Location: Coral Bay, USVI - St. John, Caribbean (Driveway to cottage! No parking far and carrying luggage!)
Accommodations: Cottage, 1 Bedroom + Convertible bed(s), 1 Bath (Sleeps 2-4)
Keywords: Cottage, environmentally friendly, eco-tourism, island style, romantic,honeymoon, quiet, BREEZY, authentic, panoramic view, affordable, moderately priced, budget conscious,local flavor,West Indian architecture, parking, St. John house rental, Coral Bay vacation rental, last minute sales,great reviews, Pet friendly, kids welcome, 55+, no A/C. ,
"Catch 'n' Keep" is just what so many budget-minded travelers dream of finding. For less than the price of a condominium you can experience living in a real island home. The cottage is comfortable, tastefully decorated, and best of all, authentic. The affordable pricing may let you stay longer, or treat yourself to a day sail or massage. With today's emphasis on "eco-tourism" you can experience how a 'traditional' island-style home fits into its environment in ways that appreciate the culture and architecture of the island and respects it unique environment.
In scenic Coral Bay, "Catch 'n' Keep" is a charming, West Indies-style home. Just ten to 15 minutes from nearby white sand beaches, the cottage sits on a half acre of wooded hillside, with a panoramic view of the Carolina valley and its stone sugar mill ruins. Plants and trees native to the environment have been encouraged and a large variety of native birds feel at home in the neighborhood.
Catch 'n' Keep is nestled in a quiet cul de sac off a secondary road with only neighbors passing by, and there is shaded parking right next to the entrance. Two small markets nearby make life easier, as do a choice of eateries for those who really want to relax! Well-sited to catch the Tradewinds, the cottage is fully screened and has Hunter ceiling fans. Six large double doors open onto two covered decks where you can grill out with a Weber gas grill and dine in the fresh air. Or lounge in the hammocks and enjoy the country view, tropical breezes, and beautiful evening sky.
The full kitchen is charmingly decorated with folk art and hand-painted ceramics collected by the owner in her travels. The bathroom features native stonework in the shower and full amenities. A comfortable queen-size bed with four pillows and lovely cotton linens awaits you.
The cottage is thoughtfully appointed for your comfort, and includes guidebooks, WiFI,Cable,DVD and a CD collection, lots of vacation reading, and games. You will also find beach chairs, beach towels, and coolers for your beach days. A variety of restaurants, eclectic shopping, kayaking, hiking, and live music are conveniently nearby in the Coral Bay area. Less developed than the Cruz Bay side of island, you will find Coral Bay less trafficked, more relaxing and exactly your dream of what an island get-away should be like!
Vacation Rental Features
- Amenities
- Air Conditioning : House does not need AC as it is well sited to catch Trade Winds and doesn't need to add mechanical air. There is a constant breeze, so fewer insects.
- Linens Provided : Fresh new linens and towels.
- Washer : available
- Dryer : Covered clothesline, great breeze!
- Off Street Parking : Driveway lets you park and unload right next to cottage. No long flights of hillside stairs to carry groceries and luggage up and down. No leaving car on main road!
- Beds
- Queen Bed : New firm mattress
- Convertible Bed : Futon/couch
- Child Bed
- Entertainment
- Cable/Satellite TV : WiFi also available
- DVD
- CD Player
- Music Library
- Kitchen
- Full Kitchen : Plus microwave, toaster, coffee maker,coffee bean grinder, blender, AND condiments
- Cooking Utensils Provided : new for cottage, not cast-offs
- Refrigerator : standard size, with top freezer
- Dishwasher : You!
- Microwave
- Catering Available : Several companies available on island. You can also arrange for some groceries to be bought ahead of time (your list). The cost is the cash register receipt plus service charge.
- Outdoor Features
- Gas/Electric BBQ Grill : Weber gas grill.
- Deck/Patio : 2 roofed decks for afternoon shade
- Balcony : 2 covered balconies/decks with hammock, comfortable seating, and dining area
- Lanai
- View/Location
- Mountain View : Cottage overlooks Coral Bay Harbour but low hill blocks water view. Instead there is a view on 3 sides of surrounding green hills and sugar mill in valley. Located on hillside, cottage always receives cooling breeze and thus, less bugs. Very quiet dead end road with only neighbors' traffic. Tropical plants, banana and papaya trees, and lots of birds. Binoculars provided.
- Communications
- Telephone
- Broadband Internet : DSL/WIFI connection in cottage plus three broadband computer cafes available in Coral Bay area.
- WiFi (Wireless Internet) : In cottage
- Other Amenities
- Handy to Coral Bay, on dead end road with only neighborhood traffic offers privacy, no traffic or construction noise, and peaceful setting. Mature landscaping with native plants (bananas, papayas) and lots of birds. An important renting consideration is driveway and parking are close to cottage, so you do not have long flights of hillside steps to navigate to carry luggage and groceries as in other rentals that have you park on main road away from rental.
- Suitability
- Pet Friendly : Check with owner. Pet care is also available for evenings out or if you take day trips to surrounding islands.
