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By John & Joyce Mayer of Whitelaw, Wisconsin
Submitted on November 2, 2008
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We have been to St John twice. the first time we stayed in E-3 and the 2nd time in a studio at Concordia. Both were excellent Though it's been a few years since we were there we long to go back. The eco-tents were awesome and sounds like now they have even more now. We are happy to read the great comments and others love this unique place as much as we do. Mayers from Wisconisn
By The Piercy Family of Newnan, Georgia
Submitted on October 11, 2008
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We stayed for a week in June 2008 at Maho in tent C-5. Partial water view, quiet section. We loved every aspect of the trip. The quiet, the views, the hikes down the goat trail to Big Maho beach. The beach at Big Maho was only about a 5 minute hike, and it was a scenic walk that we enjoyed. We carried lunch in our back packs and hung out about 1/2 of each day, and then we would go back to the tent, gather our things, and take the jeep to another beach to see as much of the island as we could. We went snorkeling at Waterlemon Cay one day- I HIGHLY recommend this trip. It is about 1/2 mile hike past donkeys , lizards, etc., then a brisk 10 minute swim (longer depending on the current/tide at that time) and then as you circumnavigate Waterlemon cay, there is a ton of marine life. We had sea turtles swim right up to/by us, a large eagle ray, nurse sharks, and assorted small reef fish, parrot fish, etc. One day we drove over to Coral Bay and had lunch at Shipwreck landing and shopped at a great place called the Jolly Dog next door- all of the shops and the rest, were open air. There are wild donkeys and goats wandering around on the trip over to Coral bay. We hiked some ruins around the island, and visited the beaches at Cinnamon Bay, Trunk Bay, Hawksnest beach, and a few others. The tent had all that we needed, the staff was very helpful, and the food was great. Dinners were different- one night there was a stuffed cornish game hen, one night giant crusted pork chops, and the breakfast was the best deal going- fresh eggs, bacon, and pancakes! We went to a glass blowing demonstration one night after dinner, and we attended a sun- catcher making class with our kids. The experience was truly a memorable family trip with our 2 daughters. Bugs were not even an issue- a few times we put on some bug spray, but that was it. The beds in our tent were comfortable, and we all lost weight and got in shape while having a good time. The stairs are all over, but did not cause any problems for us.
By William Hebard of Needham, MA
Submitted on September 18, 2008
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We stayed in June of 2007, It was great. I was reminiscing and reading these comments. I did not at that time add any comments so I am now. I can close my eyes and still vividly see the 6 foot nurse shark that swam beside my 13 year old son and I as we were night snorkeling: fantastic. It is a moment that we will talk about forever. One night a gecko fell off our kitchen ceiling onto the board game my family was playing, sending the pieces flying and eliciting screams of surprise and laughter from all. Bugs - yes but no more than home. Go and make some memories.
By John, Jeanne & Trevor Rothchild of Miami, FL
Submitted on September 18, 2008
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Maho Bay Camp
Date of stay: 8/17 – 8/23
John & Jeanne Rothchild, Miami, FL and Trevor Rothchild, Cleveland, OH
My husband and I wanted to share the wonders of the ocean’s underwater world with our seven year old grandson, Trevor, who lives in Cleveland, OH. We chose Maho Bay Camp because of the family atmosphere and warm, clear waters of St. John. We were not disappointed. The sandy beaches were calm and the rocky shoreline was full of marine life. This was the perfect place to teach Trevor how to snorkel, and for him to see and learn about the wonders of the underwater world. By the end of our stay he was pointing out many of the fish species, as well as other creatures, by name.
Our visit was during the summer season, and even though the available activities for children and the dinner menu options were somewhat limited, there were still plenty of things to do and we found adequate choices at the dining pavilion. As mentioned by previous guests, the meal portions are generous and of good quality. Regarding the prices, yes they are on the high end if you’re stateside, but not for the islands. The camp store is well stocked, but again you could pay up to 50% more for some items. Note that the Beach Hut is also closed during this time so don’t count on getting lunch there if your stay is planned for the “off” season.
