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Ultra-Private St. John Studio with Pool, Hot Tub & Stargazing/Bird watching Deck

Photo gallery for Ultra-Private St. John Studio with Pool, Hot Tub & Stargazing/Bird watching Deck

A pool area with lounge chairs and umbrellas, surrounded by lush greenery and mountains in the background. - Ultra-Private St. John Studio with Pool, Hot Tub & Stargazing/Bird watching Deck (Coral Bay)
A stone staircase leading to a door with a tropical mural, surrounded by lush greenery and potted plants. - Ultra-Private St. John Studio with Pool, Hot Tub & Stargazing/Bird watching Deck (Coral Bay)
A room with a bed, a dining area, a kitchen, and a balcony with a view. - Ultra-Private St. John Studio with Pool, Hot Tub & Stargazing/Bird watching Deck (Coral Bay)
A kitchen with wooden cabinets, a white refrigerator, a microwave, and a dining area with a table and chairs. - Ultra-Private St. John Studio with Pool, Hot Tub & Stargazing/Bird watching Deck (Coral Bay)
A covered deck with a view of lush greenery and mountains. - Ultra-Private St. John Studio with Pool, Hot Tub & Stargazing/Bird watching Deck (Coral Bay)
Breathtaking Panoramic Views of the British Virgin Islands from hot tub & pool! provides amenities, such as a garden and a hot tub. Stay connected with free in-room WiFi.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 3

Popular amenities

  • Ocean view
  • Pool
  • Hot tub
  • Kitchen
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi

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About this property

Ultra-Private St. John Studio with Pool, Hot Tub & Stargazing/Bird watching Deck

  • A Place in the Sun at Papaya Moon Villa Estate
    Perched on the breezy mountaintop of Upper Carolina, A Place in the Sun is a beautifully renovated, independent studio suite offering unmatched peace, tranquility, and privacy. Situated on a massive lot within a lush tropical island setting, this special property is one of the most private villa estates on St. John.
    Inside, the casual Caribbean interiors are painted in bright island colors and furnished with comfortable wicker and rattan seating, offering a perfect, authentic island vibe.
    Space & Comfort
    • The Bedroom: Features a comfortable King bed and a unique platform daybed sitting room (Sleeps 2 comfortably).
    • Natural Cooling: This suite faces both South and East, perfectly capturing the refreshing Caribbean trade winds so A/C is not necessary!
    • Private Conveniences: Includes its own private, well-appointed bathroom and fully equipped kitchenette.
    • Easy Access: Conveniently entered down a short staircase directly off the concrete paved road.
    Spectacular Shared Amenities & Views
    Guests enjoy over 1,000 square feet of shared exterior deck space with plenty of areas to lounge in total privacy or gather in a group:
    • The Views: Panoramic vistas overlooking Hurricane Hole, the East End of St. John, and the British Virgin Islands.
    • The Pool & Deck: Located just below on the lower level, featuring a sparkling swimming pool nestled in a beautifully landscaped garden setting with premium lounge furniture.
    • Garden Hot Tub: Located on the upper level—the absolute perfect spot for stargazing under the intense, clear St. John night sky.
    • Outdoor Grill: Ideal for cooking fresh catches while taking in the views.
    Botanical Tropical Gardens
    The estate is surrounded by well-established, professionally landscaped tropical gardens. Wander through a vibrant paradise filled with Palms, Coconuts, Papayas, Bananas, Plantains, Coffee, and citrus trees, all surrounded by an abundance of fragrant tropical plants and flowers.
    Traveling with a Group? Rent Both Studios!
    Need more space? A Place in the Sun can be rented alongside its sister studio, Suite Papaya, located on the same level. While you share the massive estate decks, pool, and hot tub, both units maintain entirely separate, private living spaces, kitchenettes, and bathrooms. Renting both together is the ultimate setup for couples traveling together who want both shared fun and total privacy. Special group pricing is available—please inquire!

