Perfect for the Budget-Minded Travelers

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Entire home

Cool breezes and lush foliage of the surrounding hillsides

View looking South into the hills of Coral Bay

Cheerful, tropical comfortable leisure area

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 3139.4 sq m

Popular amenities

Parking available
Barbecue grill
Kitchen
Free WiFi

Explore the area

St. John, USVI

Virgin Islands National Park
‪8 min walk‬
Cinnamon Bay Beach
‪15 min drive‬
Trunk Bay
‪22 min drive‬
West End (TOV-West End Seaplane Base)
‪256 min walk‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 3)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Porch or lanai

Kitchen

Dining Area

About this property

Our economical and intimate getaway is situated within a few walking minutes to the happenings of Coral Bay, on the quiet side of the island. At the same time the location offers easy access to Cruz Bay via the ‘dollar bus’. Car rentals are optional. Separate and autonomous, living is simple and independent. The tidy and serene studio is arranged for comfort. The arched door frames your view of the surrounding lush tropical mountain landscape. Enjoy basking in the splendor of the outdoors on the spacious wrap-around deck perched on the upper level to catch the constant island breezes. The driveway is on level ground and makes for trouble-free access and parking. Local landmarks including Skinny Legs, Indigo Grill and Oasis, are all within easy walking distance. Enjoy plenty of nightly entertainment. You’ll pass the local grocery store and several gift shops along the way—all a simple 5-minute walk. Yoga classes convene several times a week at The Voyager's. The VITRAN passes hourly. Two thirds of St. John is a U.S. national park with historic ruins, protected beaches, and hiking trails. Boating, snorkeling, fishing, windsurfing, paddle boarding, surfing, and scuba diving are just some of the adventures that await you. Catch the island shuttle bus, to world-class beaches for the day, hike the many trails on the eastern end of St. John, or head to the bustling town of Cruz Bay--for a dollar. Bars and restaurants, quaint boutiques and island ferry excursions are all conveniently located to the studio.

Property manager

Marcia Stewart

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen

Free WiFi

Parking available

Barbecue grill

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Ocean view
Kitchen
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House Rules

Check in after 2:30 PM

Minimum age to rent: 23

Check out before 10:30 AM

Children

Adults only

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

All rates are based on double occupancy. Any added guests will be charged $20. per person per night.

Important information

You need to know

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

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited

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 indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

St. John

Located in Upper Carolina, a neighbourhood in St. John, this cottage is in a rural area and by the sea. While the natural beauty of Virgin Islands National Park and Cinnamon Bay Beach can be enjoyed by anyone, those looking for an activity can explore Tortola Cruise Ship Port. Discover the area's water adventures with scuba diving and snorkelling nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with cycling and horse riding.

St. John, USVI

What's nearby

Virgin Islands National Park - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
Maho Beach - 8 min drive - 5.0 km
Cinnamon Bay - 14 min drive - 6.0 km
Cinnamon Bay Beach - 15 min drive - 6.2 km
Trunk Bay - 22 min drive - 8.3 km

Getting around

St. Thomas (SPB-St. Thomas Seaplane Base) - 78 min drive

Restaurants

‪Skinny Legs - ‬12 min walk
‪The Windmill Bar - ‬17 min drive
1748 Restaurant
‪Greengo’s - ‬23 min drive
‪Sun Dog Cafe - ‬23 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Perfect for the Budget-Minded Travelers pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Perfect for the Budget-Minded Travelers?

Check-in begins at 2:30 PM.

What time is check-out at Perfect for the Budget-Minded Travelers?

Checkout is at 10:30 AM.

Where is Perfect for the Budget-Minded Travelers located?

Located in Upper Carolina, this cottage is within 2 miles (3 km) of Virgin Islands National Park, Ajax Peak and Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument. Johnson Bay and Waterlemon Cay are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Matthew W.

22 May 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Island Escape

I spent 2 weeks in St John in Island Garden Cottage. You will not find a better host anywhere in St John, Marcia is very welcoming, knowledgeable about the island and will go above and beyond to make your stay enjoyable and was very easy to communicate with. The cottage was everything I was looking for and so much more. The cottage is very spacious and has everything you need! Perfect for a solo adventurer or a couple. The property is beautiful and well kept and has total privacy. loved grilling out in the evenings on the wrap around balcony overlooking the mountains and harbor. The trade winds and ceiling fans kept me cool and comfortable all day and night! Loved staying in Coral Bay on the quiet side of the island, the Locals are so friendly and welcoming only noises you may here at night is the wild life, birds, tree frogs and the occasional rooster but slept like a baby every night after a long day of beach hopping and hiking! Dolphin Market and Love City grocery stores are an easy 5 minute drive. Resturants: Skinny Legs and Rhum Lines are a quick 5 minute walk and Surf Club Cantina and Jonny Lime are a quick 5 minute drive, Miss Lucys is 15 minute drive, ( Dont miss Open Mic night on Thursday s) Very close to the beautiful North Shore beaches, Annaberg Sugermill Ruins , Waterlemon Cay, Jonny Horn Trail, Salt Pond Bay and Ram Head Trail. Rent a Jeep!!! All in all Perfect Island Escape will be back!10/10

Stayed 14 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Don and Nancy R.

