Stunning North Shore Honeymoon Cottage

Saint John, Saint John
$900 avg/night Minimum Stay 6 Nights
Bed 2

Bed

Bath 1

Bath

Home Cottage

Property Type

Sleep 4

Max Sleeps

Night 6 nights

Min Stay

Hawksnest Cottage is on the coveted North Shore, a supreme location shared by only few other houses, minutes from St. John's world- renowned National Park beaches, surrounded by National Park, yet a short drive from Cruz Bay. Perched 97-feet above Hawksnest Bay, the spectacular home looks across the water to Caneel Bay peninsula, and further west to the sunset over St. Thomas and other outer-islands. The green hills of the national park frame the breathtaking view--no houses in sight. The cottage has been lovingly and completely renovated, twice: once just before Hurricane Irma, and a second time following Irma's devastation. Thanks to eco-pioneer and architect Doug White, Hawksnest gives guests the unique experience of living in simple elegance, surrounded by the sights and sounds of one of the most beautiful parks in the world. Air conditioning is available in the bedroom suites if needed. Ceiling fans and breezes are throughout the house.

A sample of a day at Hawksnest: For breakfast, enjoy the screened-in open air intimacy with the sights and sounds of nature. Walk the trail to Denis Bay at dawn. Take a swim at Gibney/Oppenheimer beach, a walk or short drive away, or in the new infinity plunge pool. Hop on an open air taxi to take you to the starting points for wonderful National Park hikes. Visit a different beach every day, or return to your favorites. Enjoy spectacular sunsets from the living room, view or pool decks. For dinner, try the restaurants of Cruz Bay (8 minute drive) or Coral Bay, or serve up fresh fish and Josephine's greens on the screened dining porch. Retire to the master suite, which includes a custom King bed, a dressing area, bathroom and an al fresco stone shower, or the privacy of the downstairs suite, also with a custom King, where the view is equally beautiful. Cap the day with a dip in the infinity pool, under stars dimmed only by moonlight or the sparkling lights of St. Thomas.

Hawksnest Cottage has a history that reflects the beauty and resilience that are St. John. Built by hand, she sheltered her original owners and their guests for 25 years. A year of renovation by current owners gave old guests and new a sweet nine months until the fall of 2017, when Hawksnest lost her roof to Hurricane Irma. Ten days later, Hurricane Maria added two feet of water into the open house.

With patience and care, Hawksnest Cottage was restored again, this time with steel bones, a mountain coral floor, and an infinity plunge pool and sundeck inspired by nearby Mampoo House. It was a labor of love and stewardship, and we were so pleased to be able to again welcome guests starting in December, 2019. Hawksnest Cottage meets the rigorous standards of St. John's Island Green Living Association for low impact design and use of sustainable materials. We have used sustainably-harvested tropical hardwoods wherever possible; we recycle our gray water for plant use, and we have a full array of new solar panels on the roof. We hope our guests will both appreciate this and live within this spirit of conservation during their stay.

The beauty of Hawksnest Cottage and its location makes it tempting to stay put. But there is so much to explore! The National Park/North Shore road is a 5 minute walk/2 minute drive up the cottage driveway and along a hillside dirt road. It's a short walk and quick drive to many of the North Shore beaches, and just a 10 minute ride to Cruz Bay, with its galleries, shops and restaurants. In the other direction, the rest of the spectacular North Shore unfolds. Most guests choose to rent a car--usually a jeep--to be able to more easily explore the island, and carry cooler and other beach equipment; if so, you should reserve a small 4 or all-wheel drive vehicle on St. John. Our short driveway is steep, but wide enough to turn a 2 door jeep around easily. A larger vehicle can also turn around in the driveway, with a few points and a little patience. Taxis do not make the 1/4 mile trip from the North Shore Rd. to the Cottage, so guests who do not rent a car will need to plan for a 4-6 minute walk, with one steep section, and bring a good flashlight for nighttime. You can easily arrange for grocery delivery.

We look forward to your visit and have no doubt that you will want to return. It is a special privilege to fall asleep to the sound of gentle waves, wake up to the glow of the sun rising over the hillside behind you, with a day of exploring or relaxing ahead--all without needing to drive anywhere, if you so choose. St. John is unique among Caribbean islands. Hawksnest Cottage is unique on St. John.

