It's incredible to think that a new resort hasn't been built in the U.S. Virgin Islands in three decades. But that's about to change as Lovango Resort & Beach Club is preparing to open their doors in December 2020. And what makes it even more remarkable is that it's located on a lush private island just a 10-minute boat ride from Cruz Bay, St. John.
The stunning property will open in phases over the next year. The first portion is a full-service beach club complete with an oceanfront restaurant, a three-bedroom villa, a retail village, and 14 ocean view homesites. That means visitors can come for the day, week, or month via private charter or regularly scheduled private ferry. And while on-site, they can lounge on the white sand beach, take a dip in the infinity pool, go snorkeling, and enjoy poolside food and beverage service. Moorings with tender service and dock tie-ups are also available.
The property is part of the Little Gem Resort experience from New England's Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard islands to St. John, US Virgin Islands. As with Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket, the developers sought to be an integral part of and positive partner for these fragile islands' caretaking. To that end, they are entirely off the grid, relying on their own solar, wind, and back-up generator power and have their own reverse osmosis water plant. They are also working with the University of the Virgin Islands to restore the coral around Lovango.
Related: The Best Private Islands in the World
"Our enthusiasm for Lovango has not been daunted during these challenging times, and we are confident that our private Island experience and easy proximity to St. John will offer the ultimate overnight resort experience or day destination for boaters and USVI visitors," Matt Snider, Resort Project Manager, told Departures.
The project's hotel component, comprising a collection of bungalow cottages and luxury tents, is opening in winter 2021. Lovango will also be home to the first Stay and Sail experience in the Caribbean. Guests can add a three or four-night luxury private sailing yacht charter experience with &Beyond Yacht Charters from Lovango through the British or U.S. Virgin Islands.
Related: The Best Caribbean Retreats for Families
For now, Villa Lovango will be available for rent, which features three bedrooms and a private pool. Guests can also rent villa rooms for two people or a one-bedroom suite by the night.