Spectacular Views Day and Night from Private Treetop Apartment

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Apartment

Living areas connected by two six foot wide archways

Main view to Cruz Bay harbor, STT & everyday sunsets, or to NP forests

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 2800 sq ft

Popular amenities

Parking available
Kitchen
Outdoor Space
Water view

Explore the area

Cruz Bay, St. John

Cruz Bay Beach
‪9 min walk‬
Honeymoon Beach
‪17 min walk‬
Trunk Bay
‪28 min drive‬
West End (TOV-West End Seaplane Base)

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Deck or patio

Kitchen

Balcony

Garden

Dining Area

About this property

Totally 'remade' in 2018, Sonnenskuss is perched 250' above sea level and Mongoose Junction ( an extraordinarily beautiful architectural landmark ) on the edge of the National Park, yet, only 3 blocks from the center of Cruz Bay - an ideally convenient location. We are ready to offer you the warmest welcome with the utmost respect for your privacy. It is an oasis of relaxation and seclusion, completely surrounded by greenery and fabulous views.

NP mountain forests are displayed thru an entire northern window wall and the Cruz Bay waterfront, distant St. Thomas, the western sky and everyday sunsets are viewed thru the west wall of Pella glass & screen sliders or from the deck.

Located at the north end of the greater residence, hence, protected from southern exposure, the apartment enjoys a well-shaded interior - space white & bright and accepting of the cooling trade winds passing thru. Ceilings are high. The bedroom is large with a quality, king mattress. The bath is also large and well stocked. The kitchen/studio is fully equipped and interconnected with the bedroom thru two 6' wide archways.

A single, private parking bay (exclusive for apartment guests) is located below an ascending masonry staircase which passes a large, interestingly sculpted waterfall/birdbath surrounded by lush tropical foliage. From the staircase end, one proceeds along a shaded catwalk toward a stand of bamboo and apartment deck. The deck faces the water & sunsets and overlooks garden vegetation. Keep the feeder supplied with sugar and let the bananquits & finches entertain you. Rise early and you'll probably see deer or an occasional donkey eating that same garden.

Sonnenskuss is easily found by walking or driving (all guests in need are picked up/dropped off at the ferry) 4 blocks from the ferry dock to the far end of Mongoose Junction. From there, turn into the parking lot, proceed 100', and turn left up the concrete road. 3 switchbacks follow - a right, then a left - and Sonnenskuss staircase is on the right, just before the 3rd switchback.

Mongoose Junction is unquestionably an architectural gem exuding a powerful Caribbean ambience & energy. Thanks to a local treasure - artist/architect/builder Glenn Speer - MJ is a wonderful m'elange of shops, salons, indoor/outdoor restaurants, a deli & a taproom/brewery - a delightful convenience a mere 900' 'down the hill' (even for just the morning paper or freshly brewed coffee). Warning: the walk back up can seem twice as long.

The National Park Headquarters Building & rec field is directly across the street from MJ, and Lind Pt. trail (behind bldg.) leads to Salomon, Honeymoon & Caneel Bay beaches (20-30 min.) - very convenient for those not renting a vehicle (& great exercise!)

Property manager

Charlette Wernig

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen

Outdoor Space

Water view

Parking available

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Adults only

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Cancellations made at least 90 days before check-in qualify for a full refund. Also, a full refund is honored once the booking is filled by another.

Important information

You need to know

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

Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited

Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip

Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property

About the neighborhood

St. John

Located in St. John, this apartment is in the city center and on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Virgin Islands National Park and Cruz Bay Beach. Jet skiing, snorkeling, and windsurfing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking nearby.

View more Apartments in St. John

Cruz Bay, St. John

What's nearby

Virgin Islands National Park - 4 min walk - 0.4 km
Cruz Bay Beach - 9 min walk - 0.8 km
Honeymoon Beach - 17 min walk - 1.4 km
Trunk Bay - 28 min drive - 5.5 km
Caneel Bay Beach - 31 min drive - 3.2 km

Getting around

St. Thomas (SPB-St. Thomas Seaplane Base) - 76 min drive

Restaurants

‪High Tide Bar & Seafood Grill - ‬9 min walk
‪Cruz Bay Landing - ‬9 min walk
‪Beach Bar - ‬11 min walk
‪Lovango Rum Bar - ‬11 min walk
‪Greengo’s - ‬4 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Spectacular Views Day and Night from Private Treetop Apartment pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Spectacular Views Day and Night from Private Treetop Apartment?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Spectacular Views Day and Night from Private Treetop Apartment?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Spectacular Views Day and Night from Private Treetop Apartment located?

Located in the heart of St. John, this apartment building is within a 10-minute walk of Virgin Islands National Park and Cruz Bay Beach. Mongoose Junction and Cruz Bay Visitor Center are also within 10 minutes.

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Corey K.

