Rated #1 Villa on St. John -- Great Expectations
- Minimum stay:7 nights
- Internet:Yes
- Pets allowed:Yes
- Wheel chair accessible:No
Great Expectations, rated the #1 vacation villa on St. John by travelers on Trip Advisor with 3 swimming pools, 2 hot tubs and 1 basketball/tennis court!
Unlike most private villas with just 1 Master bedroom for the owners offering the best amenities and view, plus smaller, less desirable bedrooms designed for kids on a lower floor with low ceilings and little or no view, Great Expectations was architecturally-designed to have, not 1, but 4 equal Master bedrooms, each with cathedral ceilings, skylights, private patios and spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea. Four additional guest bedrooms bring the total number of bedrooms, all air-conditioned, to 8 accommodating as many as 16 adults plus children. We charge by the number of bedrooms used (assuming double occupancy) so no need to pay for space you do not need.
Please note that the rates we are able to show on this Website are for 2 people using 1 bedroom and the 'quote' feature offered here will only display the cost for 2 people no matter how many people entered. PLEASE INQUIRE ABOUT OUR RATES FOR MORE PEOPLE/BEDROOMS (let us know the ages of any children and if there are any grandparents, brides, grooms, active military or other good and deserving people in your party!).
Each air-comnditioned bedroom has its own private bathroom. All the openings (sliding doors, windows and transoms) are fully-screened. Italian tile adorns the floors. The Great Room has a gourmet kitchen with granite counters. Native stone work laced with local coral and shells frames the villa entrance and is used around the site to highlight the lush landscaping of beautiful, colored bougainvillea, hibiscus, croton, wild orchids and, and our favorite, frangipani. A number of significant palm trees as well as banana trees complement the beauty of the site.
Great Expectations offers extraordinary 'double' east/west views with both the sunrise and the sunset. The villa is located on the south shore of St. John, less than a 5 minute drive on paved roads to town (Cruz Bay) and 10 minutes to the famous, white sand beaches of the U.S. National Park. There are also 2 beaches within walking distance of the Villa.
The closest beach for swimming and fabulous snorkeling is just a short walk to Chocolate Hole - a sandy beach with calm, protected water on the west side of the villa with some of the best snorkeling on the island thanks to a 'salt pond' (formed during hurricanes when the storm drives the ocean inland and the water then gets trapped). The 2nd beach accessible from a path directly from the Villa on the east side is Hart Bay with great beach combing thanks to the coral reef just offshore
The villa is furnished with custom-made teak furniture and carvings from Bali and, we think, very tastefully decorated with original paintings, sconces and even a native mural which was written-up in the local papers. Great Expectations does not pretend to be fancy, just very, very special!
Property Type
- Villa
- 4500 sq. ft.
Accommodation Type
- Vacation Rental
Meals
- Guests Provide Their Own Meals
Onsite Services
- Housekeeper Optional
Suitability
- Suitable For Elderly Or Infirm
- Non Smoking Only
- Pets Considered
Bedrooms
- 8 Bedrooms, Sleeps 16
- Bedroom 1
- 1 king
- Main Villa
- Bedroom 2
- 1 king
- Main Villa
- Bedroom 3
- 1 king
- Main Villa
- Bedroom 4
- 1 king
- Main Villa
- Bedroom 5
- 1 queen, 1 sleep sofa /futon
- Owners Suite
- Bedroom 6
- 1 queen, 2 sleep sofa /futon
- Guest House 1st flt
- Bedroom 7
- 2 twin/ single
- The Club Room (fitness room)
- Bedroom 8
- 2 twin/ single, 1 king
- The Sun Room (sitting area for Bedroom 5)
Bathrooms
- 8.0 Bathrooms, 1 Half Bathrooms
- Bathroom 1
- toilet, shower
- Main Villa bedroom
- Bathroom 2
- toilet, shower
- Main Villa bedroom
- Bathroom 3
- toilet, shower
- Main Villa bedroom
- Bathroom 4
- toilet, shower
- Main Villa bedroom
- Bathroom 5
- toilet, shower, bidet
- Owners Suite
- Bathroom 6
- toilet, tub, shower
- Guest House
- Bathroom 7
- toilet, shower
- The Club Room
- Bathroom 8
- toilet, shower
- The Sun Room
- Bathroom 9
- toilet
- The Great Room
Other Amenities
- Weddings and anniversary celebrations welcome!