- Handicapped Accessible (may have limitations) : You drive up close to cottage. There are 2 entry stair landings of 6 steps with handrails. The cottage itself is one level with no obstacles. Commodious stone shower with only slight step up. No slippery tubs or slick shower surface.
- Wheelchair Accessible (may have limitations) : Easy to move from cottage out onto covered deck. Wood floors, no carpeting, interior of cottage wheelchair friendly. Assistance is needed to descend 6 steps with handrail, a flat landing, then 6 more steps onto decks. Wheelchair would have to be handcarried down stairs from driveway. One National Park beach here has a reservable wheelchair with large tires so you can also visit beach.
- Kid Friendly : Contact owner. Babysitting is also available.
- Smoking Not Allowed : But smoking outside on the covered deck would be a happy compromise.
- Activities
- Tennis
- Shopping
- Kayaking
- Sailing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Surfing
- Biking
- Mountain Biking
- Fishing
- Health/Beauty Spa
- Basketball Court
- Horseshoes
- Miniature golf
- Horseback Riding
- Shelling
- Hiking
- Restaurants
- Fitness Center/Gym
- Other Activities
- I provide information on Virgin Island National Park outings, hikes, lectures, cultural demonstrations and Ranger Guided Educational activities.
Rate Details (In US Dollars and Euros)
May 01, 2011- Nov 30, 2011 (Low Season)........... $160/nt.. $1120/wk
Dec 01, 2010- Apr 30, 2011 (High Season).......... $185/nt .. $1295/wk
PAY PAL (you must be a member to send to me)
US dollars & Euros accepted
Note: Until confirmed, rates are subject to change without notice.
Owner's Profile
Year Purchased: 2001
Property Photos
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- The charming kitchen is fully equipped, even for serious cooks. - Coral Bay, St. John Rental
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- The romantic bedroom opens onto the oversized covered porch. - Coral Bay, St. John Rental
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- Stonework in shower enhances your tropical idyll. - Coral Bay, St. John Rental
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- Relax here with a good book or enjoy a movie.
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- Breakfast on the porch is unforgettable.
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- "Catch 'n' Keep" on a half-acre of mature tropical gardens
Traveler Reviews (29)
Catch-n-Keep! This cottage will "catch" your heart-n- "keep" you coming back!
Guest: Sean and Lori
(Nashville)
Date of Stay: 06/25/10
Review Submitted: 01/30/12
We stayed at Catch-n-Keep for 11 days and we loved every minute. The cottage is perfect for a couple and has everything you could need for a perfect stay. Judy is a great host and we never even knew she was below, you feel as though you have the house to yourself and she is below if you need her. The cottage does not have a water view but we never missed it. It is a quiet area with constant breezes. The open layout is perfect for the wind to flow through all day long. The pictures are just how you will find the cottage, colorful and welcoming. We enjoyed the island charm of the decor. The white walls and high ceilings make it feel very roomy and open which was very important to us. There are HUGE screeened double doors that open to the deck in the kitchen, living room and bedroom. The bathroom is lovely with a stone shower that has lots of charm. The walk from the drive to the cottage is only a few steps which is very welcome after a long day of beach going. The deck is wrapped around the cottage on 2 sides with plenty of seating and a hammock. We did a TON of research looking for the perfect cottage and we LOVED everything about this cottage and plan to return for sure!!
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, sightseeing, people with disabilities, romantic getaway, age 55+.
Perfect Getaway
Guest: JM/MJ
(Longview, TX)
Date of Stay: 06/06/11
Review Submitted: 07/05/11
We celebrated our 25th anniversary here as Judy's guest in this charming cottage. We have stayed in guest cottages in the past and this was far and away one of the best. The attention to detail and our needs was impeccable. Thanks again, Judy!
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, sightseeing, romantic getaway, age 55+.
For sure like to go back
Guest: Lu C
(Chicago, IL)
Date of Stay: 05/04/11
Review Submitted: 05/11/11
Just came back from the vacation on St. John island, stayed at Judy's cozy cottage for two nights, enjoyed every minutes. The view, the deco, it is hiding in the hill but close to everything. Trunk bay beach is only 20 minute drive, grocery store and restaurants within 5 minute drive. We enjoyed the lay back at Judy's place, cool breeze in the evening, beautiful sun rise in the morning, too much to say, if you are person enjoy the nature you will fall in love with the place :) We would love to go back and stay longer in future... Judy is a very nice lady, she gave us many helpful suggestions on the island. Thank you Judy for lending your beautiful cottage, wish to see the addition to your cottage soon!
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, sightseeing, romantic getaway, age 55+.
Perfect
Guest: Ready to come back!
(North Carolina)
Date of Stay: 06/21/09
Review Submitted: 03/04/11
I was just recommending this cottage to a friend and realized we had never left a comment! We are ready to come back. This was the perfect honeymoon/getaway spot for us. The home was clean and cozy. We had everything we could have wanted from kitchen utensils to guide books. Judy was so kind and available when we needed her, but we also felt we had a totally private spot in paradise. I can still imagine the island breeze and relaxing on the porch. We easily drove to beaches and restaurants. The little grocery on the corner was really convenient.
