Located along the northern coast and surrounded by protected USVI National Parkland, Peter Bay is largely considered the crown jewel of St. John. It’s one of the most exclusive neighborhoods on the island, with stunning landscapes and an unparalleled level of privacy, thanks to its location within the Virgin Islands National Park. As a result, Peter Bay villas are some of the most coveted stays on St. John.
Like much of St. John’s fertile northern shore, Peter Bay’s early Colonial history saw it used for sugarcane cultivation. Ruins from this time, such as the Catherineberg Estate, tell of this troubled past. By the late 1800s, though, most of Peter Bay’s plantations were shut down, leading to a lush reforestation and the eventual establishment of the Virgin Islands National Park.
Today, Peter Bay stands out thanks to its strict limits on development and inspiring tropical vistas. You won't find any high-rises or sprawling resorts here. Instead, you’ll find carefully designed villas that blend sustainably into the landscape, letting you better appreciate the dramatic cliffs and turquoise water that define this beautiful destination.
Rental Escapes makes renting a luxury villa in Peter Bay easy. First, choose your travel dates. Next, select your party size. From there, your Rental Escapes Villa Specialist will happily present you with the best available Peter Bay villas for your group. Afterward, your Concierge will customize your trip with transportation, chef service, excursions, staff, and more.
Built for privacy, seclusion, and comfort, Peter Bay villas allow you to take in St. John’s natural beauty with uncompromising style. Each one is custom-built, with architecture that elevates and honors its tropical surroundings.
Peter Bay villas can be found both in Upper Peter Bay, which is perched high on a ridge and offers dramatic panoramic views, and Lower Peter Bay, with its easy beach access and lush landscaping.
No matter where you stay, you’ll enjoy uninterrupted ocean views and a low environmental footprint. You’ll also receive 5-star service, including from your Rental Escapes Concierge.
Hillside above the shoreline, these Upper Peter Bay villas enjoy panoramic views, cooling trade winds, and extra privacy:
Utopia: Perched dramatically atop Peter Bay, Utopia offers sweeping vistas over the island and beyond. At 7 bedrooms, it’s the largest villa in Peter Bay, conveniently separated between a main house and a guest house. Easily one of the best stays on the island.
Villa Carlota: A beautiful Mediterranean-style villa, Villa Carlota uses natural materials and warm accents to create an inviting space. Outside, the views over the island simply stun, while a large infinity pool beckons to take it all in.
Closer to the sand, these Lower Peter Bay villas are perfect for guests who want to maximize their time in the turquoise water:
Cliffhouse: Just 100ft up from the shoreline, Cliffhouse lets you wake up to the sound of waves lapping gently every morning. The villa itself is spread out over several pods, one of which even features a full gym.
2B at Peter Bay: A true tropical getaway, 2B transports you to another world with its botanical landscaping and stunning turquoise views. A pool and hot tub allow you to enjoy the outdoor space for hours, while a stone path leads directly down to the beach.
You don’t need to show a passport if you’re traveling directly from the US mainland, Puerto Rico, or another U.S. territory, though you will need proof of citizenship.
Non-US citizens must show a valid passport. If you are from a country that requires a US visa for entry, then you will need a visa as well.
Most travelers will fly into St Thomas first. From there, you can either go to the Red Hook ferry terminal (20 minutes from the airport) or the Crown Bay ferry terminal (10 minutes from the airport).
The ferry ride to Cruz Bay, St. John takes 20-45 minutes. Private water taxis are also available for an even faster, more seamless transfer.
From Cruz Bay, Peter Bay is a 15-20 minute scenic drive along North Shore Road.
Your Rental Escapes Concierge can help with airport transfers, ferries, and any other transportation needs.
The best way to get around Peter Bay is by rental car. Since the island’s roads can be steep, winding, and sometimes unpaved, you’ll want a 4WD vehicle (e.g. a Jeep or SUV).
Taxis and private drivers are also available, but should be booked in advance.
Your Rental Escapes Concierge can help with rental cars, private drivers, and more.
