Sunset Ridge Villas

This Review was updated on 3/3/2012. We just returned from two weeks at Sunset Ridge and I had to report in because the upgrades to the villas look so great.

The views are simply spectacular morning to night.

The units at Sunset Ridge are approximetely 1500 square feet (with a very private master). The private patio (with your own barbecue) allows us to have family dinners watching the sun set over the beautiful carribean waters all the way over to St. Thomas. The kitchens have been renovated and there is everything you could want to prepare meals and dine in at this beautiful site (as fantastic as the restaurants are on St. John, you will choose to eat at home many nights because of this special setting and the ease of dining on the patio).

The pool is great and it is steps away from every unit, although we head to the beach every day (we have at least eight beaches that rival for our "favorite" - St. John is just that exceptional). For us, staying as Sunset Ridge on St. John is the ideal Carribean experience.

We own at both Sunset Ridge and the Westin and our family happens to favor our unit at Sunset Ridge for it's 1500 square feet of living space, panoramic hilltop views and private outdoor patio and barbecue. (Sunset Ridge and the Westin St. John are both great, although entirely different properties.)

It is important to know that you really must have a vehicle on St. John to really appreciate the island and you must have a car to enjoy your stay at Sunset. St. John is simply fantastic for exploring and it is easy to explore (you can try a new beach every day and your drives will be full of "Ooohs and Ahhs ... look at that !!!"). Wherever you stay, make sure you have a car. The people on St. John are very welcoming so touring around is easy and worth the car rental.

If you are lucky enough to come across a week to rent or trade (finding a trade to St. John is rare), Sunset Ridge is a wonderful place to stay while on St. John.

*** Years ago the property was not cared for as it is now - please know that any dated reviews are not representative of the property as it looks and is managed now. An active Board of Trustess, a dedicated financial investment by the owners over the last 5 years, and a responsive and terrific management company have resulted in Sunset Ridge being an extraordinary value (whether renting or buying)!

We had always wanted to go to St. John and when we found this exchange and looked up the reviews, we were nervous but decided to go for it. What a charming villa! Two buildings with a courtyard separating them one is the main house with a kitchen, living room, dining area, washer dryer and half bath and upstairs was a huge open bedroom with a queen and two twins and full bath. In the other building was the master suite with a large tiled bedroom huge vanity and large shower. There are only 6 villas and they all have million dollar views of Cruz Bay. A nice size pool to share and very private. We were more than pleasantly surprised when we arrived. Apparently they are under new management and have upgraded the villas...very nice job! We would highly recommend and may come back with the rest of the family next time.

We have owned at Sunset Ridge for over 10 years. It has seen its ups and downs over the years, but it is now in a serious upswing. The owners association has charged us for special assessments for needed improvements and has taken a proactive role in polishing up this gem of a property. Everyone who stays here agrees that the views from Sunset Ridge are absolutely gorgeous! St. John is a one-of-a-kind destination, and the timeshare options are either Westin or Sunset Ridge. Try trading into Westin with II or RCI...just about impossible! Sunset Ridge is even a very tough trade with RCI...Log on and try it, Resort ID #3870!

Sunset Ridge offers the guest a very affordable way to stay on this great island. The 2BR units are very spacious, and provide the basics a traveler would need. It is a great sampling of island living...laid back and surrounded by natures beauty. The units do not have air-conditioning which some people think is a major turn-off. We own weeks 26 and 27, and surprisingly, the high altitude mountain breezes at night really cool the units. We are wrapping up our 2009 trip and we did not sweat any night. As an exercise, look up the average night-time temps of the VI, then add 1000 feet and strong Caribbean breezes. Please note this resort is not for the pampered traveler: there may be some bugs, there may be some stains, or there might be something broken. Many times, guests themselves have to adjust their behaviors to control the bugs or other island situations. For example, in a tropical setting, you cannot leave exposed food, crumbs, even water droplets out on the counter. Even so, a small bottle of Terro ($4) solved our ant problem in 1 day. The bedding is newer. The cookware is very nice. The plates and silverware may not all match, but really, does that matter? There is a microwave, full size fridge, and full size range. The furniture is actually just about all from the Westin after their recent renovations. All units have a washer/dryer. The main pool has just been resurfaced and provides a perfect gathering area for guests. The pool deck offers beautiful views of St. Thomas. We absolutely love watching the 4th of July fireworks over Cruz Bay from the pool deck. If you have never had to look down to see fireworks, you have to try it in this island paradise.

We are owners at Sunset and spend a second week at the Westin each year. After the carnival like atmosphere of the Westin, Sunset Ridge is a welcome retreat. We have a spacious 2 story villa witha private terrace and a master suite in a separate single story building. The pool is completely refurbished and clean - we spent all week swimming with the pool virtually to ourselves. The views are spectacular and evenings on the patios are breezy and lovely. Sunset Ridge is more like living on St. John rather than just vacationing.

To update: We never filed our deed with the USVI until May of 2007. We had no problem and have the recorded deed in our possession. I really don't understand why the reviewer in 8/06 had a problem

If you love St. John or have been wanting to go - here is a good place to stay at a mimimum cost. The units are clean, has all you need & view is beautiful. We rent a car for about $350 - $500 for the week - cost depends what month you are there. We have always been able to rent one.

The beaches are some of the most beautiful in the Caribbean and I have sailed & traveled many Caribbean islands. The island is 3/4 national park & it is a magical island. Sunset Ridge is at the top of a mountain - with beautiful views.

There is a nice size pool. Each unit has a sitting pool, good size rooms, washer/dryer, microwave, full fridge and more. The units are private and its great to sit out at night and look at a gazillion stars.

The town of Cruz Bay is 5 minutes away or you can go to beaches all day long. Or hop a ferry to BVI's. The Westin and other most places to stay on the island are very expensive - much more plush than Sunset Ridge - but you will pay for it.

Sunset Ridge is a good place to stay without having to spend a lot. Our whole family goes at least once a year and we take lots of friends too! We love it.