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Spectacular Views Day and Night from Private Treetop Apartment

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Living areas connected by two six foot wide archways
Main view to Cruz Bay harbor, STT & everyday sunsets, or to NP forests
Private kitchen
Private kitchen
Room

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 2800 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space
  • Water view

Explore the area

Map
Cruz Bay, St. John
  • Cruz Bay Beach
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Honeymoon Beach
    ‪19 min walk‬
  • Trunk Bay
    ‪13 min drive‬
  • St. Thomas (STT-Cyril E. King)
    ‪52 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Spectacular Views Day and Night from Private Treetop Apartment

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
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Amenities

Kitchen
Outdoor space
Water view
Parking available

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Interior detail

Open Air Breezes Nestled Among Our Tamarind Tree - 5 Minutes from Cruz Bay Beach

    10.0 out of 10, (2 reviews)
    Open Air Breezes Nestled Among Our Tamarind Tree - 5 Minutes from Cruz Bay Beach

    House Rules

    Check in after 4:00 PM
    Check out before 11:00 AM
    default

    Children

    Adults only
    default

    Events

    No events allowed
    default

    Pets

    No pets allowed
    default

    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

    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 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 area

    St. John

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

    What's nearby

    • Battery - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
    • Cruz Bay Beach - 10 min walk - 0.8 km
    • Honeymoon Beach - 19 min walk - 1.6 km
    • Caneel Bay Beach - 5 min drive - 2.2 km
    • Trunk Bay - 13 min drive - 7.0 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?

    Checkout 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.

    Reviews

    10

    Exceptional

    Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
    Learn moreOpens in a new window
    Rating 10 - Excellent. 39 out of 41 reviews
    Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 41 reviews
    Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 41 reviews
    Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 41 reviews
    Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 41 reviews

    10/10

    Cleanliness

    10/10

    Check-in

    10/10

    Communication

    10/10

    Location

    10/10

    Listing accuracy

    Reviews

    10/10 Excellent

    Corey K.

    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.

    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.

    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.

    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.

    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.

    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.

    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.

    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 traveller

    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.

    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.

    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.

    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.

    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
    This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

    10/10 Excellent

    BEST LOCATION ON ISLAND!!!

    Sonnenskuss is the nicest most perfect place to stay on St. John! My wife an I have stayed in Cruz Bay 3 times prior, and we decided to give Sonnenskuss a try. BEST decision ever! Gary and Charlette are the most hospitable people you could ever imagine. The cleanliness of the property, beautifully groomed trees and gardens is a real pleasure to come home to. Gary even took the time to take us to his other property to watch the sunset. After a day at the beach coming home and being able to walk to happy hour and not have to worry about parking is very convenient. There will be no need for us to look anywhere else, this is really in Cruz Bay and is the best deal you will find. We couldn't have asked for a better Christmas! Thanks Gary and Charlette and you will see us next year for sure!
    This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

    10/10 Excellent

    WOW... PARADISE FOUND!!!

    Sonnenskuss has it all...beginning with a great first impression!!! *Our host met us at the ferry, brought us to the market to stock up on a couple staples and then on to what became our 'home away from home' retreat on St John. *We were just in time for an AWESOME SUNSET!!! *Private and secluded, (bordering the National Park), Sonnenskuss is a peaceful sanctuary amidst lush tropical gardens and a magnificent water feature which is loved by hummingbirds and bananaquits, all of which was created by our host, a landscape architect *Exclusive guest parking * Sincere host hospitality * Expansive view overlooking Cruz Bay, the sea and nearby islands from your own deck 250 feet above sea level *AWESOME SUNSETS!!! * Persistent prevailing trade winds * On site help, advice and guidance from hosts with 50 years of St John experience * Daily delivery of colorful fresh hibiscus flowers, lowered to our apartment door * Beautiful, bright, white, cool, large living space, very comfortable and well appointed * And if that is not enough, all this at an extremely affordable rate! * Oh, and did I mention the AWESOME SUNSETS!!!?
    This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

    10/10 Excellent

    Michele P.

