60 Has Never Looked Better - Caneel Bay Resort Celebrates Special Anniversary

It has been more than six decades since the environmentalist and preservationist Laurance Rockefeller first discovered the land around Caneel Bay. The resort has remained true to Rockefeller's original dream of offering simple splendor in a pristine natural setting. Being the only hotel or resort within Virgin Islands National Park, Caneel Bay Resort occupies a 170-acre private peninsula surrounded by lush natural beauty. Here's what is new to look forward to in the season ahead:

Guest Room Renovations

A phased guest room renovation will transform each of the resort's accommodations with stylish details and elements that reflect the history of the property. Phase one of the renovation will commence this summer. Award-winning New York City and Miami-based interior designer Mary McDonald has been inspired by the rich legacy and history of the resort and St. John. The refreshed rooms will blend the past and the present with subtle design details such as draw pulls in the shape of original stone etchings found on the island and 1950s advertising. Rooms will include custom furniture such as dressers and adjustable shelves; decorative art will be unique to each guest room; bedrooms reconfigured to take advantage of the spectacular views; and upgraded bathrooms, some of which will accommodate larger tubs. Carved recycled teak panels, and small sculptures and paintings by local artists will instill a distinctive sense of place.

Executive Chef Nicholas Arnold

Caneel Bay is thrilled to announce the appointment of Executive Chef Nicholas Arnold to lead the resort's accomplished culinary team. Chef Arnold is no stranger to the property having previously spent time at Caneel Bay Resort as a Garde Manger Chef from 1999-2002. Prior to his return at Caneel Bay Resort, Arnold was the Executive Chef of The New Albany Country Club in New Albany, OH.

Now back at Caneel Bay Resort, Chef Arnold leads menu creation and kitchen operations at four restaurants and lounges, including Turtle Bay Estate House, Caneel Beach Terrace and Canella. Chef Arnold will incorporate fresh, local ingredients paired with Caribbean flavors and cooking techniques that will provide guests with a distinctive culinary experience at Caneel Bay.

New Pre-Teen Center

Caneel Bay Resort has long offered extensive children's programming to delight young guests. The resort's new Pre-Teen Center will be a fun, dedicated space for young guests who have outgrown the kids-only Turtle Town center. The Pre-Teen Center programming is education-oriented with entertaining activities and options for all interests including steel pan drum lessons, cooking classes with Caneel Bay's culinary staff, captivating "Turtle Talk" sessions on marine life, and ice cream socials. Other outdoor activities include hiking, sailing lessons, snorkeling and kayaking in the gentle waters of Caneel Bay.

Beach Huts

The resort is introducing new beach hut services on Scott Beach and Honeymoon Beach. Both beach huts will serve a variety of pressed Paninis, smoothies and snacks. This grab-and-go concept provides an additional option and added convenience for guests who want more time under the sun by the resort's beautiful waters.

Caneel Bay Resort Mobile App

The new Caneel Bay Resort mobile app will be available for guests to download for free on Apple and Android devices while Caneel Bay continues to be refreshingly free of in-room televisions and telephones. The resort's app is designed so that checked-in guests will be able to contact the concierge from the comfort of their room or even from the beach to ask about dining options, activities and book them without having to walk to the Front Desk. Guests can order in room dining with just a few "clicks" and even book a massage or reserve time on the resort's tennis courts. Additionally, the resort's Wi-Fi has also been upgraded throughout the entire property, so guests will be able to access the app with ease.

60th Anniversary Package

Get the most out of the 2016 season at Caneel Bay with the 60th Anniversary Package. Book a stay any time from May 1 - December 20, 2016 to enjoy guestroom accommodations, daily breakfast and assorted resort activities from $429 per night based on double occupancy-and receive special 60th Anniversary Welcome Amenities, gifts and other surprises. (Offer not valid September & October 2016 when the resort is closed and over major public holidays).

Starting rates from $599. For more information or to make reservations, please call Caneel Bay at 340.776.6111 or visit www.caneelbay.com.