Featured in the last issue of St. John Magazine

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Entire home

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4139.4 sq m

Popular amenities

Parking available
Barbecue grill
Kitchen
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Free WiFi

Explore the area

Coral Bay

Virgin Islands National Park
‪3 min walk‬
Cinnamon Bay Beach
‪21 min drive‬
Trunk Bay
‪30 min drive‬
West End (TOV-West End Seaplane Base)
‪291 min walk‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 2

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio

Porch or lanai

Kitchen

Balcony

Garden

Dining area

About this property

Orchid Garden is your romantic getaway on St. John. A Greek Morrocan style villa overlooking the aquablue Caribbean sea. Relax, enjoy, unwind, and be inspired at Orchid Garden. A tropical 0asis of nature. Exotic orchids, coyfish ponds, and many beautiful indigenous plants surround you. A private world of exotic treasures from the Far East of Ric and Lolita (owners of Now @ Zen stores on St. John). Million dollar views of the BVI's, East end, St. Croix and endless 245 degree views of sea, sky, islands, sunrise, moonrise and spectacular clouds and rainbows. Frigates, pelicans and seahawks glide by and watch the bay below for the humpback whales which migrate through every winter. Located within 20 minutes walking distance to a white sandy beach and bird sanctuary. Ric and Lolita have been traveling throughout Asia for over 24 years and have built their home around their art. Once you experience the beauty and tranquility of Orchid Garden you will come back for more. Private masseuse and caterer can be arranged ahead of time.
Spectacular cloud watching, sunset afterglow from flat Mediterrean roof shade pagoda. Bring your body leave your stress behind. Love, peace, happiness

. We were called Buddha Garden but changed the name to Orchid Garden because we are passionate about collecting orchids. If you need to cancel due to COVID you get a full refund.

Property manager

Emily Bratton

Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen

Free WiFi

Air conditioning

Outdoor space

Parking available

Ocean view

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Ocean view
Kitchen
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 18

Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Adults only

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Allowed on porches

5 night minimum 15 night maximum

jeep rental necessary

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

This property uses solar energy

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

This property does not have any lifts

About the area

St. John

Located in St. John, this villa is 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.

Coral Bay

What's nearby

Virgin Islands National Park - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
Johnson Bay - 4 min drive - 3.4 km
Cinnamon Bay Beach - 21 min drive - 12.5 km
Maho Beach - 27 min drive - 12.4 km
Trunk Bay - 30 min drive - 17.8 km

Getting around

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

Restaurants

The Willy T
Pirates Bight
‪Skinny Legs - ‬7 min drive
‪The Windmill Bar - ‬24 min drive
1748 Restaurant

Frequently asked questions

Is Featured in the last issue of St. John Magazine pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Featured in the last issue of St. John Magazine?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Featured in the last issue of St. John Magazine?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Featured in the last issue of St. John Magazine located?

Situated by the sea, this villa is within 1 mile (2 km) of Virgin Islands National Park, Saltpond Bay and Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument. Johnson Bay and Little Lameshur Bay are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

9.2/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Sharon M.

20 April 2025

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

Beautiful place in Coral Bay

We absolutely loved our vacation here. It was filled with art archetecture together with warm breezes. Would love to revisit again. Ric and Lolita were great hosts and highly recommend to anyone looking for a peaceful getaway.

Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

James B.

6 March 2025

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

One of a kind

Already looking forward to our next visit!

Stayed 28 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Louisa M.

1 February 2025

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

Wonderful spot

Gorgeous views and a great house. Lolita is a fabulous host.

Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lori M.

20 January 2025

Liked: Check-in, communication, location

Disliked: Cleanliness

Great view

Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Charlie H.

16 January 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Lovely quiet place

We've been to Orchid Garden a few times, with and without one of our adult kids in the 2nd bedroom.

Stayed 10 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Laura C.

28 March 2025

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

Stunning views!

We’re returning visitors to Ric & Lolita’s place. The location is close to multiple sand beaches for snorkeling and swimming. Beautiful hikes are also nearby. The views from the house are incredible, with several places to enjoy those wonderful views while dining. The structure of the house, with high ceilings keeps it nice and cool. We didn’t need the air conditioning while we were there in March. We star gazed at night on the large. flat area that has several different comfortable areas with chairs and pillows. The artwork is everywhere - we especially loved the hippos on the top. Getting to the house was easy with the concrete driveway allowing access in any weather conditions. Ric and Lolita are great hosts - informative, helpful and enjoyable.

Stayed 12 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Troy S.

13 December 2024

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

Excellent stay!

Not sure what I can say that hasn't already been covered in other reviews, this rental is fantastic with exceptional views and really cool decor. Owner is super nice and helpful. Had a great stay here and wouldn't hesitate to come back.

Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

John S.