5 May 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

friendly and clean

Marcia is a wonderful host. The studio has everything you need to stay for a week or months. The bed was comfortable. Although there is no A/C there are screens all around and the nights cooled off for great sleeping. The road in was pretty rough but Marcia gave us the back way in which was easier. You will want 4wd for the roads on St. John. There are 3 restaurants within walking distance via the back trail providing non driving dining. When we go back we will try to stay here again.

Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Blain A.

25 Dec 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Really wonderful

Our hostess Marcia and her family were a delight to get to know and we had a couple of sunset parties which included decorating the Christmas tree. They were very helpful and so friendly and forthcoming with tips on where to hike and snorkel. The accommodations are not luxurious but very nice open-air with everything you’ll need to cook your meals and be comfortable. Highly recommended.

Stayed 11 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

James K.

31 Mar 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Island Glo was Perfect

Loved being in the Coral Bay end of the island, but still very close to St. John’s best beaches. The Island Glo apartment is bright and airy, all that we needed, with a wrap around porch and an extraordinary view of Coral Nay. Marcia has cultivated a friendly community of renters. We’ll be back!

Stayed 8 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rob N.

17 Dec 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Gem In Paradise

This property is perfect for an extended stay, having everything needed to cook, grill and relax, in addition to a small library about the island. The studio was clean, well kept, in a perfect location very close to Coral Bay restaurants, but what made my stay absolutely special was the host, Marcia. She is truly a wonderful woman, her intimate knowledge of the island (and passion for it!) made my stay an unforgettable experience and the reason I will be returning to stay at the property. I would speak with her almost on a daily basis about where to snorkel , eat and just to learn about the island itself. This property and host combines to make for a truly relaxing and special rental.

Stayed 10 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Abigail f.

16 Nov 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing!

An amazing getaway on the quieter side of the island near Coral Bay. Marcia was extremely accommodating and checked in to make sure everything was well! We couldn't have picked a better place to stay!

Stayed 10 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Donna G.

25 Oct 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful view everywhere you look!

We have always wanted to visit St John so after our usual two weeks in Florida were cancelled due to the awful hurricane, we came here instead. Marcia and her property manager Whitni took great care of us, down to the last detail of how to get to the property, which was super helpful as we arrived after dark. Island life is a unique experience and we felt well prepared. The property is private, but right 'in town' at Coral Bay. The unit has everything you need to be comfortable. We went to many beaches, snorkeled almost every day of the 12 days we were there and had a great fishing experience with a charter. We rented our Jeep on St Thomas, they picked us up at the airport, we drove to the car ferry and we were off on a great adventure! KEEP LEFT! Looking forward to a return trip. Thank you for everything, especially to Whitni the property manager. Exceptional service.

Stayed 12 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Christopher B.

8 Aug 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Gorgeous Spot on the Quiet Side of the Island

We had a wonderful week here - everything was clean and in good repair and we had a wonderful stay.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Scott L.

7 July 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quiet side of the island

Lived like a local here. Really enjoyed it. Pretty detached from any nightlife as everything closes by 8:00pm, except the life saving Love City Market, open until 10:30pm 7 days with anything you may need. Rent a car and STAY LEFT! Gets noisy at night, not with night life but with wildlife, donkeys, goats, ROOSTERS, DOGS ... Bring ear plugs. Cool, safe neighborhood, no need to lock your doors! Host and property manager were awesome to deal with!!

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jeff W.

23 June 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Tropical Stay!

We loved this property. Everything we needed was there right down to a little ice chest for our day use. The view of the harbor, the breezes, the humingbirds, ... all just great. Marcia, stayed in touch and was very helpful as was her onsite assistant, Whitney. We look forward to our return.

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Doug K., Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

23 May 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful vacation property

We had a great week staying here. Cottage was excellent, loved sitting outside on the deck. Marcia was a great host, she answered all of our questions & provided lots of good local tips. Great location, very convenient to the whole island. Easy parking. We hope to return someday..