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach nearby
  • Beach loungers

Pool/Spa

  • Hot tub
  • Outdoor pool
  • Private pool

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Car recommended
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking available

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Kitchenette
  • Microwave
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • Bedroom
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table

Entertainment

  • DVD player
  • Music library
  • Smart TV
  • Stereo

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Laundromat nearby

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • Up to 23 kg per pet

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Accessible parking space
  • No lift (single-level property)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking
  • Designated smoking areas
  • Note from host: Smoking should be outdoors

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Location highlights

  • In the mountains
  • Near a hospital
  • Near the marina
  • Near the sea

Things to do

  • Basketball nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Parasailing nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Snorkelling nearby
  • Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Windsurfing nearby

Safety features

  • No carbon monoxide detector or gas appliances (host has indicated there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Garden
  • Property does not allow children

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Minimum check-in age - 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

Pets are allowed
Welcoming dogs only
1 total (up to 23 kg per pet)
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property on the number on the booking confirmation

Children and extra beds

This property does not allow children

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas
Smoking should be outdoors

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
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 indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
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
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
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

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Located in Upper Carolina, a neighbourhood in St. John, this holiday home is in the mountains and near the beach. 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 jet skiing and kayaking nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with horse riding and cycling. Visit our St. John travel guide
View more Holiday homes in St. John
Map
Coral Bay, VI

What's nearby

  • A tropical beach with clear turquoise waters, lush green hills, and a small red building on a hill.
    Virgin Islands National Park
    1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • A beach with clear turquoise water, people swimming, and a forested hill in the background.
    Cinnamon Bay Beach
    30 min drive - 10.6 km
  • A tropical beach with clear turquoise waters, lush greenery, and distant mountains.
    Trunk Bay
    36 min drive - 11.5 km
  • Ajax Peak
    13 min walk - 1.2 km
  • Emmaus Moravian Church
    2 min drive - 0.9 km

Getting around

  • St. Thomas (SPB-St. Thomas Seaplane Base)
    79 min drive

Restaurants

  • Skinny Legs
    5 min drive
  • Trunk Bay Beach Bar
    23 min drive
  • Maho Crossroads
    9 min drive
  • Shambles
    18 min drive
  • Surf Cantina
    4 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Breathtaking Panoramic Views of the British Virgin Islands from hot tub & pool! have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

Is Breathtaking Panoramic Views of the British Virgin Islands from hot tub & pool! pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (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.

How much is parking at Breathtaking Panoramic Views of the British Virgin Islands from hot tub & pool!?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Breathtaking Panoramic Views of the British Virgin Islands from hot tub & pool!?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Breathtaking Panoramic Views of the British Virgin Islands from hot tub & pool!?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Breathtaking Panoramic Views of the British Virgin Islands from hot tub & pool! located?

Located in Upper Carolina, this holiday home is within 1 mi (2 km) of Ajax Peak and Virgin Islands National Park. Emmaus Moravian Church and Hurricane Hole are also within 3 miles (5 km).

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Ultra-Private St. John Studio with Pool, Hot Tub & Stargazing/Bird watching Deck Reviews

Reviews

Exceptional

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 44 out of 47 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 47 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 47 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 47 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 47 reviews

10

Cleanliness

10

Location

10

Staff & service

10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Hosts were easygoing and very informative about the Island
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved this beautiful secluded apartment with amazing views. We absolutely adored Ron and Sue the owners of the property, it was like going to a new place in the world and meeting family.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Absolutely beautiful place

Friendly and helpful hosts. A view that's absolutely stunning and a clean lovely vrbo. Sue and Ron were wonderful. The gardens they've created are stunning. We enjoyed our stay in Coral Bay immensely and would love to stay with them again.
Stayed 8 nights in Feb 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Paradise on earth!

Our accommodations at “A place in the Sun” exceeded expectations! Property was private, clean, comfortable and well maintainedThe breeze through our suite was great for sleep and relaxing. We had absolutely everything we needed!! Great job Ron & Sue!!
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

A Slice of Heaven in Coral Bay

Papayamoon is in the best location in Coral Bay. It was easy to reach fabulous beaches and spots for dining and shopping. The views from the deck are spectacular. Our unit was spacious and well appointed with everything we needed. Ron, Sue and Thelma were lovely and gracious hosts.
Stayed 8 nights in Nov 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great Birding & National Park Getaway

Really enjoyed our stay. Beautiful views on the quieter side of the island. Property has lovely gardens, beautiful to see and very attractive to birds (one of our key interests). We saw 18 “life” species on the island, 14 of which we saw from the expansive deck. Hosts were very personable, with good recommendations on places to bird, eat and snorkel. It helped that they had snorkel equipment and beach towels for our use. Property was very clean and had everything we needed for a great stay. Very fun trip, we highly recommend.
Stayed 9 nights in Mar 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Reviewing Paradise