Peak season in Peter Bay is from December to April. This is St. John’s driest season, with perfect beach weather and crystal-clear snorkeling conditions. If you want to visit at this time, book early.
Shoulder season is from May to June. The weather is still great, the villa rates are lower, and the sea temperatures are warm. Visibility is still good for snorkeling as well. For many, this is a favorite time to go.
Low season is from July to November. It’s the most peaceful time of year, with warm seas and plenty of privacy. That said, the highest storm risk is in August and September.
Peter Bay villas are located inside the Virgin Islands National Park, giving them unmatched seclusion, protected views, and direct access to Peter Bay Beach and reef. Unlike other areas of St. John, strict development limits mean the neighborhood remains exclusive, private, and surrounded by nature.
Some Lower Peter Bay villas may have direct beach access, while Upper Peter Bay villas are set higher on the ridge with panoramic views. Guests staying in Upper Peter Bay can still access the private Peter Bay Beach via designated paths or short drives.
Yes, Peter Bay is one of the safest places to stay on St. John. In general, St. John has one of the lowest crime rates in the Caribbean. Peter Bay is also gated with restricted access, so only residents, guests, and approved staff can enter.
Relax on Peter Bay Beach: A secluded white-sand crescent, Peter Bay Beach has calm, clear waters and is rarely crowded. Plus, there’s a soft entry to sea, making it ideal for families with children.
Snorkel the Peter Bay Reef: Just offshore, you’ll find coral gardens teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles, and rays. The reef is accessible directly from the beach, so no boat is required.
Hike the North Shore Trails: Step outside the gates to access Virgin Islands National Park trails like Cinnamon Bay Trail or Catherineberg Ruins. Hikes range from easy beach walks to more challenging climbs with sweeping sea views.
There are no restaurants or bars inside the gates of Peter Bay. Dining here is done via private chef, or by driving to nearby Cruz Bay or Coral Bay.
In Cruz Bay (about 10-15 minutes away by car), you’ll find fine dining, casual beach bars, and waterfront seafood grills.
If you choose a private chef, your Concierge can work with you to arrange a menu based on your tastes. Chefs source local seafood, tropical produce, and gourmet imports, and tailor their meals based on your preferences.
Your Concierge can also arrange grocery pre-stocking, so your villa kitchen is ready the moment you arrive.
Spring in Peter Bay brings warm, comfortable days with average highs of around 84°F (29°C) and lows near 74°F (23°C). Humidity is moderate and rainfall is relatively low, averaging about 2.5 inches (64 mm) per month. Seas are calm and clear, making this a great time for snorkeling and outdoor activities.
Summer is hot and sunny with average highs of 87°F (31°C) and lows around 77°F (25°C). Rainfall increases slightly to about 3.5 inches (89 mm) per month, often in the form of brief afternoon showers that keep the island lush and green. Sea temperatures are warm and inviting, ideal for swimming and paddleboarding.
Fall is the warmest and wettest time of year with highs near 88°F (31°C) and lows around 77°F (25°C). Rainfall averages 5 inches (127 mm) per month, peaking in September and October during the height of the Atlantic hurricane season. Humidity is high, but beaches and trails are quiet, offering peaceful conditions between showers.
Winter is the driest and most comfortable season in Peter Bay with average highs of 82°F (28°C) and lows near 72°F (22°C). Rainfall drops to about 2 inches (51 mm) per month, and humidity is lower, creating ideal weather for beach days, hiking, and al fresco dining. The cooler nights and steady trade winds make this the most popular time to visit.
If you’re planning a getaway to this beautiful part of St. John, Rental Escapes can turn your Peter Bay villa rental into a true luxury experience.
Our portfolio includes the finest Peter Bay villas, including Upper Peter Bay villas and Lower Peter Bay villas.
Your Rental Escapes Villa Specialist will help you find the perfect villa for your group, while your dedicated Concierge will customize your trip to ensure an unforgettable Peter Bay villa experience.
Contact us today to book your next unforgettable escape!
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Luxury Villa Rentals for 2+ people
