Vacation Rentals by Owner

St. Thomas' Best Kept "Secret"!

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 01/22/12 Review Submitted: 03/26/12

My husband and I as well as our daughter and son-in-law stayed at Secret Gardens, and man, were we impressed! The pictures on the website do not do justice to the beautiful home and property! My husband and I stayed in the upstairs master suite, and our daughter and son-in-law stayed in the downstairs master suite. Both suites were absolutely beautiful, but my husband and I preferred staying on the main floor, with the kitchen and great room all on our level. Our daughter and son-in-law enjoyed the larger lower level master suite with their own private balcony and 2 separate bathrooms! The infinity pool was to die for, and the views of Magen's Bay were spectacular! Winston was available for any questions or assistance, yet was not intrusive in any way. The murals painted on the walls inside Secret Gardens were amazing! The furniture was world-class, and the kitchen was an impressive gourmet kitchen with all the amenities! Secret Gardens was by-far, the best house we have ever stayed in...in St. Thomas, or anywhere. I guess by telling you this, it is no longer our "secret", but I feel that everyone should have the opportunity to experience this vacation of a lifetime, and Secret Garden is the place to do it! BOOK THIS HOUSE! You will not regret it!!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great vacation!

Guest: Ben I. (Kalamazoo, MI)
Date of Stay: 12/23/11 Review Submitted: 03/20/12

Our entire extended family (35 people) had the great pleasure of staying at this incredible estate for Christmas 2011 and New Years Eve 2011. From the views of Megan's Bay to the private location fo the estate to the layout of the home(s) to the culture and experience of St Thomas we were in awe and fantastically blessed to have the privilege of experiencing this place. Werner and his staff were always available, very helpful, yet not ever intrusive so the property and amenities provided lead to a great overall experience and an incredible vacation. Thank you for spoiling us and sharing your beautiful home with us! If we ever find ourselves coming to St Thomas again we will definitely make Coral Gardens our first choice.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Over the Top Experience

Guest: HappyTraveler (Peoria, IL)
Date of Stay: 11/18/11 Review Submitted: 11/30/11

We stayed at and had our wedding at Coral Gardens. Everything & everyone exceeded our expectations. Cheryl was great at helping with the plans. Americus, the shuttle driver, was fantastic and really knew his way around. Coral Gardens was very comfortable, and even with the 16 of us, we still had our privacy. The kitchen was great. My Uncle John cooked in it almost every day. The villa is in a perfect and beautiful location. I really can't say enough about the entire experience. Werner was also there staying at Secret Gardens. He really helped with everything running smoothly and helping with the planning while we were there. I don't know if I'd want to go back to St Thomas without Americus & Werner there. We also took a boat ride on Werner's boat which was the highlight of the trip. For the wedding reception we went on a dinner cruise with New Horizon which was also amazing. Can't wait to try out Secret Gardens next time!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

AMAZING!!

Guest: Deb (Leesport, PA/USA)
Date of Stay: 06/25/11 Review Submitted: 07/18/11

Coral Gardens is absolutely amazing! Our daughter got married at Magens Bay and 17 of us stayed at Coral Gardens for the week. We were fortunate to meet the Villa owner,Werner, and he was kind enough to meet us at the airport and personally escort us to the Villa. Werner and his staff –Cheryl (villa liaison), Winston (property caretaker), and Stephanie (housekeeping and shopping) – were all wonderful. Cheryl coordinated all of our needs during this special vacation. Winston was never more than 10 minutes away and took care of our every need at the Villa. A most appreciated and definitely recommended service provided was the provisioning. Stephanie did an incredible job shopping for our groceries and it was wonderful to step into the Villa and have all of our groceries purchased and unpacked ! The recommended wedding planner – Perfect Weddings of St Thomas (Leslie ,managing consultant)- arranged everything for the day of the wedding “perfectly”- venue, ceremony, minister(Bill is SO nice and personable)flowers, hairdresser, photographer (Eric from Paradise Pictures--didn’t miss a single photo opportunity and our daughter received the CD of pictures the week we arrived home!). Leslie even had a short rehearsal the evening before the wedding so everyone would be comfortable. Recommended by Werner and Cheryl, Passion Fruit Chefs (liaison, Laura) prepared and served the wedding meal at Coral Gardens. Cocktails were served in the outdoor lounge and the meal was served in the main dining area. It was so much more intimate than going to a restaurant, the food was delicious, and the children who just couldn’t last the whole evening – well, they went to bed!! The floor plan of the villa allowed 17 of us to be together for a week without being crowded. The space is so well planned that each family or group could easily find a retreat, yet all 17 of us could just as easily dine together. The bedrooms were very well equipped and the bedding was as comfortable and luxurious as an upscale hotel. Massages by Lisa were “the best ever” and jet ski rentals at Sapphire Beach (arranged with a call by Werner) was a fun activity for all involved. Oh, and snorkeling from our very own beach – INCREDIBLE! Even the tentative children could put on a mask, put their face in the water and see hundreds of fish. It did take some planning, but with Werner’s and Cheryl’s help, this vacation was the best “all-inclusive” vacation ever!! Thanks Werner, to you and all of your staff!!

