We visited Caneel Bay for the third time in 10 years in January 2012 (each visit 5 years apart). This third visit was probably even better than the first two. It's not cheap, but you get what you pay for. The beaches are simply amazing. The rooms are not lavish, but are VERY comfortable and clean. (We loved the Turtle Bay room we stayed in this time even more than our prior stays.) The restaurants are very good, with the Sugar Mill (formerly the Equator) offering even better food than we'd experienced before. The staff is extremely friendly and attentive. What a refreshing stay.

The only problem to be aware of are the sand fleas (or "no-see-ums" as the resort staff will call them). They provide "Deep Woods Off!" in the rooms which we did not, but should have, used. I read online that anything with DEET is generally effective. These little critters are much smaller than mosquitos, but equally annoying in their bites. On our next return visit, I would use repellent and try to keep these bugs from detracting from what was an otherwise almost perfect vacation.

Caneel has a shabby-chic image. It's one of the older Rockresorts taken over by Rosewood. The service is impeccable, the views are stunning beyond belief. But the accommodations can be basic, and couples have been known to receive upgrades as a unit is cleared due to plumbing problems. The property boasts multiple beautiful beaches; wildlife is everywhere in evidence on land in the air and under water; and an adjoining national park has its own lovely forest and beaches. Breakfasts are lavish, as are afternoon teas. Dinner can be more mixed, both in terms of the elegance of the setting and the consistency of the food. What makes the place are the regulars, world travelers often, who return year after year and generation after generation. Often, they can be welcoming. On the other hand, to keep the property afloat, Rosewood has had to open to business groups, so that the old world noblesse oblige meets its limitations--and there can be annoyance between classes of clientele. Of course, you can ignore this byplay and simply relax in the warm sun and clear waters. The prices are shockingly high, with only occasional relenting, to minor degree.

I stayed at Caneel earlier this month for 7 days. The ferry ride to the resort which started our vacation was top notch with rum punch mixed for us while we rode out to St. John. Staff were extremely polite and accommodating. We changed rooms while being there and I had the chance to see other layouts through friend's rooms and all were to my liking though the bathrooms in the less expensive option room were a bit cramped. There is no television or phone in the rooms and overall the rooms weren't brand new but that rustic feel was expected considering the history of the place and also Caribbean style.

After trying out a few different beaches we were most attracted to Scott Beach which was secluded but not completely empty of people. A bar/food station was present and was staffed by an extremely astute and friendly employee, Warren, who made our beach days excellent. Hawks Nest was another beach we visited and the scenery there was superior but it was on the more choppy side of the island . Paradise beach was touted as one of the more private which we liked as well though it was a stone throw from Scott beach and only fifty feet long. All the beaches offered floats, shay lounges, towels, and at the least a drink cart girl who made her rounds as fast as she could help.

We ate at the sugar Mill and were pleased with the food and wine options, although some were definitely at "resort" prices. (expected) For the most part we went down to the taxi station and ran into town to try out multiple options rather than just the resort menus.

I did see children but unlike some of the other rantings on here they never disturbed our vacation and for the most part were only noticed at the breakfast buffet or if you stumbled over to the removed "Turtle Town" area where they do the daycare stuff.

I've also noticed that much of the angry reviews were coming from the Christmas holiday time and incidentally heard from locals/employees i befriended that was usually the angriest guests of all season. So avoid that part of the year if you can.

The weekend portion of our stay at the resort was at 95% capacity and the only time it felt that full was Monday's noon ferry time where everyone emerged from their section of the resort to grab a last drink/meal/picture before piling on the ferry. Otherwise it was a much more private experience than I was expecting especially compared to other resort trips.

Overall the trip accomplished the point of a relaxing vacation and I was never bent out of shape about anything in particular.

We have been coming to Caneel Bay since it was a Rock Resort 34 years ago, but we have never been able to come during the holidays. The weather was glorious and although we prefer the absolute solitude of spring and summer here, walking the grounds and beaches while the resort was filled to capacity was surprisingly still extremely mellow. You have to be a certain kind of person seeking a certain kind of vacation solace to truly love Caneel. But it's perfect for us. We don't want to watch TV, or have room phones, or screen time that so overwhelms us in our daily life. Caneel Bay is a respite from all that. It has colored our dreams since we were newlyweds here in 1977. Besides the addition of air conditioning, the resort has remained true to Laurance Rockfeller's vision.
If you are a beach person, this is the place for you. Snorkel, swim with the turtles, watch the pelicans feed, pull out a float and be one with the clear azure water, or just sit and look around. When we are stressed at work, both my husband and I retreat to the Caneel Bay corner of our minds, we walk the paths, smell the flora, feel the heat of the sun, the lapping warm water, and the soft salt air. If you are a foodie, book on the European plan (although the breakfasts are sumptuous so take bed and breakfast if they offer it) and try some of the spectacular island restaurants! That's what we do! Ah, Caneel Bay, we haven't been back for two weeks yet and we are ready for another dose!