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Rebecca's Fancy -- directly across from Hansen Bay

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REBECCA'S FANCY COTTAGE
Rebecca's Fancy Cottage
REBECCA'S FANCY ON HANSEN BAY
PATIO WITH PROPANE GRILL, TEAK LOUNGERS, DINING TABLE
REBECCA'S FANCY ACROSS FROM THE BEACH

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 246.5 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Laundry
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

Map
St John, VI
  • Virgin Islands National Park
    ‪13 min walk‬
  • Cinnamon Bay Beach
    ‪30 min drive‬
  • Trunk Bay
    ‪35 min drive‬
  • West End (TOV-West End Seaplane Base)
    ‪324 min walk‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Rebecca's Fancy -- directly across from Hansen Bay

Rebecca's Fancy is ideal for couples who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, SCUBA, kayaking, SOP, sailing, hiking, star gazing, fishing, and beach combing right outside your door. Shallow calm waters, cool tropical tradewinds, lush landscaping, amazing rainbows, and enchanting starry nights await.

The spotless air-conditioned, one bedroom, one bath cottage has full kitchen with dishwasher, decks and patio with chaise lounges and gas grill. Rebecca's Fancy was designed and equipped with full amenities for your comfort and convenience. Nature provides all the sights, sounds and smells.

The friendly easy-going island of St. John remains one of the most pristine and uncrowded in the Caribbean. Most of St. John's land (2/3's) and surrounding waters are managed by the United States National Park Service. Rebecca's Fancy is located on the east end of St John on Hansen Bay, directly across from the accessible sandy beach.

After driving through the National Park's Hurricane Hole you arrive at the quiet East End that is remote and completely surrounded by aquamarine crystal clear waters, white sand beaches and breathtaking views. Several uncrowded beaches are a walk away. A relaxing ten minute drive to Coral Bay and you will enjoy dining, live music, horseback riding and boutique shopping. National Park activities are nearby.

Because our electricity is expensive and unreliable we installed a 8kwh solar system in 2013. We are powering the cottage and main house 100% with solar power and a battery backup system.



Keywords: One Bedroom, One Bath Stand alone Cottage By the Sea

Property manager

JAY & ATHENA
Premier Host

Languages

Greek

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Air conditioning
Laundry
Outdoor space
Parking available
Ocean view

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
Property is on a steep driveway
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Events

No events allowed
The cottage is small and has no room for entertain
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Smoking permitted on outdoor deck and patio areas

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: The cottage is small and has no room for entertain
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

St. John

Located in St. John, this cottage is in a rural area and near the beach. While the natural beauty of Virgin Islands National Park and Cinnamon Bay Beach can be enjoyed by anyone, those looking for an activity can explore Tortola Cruise Ship Port. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
St John, VI

What's nearby

  • Virgin Islands National Park - 13 min walk - 1.1 km
  • Johnson Bay - 9 min drive - 9.6 km
  • Maho Beach - 24 min drive - 11.6 km
  • Cinnamon Bay Beach - 30 min drive - 12.7 km
  • Trunk Bay - 35 min drive - 14.8 km

Getting around

  • St. Thomas (SPB-St. Thomas Seaplane Base) - 99 min drive

Restaurants

  • Omar’s Dockside
  • The Willy T
  • Pirates Bight
  • ‪Skinny Legs - ‬17 min drive
  • De Loose Mongoose

Frequently asked questions

Is Rebecca's Fancy -- directly across from Hansen Bay pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Rebecca's Fancy -- directly across from Hansen Bay?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Rebecca's Fancy -- directly across from Hansen Bay?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Rebecca's Fancy -- directly across from Hansen Bay located?

Offering direct access to the beach, this St. John cottage is within a 15-minute walk of Hansen Bay Beach and Virgin Islands National Park. Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument and Privateer Bay are also within 1 mile (2 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 58 out of 61 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 61 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 61 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 61 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 61 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Elliot R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful stay

My wife and I had a wonderful time at Rebecca’s Fancy Cottage for our honeymoon. We loved being directly across the street from the Hansen Beach and the quiet of the east end. Jay and Athena were great hosts, always open to questions and conversation but allowed us privacy.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tammie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful stay in Hansen Bay

Rebecca's Fancy was exactly what we wanted for this trip to STJ. We have stayed in several villas in different areas of the island. This visit we wanted to stay on the quieter East End. Although we enjoy beaching, exploring, and hiking other areas of the island, we found ourselves being happy to return to this quiet villa in the perfect location on Hansen Bay. The beach at Hansen Bay was so beautiful and convenient. Jay and Athena were the great hosts.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Holly D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Location, location, location

If you want to walk to the beach and have your little slice of paradise this is the place.
Stayed 9 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Leah M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peacefull Retreat

The location is perfect and the property is very quiet. The hosts were so friendly and the property is well maintained.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dixon K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent

We had an excellent stay at Rebecca’s Fancy! Jay and Athena were very welcoming and the stay was everything we had hoped.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brian C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolutely lovely!!

