The qualities that make the Elysian a "resort" are the proximity to the bay, the beach, the two restaurants on site and the service. The accommodations in our studio were adequate, but not "resort" quality.

While the beach is small, and much of the area past the swimming area is filled with boats from the neighboring yacht club, the beach is also quiet and uncrowded with plenty of shade. If you like to sit on the beach under a palm tree and read quietly. this may be the beach for you. It also may be an ideal spot for young families with children. There are no huge waves crashing on the beach and keeping track of the kids wouldn't be an issue. We can also recommend taking advantage of the discount coupons offered by the St. Thomas Concierge Services for the snorkel adventure aboard the sailing vessel "New Horizons", and the day trip aboard the "Break Away" to the British Virgin Islands. We'd do both trips again in a heart beat. There are two restaurants on site. The "Caribbean Fish Market", the newly renovated upscale restaurant, is open. Plan at least one dinner there. It is open air and beach casual, but we found the food quite good and elegantly presented. "Sangria" for breakfast or lunch, or evening drinks, is convenient and fun.

Typically, when we vacation, we like to shop for our own groceries and prepare a lot of our own meals. We like to walk and use public transportation when necessary to get around. We are bicycle tourists and walk/hike extensively. We are not easily intimidated by what others perceive as poor roads, traffic conditions or distance. I must say that this is one of the first times that all the warnings about the road conditions were correct. There are absolutely no shoulders on these narrow, winding roads. The best way of getting around the island is to use the multiple taxi services. The rates are reasonable and Joseph, who works out of the Elysian Resort, is very dependable. Our taxi fares for the week were less than 1/3 the cost of the least expensive auto rental for the week, and we didn't have to worry about driving on the left side of the roads. The grocery store in Red Hook ($5 by Taxi) was more than adequate. For a $6 Taxi ride you can get to the Food Center a bit beyond Red Hook. It is larger and has a greater selection of items. Because everything on the island has to be imported, food is a tad pricey. Expect to pay more for milk products than for the local rum. If you are looking to save money on food, consider packing a suitcase with dried food items and pay the $25 checked baggage fee.

Our studio apartment was comfortable. Positives included the king size bed and the deck with a view of the bay. The "kitchen" was comprised of a small bar sink, a convection/microwave combo oven and a small fridge. Not having a stove top involved being creative with meal planning, but you can make it work. Unfortunately, after arriving back from our first shopping trip loaded with groceries, we discovered that our refrigerator did not work. After a couple of phone calls it was replaced in a couple of hours. Overlook the peeling paint and the wooden shutters in the shower, or you will swear you are in a "mom & pop" motel along Route 66 that is still trying to survive after the interstate was built.

Adjust your expectations for the accommodations and this can be a very nice resort experience. We can definitely recommend the Elysian Resort and plan to return again next year.

There is nothing bad I can really say about the Elysian, but nothing really good either. It was a pleasant enough place to escape our Chicago winter for two weeks. The beach can hardly be called a beach. It was more of a marina with boats tethered to buoys. Pool area is very nice. Location near ferry terminal makes it easy to visit other islands.

great location for snorkeling and great beaches nearby

The restaurant is still open while under renovation but all other aspects of the resort are very well managed and it has a very nice beach. Well done!

I would recommend this as the best RCI resort on St Thomas by far.