Box 8310, Great Cruz Bay
St. John
St. John
Us Virgin Islands
(340) 693-8000
Location: USVI 00831
Type: Resort Hotel
Minimum Rate: $ 350 - $ 350
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This resort sprawls around its own marina and a secluded 1,200-foot sandy beach on Great Cruz Bay (south of the town). Built as a Hyatt Regency, it was a welcome addition to an island where there is still a dearth of hotel rooms. when Westin bought the property, it undertook a major renovation of the public areas, rooms and facilities so it is now truly first-rate. Accommodations (282 units) include spacious guest rooms and suites. All have Westin’s trademark “Heavenly Beds,” rattan, wicker and light-colored furniture, with views of the ocean, pool area or colorful gardens. Many have patios or terraces. Additionally, there are 67 villas in the Westin Vacation Club on the grounds.
Some are individually owned, while other are used for time-sharing. Rentals are made through the hotel. Villa guests enjoy all hotel privileges – perfect for families. Thirteen gray cedar-roofed buildings, accented by magenta awnings, are scattered on 34 acres, criss-crossed by red brick walkways and beautiful landscaping. Palm trees were even imported from Puerto Rico. The huge pool is at the heart of the resort and there is a big sundeck as well. It’s just a few steps to the sock and beach, where watersports equipment is available, much of it gratis. That includes use of windsurfers, kayaks, Sunfish, Hobie Cats and snorkel gear.
The watersports center also arranges waterskiing, scuba dives and fishing trips. Great Cruz Bay has offshore reefs close enough to snorkel over and the hotel has installed a swimming raft, a trampoline and an “iceberg” slide just a short swim offshore. The new fitness center offers spa services. There are salt scrubs, aloe wraps, cleansing facials, reflexology and LaStone massages (using hot and cold stones). Manicure and pedicure services are available. The fitness center opens at 6 am daily. Six tennis courts on the hillside can be lit for night play. Hotel activities range from iguana feeding to beach volleyball and adult scavenger hunts.
This is a family-friendly resort and many activities are planned with children in mind. There are float races, family bingo and a family olympics. For an additional fee, the Westin Kids Club offers a full range of supervised activities for children three to 12. The hotel has excellent dining options. The Beach Café and Bar serves breakfast and is famous for its buffets and theme nights. It also has an à la carte dinner menu. Snorkels, at poolside and along the beach, serves lunch and afternoon cocktails. Good sandwiches and salads. Chloe & Bernard, on the hotel’s second level is independently operated, and named after two fictional characters that travel around the world in search of new and delicious recipes.
The menu therefore changes frequently and blends eethnic specialties with continental cuisine. There is a comfortable cocktail area and piano or local entertainment every night. Reservations suggested.
Last updated January 28, 2008