After scouring many other reviews in an attempt to find the “perfect” tent site, we became concerned about the stairs and the mosquitoes. Yes…there are lots of stairs and they must be navigated in order to get to the beach, registration office, activities hut, bathhouse, store, or dining pavilion. You get used to them in a couple of days, and I must admit that our calves have become more shapely due to our visit! With regard to the mosquitoes, the only problem we encountered was near the end of our stay. It was about a week after the area had received significant rains from Tropical Storm Fay that all the larvae hatched out. While at the beaches, this was not a problem. But in the early morning or evening, unless you were completely covered, either with insect repellent or clothes, they were pretty thick and made it difficult to be in the open. Some guests left early because of the outbreak.
Although we did not really have much view of the water, we could hear the waves lapping on the beach and still received light breezes. Our tent was sufficiently stocked with kitchen items, and both the tent and the bathhouse were reasonably clean. If you’re a light sleeper though, you might want to bring ear plugs to reduce the decibel level of the nightly chorus of chirping Coqui frogs. You will probably never see them, but you will most definitely hear them, regardless of where your tent is located. We brought our family two-way radios which came in handy at times, and rash guard shirts are highly recommended if you’re planning on spending long hours playing at the beach or in the water. We also brought extra line and clothes pins for drying our swim wear and towels. It appeared every tent had a clothesline, but having the extra one worked well for us.
Do make use of the staff at the activities desk. They are knowledgeable about the island and are more than willing to help with arrangements for activities, both inside and outside of the camp. They also know trail shortcuts such as the one that avoids the “hill of death” – as it was referred to by my husband – to get to Waterlemon Bay. (From Little Maho, scale the rocks at the north end of the beach and follow the shoreline along Francis Bay to the parking area, then out to the road. The trek from this point is mainly on flat terrain.) Speaking of trails, it is definitely worth it to follow the Goat Trail down to Big Maho. It is a larger beach than Little Maho and was less rocky. However, this beach gets full sun in the afternoon, and with limited opportunities for cover, we found the mornings to be preferable. All of the Maho personnel were friendly and always willing to assist in any way they could, with whatever your needs were.
In summary, Maho Bay Camp really is an excellent place for families, yet great for couples or individuals as well. They have everything you need right on the premises, which gives you more time for swimming, snorkeling, boating, hiking, engaging in an arts & crafts activity, or just relaxing. Their eco-friendly operations are to be commended in how they are undertaken and encouraged, with out being “in your face.” Additionally, they really seem to have their act together concerning how the place is run; they are very organized. If you are a camper, you will be pleasantly surprised. If you are used to a high-end resort type atmosphere, you will most likely be disappointed. Maho Bay Camp ended up being the perfect place for our needs. We’re pretty sure our grandson had a great time, (check out the guest photo exchange), and so did we.
By Regis and Matt of Upton, MA
Submitted on September 18, 2008
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We stayed at Maho the last week in June in F-4... far up in the camp, but beautiful and private. We woke up to the beautiful ocean and a nice breeze. The weather was rainy and windy two nights, but otherwise we loved the tent cabin. We found the food in the pavillion too expensive and mostly cooked our own food. Next time, we would bring more rice, beans, and dry goods and cook even more food on our own. We also walked everywhere and found that we saw more that way. Buy the hiking map from the store and head out- there's so much to see on foot. The beaches are beautiful and the island is pristine. We can't wait to return!
By Robert and Janine Lanser of Wallkill , New york
Submitted on September 7, 2008
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Me and my family stayed for 10 days. It was wonderful... We stayed in May of 2008. The beaches of the entire island were all picture perfect. We plan on returning next year. The staff was great and very helpful. Rented a boat and captain for a day the best day of ours lives (so they say, with gas and tip around 800.00 if interested) We were 6 total had two tents right next to each other. The stairs weren't bad at all. (lots of the them) If you plan on going for more than a few days bring plenty of sun screen(you will use more than you think). It was the best vacation of our lives. Been to Jamacia before, St John beats it hands down. I will say that the over all price of food was real expensive. We had 2 adults, 2 teens, and 2 under ten. and after everything, the most expensive thing we did was eat. Went to some burger joints and had 10.00 burgers and was given a nice 30% tip on the bill(over and over again). I guess if you go for a few days not a big deal. But I tell you after ten days it adds up. Spent around 350.00 on tips alone, and most all at burger places. (besides Skinny Legs, what a great place, 2.00 beer). The best thing is to ask before you order, I guess. The Starfish market (food store) is a cheaper route if you dont mind cooking. Johnny cakes at the little stands around a buck. Please plan for a larger family around 300.00 per day just to eat out. All together though it was a great time. Hope to visit every year. (Maybe not for ten days next time)
By Roy Beeler of Jersey City, N.J.
