You'll find paradise at this one-level main house and two-story guest house that frame a dramatic, oceanfront pool deck facing Buck Island. An interior designer searched for just the right touches to give this villa post-colonial style evocative of a Somerset Maugham novel. Wicker, curved rattan, woven cane, and mahogany fine furnishings are beautifully set off by cool clay floors and a collection of monkey and tropical bird figurines.

The main house has three bedrooms with comfortable touches like feather toppers for the beds and air conditioning, should you choose to use it on this breezy shore. A private bath is included for the master bedroom, and a second full bath is shared by the other two bedrooms-with an additional half bath in the great room. A gourmet kitchen, with glazed tiles matching the aqua hue of the sea just outside, has a stainless steel refrigerator-freezer and plentiful storage and counter space. The dining area provides picture-window views of Buck Island under a charming pineapple chandelier, while an entertainment area offers cushiony seating for a crowd.

Your own beach is waiting for swimming, shelling, and snorkeling, and the pool, with its view of Buck Island, is irresistible. Or, for the ultimate in relaxation, snooze afternoons away in your hammock, rocked to sleep by the breeze and the lullaby of the surf. When you can tear yourself away from this paradisiacal world, you'll find plenty of activities-shopping, sightseeing, and water sports-in nearby Christiansted, an easy 20-minute drive away. Additional restaurants and a casino are even closer.

Whether you are looking to soak up the sun on one of the beautiful beaches, relax under a palm tree while getting a massage, take in a round of golf, explore hiking trails and National Parks or become a master snorkeler, you will find it nearby. What better thrill than riding a jet ski in the crystal clear waters of St. Croix? Kyack, or scubadive, there is so much to do.