Entertainment
- DVD Player
- Games
- Radio
- Games For Kids
- CD Player
- Stereo
- Television
- Books
Theme
- Luxury
- Family
Attractions
- Reefs
- Duty Free Shops
- Restaurants
- Health/Beauty Spa
- Bay/Sound
Car
- Recommended
Leisure Activities
- Shopping
- Horseback Riding
- Beachcombing
- Walking
- Bird Watching
- Shelling
- Boating
- Sight Seeing
local services and businesses
- Medical Services
- Fitness Center
- Groceries
- Massage Therapist
- Babysitter
Location Type
- Beach
- Ocean View
- Near The Ocean
sports and adventure activities
- Hiking
- Surfing
- Jet Skiing
- Basketball Court
- Snowmobiling
- Tennis
- Fishing
- Snorkeling/Diving
- Snorkeling
- Swimming
- Wind-Surfing
- Skiing
- Scuba Diving Or Snorkeling
- Sailing
- Parasailing
Arrival Day
- Flexible
catering options
- Guests Provide Their Own Meals
Communication / Internet
- Fax
Dining
- Dining Area
- Child's Highchair
General
- Basic Soaps
- Local Maps
- Laundry Soap
- Towels Provided
- Internet
- Hair Dryer
- Fitness Room / Equipment
- Washing Machine
- Clothes Dryer
- Broadband Access
- Wireless Internet
- Telephone
- Air Conditioning
- Linens Provided
- Alarm Clock
- Filtered Water
- Safe
- Local Activities Guide
- Activities Guide
- Local Restaurant Guide
- Toilet Paper
- Iron & Board
- Paper Towels
- Ceiling Fans
- Parking Off Street
house cleaning
- Housekeeper Optional
Kitchen
- 4 Ring Stove
- Oven
- Catering Available
- Kitchen
- Dishwasher
- Refrigerator
- Microwave
- Coffee Grinder
- Freezer
- Cooking Utensils
- Ice Maker
- Coffee Maker
- Blender
- Pantry Items
- Toaster
Outside
- Binoculars
- Beach Towels
- Patio
- Terrace
- Outdoor Grill
- Tennis Court
- Outdoor Grill Gas
- Deck / Patio
- Balcony
- Lawn / Garden
- Walkway To Water
- Barbecue
- Large Cooler
- Beach Chairs
Payment Type
- Visa
- Discover
- Amex
- Mastercard
Pool / Spa
- Outdoor Pool
- Outdoor Hot Tub
- Private Pool
- Hot Tub
Reviews
Write a review-
Great stay at Great Expectations
Great stay at Great Expectations
- Guest Daryl T.
- Date of stay 02/18/13
- Review Submitted 02/26/13
Wow what a great place to stay - the views from both sides of the villa were just way above our expectations. The rooms were very clean and elegant, the pools (3) were so inviting and our property manager there was always close by and a great guy to boot. This was the perfect place on a perfect island. We simply loved every minute of it there. We ate every breakfast and dinner meal at the villa just because it was so inviting. We always had lunch out on the island while snorkeling the many beautiful spots but the villa was special and our party of 8 was very comfortable. We only watched TV one night. No one wanted to leave. We would highly recommend this property to anyone going to St. John. Thank you Great Expectations for exceeding ours!Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 0/0
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Surpassed Expectations!
Guest comment entered by ownerSurpassed Expectations!
