I live by Sapphire beach and find it to be one of the best places on the island to live. In addition to the fact that everyone looks out for you we have two secuity guards at Crystal Cove and they work with the security guard at Sapphire Resort. There is a robbery now and then and almost every time it has been that a door was left un locked.

I love it so much that I bought a house overlooking Sapphire about 10 years ago. Never had a problem and I rent out 5 units between Crystal Cove and my house.

Is there crime on STT? You bet there is. Most is local on local but drugs drive people crazy and they will do anything to get something they can sell for drugs.

My dad once siad if it feels like you should not be there then get out. Cokie after dark, hospital ground, Bavoni, Smith bay, back street are all areas that nothing good happens late a night. Yes things happen all over the island. You just need to be aware.

By the way Cokie is about 2 miles away. the whole island is only 13 miles as the crow flys. So there is nothing that isn't close to another spot.

If you don't feel safe then don't come.

Thats my two cents.

billd

I don't feel safe walking thru Anacostia in DC at night but that doesn't mean I don't go to other parts of DC at night. If you don't feel safe then don't come sounds harsh. I love Saint Thomas but as you say, be careful and avoid certain areas. I wasn't trying to criticize the place I love.

I definitely appreciate the back story. I had heard the same thing, so the confirmation is helpful. As it stands now, I don't think I've ever been anywhere more peaceful and serene in my life than Smith Bay. Not that I'm some world traveling jet-setter, but I've been a few places. 😉

We have rented from "billd" at Crystal Cove - our favorite place, and the best part of Sapphire -hands down. He and his wife are great landlords, live nearby, Crystal Cove is the best. Swim with the sea turtles every day!!

Everyone has their favorite things, the ammenities that particularly suit them, triage them. For us we loved having a "home base" (Cowpet East End/Elysian) that gave us a decent beach (not the best by far on St. Thomas or St. John), but comfortable, free chairs, natural shade, 2 beach bars, an upscale restaurant and a casual restaurant that also served great breakfasts, a fantastic pool. This, located in the East End, close to Red Hook. Did we take lots of day trips? You bet -- took the day sail on New Horizon's II, went over to St. John twice, took in Sapphire Beach, Coki, traveled all around to restaurants across the island. But our key was "home base" which served our immediate desires when we weren't on the move across the island or over to St. John. It all depends on what you want, what makes you the most comfortable and relaxed on your vacation.

donnamatrix wrote:
We have rented from "billd" at Crystal Cove - our favorite place, and the best part of Sapphire -hands down. He and his wife are great landlords, live nearby, Crystal Cove is the best. Swim with the sea turtles every day!!

I,too,have rented from "billd" -a room in his house overlooking St John and part of the Sapphire Beach. Donnamatrix is right-he and his wife are great landlords,very friendly and helpful. It's been several years,and I still fondly remember their hospitality.Hope they both are well and living happy life on the Island ("My Island in the sun....").