Keywords: Hawksnest Cottage, Private Home, North Shore, St. John, Inside the U.S. Virgin Islands National Park, Walk to Beaches, Ecological design

Read More Expand
  • Feature Features
  • Map Map
  • School District Rates & Availability
  • Review Review

Feature Features

  • PETS

    No Pets Allowed
  • BEACH

    Beach Sun Loungers Beach Towels Near The Beach
  • SAFETY

    Carbon Monoxide Detector Installed (host Has Indicated There Is A Carbon Monoxide Detector On The Property) Fire Extinguisher First Aid Kit Smoke Detector Installed (host Has Indicated There Is A Smoke Detector On The Property)
  • BEDROOM

    2 Bedrooms Bed Sheets Provided
  • GENERAL

    Recycling Reusable Coffee/tea Filters Some Profits Reinvested In Community And Sustainability Unit Size: 1600 Sq Ft (149 Sq M) Uses Some LED Lighting Waste Recycling Policy
  • KITCHEN

    Coffee Grinder Coffee/tea Maker Cookware/dishes/utensils Electric Kettle Microwave Oven Paper Towels Refrigerator Stovetop
  • LAUNDRY

    Laundry Facilities Near Laundromat Washing Machine And Dryer
  • PARKING

    Car Recommended Electric Car Charging Station On Site Onsite Parking
  • INTERNET

    Free WiFi
  • OUTDOORS

    Barbecue Grill Outdoor Furniture
  • POOL/SPA

    Outdoor Pool Private Pool
  • BATHROOMS

    1 Bathroom Bidet Hair Dryer Shampoo Shower Soap Toilet Paper Towels Provided
  • LANGS SPOKEN

    English French Spanish
  • THINGS TO DO

    Ecotours Nearby Fishing Nearby Fitness Center Horse Riding Nearby Power Boating Nearby Sailing Nearby Snorkeling Nearby Surfing/body Boarding Nearby Swimming Nearby Water Sports Equipment Windsurfing Nearby
  • ENTERTAINMENT

    Stereo TV
  • LIVING SPACES

    Living Room
  • CLIMATE CONTROL

    Air Conditioning Ceiling Fan
  • LOCATION HIGHLIGHTS

    In A Rural Location Near A Health Or Beauty Spa Near The Bay Near The Sea On The Bay
  • SERVICES AND CONVENIENCES

    Concierge Services Iron/ironing Board Limited Housekeeping Safe
  • SUITABILITY/ACCESSIBILITY

    No Elevators Note From Host: Smoking Not Allowed Inside Or Outside Smoke-free Property

CheckIn Check-in : 03:00 PM CheckOut Check-out : 10:00 AM
No Wheelchair No smoking No pets Children allowed
Occupancy Max occupancy : 4

Map Map

School District Rates & Availability

Review Review

  • Lynne K.

    Submitted Jan 13, 2026

    Stayed Dec 29, 2025

    It is hard to describe how perfect our experience was with the warm and welcoming owners and hosts. Everything we could possibly need was there and ready for us. It is also hard to describe breathtaking beauty of this property. Even after six nights, waking up to the view and sound of the ocean was truly magical. True perfection all around, I wish I was still there!

  • Stan W.

    Submitted Nov 3, 2025

    Stayed Oct 27, 2025

    Joey and Polly were extremely welcoming and helpful. Joey even met me at Starfish Market, and led me to the villa. She was always quick to respond to any question or problem. And she gave me some local tips to make my hiking and snorkeling more fun. I could see that the host went the extra mile to provide snacks and drinks to make my stay more enjoyable. The villa itself was perfect for me. I loved seeing that view every breakfast and every evening. They provide nearly everything you could want: gas grill, snorkels/fins, a comfortable bed, outdoor shower, and a much appreciated plunge pool. But the best part was the close proximity to Oppenheimer Beach. A quick 8 minute walk, and you're there. No parking, no hassles, just a paradise beach (almost) to yourself. I'm homesick for the Villa already, but I know I'll be back!

  • Ken P.

    Submitted Jul 24, 2025

    Stayed Jul 9, 2025

    My spouse and I have been wanting to stay here for a few years. Only regret is that we waited this long. Adorable cottage with unbeatable views in a convenient location - reasonably close to town but felt very remote. The property managers were great. Wouldn't change a thing. We'll be back.

  • David V.

    Submitted Jul 3, 2025

    Stayed Jun 16, 2025

    Everything was amazing. If the best is a 5 star this place would be a 10. Thank you for allowing us to share it!

  • Cathy S.

    Submitted Jun 20, 2025

    Stayed Jun 8, 2025

    Great property with lots of privacy. Well stocked with all the beach necessities. Friendly hosts! Highly recommend!

  • Cynthia J.