Stayed 7 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lindsey R., Dallas, Georgia, USA

9 May 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The perfect cottage vacation!

My boyfriend and I stayed for a week in April and it was the most amazing experience! We chose st. John and coral bay specifically to be in a quiet area, and this was the perfect place to do so! Marcia is the absolute sweetest, kindest, and informative host and we are beyond thankful to her for going out of her way to make sure we had everything we need and that we were having a great time. (We did instantly regret not renting a car and ended up getting one on our second day, which allowed us to really explore the island) the views were unbelievable, I've never seen water so blue! We will absolutely be back to see even more of the island and of course to visit our new friend Marcia! -Lindsey & Oliver

Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Carla A J., Golden Valley

12 Apr 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Love Coral Bay/St John

I cannot say enough good things about our stay in Lower Carolina, Coral Bay. It was our 30th wedding anniversary and we were looking for something quiet and that is exactly what we got except for maybe the sounds of the local sheep, goats, donkeys, & roosters (which I loved as I grew up on a farm in North Dakota). Marcia, the property owner, could not have been more helpful. She helped us find many amazing snorkeling spots and she is delightful to have a conversation with and has much knowledge of the area and many things. The house we stayed in was wonderful as well and we enjoyed spending time on the wrap-around porch with a coffee or cocktail. I always miss my pets when travelling and her cat, Squirrel, was happy to get some love while we hung out on the deck (he is not allowed inside). The location is great as it is not far from the town of Coral Bay and the view of the bay was beautiful and the breeze cooling. We hope to return someday..

Stayed 8 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Sue & Jeff N., Rhinelander, WI

17 Mar 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful views, great accomodations

We love staying at Marcia's place in Coral Bay on the quiet side of St John. Living space is wonderful with 2 sided balcony with views of the bay. Marcia is kind, fun and gives us all the information we need about St John. Walking distance to groceries and restaurants. We never want to go home!

Stayed 14 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Austin T.

15 Dec 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect

Marcia is as good as hosts come, maybe even better. We loved our stay at her place. It was exactly what we were looking for and had everything we needed. We were very satisfied with the accommodations. We particularly enjoyed the many tips we received from Marcia. Each and every one of them turned out to be the right move. Highly recommend!

Stayed 10 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Minjoe W.

16 Aug 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Marvelous property. Marcia was a dream communicator.

Everything about this place was superb.

Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Christy B.

9 July 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Tropical Getaway

My husband and I stayed at Island Gardens for two weeks in Coral Bay. We loved the seclusion and privacy that we had while on the property. Whitni and Marcia are very gracious hosts with lots of knowledge about St. John. Squirrel the kitty was so loving and greeted us every morning. We rented a car (4 wheel drive recommended) for one week to explore more beaches and Cruz Bay. The second week we were still able to discover many places in Coral Bay. Take advantage of the path on the property to cut out the steep driveway and some of the road traffic. We walked to a couple beaches close by and visited the local restaurants and enjoyed the island hospitality and cuisine. Two of our faves were Ekaete Pink Corner for Roti and Love City Cafe for veggie pate. There are also two grocery stores within walking distance. Also, use the Vitran which is the public bus to get to different places in Coral Bay and Cruz Bay. Overall we hated to leave St John and were sad to have to come back to the states with its hustle and bustle lifestyle. Everyone on the island was friendly and kind and laidback (on island time)

Stayed 14 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Don G., Watertown, MA, US

10 June 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

As good as it gets.

Wonderful house, wonderful view, wonderful host, great location. We couldn't have asked for more. And our host, Marcia, was as hospitable, helpful, and thoughtful as she could possibly be. We're going back!

Stayed 8 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Brianna O.

7 June 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

She thought of EVERYTHING.

Marcia was absolutely spot on incredible! If you're thinking about booking at Island Gardens, just go for it. You will be so pleasantly surprised. The place is very private, safe, and clean with all of the comforts of home! Marcia goes above and beyond to ensure that you reach her home efficiently and you have what you need when you're there. She'll also check in to ensure you have means back to the ferry. The appliances and amenties were all perfect, she left us a gallon of water and the WiFi worked for communicating back home. The deck is gorgeous with incredible views of the mountains and bay. The neighbors are nice and the driveway was perfect for our little one to use the toys Marcia let us borrow. The fans kept us cool at night and the bug net was perfect for limiting bites. Enjoy your time!

Stayed 8 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Mark S.

1 June 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay!

Had a great stay! Host made sure everything was in perfect order. Would definitely stay again.

Stayed 15 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Lisa T.