    Treetop Retreat

    We were so happy we chose Sonnenskuss for our stay on St John. This being our forth visit to the island, we use to do Maho and Concordia, we wanted to be close to town. This is the perfect one bedroom very comfortable open air apartment. The views from the deck in the morning over coffee and in the evening for sunset are spectacular, even saw some beautiful rainbows on the rainy days. Gary is so accommodating, from the flowers in the coconut shell in the morning to having a beautiful water fall piece in a beautiful lush green sanctuary area (only needs a small seat so you can enjoy the area and your coffee) Even though we rented a car for the ten days we enjoyed being able to walk to town each evening, have dinner and drinks and work off some of those calories on the hill back up to the room. We chose to have our breakfast's and lunches in the apartment or when we were out hiking or on the beaches and went to town for dinners so we did not do a lot of cooking. It was also wonderful to spend a little time upstairs talking to Charlotte, what a wonderful lady! You can't go wrong if you are a looking quiet room with a great view, just don't tell too many people, we look forward to returning again.
    This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

    10/10 Excellent

    Timothy W.

    Treehouse Paradise

    After we had booked Sonnenskuss, I had imagined myself sitting on the deck as I looked at the beautiful pictures on the site. It was more amazing actually being on the deck because I could see and hear the bananaquits, smell the rich, damp earth, feel the soft ocean breeze on my skin, and taste a delicious caipirinha! Gary could not have been more accommodating. He picked us up at the ferry and once we were settled in to our apartment, he took us to get bottled water, at a local dealer and then drove us to the grocery store so that we could get our supplies for the week. The location of the apartment was perfect for us. We like to walk and could easily get to our favorite spots in and around Cruz Bay. The hill we walked up to get to the apartment was steep but not long and helped us burn the calories we had taken in from eating the delicious seafood at Rhumb Lines, the homemade pasta at Vista Mare, and the tasty desserts at the Ocean Grill. One evening, Gary took us to one of his other properties on St. John so that we could experience the sunset from a high vista. We had a 360 degree view of the ocean and the sunset. It was such a sensory experience to feel surrounded by the vastness of the ocean as the wind whipped around us and the sun sunk into the sea. The view from the apartment was amazing and due to the open concept, it felt like you were always outside. Gary created and currently maintains the lush and exquisite landscaping that envelopes the property. Since we returned, I dream that I am sitting on that deck, appreciating the splendor of Sonnenskuss and St. John.
    This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

    10/10 Excellent

    Hillside Garden Sanctuary

    We returned to this little haven for a second time and I couldn't agree more with the other reviewers. The apt is comfortably furnished, airy and bright, close to everything and yet completely secluded amid a charming garden on a hill above Cruz Bay. The views from the spacious private deck are spectacular. We did not have a car but a short hike takes you to shops, beaches and the ferry. Gary, our host is unfailingly helpful and gracious.
    This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

    10/10 Excellent

    Jean H.

    Paradise

    My husband and I recently stayed at Sun's Kiss for a week. We definitely agree with the other reviews about spectacular views, spacious apartment, great location, etc. In addition the landscape has beautiful tropical plants and flowers along with a water feature on the stone steps from the deck down to where you can park your car. One of my favorite things to do was to walk down to the water feature in the early morning. That is when many birds are coming there for much needed drinks of water. Antillean crested hummingbirds will dart by and sometimes hover close to you. You can get a great close up view and see the brilliant colors in their crests if the lighting is just right. Along with the hummingbirds there are banana-quits and Lesser Antillean bull finches. We were also lucky to have a mating pair of kestrels (sparrow hawks) that would hang out in a nearby tree. I especially loved the empty coconut shell hanging by our door that would miraculously be filled with flowers every morning. Gary is such a thoughtful host and I also enjoyed spending time with his mother, Charlette. We look forward to staying there whenever we return to St. John.
    This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

    10/10 Excellent

    Nancy B.

    Hillside Hideaway

    This is such a lovely place that we write this review with almost mixed feelings, because it's a secret you want to keep but just too good not to share. We had a week of pure peace and relaxation; Gary and Charlotte could not be better hosts. There is easy access to any activity you might want, but a quiet haven to return to each night for gorgeous sunset views. Breakfasts on the deck can't be beat, either!
    This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

    10/10 Excellent

    Deborah M.