- Guest Katherine from Boston, Ma
- Date of stay 12/31/12
- Review Submitted 02/04/13
No regrets, quibbles or disappointments; just sheer delight during a weeklong stay for a family reunion of fourteen people. Everything was as advertised and more. The owners were superbly organized, communicative & accommodating, the home both immaculate and user-friendly. The property is obviously cherished, and justifiably so. The views are spectacular. Everything (really!) you need is right there. "Great Expectations" is both wonderfully romantic and very family-friendly; it's rambling, view-capitalizing architecture makes it easy to be both private and public with others. It's a steep schlep downhill to the local beaches, but the three swimming pools make the beach a lesser option. (Amazing, but true.) So much to do for all ages on site that going around the island seemed almost superfluous. We have rented vacation homes all over the globe, and I have to say that as a multi-family relaxing vacation property, "Great Expectations" has topped all others.Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 0/0
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Totally comfortable
Guest comment entered by ownerTotally comfortable
- Guest BauerDeutsch from Strong, Maine
- Date of stay 01/14/13
- Review Submitted 02/04/13
This is the third time our large group of extended old friends has convened at Kristin and Chuck's, and it just keeps getting better. The patio with the extended views is a spectacular addition, as is the new pool. No one has yet found a needed kitchen tool lacking, or for that matter anything lacking, from the comfort of the furniture to the wifi and entertainment systems. The beauty of Great Expectations is the totally comfortable common spaces with the privacy of the individual quarters. I stayed in the new sunroom which is now my favorite because of the light and privacy.Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 0/0
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Second time around - even better than the first
Guest comment entered by ownerSecond time around - even better than the first
- Guest Kristina S from Prescott, Arizona
- Date of stay 01/07/13
- Review Submitted 02/04/13
We just spent 11 days at Great Expectation (January 2012 we were there for 7 days). Both times we were there with a group of old friends (total of 10 people). This year there was a new pool and a new large patio - both wonderful improvements. The guest rooms are large and comfortable. We were in a room with sliding screen doors at both sides of the room- we never turned on the aC - with the ceiling fan and the wonderful crosswind we were comfortable the whole time. The room had a large shower which is kind of outdoors - lovely. The view is just wonderful. And Chocolate Hole, which is a five minute walk from Great Expectations, has great snorkeling. We'd happily go back anytime.Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 0/0
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Magnificent.
Guest comment entered by ownerMagnificent.
- Guest Vinnie from South Hadley, MA
- Date of stay 01/07/12
- Review Submitted 02/04/13
We stayed at Great Expectations for two weeks, along with other friends (at one point, there were ten of us). Throughout our stay, Chuck, Kristin, Coby, and Patty, were available, helpful, and completely responsive to our every need. We truly felt as if our comfort and happiness were their first priority. The kitchen is fully equipped and we ate every meal at the villa. The pools and hot tubs were sparkling clean. We were fully connected to the internet at all times. The location is superb. We woke up to see beautiful sunrises and sat out on the patio watching glorious sunsets. It is, quite simply, heaven on earth.Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 0/0
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It really deserves 6 stars!!!
It really deserves 6 stars!!!
- Guest Tommy
- Date of stay 01/19/11
- Review Submitted 02/05/11
Pictures can not do this place justice. So beautiful and relaxing! This place has everyone that you could need. I have been twice and can't wait to get back for a 3rd visit. I never want to leave. The hosts are fabulous too!Recommended for: Tourists without a car, families with teenagers, adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway, girls getaway, sightseeing, people with disabilities, families with young children.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 2/2
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Soldiers Undertaking Disables Scuba ( SUDS)
Soldiers Undertaking Disables Scuba ( SUDS)
- Guest Carla
- Date of stay 12/02/10
- Review Submitted 12/10/10
The Villa was just perfect for the group of wounded warriors from Walter Reed Army Medical, we were able to accomodate everyone very comfortably. The views are spectatular and the great room and pool area is a great central meeting area. After a full day of diving the guys we were able to relax and enjoy every moment !! The support of the entire community of St John for our wounded warriors is outstanding and Great Expectations exceeded everyone's expectations. We hope to have this opportunity again and make it a yearly event for SUDS. Thank you so very much for your generosity for without it SUDS could not contiue to support our men and women who have given do much to our country.Recommended for: Families with teenagers, adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway, girls getaway, sightseeing, people with disabilities, families with young children.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 4/4
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WOW, what a villa!!!!
WOW, what a villa!!!!
- Guest frank from massachusetts
- Date of stay 01/09/10
- Review Submitted 02/19/10
WOW, what a great villa!! Expansive views on both sides of beautiful turquoise water, from the pools, great room AND the outdoor showers in the 4 large Main Villa bedrooms. No need to bring anything but bathing suit, walking shorts and casual shirts, EVERYTHING else is provided. I was there for a full month, with family and friends and i still wanted to stay longer. I have already booked the same for next year! All (8 people) who stayed this year are eagerly awaiting next years stay Perfect location, quiet, but less than ten minutes from the TEMPTING restaurants and shopping of Cruz Bay. And a staff and owners committed to your enjoyment. Website is factually accurate, but does not even begin to do justice to this well maintained and homey villa. Each beach was more spectacular than the one before, with each having its own style (spirited, quiet, boats, snorkeling, water sports, small islands. Trunk Beach was one of our faves and as for restaurants, paradiso, waterfront and you MUST go to rhumblines, were the best. We ate at each three times during my 4 week stay. Hinds was nouvelle and delicious but no ambience. Westin Hotel has a great steak house and sparkling setting.. Equator at Caneel Bay was more islandy with funky and delicious fish choices (I had lobster/crab cakes as an appetizer and a large grilled lobster with sides for about $65) in a large, romantic, semi outdoor and circular, rustic feel. BUT make sure you stay home at least one night to avail yourself of the BBQ by the pool (two of 'em, four feet deep and a wader for tots) and the moonrise (it was full during my stay). And do not miss the sunrise! One last thing, the waves breaking on the shore can be heard from bedrooms one and two (not sure about the other two, but guessing yes) and thats a great way to fall asleep!Recommended for: Families with teenagers, pet owners, romantic getaway, girls getaway, sightseeing, families with young children.