Recommended for:Sightseeing, romantic getaway, age 55+.
Loved staying at this adorable cottage
Guest: Gloria18
(Glade Spring, VA, USA)
Date of Stay: 01/09/11
Review Submitted: 01/21/11
My husband and I stayed at this beautiful cottage for 4 nights in January and wished it could have been many more. We were so sorry to leave. The cottage is immaculate, beautifully decorated, spacious, private, and quiet. We certainly hope we can return next year for another stay in heaven! Judy, the owner, goes out of her way to be helpful and hospitable. We couldn't have asked for a better vacation. I highly recommend this cottage for those seeking an authentic experience of St. John.
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, romantic getaway, age 55+.
sweet paradise
Guest: alicia and tomek
(Brooklyn, New York)
Date of Stay: 08/11/10
Review Submitted: 08/18/10
A charming and comfortable home away from home. Catch n' Keep allowed our St. John experience to be what it was; beautiful, relaxing, simple and natural. The cottage is maintained in such a way that it not only allows you a taste of island life, but a taste of a real life. The simple and carefully appointed dwelling was a constant reminder of the pleasures found in a simple and careful life. Additionally, convenient to all the island has to offer, without being amidst the offerings. Judith was a perfect host, as absent or present as we needed, highly amiable, down to earth and simply a good person to have met.
Recommended for:Sightseeing, romantic getaway, age 55+.
A slice of Heaven
Guest: Joanne
(Fort Myers, FL/USA)
Date of Stay: 07/05/10
Review Submitted: 07/27/10
My husband and I were interested in a true St. John island experience and found exactly what we were looking for at Catch and Keep. It is nestled in the Coral Bay hillside with beautiful tropical landscaping. It has a natural environment with comfortable furnishings and all the creature comforts that are needed. Having meals on the deck, reading a book or taking a nap in the hammock or couch, watching the hummingbirds at the feeder and the feel of the breezes were heavenly. Beautiful...
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, sightseeing, pet owners, age 55+.
A great getaway!
Guest: From Mountains to Beaches
(Switzerland)
Date of Stay: 04/04/10
Review Submitted: 04/18/10
Dear Judy, Thank you so much once again for sharing your paradise with us for over a week. We felt so much at home from the very beginning. The apartment is beautiful, caribbean style, lovely decorated and everything you need. We enjoyed every minute at home, on the beautiful porch, relaxing... We did not miss the missing seaview at all, the gardens, green hillsides and surrounding nature was at least equally nice. Judy was there when you needed her with help and recommendations, but also left us our own space so we could spend a private vacation. We came a long way from Switzerland, but every second of travel was worth it - we had such a great vacation! Thank you once again for everything. Kindest regards, Tinka & Sacha
Owner response:To all my past Guest Friends who have taken the time to write, thank you so much for conveying to others what you enjoyed and will remember about Catch n' keep Cottage. I believe you understood what I was trying to share with you, a chance to experience "Island Life" in a real home, functional but simple, where much of your daily routine is spent on shaded decks, in the midst of different birds, flowers, trees and vistas, enjoying the breeze or dozing with a book, visiting our beaches and finally being lulled to sleep by the gentle night sounds instead of noise. I try to tailor my help to as little or much as you need, and thus support you in the type of vacation you have been looking forward to. If any of the tropical fruits are ripe, or if there is a local function or cultural event I feel will enhance your time here, I try to alert you to it. So many of my guests from Europe appreciate being able to experience something different and authentic for they come to be on an island and know all that entails. Others wish privacy, relationship or renewal time and I try to pre-smooth arrangements so your vacation starts when you step off the plane. And when its time to return home, I also hope if you've seen some of my comings and goings, heard my stories, or watched me try to keep the 'bush' at bay, you'll realize that full-time island living may not be for everyone the way Island Vacations are... so you leave relaxed, refreshed, maybe a little bit sad to go, but with fresh appreciation of your 'world' you are returning to. Its been my pleasure, and I thank you all. Judith
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, romantic getaway, age 55+.
Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 02/18/10
Review Submitted: 02/18/10
Hi Judy,Just wanted to thank you for sharing your little piece of paradise with us. The cottage was so charming and homey. We missed our little dog we left at home but sweet Buddy was a great host and let us love him up on a regular basis. We’d recommend your place to anyone who wants peace and relaxation in a gorgeous island setting. It was truly one of the most memorable vacations we’ve ever taken. Whenever I need to escape for a few minutes I’ll just visualize sitting on the veranda, the warm sun, gentle breezes, scrappy hummers and the cat purring in my lap. Doesn’t get much better than that. Thanks Again!
Recommended for:
Guest: MT
(Buffalo)
Date of Stay: 02/17/10
Review Submitted: 02/17/10
Catch n Keep was a perfect place for my wife and I. I can't say enough good thing about the place. Very relaxing cottage to stay in. Judy is there if you need anything. Coral Bay is a very beautiful and quiet place to stay. Judy, thanks again for everything.
Recommended for:
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Vacation Rentals by Owner Listing #75872
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