VAH: This has got to be one of the most frequently asked of the frequently asked questions! Here is my 2 1/2 cents worth...
Frenchman's Reef- sits on a peninsula looking back over Charlotte Amalie and the harbor and out to the sea. *Great* sunsets and cruise ship observing as they come right by...There is a little ferry that can take you to town for shopping, etc. Morningstar Beach is a windward and wide open beach...some complain that it is too rough, but it depends on the winds, sea states, etc. Closest off property restaurants are in Havensight, downtown and Frenchtown and range from casual to top notch. Restaurants on property- Tavern on the Beach gets excellent reviews, others are typical hotel restaurants.
Renaissance- is on a bay, also windward, IMHO not as picturesque as Morningstar. Coral World and Coki Point are next door for excellent snorkeling and a great aquarium. No sunsets. Rooms are up a hill. Closest off property restaurants are in Red Hook, fairly lively nightlife there. Restaurants on property- the only one I can think of is Sunday Brunch at Smuggler's, rest of the fare is hotel food (i.e. expensive and plain). On the beach next door (easy walk) is Fungi's, not part of the Ren, but a fun casual spot right on the water. The Ren has Chris Sawyer Dive Center, the best outfit in the USVI.

Personally, I am a sunset fan and would take the romance of the twinkling lights of town...

Frenchmans seems to fit your wants. Everything is there so if you want to stay there and enjoy the beach, restaurants, view, sunset, stars, bar, quiet, pool, strolls - its all there in easy access. But I do recommend getting out and seeing other beaches and sightseeing. Have a wonderful time.

--Islander

I've stayed at the Rennaissance each tme I've visited St. Thomas in November for the past few years. It may not have the sunset views, but I'd personally rather stay there than on the other side of the island. You are so close to Red Hook for some great restaurants and it's much quieter than staying near Charlotte Amalie. You can always take a taxi or a bus if you want to do some shopping In Charlotte Amalie. There is also the ferry in Red hook to take to St. John. Coki Beach is right around the corner from the Ren. and you can easily walk there for some great snorkeling. There is also a good Italian resturant right on that street, Romano's. The beach is quiet and there are hammocks to lie in.

I have not spent much time in the restaurants at the Ren.--I like to venture out and enjoy the island. Depending on where you stay at the resort, you may have a bit of a walk uphill (stairs) to your room , but I'd rather stay there for some nice views of the ocean(stayed near the pool one time and really missed the views). You can see St. John off in the distance from the beach.

Well, whatever you choose--enjoy!!