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1st Visit to Elysian Beach Resort (by Robin S.):

For the most part I think the reviews tend to be much too negative, and I hope that my review along with the doctor's above put it in better perspective.

I also had a studio loft unit and it is large, clean, well equipped and well located. My girls sleep on the murphy bed, my husband and are are upstairs and there are two full bathrooms in the studio lofts plus a HUGE upper deck to enjoy the views from along with the LR balcony.

I would not confuse the Elysian for the Ritz or Marriott's Frenchman's Reef in terms of furnishings and elegance in the rooms (although the beach at the Elysian is MUCH better than the Marriott as is the location). The furnishings at the Elysian could use an updating with new and more contemporary furniture, but the unit serves as a clean and well-located base for us to enjoy all the St. Thomas has to offer and is convenient to the ferries in Red Hook. I think that if you can stay in the lower buildings or obtain a studio loft unit, you'll be happy, and ask for a parlor unit to be included if you want a full kitchen, a studio loft if you want the two floors (a spiral staircase to the 2nd floor).

Just an FYI: the water pressure is weaker than most people are used to because of the cistern system, but that is typical for a number of island locations.

I've found the staff to be very helpful, but you are on "island time" when there, so do not expect them to work "in a NY minute" and always remember to start a conversation with "good morning/afternoon/evening" so as not to be considered rude.

The food in the restaurants is very good and very fairly priced, and the small bar poolside is convenient and the attendants friendly.

Finally, I really love the beach there as you can choose to be in direct sun, dappled sun or full shade based upon where you choose to put your lounge chair, so spending a day at the beach with my daughters means I can enjoy myself without getting too hot or sunburned (I've even fallen asleep in the lounge chair, something that has never happened to me anywhere else). I wouldn't confuse the beach for Sapphire or Magen's for example, but it is great for relaxing and a dip, plus their pool is very, very nice.

I cannot wait to go back this July!