Indo House

A Breezy Balinese Villa Open to the Caribbean Sea

As its name suggests, this Indonesian-inspired villa for rent in the US Virgin Islands occupies a waterfront lot with only a dark-tiled infinity pool between it and the powdery white sands and pale blue sea. Designed for the owners’ love of Bali, the home showcases a classic Malay silhouette with its multi-tiered Balinese roof line, plus an interior brimming with organic textural elements.

A contemporary Balinese villa, complete with traditional bamboo ceilings and rich, tropical hardwood shutters and stairs, this newly built, sophisticated take on classic Indonesian architecture feels right at home on its Caribbean bay. Set directly on the beach, nearly jumping distance to the turquoise water, the home takes its tropical luxury cues from the Indian Ocean. The unique design features boxy, vaulted bamboo ceilings in the bedrooms, a woven grass covering overhead in the living area, and a glass enclosed, floating teak staircase. With ocean views from nearly every window, and walls of sliding glass doors, this villa for rent in the US Virgin Islands was made for indoor/outdoor living.

Traditional Balinese houses are built almost entirely from natural materials, a practice followed by interior design firm Ritual House, who created a serene, breezy space with a distinct Southeast Asian vibe. Casually elegant, the décor incorporates favorite boho-chic elements such as woven wall hangings, textural natural rugs, rattan pendants, and sculptural houseplants all in a palette of neutrals dressed up by a splash of patterned tiling or contrasting throws. Furnishings are coastal and refined, including a glass dining table for eight and a deliciously deep sectional in the living room.

AROUND

Set in a cove of white sand beaches in the Great Cruz Bay, the home offers direct access to the water from the back door. Sailboats bob atop the glistening sea, and the home’s west-facing terrace offers unbeatable sunset views. Guests to the home benefit from access to amenities and facilities at the Westin Resort next door, in addition to enjoying the home’s private lap pool, outdoor barbecue and shower. Swimming and watersport opportunities are abundant in Great Cruz Bay, and kids of all ages will enjoy the water trampoline that floats in its depths. Rent snorkeling gear or a book guided scuba trip, paddle a kayak or SUP in the calm waters, or simply pull up a lounge chair or picnic blanket under the palms. 

St. Johns has several other gorgeous beaches, each one with its own draw. Snorkelers prefer the self-guided trails through the coral and sea life at Trunk Bay Beach. Cinnamon Bay’s pink sands are unique, and a hiking trail there leads through plantation ruins. Francis Bay Beach also draws hikers, who pass by its sands on the Francis Bay Trail, a trek also popular with birdwatchers, who come to see the Caribbean Coot or Elaenia. Both Cruz Bay and St. John’s other main bay, Coral Bay, offer both fine dining and casual restaurants, and the island is best known for its Virgin Island National Park that protects 12,500 acres of its beautiful natural environment.

LOCATION

St. John, US Virgin Islands. Nearest airport: St. Thomas

BEST TIME TO VISIT: December to April