Affordable Coral Bay Sanctuary. Quiet, walk to park beaches, sea & pond views. Reviews, Deals & Photos 2025

Q: Is Affordable Coral Bay Sanctuary. Quiet, walk to park beaches, sea & pond views. pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows pets (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

Q: Where is Affordable Coral Bay Sanctuary. Quiet, walk to park beaches, sea & pond views. located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cottage is within a 15-minute walk of Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument and Virgin Islands National Park. Saltpond Bay and Johnson Bay are also within 3 miles (5 km).

10/10 Excellent

Brian O.

30 Nov 2018

It was perfect

It was a quiet, relaxing, all natural place. The best of what real St. John is.

Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2018

10/10 Excellent

Mary H.

19 Jan 2023

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

Beautiful spot!

We loved our vacation in this beautiful cottage! The location was perfect for easy access to hiking and snorkeling/swimming. Many national park trails are walking distance from the house, as are several snorkeling sites. We greatly enjoyed snorkeling in Groopan and Kiddle Bays, close to the cottage, and exploring the park trails. The cottage was very well outfitted, and the garden and views are inspiring! Thank you Mary for the perfect vacation!

Stayed 12 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Neal S., Overland Park, KS

9 Mar 2023

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

A colorful West Indies feel

The flora and fauna (bird sanctuary) here surround a quaintly-decorated cottage, giving one a true feel for the West Indies. Tucked away from the bustling tourism one finds on the opposite end of St.John, this place is a peaceful retreat, with everything a family needs for a fun vacation. Salt Pond Bay and Little Laneshur Bay are closeby, and we found then to be great beaches with awesome snorkeling.

Stayed 8 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Susan M., El Granada and Land O Lakes, WI

29 Mar 2024

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

Wonderful Fiddlewood Cottage

My travel partner and I stayed for 12 days at this artfully decorated, immaculate, and well equipped cottage. The kitchen had any spice, bowl, and pan we would ever need. The beds were comfy with views galore to the National Park and Grootpan Bay. Outside the gorgeous plant and plentiful bird life surrounded the decks. Our superlative host Mary gave us great advice before we came and for our daily adventures. We will definitely book this cottage again in the future.

Stayed 11 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Claude S.

27 Jan 2020

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

Charm, Comfort and Care

This was our second visit to Fiddlewood Cottage and it was better than ever. The post storm renovations made the place bigger, brighter and even more comfortable. The setting is peaceful and magical, even after the bumpy approach which is everywhere on St.John. Mary sent us tips before and during our stay and helped us enjoy our stay in more ways than we could count. The personal touches are quietly evident everywhere: the stocked kitchen, the impeccable bathroom, the beach equipment, island info, the lovely garden, etc. It is obvious that she cares deeply about the house and makes every effort to share her passion for it. Book early, go and enjoy a special vacation.

Stayed 9 nights in Jan 2020

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Lynn O., Brookline, MA

7 Mar 2017

Exceeded our Expectations

My husband and I spent a week, with my sister joining us later in the week. Everything about the house and locale is wonderful. The small house has everything you need, and the wrap around porch with living space on both sides makes for easy indoor/outdoor living. There is wonderful cross ventilation, with a view overlooking the large salt pond and a more distant view of the Caribbean. There is not a house to be seen from the cottage and the stars at night are awesome. The kitchen worked well and we did breakfast outdoors, late lunch after being out in the sun, and dinner at several local restaurants - Concordia Cafe for burgers, Lucy's for fish and steel band, Inidgo for fish tacos and live music, and Shipwreck Landing for fish and chips and live swing music. Mary has outfitted with useful beach chairs, fins, beach towels, and is extremely helpful in making recommendations for local places to snorkel, rent kayaks, and grocery shop. She is a real resource. Generally, the area is a bit off the beaten path, at the quiet end of the island (a good 35 minute drive from Cruz bay on windy, hilly roads) , with an old time feel. The south side bays were calm and protected from the winds, which made the snorkeling great. There is a short dirt road to the cottage, and you definitely want a four wheel jeep rental to negotiate some the of pot holes and rocks.

Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2017

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Margrit and doug p., Elliot lake

5 Apr 2016

Amenities, location, Fiddlewood.......Perfection

March 14 - March 25 Ontario, Canada My husband and I landed in St. Thomas with no luggage. Quite stressful but Mary went out of her way to call and see what was going on. My cell phone was dying and couldn't call (of course my charger was in my luggage). I am also a huge coffee drinker and because of the late hour we bought nothing and I was already worried I would have no coffee or cream for the morning. Low and behold there was everything there for us. Stocked up with everything u could possibly need. No need to worry Mary had it covered. She checked up on us the next day about our luggage to make sure we were ok. Would I go back to Marys' Piece of Paradise? In a heartbeat and when I go back to St John it certainly will be to Fiddlewood. If you are looking for quiet, relaxation and peace, Fiddlewood is the place for you. If you love to snorkel, Salt Pond Beach ( 2 min away) is where you should go along with all the other beautiful beaches on this Island. Good shopping in Coral Bay and Calabash has the best fresh fish. All in all this was our best vacation in a long time and we have traveled to a lot of islands. Thank you Mary. Margrit and Doug

Stayed 11 nights in Mar 2016

10/10 Excellent

Kimberlee M., stockbridge,Vt

25 Jul 2019

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

Peace at the end of a windy road

Everything about my experience with Mary and Estate Mandel exceeded my expectations. It had been years since I visited St John, and I never got over to the Coral Bay side, so I had a ton of questions. Communication before check in was easy and informative. The accommodations were very clean, peaceful, beautiful and the gardens lush! Each morning I woke up to watch the hummingbirds and chicks lap of the fresh rain water and nectar from flower to flower. The distant sound of the waves crashing in Grootpan Bay was soothing. In short- the setting is amazing and so peaceful- like you are the only ones on earth. The accommodations were wonderful- Mary and Les have thought of everything you could need- the kitchen well equipped, the bathroom was stocked with all the things you may have forgotten, plenty of water toys and beach needs- chairs, cooler, even frozen water bottles! The stars at night out on a show that was spectacular and it was fun watching ships and sailboats slide past our little bay. The bed was comfy, and the screened in porch, which could be used as a sleeping nook, came in handy at twilight. I can’t say enough about Mary as a host- she literally thought of everything including special needs I might have coming in from far away. Her suggestions for great snorkeling led to an amazing experience away from the crowds. I highly recommend a staying here if you want to ‘get away’ from it all but also have all the amenities of a fully stocked home. The work she is doing now to expand the sleeping capacity will make this villa so much fun for families or friends traveling together! A peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle!

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2019

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Kathy G.

31 Jul 2015

A beautiful, peaceful stay

Fiddlewood is a quiet, beautifully decorated cottage that is perfect for a single person or couple that would like to be away from the hustle and bustle. Mary is amazing - she will not only meet you at the ferry, but take the time to get you fully situated at the cottage and orient you to your surroundings. She is available throughout your stay with advice, guidance, and help. The cottage is a 10-15 mn drive from Coral Bay, which in turn is about a 20-30 mn drive from Cruz Bay, so you may want to rent a car for your stay (rent the smallest, most nimble vehicle available - the roads are steep, narrow, and take some gravity defying turns - and fill up in Cruz Bay before you leave for Mary's). The entrance road to the cottage is a bit bumpy, but don't let that alarm you if you normally navigate in a world of pavement. You'll be fine. The cottage has an open floor plan and is delightfully airy and welcoming. The kitchen has everything you need, and there is a lovely market in Coral Bay where you can stock up on food and sundries. There is AC in the bedroom - Mary will program it for you so it will come on when you need it and turn off when you don't. There is a filter on the tap, so no need for bottled water; water conservation measures are practiced on the property, but Mary will show you what to do. The back porch is absolutely wonderful in the morning, with cool breezes and a lovely view. There is great snorkeling nearby, and Mary provides beach chairs, towels, noodles, fins ... all you'll need is a mask and snorkel. Don't spend so much time going to the famous sandy beaches that you miss the beautiful bays and hiking trails right near the cottage! (like I almost did). If you would like some quiet time in a beautiful place, consider Fiddlewood.