    Submitted Jun 9, 2025

    Stayed Jun 1, 2025

    The home was perfect! The views were spectacular.Loved our trip so much. The hosts were always available.

  • Malahn D.

    Submitted May 4, 2025

    Stayed Apr 28, 2025

    Lucky you if you get to stay at this glorious home overlooking Hawksnest Bay, it’s a stunning house and the owners and hosts have taken every step to ensure you have an amazing stay!There is almost everything you can think of for a great vacation waiting for you at the cottage, towels, yoga mats, snorkeling gear, beach chairs and toys. Coffee and olive oil and a good selection of spices (you might want to grocery shop after you take inventory), all right here. All you have to do is kick back and enjoy!!

  • Will P.

    Submitted Apr 11, 2025

    Stayed Mar 29, 2025

    Hard to put into words how amazing this place was! Thank you, Polly & Bob!

  • Jonathan E.

    Submitted Jan 9, 2025

    Stayed Dec 22, 2024

    4th time at this beautiful house with beautiful views and close to all beaches. Could not be any better!! Already we booked for next year and can’t wait to return.

  • Joni C.

    Submitted Nov 21, 2024

    Stayed Nov 9, 2024

    The absolute perfect place for 2 couples. Each has their own completely private space. The plunge pool had a beautiful sun umbrella with 4 lounge chairs where we also enjoyed viewing the stars, and St Thomas at night. The kitchen had everything we needed for creating beautiful meals: the grill was the bomb for the fresh yellowfin tuna we were able to get through our AMAZING hosts. Jennifer and Joey were there for our every need. They picked us up at the ferry dock, lead us to the house, showed us around and got us settled right away. The entire experience exceeded our expectations! Can't imagine staying anywhere else.

  • Bruce R.

    Submitted Oct 31, 2024

    Stayed Oct 21, 2024

    The property is literally perfect. I'm a builder, and I couldn't think of anything I would have done differently. My wife and I were there for a week on our honeymoon. Every detail of this remote, serene setting is perfect. Set above such a beautiful bay, the views are amazing. And at night, the only lights you'll see are the stars. Having this type of solitude with being so close to town (10 minutes) is ridiculous. Literally once you drive out of Cruz Bay, you enter the Virgin Islands Nat'l Park. And Polly's house is a mere 10 minute drive. Just go, as everyone says. Your expectations will be surpassed.

  • Sharon C.

    Submitted Oct 17, 2024

    Stayed Oct 5, 2024

    We made a spur of the moment trip to St. John in early October when other vacation plans fell through. How lucky we were that Hawksnest Cottage was available! The weather and water temps were sunny and warm. The island was welcoming and uncrowded, with ample restaurants open. And the home, owner and property manager ensured a dream trip. The cottage is beautifully constructed, with high quality finishes and furniture. Many thoughtful touches above and beyond the accurate and detailed listing description, such as beach umbrellas, reusable water bottles and gallons of purified drinking water, plus a well-stocked kitchen with even a knife sharpener. The cottage is completely private, screened, and is surrounded by beautiful landscaping and the sounds of nature. Location is perfect. Short drive to Cruz Bay and the lovely North Shore Beaches and trails. Amazing sunset views. Both the owner and Property Manager provided prompt and ample information and met our every need. Highly recommend this special property!

  • Forrest M.

    Submitted Jul 30, 2024

    Stayed Jul 20, 2024

    Absolutely amazing house and location! We will definitely stay there again. The McCrays.

  • Kristen L.

    Submitted Jul 16, 2024

    Stayed Jun 29, 2024

    Hawksnest Cottage was an absolute dream! Like others have mentioned the pictures don’t do it justice. The home and view are stunning. The pool and lounge area were larger than we expected. The landscaping was gorgeous. We never even turned on a tv or music and instead just listened to the sounds of nature. The location was great, close to many beaches some even walkable. We took the trail down to the two close by beaches. It was only about a ten minute drive to town. The home was well equipped with everything you would need. There was even a welcome gift of fruit, snacks, and drinks when we arrived! The owner was great with communication and the property managers provided top notch support prior to and during the stay. They provided information on groceries, restaurants, local activities, and even helped us connect in order to set up in-home massages. They definitely went above and beyond! We hope to stay at Hawksnest Cottage again!

  • Tricia B.

    Submitted Jul 1, 2024

    Stayed Jun 11, 2024

    Everyone we dealt with was so helpful and accommodating! The house was nicer than we could have imagined and the views were breathtaking! We can't wait to go back again!

You might like these similar properties

Your dates are Available!

Total

Includes taxes and fees
$900+
View details