    Wonderful retreat in St. John!

    Sonnenskuss was our "home away from home" for 14 days. Gary & Charlotte were delightful hosts. The studio is very comfortable, airy & filled with light. The view from the deck is absolutely beautiful & we enjoyed coffee there in the morning & cocktails in the evening. The location is ideal for exploring Cruz Bay (an invigorating walk up & down the hill), the gorgeous beaches, NPS offerings & the many ferries, charter boats & activities, not too mention Mongoose Junction with it's many excellent shopping & dining options. The King bed is super comfortable, the bathroom is well-appointed & the kitchen more than adequate for our needs (breakfast "in" most mornings & the occasional light dinner). We really enjoyed getting to know Charlotte & Gary - their detailed knowledge of St. John was extremely helpful & their recommendations were spot-on (Morgan's Mango for dinner!). Thank you Gary & Charlotte for all of your hospitality - we can't wait to return!
    This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

    10/10 Excellent

    Ellie R.

    Perfect Balm

    The perfect place to quietly, gently decompress. A peaceful sanctuary. Simply could not have asked for finer hosts nor a more perfect island experience.
    This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

    10/10 Excellent

    Room with A View

    A sweet retreat in a perfect, central location of fun Mongoose Junction.Its atop a hill, with a breath-taking sunset view from the deck, and surrounded by lush foliage and the best, sculptural water features! The tropical birds are a treat for the eyes & ears! the delightful owners are nearby, if needed.
    This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

    10/10 Excellent

    NIRVANA

    Sonnenskuss should be on everyone's bucket list. After four decades of stays on St. John, we don't know how we missed this beauty. Sonnenskuss has it all!....our favorite views, ultimate privacy & convenience (location), great hosts, living space & surrounds....an immediate transition into nirvana
    This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

    10/10 Excellent

    Pierre H.

    What a lovely stay

    We have been staying at Charlette and Gary's property for a week starting 2013 december 28 th. We really enjoy the place and found our hosts very kind, helpful and good persons. We recommand that place to everyone. Carole and Pierre

    About the host

    Hosted by Charlette Wernig

    Host profile image
    Mom & I are the two faces at Sonnenskuss these days since dad's passing in '05. Dad was a champion swimmer, and, with the help of a letter from Gene Tunney, was able to pick Key West, Fla. as his venue of choice to teach aquatic warfare during WWII. Mom, born in Germany (hence,Sonnenskuss), was a beautiful young ballet dancer.

    Two physical specimens, and just married, the newlyweds were able to live together off base. Dad loved his active duty in Key West (their first son was born at the naval hospital). He loved the heat & the water.

    Decades later, mom & dad (George & Charlette) began taking regular winter cruises throughout the Caribbean on the 'Bremen'. In '67 mom read about Cinnamon Bay in the NY Times, followed by consecutive annual stays at the campground.

    Our family fell in love with St. John, purchased a Serendip condo unit ('72-'73), and began the search for an ideal location to design & build a home in paradise.

    Mom & dad were always a 'perfect team' - proactive with enthusiasm - so, dad designed Sonnenskuss, loaded two 40' containers on L.I. (all bldg. materials, appliances, jeep, etc.) and commenced building in '79.

    The apartment was never touched by a '96 hurricane which purged the house of it's wooden structure. Rebuilt in masonry in '98, Sonnenskuss winter seasons provided infinite joy for my parents & friends - and continue to provide for guests new & old. Welcome!

    Why they chose this property

    * a large, clean, bright & airy apartment
    * extremely convenient, secluded & private
    * faces sunsets 365 days a year
    * on the NP boundary, yet, only 4 blocks from the ferry dock
    * 250' elevation overview of Cruz Bay Harbor, beautiful Mongoose Junction & STT

    What makes this property unique

    * exclusive guest parking bay
    * in very low density neighborhood
    *surrounded by tropical vegetation with birdlife & deer & donkey visitations
    * on the edge of the NP with it's forests literally outside a wall of glass
    * absolutely walkable to town & beaches

    Languages:

    English
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