Rara Avis Villa: A Private Caribbean Island Retreat in Hart Bay, St. John

Discover Rara Avis, a warm and inviting Caribbean villa designed for travelers seeking privacy, beauty, and effortless indoor-outdoor living. Nestled in the peaceful southwest corner of Hart Bay on St. John, this island retreat blends timeless architecture with comfort—perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking for a serene escape in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

A Unique Villa Layout Designed for Privacy & Connection
Rara Avis features three distinct buildings set within lush tropical gardens:
- A two-level stone great house
- Two private king-bedroom cabanas (east and west)
When you arrive, you park above the villa and stroll down the gradual stone steps into a garden courtyard where tropical landscaping, stone pathways, and ocean breezes create an immediate sense of relaxation.

Great House with Stunning Panoramic Ocean Views
The upper level of the great house is the heart of the villa—an expansive open-concept space ideal for gathering and entertaining. Inside, you’ll find:
- A spacious living area with elegant native stonework
- Cathedral ceilings with exposed wooden beams
- Terra cotta tile floors and curated island-inspired décor
- A fully equipped kitchen and dining area
- Half bath and laundry room for convenience
Step through screened sliding glass doors onto a 450 sq ft sun deck, where breathtaking 180-degree views of St. John’s south shore unfold. It’s the perfect place for morning coffee, evening beverages, or simply soaking in the Caribbean sunshine.

The living area includes:
- Comfortable furnishings
- Flatscreen cable TV for watching your favorite sows
- High speed internet – WiFi for staying connected
- Screened sliding glass doors open to stunning views of Hart Bay

Private Bedrooms & Comfortable Accommodations
Rara Avis comfortably sleeps up to 8 guests across four bedrooms:
- Two King Cabanas (East & West):
Each cabana offers a king bed and ensuite bath—ideal for couples seeking privacy and peaceful garden or ocean views.

Exterior Access - Lower Level Bedrooms (Great House):
- Two additional guest rooms (with twin beds that convert to a king) share a bath, creating a cozy and flexible space for families or friends. Each bedroom has a screen slider that opens to a private deck.

Outdoor Living: Pool, Gardens & Sun Decks
Designed to embrace the Caribbean lifestyle, the outdoor spaces are just as inviting as the interiors:
- A private 1/2 moon shaped pool set in a landscaped garden near the west cabana
- Multiple sun decks for lounging and sunbathing
- Shaded patios and courtyards
- Meandering walkways connecting each building for a seamless flow
Whether you’re unwinding by the pool or soaking in ocean views and breezes, every space is designed for pure relaxation.

Fully Equipped Kitchen & Dining Options
The villa’s kitchen is stocked with everything you need to cook and entertain:
- 4 burner electric stove/oven, refrigerator/freezer, dishwasher, and microwave
- Coffee maker, blender, toaster, dishes, utensils, and cookware
- Gas grill for outdoor barbecues
Dine indoors at a mahogany table (seating 6–8) or enjoy meals outside on the sheltered garden patio (seating 4) surrounded by tropical greenery.

Prime Location Near Cruz Bay
Rara Avis offers the perfect balance of seclusion and convenience:
- 7-8 minute drive to the restaurants, shops, and nightlife of Cruz Bay
- Set at the end of a private drive for ultimate tranquility
Facing southeast, the villa enjoys sunlight throughout the day and cooling trade winds, along with uninterrupted views of St. John’s pristine coastline.

Experience Authentic Caribbean Villa Living
With its blend of natural stone architecture, tropical gardens, and breathtaking ocean views, Rara Avis captures the spirit of a classic Mediterranean-style villa in the heart of the Caribbean. Every detail—from antique furnishings to open-air living spaces—creates a warm, welcoming environment where guests can truly unwind.

Book your stay at Rara Avis and experience one of St. John’s most charming villa rentals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Is there someone on St John if we need assistance during our stay?
Yes! We have local representation on St. John. Our friendly team is available to answer questions, provide recommendations, and assist with anything you may need during your stay, helping ensure a smooth and enjoyable vacation.

Does Rara Avis have a/c?
No, the villa is not air-conditioned, but has ceiling fans or floor fans in all the rooms.

What provisioning companies, private chef services, and boating excursions are recommended?
- Provisioning: Landlubber Logistics and Starfish Market
- Chefs: St. John Catering & DSC Dining
- Boat Excursions: Flyaway Charters, Sunshine Day Dream Charters. Scheduled excursions: Stormy Pirates

What are some hiking trail recommendations? Ram's Head, Reef Bay Trail, Lind Point Trail, Salt Pond & Drunk Bay Trails, to name a few.

What grocery stores are on St John?
- St John Gourmet Market - Cruz Bay
- Starfish Market - Cruz Bay
- Dolphin Market - Cruz Bay
- Pine Peace Market - Cruz Bay

Will I need a jeep rental?
Yes, a jeep rental is recommended when renting a private home. Having your own vehicle gives you the flexibility to explore the island, access beaches, restaurants, and attractions at your own pace, and make the most of your stay.

What are the gas stations on St. John?
- E.C. Gas - Cruz Bay
- Race Track Gas Station - Southshore Road
- Midway Gas - Centerline Road
There aren't any gas stations in Coral Bay.

Are there restaurants nearby?
Yes, they are a 7-8 minute drive into Cruz Bay and range from casual to fine dining. Recommendations include: St. John Back Bar, The Beach Bar, Hightide, The Terrace, Morgan's Mango, Greengo's Cantina, Cafe Roma, Sundog Cafe, to name a few.

How close are the beaches?
For the barefoot, white sand beaches you will be about a 12 -20 minute drive to some of St. John’s most beautiful National Park beaches, including Hawksnest, Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, Maho Bay, and Francis Bay.

Are linens, towels, and beach gear provided?
Yes, your linens, bath towels, beach towels, beach chairs, a cooler, and a starter packet of paper products.

What are some activities available on St John?
- If you have never been to St John - take an island tour.
- Go to a different beach each day to find your favorite
- Drive over to Coral Bay to explore the quieter side of the island - have lunch at Skinny Leg's
- Go on a boat excursion
- Visit the Annaberg Sugar Mill Ruins
- Hiking - Reef Bay Trail and Ram's Head
- Do nothing at all - just let the restorative ambiance of St John replenish you