22 Feb 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful stay in Coral Bay

Stunning views of Bordeaux mountain & water view of Coral Bay from the great wraparound porch, perfect for sunset cocktails & AM coffee. All the basic amenities, well stocked kitchenette with quality pans, containers, glasses, microwave. Nice wood vaulted ceilings make for a spacious living area. Host is very gracious, friendly and will meet you to make sure you find her property. Good location- can walk to markets, restaurants, bus stop, & some hiking if u don’t have a car/Jeep. But with a Jeep there are so many off the beaten spots to explore in Coral Bay & the east end. Good area for nature-oriented, ecologically minded tourists who appreciate a quieter vacation with a more local feel, & those who can appreciate & support resource conservation. Coral Bay is more rural so be prepared for bumpy roads, wild roosters, bugs, baby geckos, wild goats & donkeys! Running a tall fan will keep the place cool & drown out any early AM rooster calls. You’ll be pleasantly surprised with the good WiFi & AT&T cell service. Like most homes in this area, water supply is a cistern. The fenced property has about 4-5 rentals which are spaced amongst a few different buildings. It was convenient to have the owner/host in the building next door for questions, assistance. Felt safe staying here. Locals are very nice. Nearby businesses have a lot of island character. A beautiful artists’ studio & coffee shop < 15 min. walk. Two weeks flew by!

Stayed 14 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Katherine S.

8 Feb 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best rental experience I've ever had!

Its hard for any photos or review to do this rental experience justice. The beautiful, clean cottages are nestled in the mountains with a lovely breeze and view of the water. You have all the privacy you need, and are a short distance to all the best snorkeling (the hiddden gems that don't get run down by tourists). The host Marcia is so responsive, helpful, and unintrusive but if you want some good company or reccomendations she knows the ins and outs of the island and has some amazing stories to tell. I came for a week and ended up staying a month :). Will be back!

Stayed 14 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Kara W.

21 Jan 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The PERFECT space for our family!

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay ! This home has wonderful bones and Marcias attention to the property is noticeable & is well cared for. We love the Coral bay Side of the island And admit We only went to town in Cruz bay once Because Coral bay is our pace and vibe and Marcias space and home were so wonderful to wake up to . We would wake up from the bed in the early morning hours to watch the sun coming up over the bay while still in bed , AMazing and lush thmountains surround you We would Fall back asleep and again wake up later have our long coffee routine on the wrap around deck and read for awhile, plan a little and Think about our day ahead. The deck has a comfortable couch and chairs and side table as well as plenty of space to lay wet clothing and towels without interrupting the views The home was such a wonderful welcoming space to come home to at night after hiking & We cooked several easy small meals after a long day and being at the house at night is peaceful and tranquil The house has everything you need to cook long elaborate meals as well and a grill The space is quiet other than the sounds of nature We could hear the birds singing which was lovely and appreciated We loved walking to town to get Johnny cakes , smoothies and limeades from Esta on the pink corner . As well as walking to skinny legs and walked to a wonderful meal at Rhumb lines The corner store is also walking distance Marcia met us at skinny legs showed us the space and left us on our own unless we needed her for anything she was more than happy to share We mentioned we left our sons kindle charger at home so Marcia loaned our son several books from her home that she curated just for him and she chose well He now loves that Author and spent his evenings reading She also loaned my husband a book on the birds in the carribean as he is a birderShe also let him know of the Christmas bird count that was occurring the week of our stay& shared snorkel spots My husband thoroughly enjoyed talking to Marcia and sharing. There were also wonderful books to read in the home as well as guidebooks , we enjoyed the coral books very much The decor of the house was fitting for the space and all very well made The art in the home was bright and well framed and brought us joy The internet was really good and we always had service at he home We hope for a longer stay in the future A wonderful thoughtful host and perfect space

Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2020

10/10 Excellent

Sandy L.

25 Sept 2019

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Loved it!!!

We were here for our 25th anniversary and everything about the place was perfect. Location is close to town and close to beaches.

Stayed 8 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Seth R.

29 July 2019

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best Vacation Ever!

We loved everything about this property. It was clean, open, cool in the evening, and well-furnished and equipped. Marcia was very responsive and very helpful via e-mail prior to our arrival, and Whitni was wonderful once we finally got there. If you're looking for an urban environment with easy access to clubs, bars, and activities, this is not the place for you. If you're looking for a quiet, more rural, friendly neighborhood environment, and you have a car or are comfortable hitchhiking to beaches, town, etc. (this is the best way to meet the most wonderful people), then this is definitely the place for you. We can say nothing but thank you, thank you, and thank you again. We will be back! Seth & Lauren

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019

About the host

Hosted by Marcia Stewart

Languages:

English

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Perfect for the Budget-Minded Travelers

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Reviews

Popular amenities

Explore the area

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 3)

Bedroom 1

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

About this property