10/10 Excellent

William C.

7 Apr 2025

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

Cottage

Awesome

Stayed 28 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Eva G.

19 Dec 2024

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

Beautiful private cottage

This is a lovely cottage in a private spot on the quiet side of St. John. It is very well equipped and comfortable. You get a view of the pond and the bay, enjoy the breezes, and relax! Mary is a superb host. She has thought of everything to make your stay the very best. There are beach chairs, a tent, flippers for snorkeling, etc. etc. Books and games for indoor entertainment. One caution- make sure to rent a Jeep so you can get in the final road to the cottage.

Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Pearl C.

20 Jul 2024

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

Oh St. John. Our home away from home!

Mary was a wonderful host. She was in constant communication- before, during and after our stay. Always available, and checked in during the frequent power outages that have been occurring throughout STT and STJ. Mary's house is cozy with a wonderful view and fully stocked with all the amenities. Thank you for the warm welcome and stay, Mary!

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jonathan S.

11 May 2023

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

Enchanted April

Perhaps you have never seen a flamingo beyond the confines of a zoo. Maybe you have never heard the subtle, secret sounds of nature as night falls in a garden. If you haven’t witnessed a cloud of hummingbirds feeding on a flowering cactus or watched a tree frog’s vigil on a rainy night you will be able to do so in Mary’s garden. St. John in April is the strangest mix of lush and arid. The stony road that leads to the cottage is the prelude to a garden where orchids cling to a tree that itself erupts into blooms that previously only existed in a book by Dr. Seuss. Cactus live cheek by jowl with blossoming perennials and palms. St John is full of magical contradictions. Water is precious here but St John blooms with proper stewardship. This cottage was private and quiet, immaculately kept and sweetly whimsical. You have every amenity necessary for comfort. Mary is a responsive and lovely host. Need a tent to shelter from sun at the beach? She provides it. Flippers? They are available, sunscreen? In a basket, along with cortisone for the occasional bug bite. Towels? Check. Shampoo? Absolutely! A grill? On the porch. Ice? Waiting for you in the freezer. Filtered water, every item one needs to cook a meal to enjoy after a long day on the sand. There will never be silence there – it is filled with the hum of life. Geckos, land crabs ,birds, frogs. At night? I think Mary even arranged for all those stars, as they are placed just so. Of course we will want to go back!

Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Stacey K.

20 Feb 2022

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

Quiet Island Getaway!

My boyfriend and I had a wonderful time at Mary’s place. We loved how remote and quiet it was, and we had beautiful views off the back deck. Definitely a great place to stay if you are looking for something less busy than Cruz Bay, and right by great hiking trails. Would love to come back again!

Stayed 6 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mary C.

17 Jan 2022

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

Quiet and peaceful

Fiddlewood Cottage was a great stay away from the more populated, touristy areas of St John. The stars were bright, and the grounds were filled with flowers and plants. It was relaxing to watch all the hummingbirds and the sunsets in the quiet. The cottage was very clean and well equipped with kitchen supplies, towels, games, etc. The hostess, Mary, was very helpful and kept in touch as needed during the stay. Thanks for sharing your home away from home!

Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Marshall B., New York, NY

8 Jan 2022

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

Incredible Stay

Mary's place is incredible. It's one of the best VRBO's we've ever stayed in. The views from the cottage are incredible, and you're staying on a part where it feels like you have the entire island to yourself. Myself, my wife, and our infant daughter stayed there for a week around new years eve, and it was the perfect spot for us. We can only hope to return as soon as possible.

Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

6 Jul 2021

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

Relaxing week in paradise

Fiddlewood cottage was the perfect spot for the relaxing, quiet week on St John my husband and I were craving. The location, just past Salt Pond, minutes to Lamshure, is away from all the crowds in Cruz Bay, but close enough to Coral Bay to easily get to the market, restaurants, and from there North Shore beaches. The cottage itself is adorable, squeaky clean, and cozy. The decks are perfect for dining, relaxing, and stargazing away from the town lights. We will definitely be returning!

