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Owner Elaine Estern’s pieces, inspired by the life just offshore her seaside gallery, reflect the colors of the Caribbean and often feature her dog, M&M. Estern’s shop carries original works as well as prints, note cards, and more.

Located at Turner Bay, only a 10-minute walk from Cruz Bay’s shops and restaurants, Coconut Coast offers units in various sizes, with balconies, tropical furnishings, and original art on the walls. The beach is rocky, but the snorkeling is superb.

Artist Corrine Van Rensselaer showcases her own and the work of other island artists, as well as tropical gift items, at her small gallery.

The village of Compass Point is home to a small collection of shops and restaurants, which serve the dozens of old salts who live aboard or keep their boats at the marina as well as any visitors who happen to wander by. Park your car in the lot to the left as you reach the area. Rent watersports equipment down on the dock or people-watch as you enjoy your lunch at the snack wagon or dinner at one of the restaurants.

This mollusk lives in seagrass beds. If you find an empty shell on the beach, hold it to your ear to hear the sea.

Crunchy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these spicy conch and batter morsels are deep fried. While they’re traditionally served as first courses or snacks, light eaters can make a meal of them. Every cook prepares them differently, but the more conch the better.

Part of the Maho Bay Camps (seeMaho Bay Camps, St. John) family, the Eco-Tents is very environmentally friendly – it uses solar energy for power and water conservation methods such as waterless toilets. Snorkeling, swimming, and hiking at Salt Pond Bay are just a five-minute drive away.

Part of the appeal of this place is its location way out on the island’s southeast edge. Salt Pond Bay, with its excellent snorkeling and hiking, is a short drive away.

A casual beachfront place just right for relaxation, the hotel has a barefoot ambience, a style that is fast disappearing in the Caribbean. Cook meals in the kitchenettes attached to all rooms, or enjoy the camaraderie at the two small restaurants.

Dine under the stars on the patio with the sea close by.