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Secret Gardens

Guest: Patty (Suamico, WI USA)
Date of Stay: 03/11/11 Review Submitted: 03/25/11

We just returned from an awesome weeks stay at Secret Garden. The pictures display truly the beauty of this villa. Couldn't really have asked for more! Views spectacular, Magans Beach, sunsets amazing, snorkeling great right off the property. Saw sea turtles, tropical fish, coral & even a dolphin! The birds & pelicans were such a delight. Parakeets, finches, and lots of amazing Iguanas. Pool wonderful. Mega Yachts like the Blue Moon & Sailboats coming right into Magens Bay, Wow! We rented a car & had no problem navigating the island. The hosts really described this place to a tee. Thank you Werner, Cheryl & Winston for making our family trip unbelievable. Will be back!!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: N/A
Date of Stay: 01/05/08 Review Submitted: 01/04/08

Werner & Toni, Wow, what an amazing week! Thanks so much for sharing your lovely "slice of heaven" with all 17 of us. Your homes were enjoyed by all of us. The view we woke up to was amazing. The stars seemed brighter than ever. We loved counting the shooting stars. Your hospitality was refreshing and made all of us feel so at home. Thanks also for the champagne you sent us for celebrating "2008". Love & Best Wishes

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Guest: Boesch Family
Date of Stay: 11/17/07 Review Submitted: 11/16/07

From swimming in the pool To snorkeling in the bay - What better way to spend the day- On the beach we do lay, come what may - SUNBURN!! A long twisting road to be driven Was part of the charge we were given But after a day- we mastered the way and untwisted tons of fun-livin' A long time ago in 71' I came to St. Thomas to have me some fun It was great, it was grand But nothing ike this! A week filled with goodies- the Boesch Family bliss! What a perfect place for old lady Boesch/Wendell to celebrate her 90th birthday with 16 children & grand children and of course a husband!

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Guest: Robert Burns
Date of Stay: 10/29/07 Review Submitted: 10/28/07

St. Thomas III creates and provides the perfect backdrop to deal with whatever issues you brought to the islands, freeing you to return unemcumbered and looking forward to the next time.

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Guest: The Kesslers, Millers & Spadafora
Date of Stay: 08/01/07 Review Submitted: 07/31/07

Werner & Toni, A lovely time we had by all in your home - the spectacular "Coral Gardens"! Thank you for being fabulous hosts and catering to our every whim... Good luck!

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Guest: N/A
Date of Stay: 07/14/07 Review Submitted: 07/13/07

Snorkeling out front is some of THE BEST in the caribbean. There are lots of coral and reef fish. This is a special place, Coral Gardens and we are so glad we got to enjoy it!

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Guest: N/A
Date of Stay: 06/23/07 Review Submitted: 06/22/07

We are 5 couples from Baton Rouge and New Orleans, LA. We have gone to a different place for 5 years now and this has been a truly special experience! This place has the best snorkeling I have seen! Werner and Toni are super sweet! The point down the street is a nice little hike-especially to see the sunset.