Apr 27, 2025

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

Stay near Cruz Bay

This was a wonderful location near Cruz Bay that allowed easy access to restaurants as well as the national park. We had a great time and would stay again.

Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Thomas C.

Mar 21, 2025

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

Great rental close to town

Gary’s place was great. Clean, open, and nice. The walk down the hill to town and restaurants was easy. We had a jeep the whole time and explored the entire island. Mark, the property caretaker, was easy to get ahold of and gave us some great info. St John is a special place, we can’t wait to get back there!

Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Leo S.

Jan 26, 2024

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

Close, beautiful, easy, helpful

The place is close to town, even walkable, yes, walkable. It's a drop dead gorgeous view. Everything we needed was very easy, the host truly went above and beyond. Thank you!

Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jackie G.

Dec 14, 2021

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

Little Gem on St. John

Writing a great review for our recent stay at Gary’s place in St. John will be giving away the secret of this little gem we found; however, it is well deserved! This was our first trip to St. John and Gary was a wonderful host all the way from our pre-booking questions to seeing us off on our last day. Gary picked us up at the ferry and dropped us back off at the end of our stay. He also stopped at the store so we could grab some snacks/beverages, and was always available if we needed anything or had a question about the island. Also supplied were a cooler, beach towels, and chairs to borrow if needed. There are many positives to mention about how this place made our stay great. The location is so convenient being just a short walk to the town of Cruz Bay – the walk back up the hill is a little steep, but well worth the accessibility to restaurants and shopping, since we do not like to drive to get everywhere while on vacation. We did not rent a vehicle and were able to get around walking and by taxi, or there is a bus too, but we never used it. One day we saw a lot of the island via a tour booked through Virgin Island Expedition Company – we highly recommend using this company!!! Another great thing about Gary’s place and the location was how secluded we felt nestled in the amazing landscape of the property. Instead of being in a busy hotel/condo, the studio apartment makes you feel like you are in your own little world, with a private balcony and a fabulous unobstructed view of Cruz Bay where the view and sunsets are incredible! If you stumble on this gem, do not hesitate to book it, we know you’ll have an amazing time and love everything about the property. THANK YOU, Gary for everything, especially your hospitality and for making our first trip to St. John so wonderful. We’ll be back! Cheers! Jackie & Lenny

Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Denise L.

Dec 5, 2021

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

Our Stay In St. John was Amazing!.

Property was very clean and comfortable with an amazing view. Location is very close to Moose Junction and to many of the good beaches and snorkeling spots. Gary the host is very accommodating and a pleasure to talk with. He picked us up and dropped us off at the ferry, showed us the sunset in the upper level of his home, and also took us to his other lot to see one of the most beautiful views and sunsets. Highly recommend staying here.

Stayed 9 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Peter M.

Dec 14, 2020

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

Great location

Location is convenient to all that is happening in st john. Very private,quiet,and clean Host was very accommodating Best experience so far while vacationing on st john

Stayed 14 nights in Nov 2020

10/10 Excellent

David O.

Mar 12, 2020

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

Wonderful opportunity to totally relax!

Gary has worked hard to create a lovely escape, complete with lots of attention to detail. Great location too!

Stayed 8 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Marc A.

Feb 16, 2020

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

Best Caribbean Vacation Ever!!

We have vacationed on almost every Caribbean Island looking for our "Go To" spot. We ultimately found St. John as that spot and have returned on several occasions. We are avid snorkelers and enjoy peace and quiet when not on a beach or in the the water. The most recent visit was the best we ever had because of our stay at Estate Enighed. The online pictures do not approach the actual beauty of the island views which were extraordinary, morning, noon and night. The studio was spotless and appointed with all of the necessaries, including access to everything needed for the beach. About 150 yards down the road is Mongoose Junction although you would never know it was there once on the property. This is due to the pleasingly unique and all enveloping landscaping created by our host Gary. From the first step toward the Studio until arriving to the wrap around deck you travel through a surround of tropical plants, trees, and ground cover accented by an exquisite hand made sculptured fountain. It is this blend of environment and location that makes you feel as if you are on a completely secluded part of the island. Finally, our host Gary was more accommodating and courteous than most people find from their own family members. Gary's hospitality made this visit an 11 out of 10, and we will return to Estate Enighed for our future visits to St. John. Thank you Gary. Marc & Kelley

Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Feb 1, 2020

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

Perfect!

We had a wonderful vacation here! The apartment was perfect and Gary a great host. Peaceful, and private yet walkable to town.The view was gorgeous any time of day or night. We appreciated the use of the cooler, beach towels, and beach chairs, snorkel gear. Gary gave some helpful tips on where to visit. Loved that we arrived to a bottle of champagne and beer to celebrate our anniversary- nice touch. A little slice of paradise!

Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2020

10/10 Excellent

pippa a.