Did you find this review helpful? Yes | No Helpful votes: 13/13
Rates
| Dates | Nightly | Wknd Night | Weekend | Weekly | Monthly * | Event |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base Rate 7 night min stay |
$5250 | |||||
| 2013 Summer 2 people/1 bedroom Apr 14 - Dec 15 7 night min stay |
$5250 | |||||
| Christmas New Years 16 pax max Dec 16 - Jan 3 7 night min stay |
$17500 | |||||
| 2014 Winter 2 people/1 bedroom Jan 4 - Apr 12 7 night min stay |
$8000 | |||||
Additional information about rental rates
Please inquire about rates for more people based on the number of bedrooms used (let us know the ages of kids and if there are any grandparents, brides, grooms, active military). The Villa is rented to one group at a time (you will be the only guests no matter the size of your party). Deposit of 50% of room rate due at time of booking by check (credit card payment available through Paypal).
Fees:
- Pet Fee: $0
- Refundable Damage Deposit: $500
- Tax Rate 10%
Cancellation policy:
All monies returned at any time for any reason with no penalty and no administrative fee when re-rented (we want happy guests).
If you have any questions please contact the owner.
This owner accepts HomeAway's most secure form of payment.
HomeAway PaymentsSM is the most secure way to pay and automatically protects your payment up to $10,000 (learn more). Call the owner directly to confirm payment details.
Location
Owner info
Year Purchased: 1998
About the owner: Kristin and Chuck live in Boston when we are not on St. John!
Why the Owner Chose Chocolate Hole:
The dual sunrise and sunset views plus the constant easterly Tradewinds on a flat site (there are few tennis courts on St. John!) about 100 above the Caribbean Sea cannot be matched!
The Unique Benefits at this Villa:
3 swimming pools, 2 hot tubs and 1 basketball/tennis court!
Contact us
- Primary: +1 800 553-0109 toll-free
- Secondary: +1 617 314-6836 International
Links to more information:
Photos
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the views are spectacular (drink not included)
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the 3 Main Villa pools face west to be warmed by the sun and for the great views
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we even have a wading pool, ideal for sun-bathgers and kids of all ages!
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the Guest House has its own swimming pool and hot tub
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Great Room has a gourmet kitchen and 60 inch Sharp LED HDTV with free Netflix
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each bedroom has a private patio overlooking the Caribbean Sea
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free WiFi (laptop computer not included)
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the Guest House has a separate entrance with its own driveway and parking area
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first floor bedroom in the Guest House has a connecting bedroom, The Sun Room
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The Club Room has a Twin-size trundle bed and elliptical machine (not in photo)
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Trunk Bay in the US National Park is a 15 minute drive from the Villa.
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property diagram
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the view of Chocolate Hole harbor from the new Main Villa swimming pool
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our new infinity swimming pool is spacious!
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the Main Villa hot tub is nicely shaded
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the Great Room looks east over the Caribbean Sea and the southshore of St. John
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one of 8 air-conditioned bedrooms
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one of our 'signature' indoor/outdoor showers
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private basketball/tennis court
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Owners Suite (top floor of Guest House) kitchen, living, dining and great views
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The Sun Room has a trundle bed which can be set-up as Twin beds or a King bed.
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come, sit in the sun, put your toes in the sea, contemplate the meaning of Life
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Cinnamon Bay beach in the nearby US National Park (beach chairs are included)
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5 bedroom Main Villa (3 buildings on right) and 3 bedroom Guest House (on left)
+1 800 553-0109
toll-free