your cooperation is essential in maintaining water supply during these outages.
PLUMBING: The plumbing in all villas is highly sensitive, and it’s vital to adhere to the following guidelines. Only flush items that are biodegradable and that you have consumed. Many villas utilize water-saving toilets, which are not designed to handle foreign objects or feminine products. By following these rules, you help ensure a smooth and functional plumbing system for everyone.
REEF SAFE SUNSCREEN: As of 2019, only Reef-Safe Sunscreen can be used in the USVI. Example brands are: Thinksport Sunscreen, Kokua Sun Care, Badger, and All Good Sport Mineral Sunscreen. If you do not bring this with you, it can be purchased at various businesses on the island (St. John Beach Bum).
SAFETY: Although St. John has very little crime, it has seen an increase over the past few years. We recommend you lock your villa when you leave. Secure all valuables and do not take them to the beach. All villas are equipped with safes for your valuables. We recommend leaving valuables at home.
SEATBELTS: Seatbelts are required for all passengers. There is a very steep fine if you are pulled over & not wearing one.
TENNIS: St. John has two public courts located in Cruz Bay. “First come, first served”
TOURING ST. JOHN: St. John is an island to be explored. Get off the beaten track, use your 4-wheel drive, and go until the road ends. Go exploring – it’s an adventure and a lot of fun!
Villa Information
CHECK-IN TIME: 4:00 pm CHECK-OUT TIME: 10:00 am
DRINKING WATER: The water from the taps in the villas is filtered (cistern water), but we strongly recommend drinking bottled water.
GARBAGE/TRASH REMOVAL: Please be advised that there is no villa trash collection service on St. John. It is your responsibility to remove and dispose of your trash at any dumpster located along the roads. To prevent attracting ants and other wildlife, it is strongly recommended that you dispose of your trash daily or freeze the leftover food in ziploc bags until you plan to bring your trash to the dumpster. If you leave behind excessive garbage at the villa upon your departure, requiring maintenance personnel to take care of it, a fee of $125 or more will be deducted from your damage deposit. It is crucial to adhere to these guidelines to ensure a clean and pleasant environment for everyone.
GARDENERS: The gardeners will come & go at will, but never have access to the interior of your villa. All gardeners are lovely people, so please say hello.
KEYS: Any lost or mishandled keys will result in a $175+ charge against your damage deposit.
HOUSEKEEPING SERVICE AND CLEANING: All villas are cleaned for your arrival. If you would like additional housekeeping service, please call 800.338.0987. We will inform you of the cost & arrange it for you prior to your arrival.
NOISE AND PARTYING: Caribbean Villas of St. John wishes to maintain a family-friendly atmosphere for the quiet enjoyment of all guests. We rent to family groups & responsible adults only. Please be considerate of your neighbors. Absolutely no villa parties or functions, such as weddings, are allowed at the villas.
PEST CONTROL: This is essential & scheduled when the villa is vacant.
POOL CLEANERS: Pool service is performed the day of your arrival. If you find that some leaves have blown into your pool, please look around for a skimmer that you can use to remove the leaves and other debris.
POOL SAFETY: Never dive into your pool, as it may not be deep enough, and you could be seriously injured. Please supervise all children and adults who are partying. We do not recommend leaving any child unattended at any time. Please refrain from running around the pool deck, as it can be slippery.
VIEWING OTHER VILLAS: If there is another villa you would like to see during your vacation, please call 340.776.6152 & speak with our St. John Staff. If the villa is vacant, we will be happy to show it to you.
Recommended Activities
ANNABERG CULTURAL EXHIBIT & LEINSTER BAY: View the fascinating ruins at Annaberg. Stop for a swim/snorkel at Leinster, and then hike the Johnny Horn Trail to Brown Bay.
REEF BAY HIKE: A National Park Guide will lead you through the subtropical rain forest & the Petroglyphs of Reef Bay – 340.776.6201. Alternatively, you can also hike independently. Be sure to bring plenty of water.
SHOPPING: St. John boasts a diverse range of unique shops, from T-shirts to artwork and gorgeous jewelry. If you want to explore St. Thomas, take the ferry to Charlotte Amalie, have lunch at Gladys’ Café, and then shop ‘til you drop.
HIKING: The National Park Service maintains a network of trails that crisscross the most beautiful portions of St. John.
RUNNING OR JOGGING: Any of the National Park trails will give you an excellent workout.
SNORKELING: The protected & tranquil coves of St. John abound with excellent snorkeling. Try Reef Bay, Lameshur, Salt Pond, Haulover, or Leinster Bays.
KAYAK AND PADDLEBOARDING: Highly recommended! Discover our recommendations by clicking here.
BOAT EXCURSIONS: There is nothing better than being out on the ocean in the Caribbean. Do a day excursion around the USVI or to the BVI’s. If going to the BVI’s, you will need your passports. Take a look at our recommendations by clicking here.
DO NOTHING! Hang out by your pool with your favorite book and drink, relax, unwind, and do NOTHING. You are in paradise after all!
St. John Office – Palm Plaza – Driving Directions
DRIVING FROM THE PASSENGER FERRY: Leaving the passenger ferry dock behind you, follow the ONE-WAY Street to the right. Turn left at the stop sign and follow the one-way street as it curves left. At the upcoming stop sign, Turn Right onto RTE 10 and follow the two-way street upward as it passes Woody’s Seafood Saloon (on the left) and continues between the School and Police Station. Arrive at the Round About (Traffic Circle). As you enter the Round About, you will follow Rt. 104 out of Cruz Bay. You will follow this road out past the Market Place Complex (on the left), up a very steep hill (Jacob’s Ladder), and down the mountain, on the left, will be the Race Track Gas Station & Dolphin Market. On your right will be the entrance to Palm Plaza. Caribbean Villas of St John is on the first level – Unit 1B.
DIRECTIONS FROM CAR BARGE: The car barge lands at the Enighed Pond Marine Facility (locally known as the “barge ram”). ALL traffic exits the port through security gates to the left. Turn right and, at the next stop sign, turn right, then follow the road around the parking lot. At the next stop sign, turn right & this brings you to Rt. 104. You will follow this road out past the Market Place Complex (on the left), up the very steep hill (Jacob’s Ladder), and down the hill. On the left with be the Race Track Gas Station & Dolphin Market. On your right will be the entrance to Palm Plaza. Caribbean Villas of St John is on the first level – Unit 1B.
DIRECTIONS FROM ROUTE 10 (Centerline Road): Upon the final descent into Cruz Bay on Route 10, you will take a hard left at the roundabout intersection (Rt. 104), at the bottom of the Centerline Road (by Dolphin Market on the right). You will follow this road out past Market Place Complex (on the left), up the very steep hill (Jacob’s Ladder) and down the hill. On the left with be the Race Track Gas Station & Dolphin Market. On your right will be the entrance to Palm Plaza. Caribbean Villas of St John is on the first level – Unit 1B.
DIRECTIONS FROM ROUTE 20 (North Shore Road): Upon return from the North Shore Beaches on Route 20, approach the base of the hill at Mongoose Junction. Continue on for 200 yards, making the 1st left turn uphill until you come to the Roundabout (traffic circle). After yielding for traffi,c follow the circle around and take the 2nd exit for Rt. 104. You will follow this road out past Market Place Complex (on the left), up the very steep hill (Jacob’s Ladder) and down the hill. On the left with be the Race Track Gas Station & Dolphin Market. On your right will be the entrance to Palm Plaza. Caribbean Villas of St John is on the first level – Unit 1B.