Jan 13, 2020

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

Paradise Found

My husband and I have just checked out from this wonderful spot in Cruz Bay after spending almost 2 weeks there. It is not easy to leave! Imagine every evening watching the sunset with a cocktail from your private balcony - enjoying the views of the harbor and islands beyond with your morning coffee, and watching the tropical rainfall and plentiful birds in the leafy garden around you. Gary was unable to be on the island during our stay but was in contact with us throughout - very helpful in making sure we had all we needed. Mike, Don and Jane were excellent helpers as well and made sure we lacked for nothing. The unit is bright, sparkling clean, and newly remodeled with Everything you need for a very pleasant stay. We did not rent a car, but found it very easy to walk to all the shops, restaurants and taxis at the bottom of the hill. We made dinner at home a few nights, as well as all of our breakfasts. As confirmed by other reviewers, it’s a nice steep walk up the hill, but we found it prevented us from absorbing too many of the calories from those cocktails! We are in our mid 50s and did not find it to be too difficult. Beach chairs, towels, noodles, coolers, and snorkel and mask sets are at all available for your use. An added bonus is the lovely garden and landscaping surrounding the unit, a charming and unique entryway with curving stone steps is a pleasant welcome. We would love to return one day soon -and highly recommend this unit to anyone looking for a quiet getaway, but still close to everything in Cruz Bay.

Stayed 10 nights in Jan 2020

10/10 Excellent

Jeanette R.

Dec 15, 2019

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

Perfect

My husband and I just got back from a wonderful time in St. John and part of the reason for that is thanks to our stay at Sonnenskuss. First you get to the property at the hill right next to Mongoose Junction, so you are close to town and on the edge of the north shore beaches. After parking below the residence you enter the property at what seems like your own ‘secret garden’. You walk up stone gravel steps surrounded by lush landscaping with the sounds of birds all around you. Then you get to the deck and OH MY what incredible views! Sunsets are a must here. The studio itself is clean, bright and airy and equipped with everything you need. Pride of ownership is very apparent. Gary was a wonderful host who has been a long term resident of St. John. This was our 8th trip to St. John and I can easily say we would highly recommend Sonnenskuss to any couples looking for a great place to stay.

Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2019

8/10 Good

Colleen M.

Mar 5, 2019

Great location and beautiful views!

This is our fourth trip to St John in five years. We absolutely love it here! We’re in agreement with all the other reviews, the location and views were awesome. So close to town. The hike up and down the hill with gear was challenging but in a good way! Just think of it as a free workout (guilt free eating and drinking). We’re in our early 50’s and did fine. The unit itself was a great size. Lots of storage space, large shower, plenty of bath towels, great counter space in the bathroom, ceiling fans in bedroom and living area plus a few more regular fans you can put anywhere, very comfy king bed. The only negative was lack of a stocked kitchen. We usually have a big breakfast and pack lunches for on the road and maybe cook an easy dinner once or twice a week during our stay. It had great pots and pans, few pieces of silverware (as in 3 forks), only one sharp paring knife, few cups, dishes were fine but no dishwasher (I knew that prior)but no dish drying rack. Things I wish it had: measuring cups and spoons, drink pitcher, storage containers for leftovers, reusable freezie packs for coolers, spices, foils, ziplocks etc. Luckily, we have lots of camping experience so we managed fine. The outdoor beach supplies were great! Two size coolers (12 pack & 6 pack), pool noodles, swim fins, 4 beach towels, reclining high back beach chairs. The north shore beaches were our favorite as well as Salt Pond over by Coral Bay. Great snorkeling at Salt Pond, Francis Bay and Waterlemon Cay. When you’re at Salt Pond, make sure you do the hike up the Rams Head Trail and do the small hike over to Drunk Bay to see all the interesting stone designs. Favorite restaurants we’re Lucky Chops (great prices and gluten free options), Lime Inn, and Greengos. We just love the relaxing vibe of the island and can’t wait to plan our next trip!

Stayed 11 nights in Feb 2019

10/10 Excellent

Keta L.

Jan 26, 2019

Perfect Location, Amazing Views, Awesome Owner

This was our first time staying on the island of St John, and it won't be the last! Gary is the most hospitable owner! He picked us up at the ferry with our luggage to take us to the apartment. His knowledge of the island really helped us to make the most of our visit, as we spent our days out exploring, hiking, and visiting beaches. We were able to use coolers, beach chairs, beach towels, and water "noodles" to take to the beaches. The apartment itself is much more spacious than we even imagined, everything in working order and beautifully maintained. The bed was very comfortable! Our favorite part was sitting out on the deck overlooking Cruz Bay with coffee in the morning and wine in the evening. We were able to walk down the hill to Mongoose Junction and then where ever we wanted to have dinner each evening. Yes, it is a steep walk to get back up to the apartment later, but we appreciated the exercise. If you can't handle the steep hill, you could just drive. Gary took the time one evening to drive us to his other property to see a sunset - what a spectacular vista with 360 degree views! He was always willing to help us in any way we needed and could not have been more accommodating. Thank you Gary!

Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2019