We stayed at Papaya Moon for two weeks at the beginning of March 2025 in the “Place in the Sun” suite. Simply paradise. The mountaintop views and breezes are heavenly. It is a very private location, surrounded by Sue’s beautiful gardens and the natural beauty of the island. You have your option of lots of outdoor activities – swimming, kayaking, snorkeling in turquoise waters; hiking the many trails that range from challenging to easy-going strolls. Or you can relax on the deck and gaze at sea and sky every time you look up from your book. We’d call Coral Bay the quiet side of the island, in contrast to the busier beaches closer to Cruz Bay. Coral Bay has some good places to eat and hear music, and a pottery studio/gallery/gift shop with work by local artists. Ron and Sue are wonderful hosts. It was a pleasure to meet them and learn about their experiences on St. John and obvious devotion to their island community. All the amenities in the description are accurate – clean, well-equipped, wifi, nice little kitchen, etc. We were also able to take a look at the other suite, and it is equally lovely.— Cecilia V. & Carl F. 3/22/2025
Stayed 14 nights in Mar 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Spectacular view from a botanical paradise. Sue has created the most amazing setting with gorgeous plants in every direction- most nurtured from cuttings and now gloriously full grown. For anyone searching for a serene lush spot filled with remarkable growth all around: this is your place!
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Beautiful stay in St John

We loved the 5 days we spent there. Views were outstanding. It was quite breezy a few days.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Wonderful experience!

We had a wonderful stay at this property. Ron and Sue are the best hosts you can get! View from the villa is stunning. We highly recommend it!
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Such an amazing property!

We are so grateful to Ron and Sue for their gracious hospitality during our first visit to St. John. They were full of suggestions from a 'locals' perspective and their home was absolutely wonderful, including the new king sized bed that they got in place for us right before our visit!
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2019
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Paradise in St John

We had a wonderful stay at Ron and Sue’s home. They were extremely helpful and accommodating. All their advice was spot on. We could not have stayed at a more beautiful place with such nice hosts!
Stayed 10 nights in Feb 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

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

Beautiful Place

The property was beautiful and the hosts were gracious and very generous. When our plane was cancelled they did not hesitate to help us by allowing us to stay. This did not surprise us but was very much appreciated
Stayed 10 nights in Jan 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Amazing views of Coral Bay and the sunrise!!!

The views above Coral Bay are amazing from the deck and the sunrises over the BVI's from the hot tub with a cup of coffee are beyond description!! Ron and Sue were so accomodating from the time we arrived until our departure and were there to help us plan some activities and even dinner reservations. Truly a laid back location, but; all the beaches were still accessable in 15-20 minutes via the jeep and Cruz Bay was only 30 minutes if you are looking for more action.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

10/10

Stayed approx 5 days. Easy to communicate with owners, who are fantastic people! The place was beautifully furnished. Enjoyed the hot tub, pool, puzzles, cooler, local guide books, stunning views, kitchen, wrap-around balcony, comfy king sized bed. First aid kit in unit used for a minor cut, which was helpful to have. Drive to the home was not bad at all. Had a fantastic stay and would love to return!
Stayed 5 nights in May 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

World class views

Ron & Sue are long time 30+ year residents, with a wealth of knowledge and experience. Located just below the ridge line above Coral Bay, there were views of the entire East End, Norman Iskand, Peter Island and even Virgin Gorda. As Ron had communicated, despite its location a 4WD vehicle is absolutely not necessary to reach Papaya Moon. With a 4 week stay, this saved us more than 40% on the car rental during peak season. The very large covered deck space acts as a 2nd living space. There is a fully equipped kitchen with 2 burner stove & microwave. The ample closet space was perfect for a longer stay. There is great attention to detail in both the cleanliness of the unit and blends seamlessly into the surroundings landscaping. Great value.
Stayed 27 nights in Jan 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

A beautiful view of a secluded paradise

I'm not even sure where to begin, but the photos of this lovely villa definitely don't do it justice. From the amazing view of the entirety of Coral Bay, to the clean and modern decor of the suite, and even the amazing view of the stars in the night sky from the hot tub, everything about our trip on St John was made better by our stay at A Place in the Sun. Situated at one of the highest points in the Upper Carolina area of Coral Bay, the house was about a three minute drive off of the main road, the last one on the street. Once we arrived, we were warmly greeted by our hosts, Ron and Sue, where we were given a tour of the suite. I was immediately drawn to the amazing full wrap around porch that went around our suite, providing a lovely place to sit in the shade and take in the natural splendor of our surroundings. This view extended to our bed, allowing us to view the amazing sunrise without even having to get up. We mentioned to the owners our desire to do as much snorkeling and hiking as possible, and they were able to provide us a number of great suggestions for these activities, as well other places around the island that would be worth visiting. Throughout our stay Sue and Ron were incredibly friendly as well as helpful, making our stay even more special. Despite how much we enjoyed all our outings in St John, I was always happy to come back to our lovely villa, and can't wait for an opportunity to go back again.
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2019
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Pros and Cons - wait for it!