What a wonderful day we had! The hosts were amazing, the property fabulous and in the proximity of multiple areas of interest with Hansen Bay a short stroll down the driveway!
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Anthony K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The Best Experience

The hosts, Jay and Athena, were the best hosts I have ever encountered - in forty five years of travel and work. These are authentic people who have carefully created a guest house experience perfect for a peaceful St John's retreat. We are very grateful.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

David M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great get away!

Great clean and quiet cottage overlooking the beach. Jay & Athena were very friendly and helpful. Looking forward to staying here again when we return.
Stayed 8 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Johnine C., Santa Fe, USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect location

If your desire is to snorkel, kayak and swim this is your ideal place. We loved being able to do this without getting in the car. The quiet and peaceful location suited us and had everything we needed for an extended stay. The hosts were delightful and helpful and the views memorable.
Stayed 28 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Chris S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Cottage, Amazing Location!

Our stay at Rebecca's Fancy allowed us to spend most of our days across the street at Hanson's Bay, where we enjoyed snorkeling, swimming and beach play. Jay set up a covered shelter over their picnic table on the beach, so we had shade and a place to put our stuff. We did drive out to Cruz Bay and the north shore beaches one of our days, and spent one day at Salt Pond bay, but we were there for the snorkeling and quiet relaxation, so there was no need to spend too much time driving about. Jay and Athena were wonderful hosts, and the cottage was very nice. We were surprised at the high cost of food (~ 3x the cost of groceries at home), and the lack of much island-grown fruits or veggies. There are several restaurants/bars and 3 grocery stores in Coral Bay, which is a ~ 20 minute drive away. We are definitely hoping to return here!
Stayed 9 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Katie M., Long Island, New York

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A week in paradise

My husband and I were looking for a relaxing, secluded place to spend our vacation - Rebecca's Fancy was everything we wanted and more. Located in the beautiful and remote East End of St. John, the property was extremely well kept, comfortable, full of thoughtful amenities and decor. The wraparound deck offered stunning views, and we spent each morning enjoying the sounds of the birds and wildlife, basking in the breathtaking vista of teal waters and lush mountains across the way. The bay is just steps away from the cottage and offers a lovely sandy beach as well as plenty of reefs for snorkeling and exploring. Jay was the perfect host, an endless source of information and laughs - he made himself available whenever we needed him while also giving us plenty of space and privacy the rest of our stay. Thank you Jay and Athena for the most beautiful memories in your little slice of paradise. We are already dreaming of our return.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

elisah m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Another blissful stay

As usual, we enjoyed every moment of our getaway to the East End of the island in this cozy cottage, especially prime location to the waters edge on the beautiful Hansen Beach. The cottage has all you need for a resting place after a full days journey around the island. Thank you again Jay and Athena! See you next year, God willing!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Marilyn T., Houston, Texas USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic Property to Relax & Enjoy Quiet Beach

This was our second stay at Rebecca's Fancy & it will not be our last. Perfect accommodations for two people who are wanting to relax. We enjoyed beach & great snorkeling. View from property is amazing. Jay & Athena are the best hosts we have had through VRBO and we have had some really good ones over the years so that is saying alot.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dean S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Snow Relief

Very nice villa located across the road from a great beach on Hanson Bay. Athena and Jay were great hosts. Being from Minnesota, it was a welcome relief from the snow and cold.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Meryl A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The Best!

Everything was terrific! Mornings on the balcony… sunsets in the Adirondack chairs… swirling ceiling fans as we listened to the night noises of St. John and drifted off to sleep. Beautiful linens, a gracious perfect little cottage. Great location…. Amazing!
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Walt D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

great place

We enjoyed our week at Rebecca's Fancy so much! It was wonderful to have such a beautiful beach so close, and hiking trails and places to snorkel weren't far away.
Stayed 8 nights in Jun 2022

8/10 Good

elisah m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

“Just another day in paradise”

In our favorite little part of the island lies the coziest cottage overlooking the crystal blues of Coral Bay. Jay’s build perfectly embodies the heart of St John, allowing cool breezes to float through the windows. The porch sitting is one of the best on the island. The king bed invites you to play with its plush surface and white linens, the soft white curtains floating in the breeze. While quaint accommodations, you don’t need anything more to rest after a day of adventuring the island. WiFi is quick, so you can connect back to life when and if needed! We will be back again as this place has become our yearly summer disconnect. Thank you Jay and Athena!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mandi N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing

We loved our stay here! This end of the island is so peaceful, which is exactly what we wanted. If you are looking for seclusion, this is the place! The sunsets and rainbows over the beach are incredible! The highlight was watching the total lunar eclipse from the front porch. Jay and Athena were amazing hosts. I think we would have taken them home as our souvenirs! They truly love the island. Dinner the first night after a long day was such a thoughtful gesture. We cannot wait to return!
Stayed 7 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lev M., Boston, Usa

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect and relaxing vacation

Hosts Athena and Jay are very warm and caring people and they treat you like friends. Location is unbeatable - from the deck there is a wide view of the Caribbean sea and you are right across a sandy beach with excellent snorkeling. You can see turtles right next to the shore and if you venture a bit further towards Pelican Rock you will discover a magnificent coral garden. The cottage has everything you need - a very comfortable bed, quality bedding and towels, enough pots and pans, and a grill for cooking your own meals. The driveway is rather steep but you can just park your car before the gate and walk to the cottage for about half of a minute - we are not spring chickens and it was not a problem at all for us.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Debbie A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Escape

We really enjoyed our stay this past week. The house was perfect for the two of us and it was a peaceful getaway. Jay and Athena are great hosts!!!
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Dan R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Can’t go wrong…

We have been looking to stay at Rebecca’s Fancy for years and just recently got our chance. We were so pleased to find that it did not disappoint. The cottage is well-equipped, clean, and has amazing views. The private beach access makes you feel like you have the place all to yourself. Jay and Athena were incredibly hospitable- making us yummy treats and checking in, but not being too intrusive. The care and love they have for their home and STJ in general is evident and transfers into a carefree environment for the perfect vacation.
Stayed 9 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Kandice M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A quiet, relaxing gem of a stay!

We loved every minute staying at this property. Our host was thoughtful and knowledgeable and very helpful. The place was comfortable and close to the beach. It was quiet and perfectly relaxing. Will definitely be back!
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Janet B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent Stay

Great location right across from a beautiful beach with great snorkeling. No driving necessary. The cottage is small and simple, but perfect for a couple. It has everything you need, including a comfortable bed, and plenty of room to relax outside on chairs and loungers. I took some great hikes along the quiet paved road. Take a right or a left at the bottom of the driveway, take your time (these hills are steep) and keep walking until you've crested the hill. You will be rewarded with the most beautiful views you've ever seen! Owners are close by (but not overbearing). They are fun to talk to and the stories of their island experience are inspiring. Athena had dinner ready for us when we arrived late at night after a long day of travel. Much appreciated. You probably want to load up on groceries in Cruz Bay on your way here. The east end is remote, but that's why we chose it.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Tiffany K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best vacation spot!

My daughter and I stayed for a week and enjoyed the privacy and beautiful views of Hanson Bay! This one bedroom cottage was perfect and very cozy! Jay was so welcoming and insightful! I really enjoyed my walks on the beach in the morning and evening. We saw several starfish and donkeys! In the early and late hours we had the beach to ourselves. We will be definitely stay there again in the future!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Brent D., Marietta, Ga

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome plave to stay, right on hansen bay beach

Jay and Athrna were awesome host. Couldnt have asked for a better place. We love privacy and we had it. Wonderful place
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2021

About the host

Hosted by JAY & ATHENA

Host profile image
Greetings, after living in the Philadelphia area our entire lives and raising our 3 children there, we relocated to St. John in 2002 fulfilling a 12 year dream (plan)of living in our paradise. We have been fortunate to have traveled and visited many beautiful places around the world. When we first visited St John in 1989 we knew we found our paradise.

We designed and built Rebecca's Fancy ourselves to provide a practical and fun place to enjoy all that St John has to offer. Athena and I take pleasure in sharing our blessings with others. As our guests, you too will enjoy the magical sights, sounds and smells of St. John. Athena and Jay Swartley

Why they chose this property

We choose this property because of it's proximity to the beach and the sea 100 feet away! St. John is a small 20 square mile mountainous island with a limited number of properties that are on the water. Rebecca's Fancy is less than a quarter mile from the end of the road that begins at the ferry dock in Cruz Bay. This provides us a very quiet, peaceful place to live and enjoy all that St John has to offer.

What makes this property unique

Living in a private, quiet and safe community is a blessing. Most of our neighbors are full time residents. We chose to live here because we are remote and we hear the lapping up of the Hansen Bay waves, very serene...

SOLAR POWERED.

Languages:

Greek

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests