Island Info - Castle at Cabrita

27 Nov

St. Thomas vs. St. John: Which Island Is Right for You?

Not sure whether to stay on St. Thomas or St. John? Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you choose your ideal escape. Spoiler: You can enjoy both when you stay at Castle at Cabrita.

ST. THOMAS

If you want a little bit of everything—world-class dining, lively beach bars, historic charm, and easy access to flights—St. Thomas is your spot. You can land at the airport and be sipping a cocktail on your villa terrace in a half hour. Spend your days hopping between iconic beaches like Magens Bay and Lindquist, then head into Red Hook or Charlotte Amalie for a night of fine dining, live music, or dancing to local musicians. There’s always something happening here, and you never have to travel far to find it.

- Best For: Variety, dining, culture
- Access: Direct flights, no ferry needed
- Vibe: Variety of options, convenient, lively
- Top Beaches: Magens Bay, Secret Harbour, Lindquist, Brewers, Sapphire
- Dining & Nightlife: Dozens of bars, fine dining, and live music
- Excursions: Yacht charters, spas, parasailing, historic tours
- Stay Here If: You want both luxury and easy access to everything

ST. JOHN

Just a short ferry ride away, St. John feels like a different world. Two-thirds of the island is protected national parkland, so its beaches and hiking trails are pristine and crowd-free. Imagine waking up to birdsong, spending your morning snorkeling alongside sea turtles at Maho Bay, and your afternoon wandering through tropical forest trails. Evenings here are quieter—perfect for lingering over dinner at a charming, chef-owned restaurant as the sun melts into the horizon.

- Best For: Nature lovers, honeymooners, hiking
- Access: Ferry from St. Thomas (15–45 min)
- Vibe: Serene, secluded, unspoiled, National Park exploring
- Top Beaches: Trunk Bay, Maho Bay, Cinnamon Bay
- Dining: Smaller, chef-led restaurants with local charm
- Activities: Snorkeling, hiking, nature photography
- Stay Here If: You want a fully unplugged peace and raw natural beauty

Both islands have their own magic—St. Thomas is lively and convenient, St. John is serene and untouched. But the real beauty? You can easily experience both in one trip.

Why Choose One When You Can Explore Both?

When you stay at Castle at Cabrita, you don’t have to choose.

You’re just minutes from the St. John ferry
You’ll enjoy 360° views of St. Thomas, St. John, and the BVI
Our concierge helps plan day trips, dining, excursions, and more
Enjoy the privacy of a luxury villa with all the convenience of Red Hook nearby

Ready to chat? Reach out and we’ll help create the perfect island escape for you.

30 Oct

5 Reasons Castle at Cabrita Is the Most Unique Stay in St. Thomas

While there are plenty of beautiful places to stay in the Virgin Islands, few are as unforgettable as Castle at Cabrita. Perched on the eastern tip of the island, our oceanfront villa offers more than luxury—it offers a story, a setting, and an experience unlike anywhere else.

Here are 5 reasons Castle at Cabrita stands out from the rest:

1. Built Into the Island Itself

Our iconic Rock Room isn’t just a design choice—it’s part of the mountain itself. The villa was built with deep respect for the land, preserving the natural rock face and integrating it into the architecture. This creates a one-of-a-kind shower and bedroom experience that literally grounds you in the island.

2. A Legacy You Can Feel in the Walls

Castle at Cabrita isn’t just a vacation home—it’s a family story. My dad, Thomas, built the villa from the ground up in the late 1980s. I grew up here, watching my parents welcome guests with genuine island hospitality, learning what it meant to create unforgettable stays. Now, as the second-generation steward of the villa and the land it sits on, I carry forward that same warmth and attention to detail. Every stone, every corner, holds a piece of our history—something you’ll feel the moment you arrive.

3. Unmatched Views From Every Room

Whether you’re soaking in the pool, lounging on the balcony, or cooking in the kitchen, the Caribbean Sea surrounds you. Every room was designed to frame the island’s natural beauty—sunrises that paint the water in gold, endless blues by day, and starlit skies by night.

4. Concierge-Level Service, Villa-Style

We don’t just hand you the keys—we curate your stay. Whether it’s arranging a private chef dinner, a luxury boat day, or a ready-to-go beach picnic with chairs, coolers, and umbrellas, our team takes care of the details so you can focus on making memories. While many villas offer amenities, few deliver this kind of personalized care—where your vacation truly feels effortless.

5. Close to It All, Yet Totally Secluded

Castle at Cabrita is just minutes from Red Hook’s dining, beaches, and ferry access to St. John—but once you’re here, it feels like your own private hideaway. You get the best of both worlds: adventure at your fingertips, and a serene escape whenever you want it.

Ready to experience Castle at Cabrita for yourself?
Book your stay now and discover what makes our villa so unforgettable.

16 Oct

Why Celebrate Thanksgiving in the U.S. Virgin Islands (Not Just at Home)

When you think of Thanksgiving, you might imagine turkey, family, football—and maybe a fire you don’t have to shovel out of. But what if your next Thanksgiving could feel like a tropical memory rather than a cold-weather chore? Here’s why more travelers are choosing the U.S. Virgin Islands to celebrate gratitude, connection, and calm—and how you can make it your own.

Tropical Weather That Outshines Autumn Chill

While much of the U.S. is already cooling down, the VI offers breezy warmth, reliably sunny skies, and mild evenings. That means your holiday photos will feature palm trees, not barren branches—and your morning coffee might come with seawater views.

Winter trade winds are gentle by this point in the season, so sea conditions are ideal for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and catamaran sails.

Holiday Energy With Island Character

Thanksgiving in the VI isn’t a ghost town. Local restaurants often offer special holiday menus, and island communities host markets, live music, or cultural events. While it may not look like your hometown’s Thanksgiving parade, you’ll find a warm, authentic vibe—carefully blended with beachy ease.

You might discover a pop-up seafood feast, local bands playing calypso, or rooftops lit for sunset dinners. And because it’s a quieter travel window than December, many vendors are open and ready to host.

Endless Things to Do (Beyond the Turkey Day Table)

Sunrise / Beach Time – Start Thanksgiving morning with a dip or stroll before the holiday eating begins.
Boat Day to BVIs or St. John – Island hop to hidden beaches, caves, and reef snorkeling — many boat tours run daily.
Water Sports & Snorkeling – Clearer water visibility, fewer crowds, ideal for beginners and experienced alike.
Local Dining / Private Chef – Sample Caribbean flavors with seafood, island sides, or hire a chef to bring the feast to your villa.
Sunset Moments – No football game time limits—watch the sky, share a toast, soak in the view.

Each of these gives you more than something to cross off your list—they become moments people remember.

Travel Practicalities You’ll Appreciate

Easier logistics: Fewer holiday crowds than December means better flight and ferry availability.
Better planning window: Because it’s not yet peak season, you can lock in charters, chefs, and transport ahead without frantic demand.
Proximity to home: For U.S. travelers, the USVI is domestic territory—no passport needed (unless you sail to the BVI)— and many times you may find a direct flight from your local airport hub! (Just think you may be one flight away from relaxing in paradise!)

Why the Virgin Islands (and Castle at Cabrita) Make Thanksgiving Feel Extraordinary

Choosing a tropical Thanksgiving isn’t just about escaping cold—it’s about creating a holiday that shifts the narrative. It’s about laughter under string lights, ocean breezes after dessert, and stories whispered under stars.

Castle at Cabrita is designed with intimate gatherings in mind. Its layout, amenities, and service make it ideal for those who want togetherness without crowds: group dining, spaces to gather and retreat, ocean views from many angles, and the capacity to weave in private chef experiences or curated island adventures.

While many places feel like vacation rentals, the Castle is built to feel like home for the holiday.

How to Make It Happen (Your Island Thanksgiving Checklist)

✓ Book early (November-December window is often snapped up).

✓ Reserve key experiences in advance — e.g. boat charters, private chefs, guided tours.

✓ Coordinate menus to include island flavors — Connect with a private chef or let us help you explore local thanksgiving day restaurant offerings – think tropical sides, seafood, local produce (maybe even trading in that turkey for a caribbean lobster)

✓ Pack for versatility — sunny days, breezy evenings; light layers + reef-safe sunscreen.

✓ Plan for downtime — leave space for lounging, storytelling, and quiet reflection.

If you’re ready to explore spending Thanksgiving where the views compete with the company, keep this blog as your guide. I’d be happy to help you weave in available dates, suggested experiences, or make a booking strategy that fits your group’s style.

11 Aug

What to Pack for Your Luxury Villa Stay in St. Thomas

You’ve officially booked the dream vacation—a stay at Castle at Cabrita, perched high above the Caribbean with views that will stop you in your tracks. Now comes the fun part: packing!

While our villa includes just about everything to make your stay seamless, it helps to come prepared for everything from sun-soaked beach days to rooftop wine nights under the stars. Whether you’re planning on snorkeling from your private beach or enjoying a candlelit dinner by a private chef, here’s your go-to packing guide to make the most of your time in island luxury.

1. BREEZY ISLAND ATTIRE

When in the Virgin Islands, it’s all about embracing the breeze and sunshine! Think lightweight fabrics, linen shirts, easy sundresses, and swim cover-ups you can throw on between the pool and brunch. Bring something elevated too—we’re talking resort casual for dinner out in Red Hook or a stylish evening in with your private chef. And don’t forget a cozy wrap or light sweater for those breezy terrace evenings with a glass of rosé in hand.

2. MULTIPLE SWIMSUITS

One is never enough! You’ll want at least 2–3 swimsuits in rotation, especially if your days are filled with dips in the infinity pool, beach time at Secret Harbour, or snorkeling at nearby Sapphire Bay. Pro tip: pack a mix of styles—something comfortable for water adventures and something chic for sunbathing on the deck.

3. REEF-SAFE SUNSCREEN & AFTER-SUN CARE

In the U.S. Virgin Islands, reef-safe sunscreen is more than just a good idea—it’s required by law to help protect our vibrant marine life. Look for mineral-based brands (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide), and pair it with aloe gel or after-sun lotion to soothe your skin after long hours of salty, sunny fun. We also recommend a wide-brim hat and a great pair of sunglasses for added UV protection.

4. WATER SHOES OR SANDALS WITH GRIP

Island life doesn’t mean flip-flops all the time (although they are handy!). Bring water shoes or grippy sandals for rocky beaches and snorkel adventures, and a comfy pair of walking shoes if you plan to explore historical sites, hike in St. John, or shop around Charlotte Amalie. A cute sandal or espadrille is perfect for dinner outings or cocktails on the villa terrace.

5. WATERPROOF BAGS & TECH PROTECTION

Protect your devices and belongings with a dry bag, especially if you’re planning any boating excursions or island hopping to the BVIs. A small waterproof pouch is also a great idea for keeping your phone safe during beach days.

6. SOMETHINGS SPECIAL FOR SUNSET

Sunsets at Castle at Cabrita are next level—fiery skies over St. John and soft breezes from the sea. Bring a special outfit or a favorite playlist, and settle in for golden hour with your drink of choice. Whether it’s a sunset toast on the rooftop or a cozy evening under the string lights, you’ll want to be camera-ready (or not—it’s your vacation after all!).

At Castle at Cabrita, we make island luxury feel effortless.
We’ve got the setting and the essentials covered—so all you need to pack are the pieces that help you feel your best. Think beach-ready, sunset-worthy, and adventure-approved.

Book your stay or get in touch.

Best regards,
Chelsea and Connor Stahl
and The Castle at Cabrita Team

24 Apr

Things to do on St. Thomas for Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day weekend is a popular time to visit St. Thomas, as the island comes alive with a variety of events and activities. Whether you’re looking for something cultural, athletic, or just plain fun, there’s something for everyone during this holiday weekend.

Here are some of the things to do on St. Thomas during Memorial Day weekend:

Memorial Day Ceremonies: St. Thomas hosts several ceremonies and events to honor those who have served in the military and made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. The American Legion, VFW, and other organizations typically hold wreath-laying ceremonies, parades, and other tributes throughout the weekend.
Beach Parties: St. Thomas is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, and what better way to celebrate the holiday than by soaking up the sun and partying with friends? Many of the island’s popular beaches, such as Magens Bay and Sapphire Beach, will host Memorial Day parties with live music, food, and drinks.
Local Music: St. Thomas is known for its vibrant music scene, and Memorial Day weekend is no exception. The island hosts several live music events at locations including Roots Garden Lounge, Sapphire Beach Bar, Hooked USVI, Bernies, and more the weekend, featuring local and international artists. The Carnival Village in Charlotte Amalie is a popular venue for live music, as well as the Cruz Bay Landing on neighboring St. John.
Food and Drink Festivals: Memorial Day weekend is a great time to sample the island’s diverse culinary offerings. Many restaurants and bars will offer special menus and deals, and there are several food and drink festivals that take place throughout the weekend. Enjoy a Sunday brunch at amazing local restaurants like Old Stone Farmhouse, Caribbean Fish Market, and The Social.
Boat Tours: St. Thomas is surrounded by crystal-clear waters, and there’s no better way to explore the island’s coastline than by boat. Many tour companies offer Memorial Day weekend specials on boat tours, including snorkeling trips, sunset cruises, and island-hopping excursions.

Memorial Day weekend is a great time to visit St. Thomas, as the island offers a variety of events and activities to suit all interests. Whether you’re looking to honor the holiday’s significance, party on the beach, or explore the island’s cultural offerings, there’s something for everyone on this beautiful Caribbean island. When you stay with Castle at Cabrita you will have a personal concierge to help plan the perfect vacation for you and your family!

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