I stayed here as it was one of the cheapest places to stay on the island (not cheap in general terms however) but was disappointed mainly with the standard of cleanliness and the insect infestations but let's start with the positives :
Pros - excellent location, walking distance to cruz bay shops and restaurants (however the steep hill climb was not easy esp in the heat), owner picked up from ferry terminal, welcome guest basket of fruits very nice touch, AC in good working order and good sized rooms.

Cons - thick layer of grime on most surfaces including the kitchen, holes in the mosquite grilles so hey got in and we got bitten to death and worst of all at night cockroaches came out to play in the kitchen!
I wanted to leave but my travelling companion refused. I wish I had as despit how beautiful st john was as an islanf when I remember it the memories as marred by the dread I felt on having to return to this place...

I chose Hillcrest after reading consistent online reviews for 2 years. My last visit to St. John I stayed at Caneel Bay which is extremely pricey. I have to say I enjoyed this trip even more! The owner of the Hillcrest was so welcoming and such a lovely woman. I loved her dogs as well! We stayed in the Front Suite. She stocked the room with lots of alcohol and some snacks and breakfast food, so basically we just ate dinner out each night. So close to town, the hill is a little too steep for me to climb but going down was a breeze. Easily took cabs everywhere, it turned out cheaper than renting a jeep, plus didn't have to worry about navigating those roads! The absolute ONLY recommendation I could think of is to bring your own snorkel equip. or rent it down at Low Key Water Sports. The owner keeps a few sets but if other guests are using your size fins your out of luck. If I had $$ I'd buy some snorkel equipment to donate to the Hillcrest. Loved it and can't wait to visit again.!!!!!!

I had a wonderful time staying here. The place was beautiful, the view was spectacular and the owner was such a pleasure to be around. I think everyone will have an experience like mine when staying here. You will not find another place as welcoming on the island. The owner really makes you feel like family.

Hillcrest is in a perfect location, easy walk to town (the hill is steep but not very long) and quick walk to Frank Bay for great local snorkeling. We stayed there for 3 nights in April 2011 and loved it. Phyllis is a wonderful host and supplied us with some staples in the fridge, not to mention delicious island rum. Her prices are affordable for nice clean basic rooms. When the rest of our group arrived in St. John we moved to a Coral Bay villa and while it was very nice, we really missed the convenience of Hillcrest. If I am lucky enough to go back to St. John, I will be staying at Hillcrest again.