Submitted on September 3, 2008
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I stayed at Maho for a week and the first four days were wonderful. All the positive comments listed by others are true. There were bugs, but if you camp you know that always part of the deal. They weren't in the way of a great experience. Then the rains of Faye gave birth to swarms of mosquitos. They were so bad in the morning and evening that eating in the outdoor restaurant was impossible. In fact, doing anything outdoors was. Many people, including myself, bailed out early and I found myself being pampered in a St. Thomas hotel for the last two days.
I would recommend Maho to anyone, but it's important to realize the things that can happen when camping. In all fairness, they only charged a $10 fee for the nights not there.
By Anna & Scott Raper of Florence, KY
Submitted on August 27, 2008
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My wife and I stayed at Maho Bay for our first anniversary in the middle of July. Tent A17, which was wonderful. We sat up in bed each morning with a perfect direct view of the Caribbean. We were so very impressed with all that Maho has to offer. We had plans to do more touring of St. John, but found that we were content to stay most of the time in and around the Camp. The food was fantastic, the people were very friendly and helpful and the atmosphere was simple and relaxing. The trips and activities they plan are great to take advantage of instead of driving or taking a taxi to town. Taxis were an inconvenience to us, a bit to expensive and usually on their own odd schedules. We got around a couple of times by hitch-hiking, which was safe and easy. The tents are cool and comfortable, except for having to move the two single beds together. There was a nice breeze and plenty of visiting geckos that provide curious entertainment. The views were unbelievable and made for great times just sitting on the deck watching the boats or the iguanas in the trees. We had no problem with bugs at all, after hearing all the horror stories of others, we were prepared, but only a couple bites the entire time. The showerhouse and restrooms were close and clean, and walking the wooden walkways is really like living in a treehouse. The beach is not far at all, and was never crowded. It is very admirable how they operate with such eco-friendly considerations. A perfect fit in the middle of paradise. Maho Bay is one of the most unique and enjoyable experiences we have had and certainly would recommend to anyone and plan to return, just not soon enough.
By Chris and Anna of Columbia, MD
Submitted on August 20, 2008
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We stayed at Concordia Eco-tents from 8/14-8/18/08. It was the best vacation we have ever had. The Ecotents are as amazing as the view from the balcony. We can't wait to come back! Although next time, maybe we will come when it is not hurricane season since Tropical Depression Fay was an interesting experience while staying in an Eco-tent!
We love Concordia! Keep up the good work guys!
By AMF of Manhattan, New York, USA
Submitted on August 15, 2008
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Stayed in 4A Harmony Studios ..... Nice eco-friendly environment!!! Balcony is best for its outstanding views all around... and, of course, its friendly bird residents!!!!! ... Windows are kept open always even during the flash rains .... means flowing breeze and just incredible sounds of the night creatures!!!!! The Studio is so adequate for 2 grown-ups ... place is clean and comfortable. The steps up and down the hill is not so bad, but one must be up to it... It was something that we took to very well.
Most of the employees and the 'volunteers' were efficient and congenial... except one or two who needed to be taught to be less condecending and arrogant and who were unreasonably unaccommodating......
Food in Maho is very good actually, considering its setting, it's excellent!!!.... Variety and accessibility to meals and sandwiches was never a problem. Though Harmony has all the necessities of cooking covered.... the luxury of having cooked meals from the Pavillon was a treat. For me personally, having the fridge and the bathroom in our studio was what made our stay in Harmony Studios worthwhile!!!!
Unfortunately, recalling my visits to Maho years ago when fishes abound by Little Maho Bay..... their absence this time is tragic. Still, access to snorkeling morning and afternoon was a pleasure. Was glad to see the brown pelicans still there!!!! But really, what happened to the Angels????
The accessibility to transportation to and from Cruz Bay is so much better... Hamilton, as always, is so accommodating to show off the Island. His presence in Maho is very welcoming since one has known him as a major personality in Maho for all these years!!!!
I pass my love for Maho to my now grown up daughter... but how long is Maho going to be around????????
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