Caribbean Cottage with Breathtaking Views and Your Own Private Pool! | Villa in Cruz Bay
4 Bedroom Villa in Estate Chocolate Hole and Great Cruz Bay, Cruz Bay
Rara Avis Villa: A Private Caribbean Island Retreat in Hart Bay, St. John
Discover Rara Avis, a warm and inviting Caribbean villa designed for travelers seeking privacy, beauty, and effortless indoor-outdoor living. Nestled in the peaceful southwest corner of Hart Bay on St. John, this island retreat blends timeless architecture with comfort—perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking for a serene escape in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
A Unique Villa Layout Designed for Privacy & Connection
Rara Avis features three distinct buildings set within lush tropical gardens:
- A two-level stone great house
- Two private king-bedroom cabanas (east and west)
When you arrive, you park above the villa and stroll down the gradual stone steps into a garden courtyard where tropical landscaping, stone pathways, and ocean breezes create an immediate sense of relaxation.
Great House with Stunning Panoramic Ocean Views
The upper level of the great house is the heart of the villa—an expansive open-concept space ideal for gathering and entertaining. Inside, you’ll find:
- A spacious living area with elegant native stonework
- Cathedral ceilings with exposed wooden beams
- Terra cotta tile floors and curated island-inspired décor
- A fully equipped kitchen and dining area
- Half bath and laundry room for convenience
Step through screened sliding glass doors onto a 450 sq ft sun deck, where breathtaking 180-degree views of St. John’s south shore unfold. It’s the perfect place for morning coffee, evening beverages, or simply soaking in the Caribbean sunshine.
The living area includes:
- Comfortable furnishings
- Flatscreen cable TV for watching your favorite sows
- High speed internet – WiFi for staying connected
- Screened sliding glass doors open to stunning views of Hart Bay
Private Bedrooms & Comfortable Accommodations
Rara Avis comfortably sleeps up to 8 guests across four bedrooms:
- Two King Cabanas (East & West):
Each cabana offers a king bed and ensuite bath—ideal for couples seeking privacy and peaceful garden or ocean views.
Exterior Access - Lower Level Bedrooms (Great House):
- Two additional guest rooms (with twin beds that convert to a king) share a bath, creating a cozy and flexible space for families or friends. Each bedroom has a screen slider that opens to a private deck.
Outdoor Living: Pool, Gardens & Sun Decks
Designed to embrace the Caribbean lifestyle, the outdoor spaces are just as inviting as the interiors:
- A private 1/2 moon shaped pool set in a landscaped garden near the west cabana
- Multiple sun decks for lounging and sunbathing
- Shaded patios and courtyards
- Meandering walkways connecting each building for a seamless flow
Whether you’re unwinding by the pool or soaking in ocean views and breezes, every space is designed for pure relaxation.
Fully Equipped Kitchen & Dining Options
The villa’s kitchen is stocked with everything you need to cook and entertain:
- 4 burner electric stove/oven, refrigerator/freezer, dishwasher, and microwave
- Coffee maker, blender, toaster, dishes, utensils, and cookware
- Gas grill for outdoor barbecues
Dine indoors at a mahogany table (seating 6–8) or enjoy meals outside on the sheltered garden patio (seating 4) surrounded by tropical greenery.
Prime Location Near Cruz Bay
Rara Avis offers the perfect balance of seclusion and convenience:
- 7-8 minute drive to the restaurants, shops, and nightlife of Cruz Bay
- Set at the end of a private drive for ultimate tranquility
Facing southeast, the villa enjoys sunlight throughout the day and cooling trade winds, along with uninterrupted views of St. John’s pristine coastline.
Experience Authentic Caribbean Villa Living
With its blend of natural stone architecture, tropical gardens, and breathtaking ocean views, Rara Avis captures the spirit of a classic Mediterranean-style villa in the heart of the Caribbean. Every detail—from antique furnishings to open-air living spaces—creates a warm, welcoming environment where guests can truly unwind.
Book your stay at Rara Avis and experience one of St. John’s most charming villa rentals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Is there someone on St John if we need assistance during our stay?
Yes! We have local representation on St. John. Our friendly team is available to answer questions, provide recommendations, and assist with anything you may need during your stay, helping ensure a smooth and enjoyable vacation.
Does Rara Avis have a/c?
No, the villa is not air-conditioned, but has ceiling fans or floor fans in all the rooms.
What provisioning companies, private chef services, and boating excursions are recommended?
- Provisioning: Landlubber Logistics and Starfish Market
- Chefs: St. John Catering & DSC Dining
- Boat Excursions: Flyaway Charters, Sunshine Day Dream Charters. Scheduled excursions: Stormy Pirates
What are some hiking trail recommendations? Ram's Head, Reef Bay Trail, Lind Point Trail, Salt Pond & Drunk Bay Trails, to name a few.
What grocery stores are on St John?