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Guest: N/A
Date of Stay: 05/01/07 Review Submitted: 04/30/07

Werner, Our family voted this to be the best vacation ever. There is no doubt we'll be back. Your hospitality is unsurpassed. Snorkeling with the tarpon was fantastic. The driving here can be intimidating but it really isn't. Don't be afraid to drive around the island. Lots to see and do.

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Guest: The Burress'
Date of Stay: 04/01/07 Review Submitted: 03/31/07

To Toni & Werner, Words cannot begin to describe how much we enjoyed our time at Coral Gardens. Everything was perfect. We thank you for sharing your piece of heaven with us. We KNOW you will love Coral Gardens, and the gracious hosts Toni & Werner.

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Guest: N/A
Date of Stay: 03/17/07 Review Submitted: 03/16/07

Happy St. Patty's Day! Dear Tony, We had a blast staying at Coral Gardens. Thanks so much for your hospitality!! Our family enjoyed snorkeling right down the hill, swimming in the pool and relaxing on the deck. Also, we enjoyed Magen's Bay, milk shakes at the dairy and a day in St. John. There are lots of good places to eat on the island and did I mention drinks? Bushawkers - yum! Wished we could have met Werner, sounds like a great guy. Thanks again!

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Guest: Catlins & Catrini's
Date of Stay: 03/04/07 Review Submitted: 03/03/07

What a place! Everything was perfect. Werner and Toni are great hosts and great people. We had 4 adults and 6 kinds (all under 5!) and the house and grounds are great. We will be back! Soon I hope... P.S. Go snorkeling the first thing. A whole world is living at your door step!

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Guest: N/A
Date of Stay: 02/01/07 Review Submitted: 01/31/07

Wonderful days trying to count the many shades of blue...seven days later still counting - Sunrise to sunset, wonderful relaxation and communication with a great group of friends snorkeling, yoga, kayaks, swim/hikes to Magen's Beach...dinner, laughter, just an "Udder Delight" (recommended 2 times a day!). We loved every minute celebrating Rodney's 60th birthday - over and over again. It's a beautiful spot and a great respite to the winter we left behind!

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Guest: N/A
Date of Stay: 12/01/06 Review Submitted: 11/30/06

Thanks for sharing your spacious home with our family. The scenery is beautiful. This was a perfect spot for our family to relax and have time together.

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Guest: N/A
Date of Stay: 07/04/06 Review Submitted: 07/03/06

Beautiful, Beautiful! Good times - good friends and an incredible place to stay! We enjoyed both places, Secret Gardens & Coral Gardens. Awesome surprise 30th for my husband!

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Guest: The Chipmans
Date of Stay: 01/20/06 Review Submitted: 01/19/06

We arrived…10 individuals with different backgrounds and left great friends. Toni and Werner were gourmet hosts who stirred the pot that allowed us to share experiences, observations and memories.We left different people; but better people!! Thanks so much!

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 09/04/05 Review Submitted: 09/03/05

Secret Gardens has been the perfect private secluded spot for our honeymoon. We discovered Secret Gardens on the internet, and though we’d been planning a tour of France & Italy, decided that Secret Gardens would offer much needed rest and relaxation. We were not disappointed! By the end of the first day at this lovely villa, we commented to one another how thankful we were that we made the choice that we did. We spent most of our time here, venturing out occasionally for a nice dinner or brunch. A picture of it on the internet probably drew us to the villa more than anything else. We’ve already planned to return, maybe for our five-year anniversary.

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Guest: The Keenes
Date of Stay: 02/25/05 Review Submitted: 02/24/05

Thank you for allowing us to stay at your beautiful home. We came from Maryland for Erin & Joe’s (Mr. & Mrs. Keene) wedding. The wedding took place on Tuesday on the lower deck at Secret Garden’s. The wedding was wonderful and was followed by a delicious dinner catered by “Passion Fruit Chefs”. We spent the week touring St Thomas and St John’s and had a great time. Thanks again for a memorable stay on St. Thomas never to be forgotten.

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Guest: The Atchisons
Date of Stay: 01/15/05 Review Submitted: 01/14/05

What a perfect place for all 18 of us to gather together for a family reunion – California, New Jersey & Florida came together. We loved Magen’s Bay and will miss the chicken gyros if you can believe that! We also visited St. John and barged over with all vehicles and drove to Trunk bay – The best beach ever!

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Guest: The Schwartz
Date of Stay: 12/22/04 Review Submitted: 12/21/04

Werner,Thank you for opening up your house to our family. This is our 4th year our family has come here and everything is as wonderful as always. I like the new changes you’ve’ made to the house. (I really miss Jay & Michelle) we kinda got attached to those two. Each year we come it is harder to leave. Thank you for the bottle of wine too and it was a pleasure to meet you. You are a true gentleman. If you ever sell Secret Gardens (let us know) it is gorgeous. Merry Christmas.

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Guest: Jerry & Ruth Ann Minifie
Date of Stay: 11/19/04 Review Submitted: 11/18/04

What a wonderful Thanksgiving for our family. It was a perfect place for all 14 of us. Chef Lee has provided us with 3 selected fabulous meals, including Thanksgiving dinner. This is the best place for 6 little grand children under the age of 4 1/2 . They have enjoyed the snorkeling, the beach, the pool and restful nights sleep in the sea air. The beautiful, beautiful vistas and beautiful water will provide wonderful memories for years to come. Thank you for your home.

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Guest: Terry & Karen Chasteen
Date of Stay: 06/19/04 Review Submitted: 06/18/04

We certainly were amazed that Secret Gardens was even more wonderful than it appeared on the internet! We have had a great time celebrating our 25th wedding anniversary! We spent much of our time here in the infinity pool and sunning on the deck. What a view! The moon and night lights were breath-taking from the lounge for tub! The house is amazing! What a wonderful architect! We will certainly miss this lovely, breathtaking view from our bed at home.

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Guest: Karen & Terry Chasteen
Date of Stay: 05/15/04 Review Submitted: 05/14/04

We’ve rented more than 25 houses in the Caribbean, Mexico, Tahoe, etc. None have been perfect, but this is awfully close!

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Guest: The Stefani’s, Witherers, Novinsk
Date of Stay: 03/04/04 Review Submitted: 03/03/04

We enjoyed our stay here very much. Had more than enough room for 12 people. Would love to take the views and sounds of waves back home to the Midwest with us. The day we left was beautiful – hated to leave!

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Guest: Jason & Angela Peper
Date of Stay: 05/08/02 Review Submitted: 05/07/02

Werner, We thank you so much for giving us such a wonderful place to stay on our vacation – wedding for our friends. The house was perfect for such a gathering of family & friends! We could not have stayed at a better house in the entire island. Jay was the perfect host and made sure that we had a memorable time – Thanks!On May 3rd we had our son’s wedding on Magen’s Bay and it was so beautiful and perfect. We had 12 people in these 2 houses. 10 here and 2 next door – dear friends we’ve had for a life time. My son’s most special friends and their wives. We had a wonderful time in your gorgeous home. Thank you so much.

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Guest: Schmidt Party
Date of Stay: 04/28/01 Review Submitted: 04/27/01

Coral Gardens, situated on a heavenly place on Earth! Perfectly equipped to have 10 guests! We enjoyed all the art in the villa very much! And yes, very much a “home-away-from-home”! Remembering this paradise forever!With our mom/Oma we came to the island St. Thomas. Her present to all her children & grandchildren for her 60th anniversary and yes it will truly be a memory to keep the rest of our lives. Two lovely weeks at this beautiful Coral Gardens. The endless views on the ocean, the sparkling stars at night, the subtropical fish when we went snorkeling…traveling over St. Thomas and visiting St. John, all a real dream…

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Guest: The Forrest Smith Family
Date of Stay: 10/29/98 Review Submitted: 10/28/98

Seven short days. God made the Earth in seven days and the Smith Family found its purpose in seven days. This was our 1st family vacation ever – and it was the best. We loved your island and your house. We shall forever be changed because of our seven days at Coral Gardens. God loves you and we do too.

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Guest: John Komarnicki & Family
Date of Stay: 12/19/97 Review Submitted: 12/18/97

My family and I enjoyed our retreat to paradise very much. Coral Gardens and the island are truly magnificent. Our only regret was that our holiday came to an end.

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