15 January 2025

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

Art-filled paradise in St. John

Lolita and Ric's place is remarkably beautiful, and filled with so many artistic touches that we were still discovering new things to appreciate after a week's stay. It was like living in a museum. The views are amazing, and there are so many different places to relax (balconies, screened porch, rooftop, decks, gardens) that it is like staying in a villa. Nearby hiking (Ram's head, petroglyphs, reef bay) was outstanding, as was the snorkeling at salt pond and little lameshur bay. The dirt road to little lameshur beach requires a jeep and the willingness to drive on a muddy, bumpy and unpaved road, but it is well worth the effort.Because there are so many sliding screen doors and windows, there are inevitably some gaps, so you can expect a few mosquitos, but they didn't bother us, and the AC in the master bedroom did the trick. Also, although the place is very clean, because there are hundreds of art objects on display, there is inevitably a bit of dust on a statue or picture frame here and there. The place is as clean as it can reasonably be expected to be under the circumstances. Overall, it was the most unique place we've ever stayed in, and we will be taking about it for years to come.

Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kevin Q.

20 March 2023

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

Great Place

Great Place, Great Views

Stayed 10 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gary T.

3 April 2023

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

great place to stay

the views were fantastic, the owners were very helpful and offered advice on what to see and where to go. Rick and Lolitta came up with some wine and food before we left and Rick regaled us with stories of their adventures which made the vacation more enjoyable. Highly recommend this place!!

Stayed 12 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

James B.

3 March 2024

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

One of a kind

A beautiful house in a beautiful setting - ideal for those who appreciate quiet, ocean views, and Asian art. We look forward to our next visit. Thank you!

Stayed 29 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

John S.

30 March 2024

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

Incredible ocean views

This is such a unique, artistic and charming home! The character of the furnishings and craftsmanship make it special. The beds are comfortable. We enjoyed sunrises, happy hours and star gazing from the rooftop patio, morning coffee in the breakfast nook and reading books on the covered porch. It is in a quiet location close to some great hiking and great snorkeling in some pretty remote bays. We loved our stay and will cherish the memories.

Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

James B.

1 March 2023

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

Wonderful

We loved the house and the place. Looking forward to returning next year!

Stayed 27 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Steven B.

10 March 2024

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

Delightful Living Space With Panoramic Water Views

This unique space is well designed for two couples -- each with en suite bath. You have the entire upper floor, plus various decks and patios, including a large rooftop deck -- all with panoramic views of water and islands. The living space is artistically designed and decorated with eclectic art from around the world. An amazing space in an amazing location!

Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Laura C.

10 April 2024

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

Beautiful

We try to return to Ric & Lolita's every year. The house is beautiful and comfortable with interesting artwork and unbelievable views. We had everything we needed or wanted for preparing meals. Ric & Lolita are very knowledgeable and were very helpful answering our questions about the island. We love staying at Orchid Garden and already booked again for next year. Laura & Igor

Stayed 10 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Katharine H.

31 December 2022

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

Perfect Vacation

Host was responsive and always available. The property is very unique. The views are spectacular and the roof is perfect for stargazing and sunning. We were extremely happy with the whole experience.

Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Laura C.

24 March 2023

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

Wonderful!

This is our third stay at Orchid Garden and we hope to return next year. We love the views, the art work and how comfortable we feel at Orchid Garden. The location is very private. Cooking, sleeping and ambience are all wonderful. Ric and Lolita are great - an interesting and fun couple. They are very knowledgeable about the island offer helpful suggestions.

Stayed 10 nights in Mar 2023

8/10 Good

Jeffrey Z.

22 May 2024

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

Quiet side of the island

We chose this property to avoid the noise/crowding of the Cruz Bay area and indeed it delivered the quiet and seclusion that we sought. We found the drive to the North Shore area to be no problem and we were super close to the Salt Pond Bay which was fantastic. The choice of places to eat nearby is limited but we really liked Skinny Legs and another nearby restaurant enough that we didn't venture beyond Coral Bay for evening meals. We enjoyed the unusual decor, the beautiful gardens, and the rooftop star gazing at our property. We didn't realize that there might be limits on the use of the air conditioner (if the island looses power, as it did briefly once during our stay, the backup batteries for the solar panel system don't last too long). While the ocean breeze generally kept the place comfortable, there was a day or two when the breeze was inadequate. Overall, our stay was very enjoyable.

Stayed 7 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dave S.

2 May 2021

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

If "Exotic" resonates with you...

Very roomy with outstanding outdoor space topside on the roof, equipped for everything. Villa-Gravity is definitely in play here. The tremendous hosts have filled this wonderland with art, statuary and curiosities from Bali and SE Asia. A visual treat that brings a vibe that you won't find anywhere else on STJ. This place will not disappoint.

Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Bill B., Birmingham, AL

17 April 2018

A wonderful relaxing stay

We were delighted with with our stay at Buddha Garden. The property has fantastic views of Coral Bay and the BVI. The sunrises are spectacular. The owners have created numerous private tranquil spaces. The house is furnished with fascinating Asian art. The owners are friendly and accessible without being intrusive. Coral Bay with a nice selection of restaurants and a couple of markets was a short drive. Salt Pond Bay was nearby. If you enjoy hike the Ram’s Head Trail which begins at Salt Pond was a little challenging in spots, but offered exercise and beautiful vistas. We look forward to our next stay!