- St John Gourmet Market - Cruz Bay
- Starfish Market - Cruz Bay
- Dolphin Market - Cruz Bay
- Pine Peace Market - Cruz Bay
Will I need a jeep rental?
Yes, a jeep rental is recommended when renting a private home. Having your own vehicle gives you the flexibility to explore the island, access beaches, restaurants, and attractions at your own pace, and make the most of your stay.
What are the gas stations on St. John?
- E.C. Gas - Cruz Bay
- Race Track Gas Station - Southshore Road
- Midway Gas - Centerline Road
There aren't any gas stations in Coral Bay.
Are there restaurants nearby?
Yes, they are a 7-8 minute drive into Cruz Bay and range from casual to fine dining. Recommendations include: St. John Back Bar, The Beach Bar, Hightide, The Terrace, Morgan's Mango, Greengo's Cantina, Cafe Roma, Sundog Cafe, to name a few.
How close are the beaches?
For the barefoot, white sand beaches you will be about a 12 -20 minute drive to some of St. John’s most beautiful National Park beaches, including Hawksnest, Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, Maho Bay, and Francis Bay.
Are linens, towels, and beach gear provided?
Orchid Villa includes your linens, bath towels, beach towels, beach chairs, a cooler, and a starter packet of paper products.
What are some activities available on St John?
- If you have never been to St John - take an island tour.
- Go to a different beach each day to find your favorite
- Drive over to Coral Bay to explore the quieter side of the island - have lunch at Skinny Leg's
- Go on a boat excursion
- Visit the Annaberg Sugar Mill Ruins
- Hiking - Reef Bay Trail and Ram's Head
- Do nothing at all - just let the restorative ambiance of St John replenish you
This 4 Bedrooms Villa provides accommodation with Balcony/Terrace, Security/Safety, Barbecue/Outdoor Cooking, for your convenience. This Villa features many amenities for guests who want to stay for a few days, a weekend or probably a longer vacation with family, friends or group. The rental Villa has 4 Bedrooms and 3 Bathrooms to make you feel right at home.
Check to see if this Villa has the amenities you need and a location that makes this a great choice to stay in Estate Chocolate Hole and Great Cruz Bay. Enjoy your stay in Estate Chocolate Hole and Great Cruz Bay at this Villa.
This Property is OneKey Eligible
Earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible vacation rentals, villas, cottages, cabins, and more when you book on Vrbo.
Amenities
Policies
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed this property is managed through our partner, vrbo. you will receive an email from vrbo with a link to a vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Reviews
FAQ's
Is this Estate Chocolate Hole and Great Cruz Bay villa pet-friendly for guests?
No, pets are not allowed at this property. Check the guest reviews to learn what guests had to share.
Does the Estate Chocolate Hole and Great Cruz Bay villa have a swimming pool?
Yes, this Estate Chocolate Hole and Great Cruz Bay villa has a swimming pool. Check the Facility Overview section for details about the pool and other available facilities.
How much does it cost per night to stay in Estate Chocolate Hole and Great Cruz Bay villa?
Best-rates for the Estate Chocolate Hole and Great Cruz Bay villa starts from $724 per night with includes Private Pool, Balcony/Terrace, Security/Safety, Barbecue/Outdoor Cooking, Child Friendly, Internet, Parking, View, Ocean View, Wellness Facilities, Kitchen, Laundry, Pool, TV with all other facilities. matches every traveler with their perfect accommodation, whether you are traveling with a group, friends, family, or pets.
Is Estate Chocolate Hole and Great Cruz Bay villa a family-friendly place to stay?
Based on the information we have received from the owner or our partner, this is considered to be a family-friendly property. Families have rated this villa Good or guests have recommended them suitable for families. As reported by the owner or manager, the villa has specified that children are welcome. Please see details about suitability for your family or inquire with the property to learn more.
Is the Estate Chocolate Hole and Great Cruz Bay villa wheelchair accessible or offer services for disabled guests?
Based on the information received from our partner, the Estate Chocolate Hole and Great Cruz Bay villa has not specified they are wheelchair accessible. Likewise, there is not an elevator specified as being available at the property. Specific accessibility details may be addressed in the property details section of this page.
What is the minimum night stay policy for the Estate Chocolate Hole and Great Cruz Bay villa?
Based on the information reported by the owner or manager, the Estate Chocolate Hole and Great Cruz Bay villa indicates 1 day stay policy at this villa. Guests are cautioned that the minimum stay policy may differ based on seasonality or availability and may be at the discretion of the owner or manager.
What cancellation policy is in place for Estate Chocolate Hole and Great Cruz Bay villa?
Guests are cautioned that the cancellation policy may differ based on seasonality, availability, or current travel restrictions. Guests should also be aware that this policy may be subject to change and should be confirmed prior to booking. More details may be available on this page in the property description. However, early check-in or late check-out can sometimes be negotiated between the guest and the owner or the manager of this property.
