Reading some of the posts, I am a bit hesitant to book our August vacation at Caneel. I am a pink-slipped teacher from CA and NEED this vacation, if you know what I mean! I am hoping for input from recent visitors and have two concerns and a question about location:

First, how is Caneel in August, (other than hot?) I'm hoping there are no swells that would make snorkeling impossible. Is August the beginning or middle of Hurricane season?

Secondly, what is the condition of the rooms, specifically on Hawksnest? (E.g. are they run-down?)

The question about location: I've never stayed in an upper unit, but many posters seem to like the breeze these rooms get. Any thoughts?

Thanks for your comments and time, I truly appreciate it!

Since August is hurricane season, IF there are any days with a tropical storm in the area, there would be swells. Otherwise you'll have calm water for snorkeling. Also, depending upon wind/sea conditions, some of the Caneel beaches may be even calmer than others. IMO upstairs on Hawksnest is the best location at Caneel. You have more privacy upstairs, you may be able to live open air, using only ceiling fans for cooling, Hawksnest faces east towards the tradewinds, and the sea grape trees on the beach will shade you all day except for early morning. Upstairs rooms on Hawksnest have a balcony on the edge of the beach AND a private screened porch facing the gardens to the rear. Leaving everything open will allow the tradewinds to flow thru. All rooms at Caneel are fine, with comfortable beds, nice decor, sitting area, spacious bathroom, just not glitter and glitz. Most of Caneel's criticisms are from people who expected that Caneel's prices get you marble bathrooms and the Ritz/Four Seasons look. Caneel is all about casual elegance and all that privacy and the views and the wade-in snorkeling from 7 tree-shaded white sand beaches. Go for it! You will not be disappointed. If you want what Caneel has to offer, it is paradise on earth-there is nothing like it.
Ken
ps A suggestion--if you don't already have masks & snorkels, bring your own so that you're sure to have a good fit.

You can't beat the luxury of the many beaches right at Caneel, which made our stay there the best part. While the rooms are not over the top luxurious, it is all part of the look of this particular property.

We were not wild about the food served during lunch, thus ate most of our meals off of the resort. Plenty of great spots in town, which is a short ride down the mt in a "jitney".
St. John is one of our most favorite islands, and you are going to have an amazing time!

My preference is always a room on the top floor. Have you checked to confirm that Caneel is open in August? I thought I had read that the resort was going to be closed in August and September this year.
If they're open, you might want to compare the Caneel packages with those offered by Virtuoso or American Express. The room prices are usually comparable and with the travel agencies, in the past, we've gotten free cold breakfast.
Enjoy!

Thanks for all your advice and reassurance. I booked the room today and requested an upper level room on Hawksnest. Looking forward to that beautiful water and the seemingly pristine beaches. Come on, August!

You will truly enjoy Caneel Bay. Its my favorite place to go (and my husband as well(. Unfortunately they are closing this year in Sept/Oct. when we usually go (in October). We are going to give their sister resort Little Dix Bay a try instead. Hopefully they will be open during October next year. Can't wait to go back! -Susan