Pros - so many to list and not sure where to start! Location - phenomenal! The view is second to none on this island. From every area of the property you have an incredible view to sit and enjoy. Property owners - I have never really engaged property owners in my prior stays with VRBO properties except to get checked in and to check out. Ron and Sue were a delight to interact with through out our week long visit. They gave us updates during the week about events or happenings on the island and so glad they did as we enjoyed each activity they mentioned. Accommodations - The room we stayed in is the East Side portion. Ron mentioned to me that a lot of people inquire about the East Side as the West Side always gets booked first and the reason is the West side has air conditioning. I think this is funny because I am a 7th generation native Floridian and cant fathom the idea of living without air conditioning, except when in the Islands of the Caribbean! If you are staying somewhere in the islands and the villa you are renting is not in a valley, book the East facing room and leave the windows wide open all week! The trade winds and that salt air will do wonders for you. The best part of this East facing room is - you can wake up every morning and watch the sunrise from your bed with a cup of coffee!!! Waking up like this allows you to make the most of every day while on vacation! Simply incredible!!! Now for the Cons - I wish I didn't have to leave!
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2018
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a fabulous 6-night stay at Papaya Moon Villa. The villa is at the end of a road and tucked amid lush, tropical gardens. Our unit, A Place in the Sun offered sweeping views of the bay and the British Virgin Islands beyond. The unit was meticulously kept, clean and comfortable for the two of us. The deck was furnished with lounge chairs, side tables and a table for breakfasting. The unit was well-equipped for the week, and included everything we needed for beach trips: chairs, towels, coolers and snorkeling gear. The hosts were terrific! Sue was welcoming and generous with tips for where to go and what to do. During a rare downpour that kept us inside, she texted to check on us, and later came down with a bag of food from her own supply. We loved chatting with her during our stay and would definitely return to Papaya Moon.
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great views, Great Deck, Great Hosts

Located in the upper Carolinas the views are great, and the evening breezes keep you nice and cool at night. The deck is huge and spacious, and Ron and Sue are great hosts. Definitely a great place to stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Exceptional

We travel a lot, wide variety in accommodations (keeps life interesting). Upon arrival, greeted by the pooch, MissThelma, then Sue. Immediately felt at home…..then she led us to the porch, stunning. A mountain top view east overlooking the Sir Francis Drake channel in the distance. Incredible sunrises, we’ll be back.
Stayed 6 nights in Jan 2022
Verified review

8/10 Good

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

Peaceful views and quiet

Beautiful location and a lovely open apartment that maximizes the sweeping views. Hosts were friendly and very helpful, while allowing privacy. The location is convenient, although out of the busy part of the island. Only complaint was the bed is a bit hard - could benefit from a mattress topper and all cotton sheets (just don't understand polyester sheets in a tropical climate).
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Spectacular view and place

The pictures do not do this place justice. The breeze, views and friendly hosts make this one of the best I have ever stayed in. Do not hesitate to book, its incredible!
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Stunning retreat in the treetops

When my husband and I were looking for a relatively last-minute getaway, we felt so fortunate to have found Papaya Moon. It was a truly beautiful, quiet and complete package with luscious gardens and stunning views. The owners, Ron and Sue, were attentive and helpful for these first-time St John visitors. The unit had no AC, but the fans, trade winds and open windows with screens made it very comfortable. There were beach towels and a great beach bag waiting on is to use for the week. While we didn’t use the pool, we enjoyed the hot tub a few evenings and it was so nice to have access to both steps from the unit. Our only issues we had were some tiny sugar ants that kept coming in (an issue that happens all the time at the beach) and the proximity of the property to the main Cruz Bay area. If you are interested in dinner and/or drinks in the downtown in the evening, the drive back to the property is dark, curvy and a little nerve racking. We ended up arranging taxis two nights so we didn’t have to drive, and that was expensive, but worth it to us. However, if you want a peaceful retreat, and don’t have a desire to go to Cruz Bay much with excellent proximity to the beautiful north shore beaches, this is your place! We loved our stay and would love to come back.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Exactly what we were looking for, and more

Truly a beautiful property, inside and out. Secluded extremely private location with unbeatable views and still easily accessible to Coal Bay. The grounds are filled with beautiful flowers, fruit trees and native vegetation. The hosts were extremely helpful and clearly take great pride in the property. We will without a doubt be returning.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2021