10/10 Excellent

Jared F.

26 March 2021

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

Outstanding in Every Way, Do Not Hesitate to Book This Property

I found this property by complete luck when booking a last minute trip to St. John. I was a little concerned at first because I did not really know the island and there were so many great places and areas to stay on St. John and St. Thomas. After seeing quite a lot of both islands on my trip I can say without a doubt that this was the best possible choice that I could have made. Absolutely everything about the property, the hosts and the area were outstanding and exceeded expectations in every way. You absolutely will not regret your choice. Staying here made my trip unforgettable and I am looking forward to returning very soon.

Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2021

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Jamie S.

12 December 2013

Another Fabulous Stay

This was the third time my wife and I stayed at Buddha Garden over the past five years. I have to say the house gets better every time! At night all you hear is the trade-winds and the croaking geckos. You wake up to the sun rising through the port-hole windows and fall asleep watching the stars. Everything about this house just oozes relaxation. At night, we sat atop the amazing rooftop deck gazing across the boundless ocean. All the while watching the passing sail boats and shooting stars; discovering constellations you would never be able to see in the brightness of the city. Ric and Lolita were as good of hosts as you could imagine. We plan to return again next year and start taking in the zen all over...

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

11 August 2009

Incredible stay on St.John at Buddha Garden

First, I want to say how wonderful the island of St.John is for a relaxing vacation. Now the only way to improve on this was to find a place as special as St.John and we did! Buddha Garden is decorated in exotic Asian decor that was purchased by the owners on their many trips abroad. It is better than the pictures and at the end of the road so it is very private. There are two large bedrooms with attached bathrooms with walk-in showers, a great kitchen with a koi pond outside, a living room area, many neat dining areas and places to read including the roof deck. Good for yoga too. The views are something truly special. You look out on several of the British Virgin Islands, the east end of St.John and a beautiful bay below where you can hear the waves. There is always a great breeze too. We rented a jeep to travel to the numerous beaches and could not believe all the sea life we saw. No jet skiing so very relaxing. The owners Lolita and Ric were extremely helpful and answered any questions we had. We wish we had had a chance to talk to them about all their travels. Lolita provided us with a list of less known places to snorkel, their favorite places to eat and where to grocery shop. There is a market a few miles away (Lily's Gourmet Market) that had all we needed, we did shop once in town (Starfish) too. When we ate out the food was wonderful (Shipwreck, Skinny Legs...) and the servings were large so we made two meals from most places. Before coming we read about it being expensive to buy food and eat out but when you consider there is no sales tax or resort tax it worked out about the same as other island trips we have made. I saw on another review were some people stayed with out a jeep and you could do that but for us it was much easier to have transportation. My husband went into town twice to go out scuba diving (Low Key- which he said was the best group he has ever dove with) and we could go places when ever we wanted. We spent a great day on the "Baddy Kitty" that took us to several BVI (you need your passport) to swim, eat and have a drink. It could not have been a better trip. Like islands in the Caribbean in St.John you should be conscious about saving water and there is a water collection system at this home. I wish I could upload some of my pictures to better show Buddha Garden and it's views. We are hopeful to return again to say at this beautiful home.

10/10 Excellent

Bob F.

17 November 2022

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

Just what I needed!

I was looking for somewhere quiet to get some rest and this was exactly what was needed. Ric and Lolita have done a great job of making this place very serene and have lots of places outside to just chill.

Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Leanne J.

6 August 2022

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

Beautiful hideaway

Ric and Emily have created an amazing space at Orchid Garden. It is definitely off the beaten path (about a 45 min drive into Cruz Bay) but so worth it if that's what you're looking for. There is only air conditioning in the master bedroom (I did not read the "details" section), but with the lovely breeze and fans, it's comfortable. You cannot flush toilet paper - but we found out that's pretty common all over the island - just something to get used to. Overall, it was a fabulous stay. Emily was great about communicating with us and let us know that she and Ric were right downstairs if we needed anything. We loved the hermit crabs, lizards, beautiful plants, and amazing rooftop for stargazing. Would highly recommend!

Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2022

About the host

Hosted by Emily Bratton

We own the boutique shop , Now & Zen in St. John and every year we go to Asia and buy directly from the artists that make it. We also feature local artists. We are located in Cruz Bay in Wharfside Village next to the ferry dock.

Why they chose this property

We have traveled all over the world and chose St.John as our place to live. We have lived here 25 years.

What makes this property unique

We have an 8 island view of the British Virgin Islands and are adjacent to a wild bird sanctuary and hiking trails and a white sand beach within walking distance.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests

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Featured in the last issue of St. John Magazine

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Reviews

Popular amenities

Explore the area

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

Bedroom 2

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 2

Spaces

About this property