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jon L.

24 Jun 2021

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

Charming cottage

We had a great time at the cottage. Tranquil, breezy and beautiful, you are at one with nature while you’re there. Mary provided everything that we could possibly need during our stay and was super helpful with recommendations. Would definitely go back again!!

Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Cynthia B., Groton, Massachusetts, USA

14 Jan 2021

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

Peaceful, out of the way St. John retreat

I had come to St. John last-minute, joining my family, who was staying at a larger home nearby. Mary’s home is charming, remote, comfortable, and peaceful. There was the shady porch, the sunny deck, and the large patio, where you could get either sun or shade, depending on the time of day. Gorgeous gardens, a well-stocked home, and a welcoming owner all contributed to a perfect stay for me. In addition, I was about a 10-15 minute walk from three prime areas: Kiddel, Grootpan, and Saltpond Bays. I would highly recommend this home for an individual, couple, or very small group seeking quiet and solitude.

Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Ann G.

27 Feb 2020

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

Perfect Cottage

Fiddlewood is an idyllic place to stay. Sun or shade any time of day from multiple decks, wonderful gardens and bird life, close to beaches. Plus, the best hosts ever. The cottage is very well equipped, but if there is anything else you need, Mary can help! Can't recommend a better place to stay.

Stayed 8 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Todd W., Zionsville, Indiana

2 Jan 2020

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

Fiddlewood Cottage Getaway

Our family had the most enchanting stay at Fiddlewood Cottage. The seclusion and natural beauty of this location was beyond our expectation and will keep us coming back. Mary, the property owner is wonderful, and takes great pride in her place. The cottage and gardens are beautifully kept with all of the details covered. Her guidance and suggestions were perfect throughout our visit with valuable local knowledge from the best car rental to the most amazing snorkeling just out the door. We are grateful for having found this place and for having one of our best family vacations here.

Stayed 9 nights in Dec 2019

10/10 Excellent

Justin R.

12 Nov 2019

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

Peace at Fiddlewood

Fiddlewood was PERFECT for my wife and I! The house was clean and even more cute than the pictures show! It's secluded over Salt Pond with a beautiful view to watch the sunset. Mary was an absolute joy! She always communicated back quickly and was very helpful the entire time! She went out of her way to make sure we had the time of our lives! I highly recommend staying here to anyone who wants peace and to get away from the hustle and bustle! Truly one of the best experiences we've ever had!!

10/10 Excellent

Susan B.

19 Mar 2019

Sweet retreat with amazing views of paradise

We all loved staying at Fiddlewood cottage! The views of St John's unspoiled mountainous interior, the salt lagoon and bay beyond were gorgeous and lush. Every morning we awakened to birds and the humming of the bees in the pink pom-pom trees. For breakfast, we'd slice open fresh papaya. The cottage is very clean, comfortable and sweetly decorated. It has all the conveniences and yet a rustic feel which fits the remote side of the island. Beaches, hiking trails and great snorkeling are close at hand. This is truly a retreat for nature lovers who wish to escape the crowds.

Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2019

10/10 Excellent

Lisa L.

15 Dec 2018

The garden was serene from Bothell the front and side decks!

Mary is a wonderful host! Fiddlewood was perfect for tranquility! Beautiful home with beautiful surroundings and a short walk to two bay beaches! Perfect & Thanks again Mary!

Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2018

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Jodie w.

13 Aug 2017

BEAUTIFUL GARDENS, WELL EQUIPPED COTTAGE

I strongly recommend this cottage for those who like something small, well-maintained and remote. The setting is beautiful, the cottage is very comfortable, and we enjoyed walking to nearby beaches and snorkeling. Mary is a wonderful hostess. She loves this property, and her care shows. She had good ideas for us, ranging from when and where to snorkel, to how to use the lemongrass in her garden. We enjoyed our stay very much. Jodie W., Brookline, MA

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2017

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Affordable Coral Bay Sanctuary. Quiet, walk to park beaches, sea & pond views.

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